As an experienced Superhost, I’ve seen firsthand how reviews can make or break an Airbnb listing. Reviews are not just about ratings; they are social proof that builds trust, enhances your listing’s visibility, and ultimately increases your booking rate. The more positive reviews you accumulate, the higher your chances of attracting quality guests and setting premium pricing.
In my journey of hosting and managing multiple properties, I’ve learned what works best to encourage guests to leave glowing reviews. If you’re looking to improve your Airbnb business, here’s my expert advice to help you maximize your review count and ensure your guests have a memorable experience.
How to Get More Reviews on Airbnb
1. Provide an Exceptional Guest Experience
The best way to get positive reviews is to make sure your guests love their stay. Here’s what I always focus on:
- Spotless Cleanliness: A pristine home leaves a lasting impression.
- Accurate Listing Descriptions: Transparency builds trust and prevents disappointment.
- Fast, Friendly Communication: Respond quickly to inquiries and provide clear check-in instructions.
- Thoughtful Amenities: Small touches like coffee, snacks, and toiletries make a big difference.
- Comfort and Convenience: Invest in quality bedding, high-speed Wi-Fi, and clear house rules.
2. Set Clear Expectations from the Start
One thing I’ve learned as a Superhost is that setting the right expectations reduces negative feedback. If your property has quirks, be upfront about them. A well-informed guest is a happy guest!
3. Encourage Reviews with Personalized Follow-Ups
Many guests simply forget to leave reviews. I always send a friendly, personalized message after checkout, such as:
“Hi [Guest’s Name], it was a pleasure hosting you! I hope you had an amazing stay. If you enjoyed your time here, I’d love for you to share your experience in a review. Your feedback helps me improve and helps future guests. Safe travels!”
4. Review Your Guests First
Since Airbnb has a double-blind review system, I make it a habit to leave a review for my guests first. This often encourages them to reciprocate quickly.
5. Add a Personal Touch with a Small Departure Gift
From experience, a small gesture—like a handwritten thank-you note or a local treat—goes a long way in creating a lasting impression. Happy guests are more likely to leave positive reviews.
6. Handle Issues Professionally and Proactively
Even the best hosts encounter problems. What matters most is how you handle them. If something goes wrong, act quickly to resolve it—whether that’s arranging for a cleaner, replacing a broken item, or offering a small refund. Guests appreciate great customer service and are more forgiving in their reviews when they feel valued.
7. Leverage Airbnb’s Automated Review Reminders
Airbnb automatically sends reminders to guests to leave reviews, but pairing that with a personal follow-up message increases your chances significantly.
My Final Thoughts
As a Superhost and Airbnb business consultant, I know that mastering the art of getting more reviews takes time, effort, and strategy. But once you get it right, the results are worth it—higher occupancy rates, increased trust, and ultimately, more revenue. If you need help optimizing your Airbnb listing or setting up your hosting business for success, I offer consulting services to help you achieve your goals.
Want to take your Airbnb to the next level? Let’s work together to make your listing a top performer!
