Airbnb hosting has evolved into a more complex business than it used to be. What started as a platform for offering a room or property for rent has transformed into a full-fledged business venture for many hosts. From listing properties, managing bookings, and setting prices to handling guest communications and maintaining the property, hosting is now a juggling act that becomes even more challenging as hosts take on more properties.
Recognizing this, Airbnb has introduced a game-changing feature as part of its latest winter release: the Co-Host Network. This new offering acts as a marketplace where hosts can connect with experienced, top-rated local co-hosts to help manage their properties. Think of it as a blend of LinkedIn and Fiverr, but for Airbnb hosts.
Currently, Airbnb has carefully curated this network by onboarding co-hosts who have a minimum rating of 4.8 and have hosted at least 10 stays. As of now, the company has added 10,000 hosts to the network, spanning across 10 countries, including the U.S., UK, Canada, Australia, Mexico, Brazil, France, Germany, Spain, and Italy.
How the Co-Host Network Works
The co-hosts available through Airbnb’s network are seasoned professionals in the world of short-term rentals. They can assist with various hosting responsibilities, such as:
- Property listing setup: Creating and optimizing the listing for maximum visibility.
- Setting prices and availability: Adjusting pricing to reflect demand and managing booking calendars.
- Booking management: Handling guest inquiries and requests, managing bookings, and ensuring smooth communication.
- Guest management and support: Offering onsite guest assistance and addressing any issues during the stay.
- Cleaning and maintenance: Overseeing regular cleaning and property upkeep to maintain high standards.
Each co-host sets their own service rates, which can be viewed on their profile page. Hosts seeking help can browse through these profiles to learn more about each co-host’s skillset, services, and pricing.
A Build-Up on Prior Features
This latest move builds on Airbnb’s earlier Summer 2023 release, which introduced features allowing hosts to add co-hosts to manage specific tasks. It also allowed for a percentage-based payment model where co-hosts could receive a share of the booking income. The Co-Host Network expands on this by creating a more structured platform for hosts to find trustworthy co-hosts with proven track records in their local area.
“We’ve heard time and time again from our hosts that they’d love to find reliable, professional co-hosts in their area who they can trust to manage their properties,” said Judson Coplan, Airbnb’s VP of Product Marketing, in an interview with TechCrunch. “This feature lets them be hands-off while still running a high-quality rental business.”
Reimagining Airbnb as Passive Income
For years, Airbnb was championed as a platform for earning passive income. But as the short-term rental market has grown and competition increased, the expectations for hosts have also evolved. Managing a successful Airbnb property now often requires a more professional approach, especially for those managing multiple listings.
With the introduction of the Co-Host Network, Airbnb is offering a new way for hosts to earn, even when they aren’t personally managing their properties. In fact, co-hosts in the network are already managing an average of seven properties, according to Airbnb.
Enhanced Tools for Hosts and Guests
Alongside the Co-Host Network, Airbnb has rolled out a series of features aimed at improving the host and guest experience:
- Pricing insights: Hosts can now access data to see how similar properties in their area are priced, making it easier to stay competitive.
- Customizable guest communication templates: These templates allow hosts to respond to guests quickly and efficiently, saving time while maintaining a personal touch.
- Improved earnings dashboard: The updated dashboard provides a clearer breakdown of earnings, helping hosts track their income more effectively.
For guests, Airbnb has also introduced several updates to streamline their experience. First-time users are greeted with a welcome tour, and the search process has been enhanced with additional filters and suggested destinations. Moreover, new local payment options, such as Vipps in Norway, Mobile Pay in Denmark, and MoMo in Vietnam, make the booking process even smoother for international travelers.
Looking Toward AI for Enhanced Support
Airbnb’s latest updates also hint at the company’s future ambitions in leveraging AI to further improve the host and guest experience. Judson Coplan spoke about the potential of AI in Airbnb’s support systems, explaining, “When guests or hosts have questions about using the app, policies, or bookings, AI can provide quick, accurate answers within the app.”
The company is already experimenting with AI-powered features, including tools that summarize guest reviews and a potential AI-based “ultimate concierge” that would assist customers throughout their stay.
A New Era for Airbnb Hosts
With the introduction of the Co-Host Network, Airbnb is making strides to support hosts in running successful rental businesses while also alleviating some of the stress that comes with managing multiple properties. By creating a platform that brings together top-rated co-hosts and offering improved tools and insights for hosts and guests alike, Airbnb is solidifying its position as the go-to platform for both casual and professional hosts.
As Airbnb continues to innovate, the Co-Host Network marks a significant step in the company’s evolution, ensuring that hosts can maintain a high standard of service while scaling their business with ease.
