How To Become An Airbnb Superhost
Being an Airbnb host can be a very lucrative side hustle. But, if you become an experienced enough host, you can reach the coveted title of Superhost. A Superhost is an experienced Airbnb host that has been rated highly by many guests.
There are some other requirements you’ll need to meet to become a Superhost, but if you do, you’ll get access to a ton of perks.
How To Become A Superhost
As previously mentioned, you’ll need to meet some basic requirements to become a Superhost. And, of those requirements, there are some you can control and others you can’t.
Here’s the full list:
- Overall rating of 4.8+
- 10 or more stays in your rental
- No cancellations in the past year (this is one you can’t really control)
- 90% response rate to new messages
Many of these requirements aren’t difficult, especially if you’re in a big tourist area. For those in smaller communities, it’ll take longer to reach the level of Superhost, but it’s completely doable.
You don't need to apply to become a Superhost. If you meet the requirements, you'll automatically be awarded Superhost status. Airbnb checks hosts four times a year (January 1st, April 1st, July 1st, and October 1st) and awards Superhost status at that time to those that qualify.
When you do become a Superhost, you'll get a symbol next to your name, so guests will know that you're a reliable host.
Benefits Of Being A Superhost
So why would you want to put in the extra effort to become a Superhost?
To start, it can get you more guests and you can earn more money. And those are just the two big reasons! Let’s talk more in-depth about those rewards and more.
You Can Attract More Guests
When you’re a Superhost, your rental will be featured in substantially more places than the average listing.
You’ll be featured in emails, and your rental will appear first in search results. You may even make it onto the Airbnb press page, like these folks: The 30 Hosts under 30 class of 2022
You Can Earn More
According to Airbnb, Superhosts make 22% more than average hosts. Some Superhosts even make six figures a year!
You’ll Have Access To Exclusive Rewards
When you're a Superhost, you'll get a couple of exclusive rewards. First, you’ll get an extra 20% on top of the usual bonus when you refer new hosts. The usual bonus lets you earn up to $25 per referral.
Second, after each year as a Superhost, you’ll receive a $100 travel coupon.
Tips To Help You Become An Airbnb Host
Now that you know why you should try to upgrade your Airbnb status, here are some tips to help you become the best host you can.
Be Honest
Don't oversell your Airbnb. And don't offer more than you realistically can. If your rental is a basement apartment that's a mile from the beach, don't you use "steps from the beach" to describe the listing.
Clean!
If your Airbnb isn't as clean as possible, you most likely won't get a five-star rating. I know when I stay at an Airbnb, cleanliness is the number one factor I consider when rating a host. A clean rental shows that the host cares.
Always Respond To Guest Questions
As mentioned above, Superhosts must reply to at least 90% of messages received within 24 hours in order to qualify for the title.
Staying on top of your email and answering any questions potential or current guests have is one of the primary ways to earn Superhost status.
Don't Cancel On Any Of Your Guests
While you can't always control if your guests cancel, you can control if you cancel.
If you can't host someone at certain times throughout the year, make sure you are clear about that on your listing.
Also, don't cancel for any reason other than those outlined in Airbnb's extenuating circumstances. Airbnb does understand there might be circumstances where you need to cancel, and they outline them here. You won't be faulted for any of the cancellations due to those reasons.
Keep Track Of Your Progress
When you're trying to become a Superhost, keeping track of your progress can help you determine what else you need to do to become a Superhost.
Luckily, Airbnb makes it super easy to check your progress. All you have to do is log in to your accounts and find the "Progress" tab.
Related: House Hacking With Airbnb
Airbnb Plus vs. Superhost
Airbnb now has a new program called Airbnb Plus. While the Superhost program focuses more on the host, Airbnb Plus focuses on your home and your hosting skills.
Airbnb Plus has a much more rigorous qualification process and only those who have put a lot of time and energy into their Airbnb qualify.
To become part of the Airbnb Plus program, an in-home visit is required, and your home will need to meet the following requirements:
Comfort
You'll need to have everything you can possibly think of to make your rental comfortable, including:
- Thoughtfully arranged furniture
- Plenty of towels and fluffy pillows
- Hangers for clothing and a drawer to store your things
- Quality linens
Well-Equipped
Well-equipped means:
- Filtered or bottled water
- Cooking essentials including oil, utensils, and serving ware
- Iron and hairdryer
- Full kitchen
- Fast wifi
- Premium cable
Well-Maintained
Cleanliness is VERY important in the Airbnb world. So your home needs to be meticulously well-maintained, which means:
- All appliances are in working order
- Functional locks on all bedroom doors in shared spaces
- All spaces are neat and tidy
- Clean bathrooms
- Clean outdoor spaces
Thoughtfully Designed
A unique style is required to be considered for Airbnb Plus. Airbnb wants to see homes "with elegant design and personal character, the homes [should be as] welcoming as they are beautiful."
Final Thoughts
Becoming an Airbnb Superhost comes with a host of benefits (pun intended), and with a little effort, pretty much anyone can become a Superhost.
Take the tips I mentioned above and start taking your Airbnb hosting seriously, and chances are you can become a Superhost relatively quickly.
Related Articles
