Struggling to Rent Out Your Airbnb? Here’s What’s Missing From Your Airbnb Listing

The space is beautifully decorated, well-maintained, and offers all the amenities a guest could need. So why aren’t you getting bookings?

It’s a pain point every property host dreads—putting effort into a rental property only to watch it sit empty week after week. The problem might not be your space, but rather how it’s being presented to potential guests online. Your listing could be missing key elements that make it compelling to travelers looking for their next stay.

1. Weak Photos Don’t Show Your Property’s Full Potential

A picture is worth a thousand words—especially in the world of short-term rentals. If your photos don’t capture the unique charm of your property, guests will scroll past your listing without a second thought.

Low-quality images, poor lighting, and unflattering angles can make even the best properties seem underwhelming. On the flip side, high-quality images can turn a simple space into a must-book property.

Solution:

Hire a professional photographer who specializes in real estate or Airbnb photography. They’ll know exactly how to stage and shoot your property to highlight its best features, making it irresistible to potential guests.

2. Your Listing Description Is Vague

Guests need more than just photos—they want a vivid description that helps them imagine themselves in your space. If your description is vague or overly short, it’s not doing enough to sell your property.

Solution:

Be descriptive and detailed. Highlight unique features, local attractions, and amenities that make your property stand out. Phrases like “perfect for a romantic weekend getaway” or “ideal for families visiting the nearby park” help create a connection with potential guests.

3. Missing Guest Reviews

Reviews are everything in the world of Airbnb. If your listing lacks reviews, potential guests will hesitate to book, unsure of what to expect. Even if your property is great, the absence of reviews makes it difficult to build trust.

Solution:

Encourage past guests to leave reviews. Send a friendly follow-up message after their stay, thanking them and asking for feedback. Guests are more likely to book if they see positive reviews that validate your property’s quality.

4. No Clear Pricing Structure

Confusing or opaque pricing can scare off potential guests. If they don’t know how much they’ll be paying—or if the price changes dramatically depending on the date—they’ll likely look elsewhere for something more straightforward.

Solution:

Make your pricing clear and consistent. Use Airbnb’s pricing tools to offer discounts for longer stays, early bookings, or last-minute reservations, but ensure the total cost is easy to understand upfront.

5. Not Using Keywords in Your Listing

SEO doesn’t just apply to websites—it’s essential for Airbnb listings as well. If you’re not including the right keywords, potential guests won’t find your property when searching on the platform.

Solution:

Research keywords that potential guests might use, such as “seaside cottage,” “city center apartment,” or “pet-friendly rental.” Sprinkle these phrases naturally throughout your title and description to improve your chances of appearing in search results.