- Increase Click-Through Rate (CTR)
- Maximize Space & Bedrooms
- Achieve & Maintain Superhost Status / Premier Host / Partner Status
- Use Descriptive Keywords in Your Listing
- Develop a Competitive Pricing Strategy
- Increase Your Review Score & Guest Experience
- Highlight the Right Amenities
- Keep Your Calendar Updated & Maximize Availability
- Tailor Your Listing to Your Target Audience
- Boost Your Listing’s Popularity on The OTA Platform
- Track & Analyze Your Listing Performance
In this knowledge base article, we’re reviewing a checklist for underperforming OTA listings on platforms like Vrbo, Airbnb and Booking.com.
Increase Click-Through Rate (CTR) #
Key takeaway: a low CTR is death for a vacation rental listing. Invest meaningfully into new images and change titles to get a higher CTR and improve traffic.
- Craft a compelling, keyword-rich Airbnb/Vrbo title – A well-optimized title grabs attention in search results and sets your listing apart.
- Use high-quality, professional photos – Prioritize the cover image & first few images.
- Highlight unique features in the title – If your listing has standout features like a hot tub, private outdoor lounge area, smart locks, or a fully equipped kitchen, mention them in the title.
Maximize Space & Bedrooms #
Key takeaway: the larger the listing, the more “catching” the property can do in searches.
- Convert an office/den into an additional bedroom (if possible).
- Highlight space for groups in the listing description – Families and large groups often filter searches by guest capacity.
- Consider bedroom count when purchasing a new rental property.
- Ensure bedrooms have comfortable mattresses, pillows, and nightstands to appeal to guests looking for a comfortable stay.
Achieve & Maintain Superhost Status / Premier Host / Partner Status #
Key takeaway: guests prefer to book with a host or PM they perceive to be more trustworthy.
- Respond to guest inquiries within an hour.
- Provide small thoughtful touches – A welcome guide with easy check-in instructions can improve the guest experience.
- Avoid last-minute cancellations and keep the calendar updated.
Use Descriptive Keywords in Your Listing #
Key takeaway: the description, while not the most important, is a key factor in guests choosing one rental over another.
- Include words like “clean,” “spotless,” or “sanitized.”
- Emphasize “secluded” or “private” if applicable.
- Mention eco-friendly or sustainable features if available.
Develop a Competitive Pricing Strategy #
Key takeaway: Pricing = value = what often determines how most bookings are made.
- Implement dynamic pricing based on seasonality and local events.
- Offer discounts for longer stays (weekly/monthly).
- Regularly review and adjust pricing to stay competitive.
Increase Your Review Score & Guest Experience #
Key takeaway: A lowly-rated property will suffer in search results.
- Prioritize cleanliness – Ensure there are plenty of cleaning supplies, a vacuum, mop, and duster readily available for guests.
- Send personalized follow-ups requesting guest reviews.
- Publicly address negative feedback and show improvements.
Highlight the Right Amenities #
Key takeaway: Know every amenity that matters and check as many boxes as possible.
- List 8-9 key amenities, including:
- High-speed internet & Smart TVs for entertainment and remote work.
- Smart locks & thermostat for convenience and security.
- Laundry access for extended stays.
- A fully equipped kitchen, including a coffee & tea setup and wine glasses.
- Charging stations & enough outlets for devices.
- Decent toilet paper and personal care products (hairdryer, makeup remover, soaps, shampoos, etc.).
- Iron & ironing board or steamer.
- Carbon monoxide alarm, smoke alarm & First Aid kit.
- Extra batteries.
- Feature guest-focused amenities – If applicable, mention destination-specific amenities that add to the guest experience.
- Avoid listing unnecessary or excessive amenities – Focus on what guests actually value.
Keep Your Calendar Updated & Maximize Availability #
Key takeaway: make your stay windows as small as you can (ideally 1-2 night min) and update your listing weekly or even more often.
- Regularly update your calendar to keep it active in Airbnb’s algorithm.
- Offer flexible stay lengths to appeal to a broader audience.
Tailor Your Listing to Your Target Audience #
- Business-friendly? Highlight workspace & fast Wi-Fi.
- Family-friendly? Mention cribs, high chairs, and laundry access.
- Luxury travelers? Emphasize premium amenities like an outdoor lounge area and high-end toiletries.
Boost Your Listing’s Popularity on The OTA Platform #
- Encourage guests to save your listing to their wishlist.
- Drive engagement by responding quickly to messages.
- Ensure guests have an easy and enjoyable booking process.
Track & Analyze Your Listing Performance #
- Use Airbnb’s Conversion Metrics to assess performance.
- Monitor First-Page Search Impressions to track visibility.
- Check Search-to-Listing Conversion Rate to optimize CTR.
- Track Listing-to-Booking Conversion Rate to improve conversion.
- Use tools like AirDNA & IntelliHost for deeper insights and A/B testing.
By consistently applying these optimizations and ensuring all essential amenities are in place, your Airbnb listing can achieve better rankings, more clicks, and increased bookings.
