How to Become an Airbnb Plus Host: Everything You Need to Know

If you're looking to take your short-term rental hosting up a notch, becoming an Airbnb Plus host could be the perfect move for you. Airbnb Plus is a designation awarded to a select group of Airbnb hosts who meet certain quality and service standards. Wondering if it's worth it? In this article, we'll break down everything you need to know about the Plus program, including what it takes to become an Airbnb Plus host and the benefits of the designation.

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Airbnb Plus Program Overview

What exactly is Airbnb Plus?  Plus is a verification program created to help guests find quality accommodations with hosts who provide consistent, outstanding service. To become a Plus host, you must first meet a number of criteria related to the quality of your listing and guest reviews. Once Airbnb has verified you, your listing will receive a special Plus badge and will be featured prominently in search results.

What is the Difference Between the Airbnb Plus and Airbnb Superhost Programs?

While both Airbnb Plus and Airbnb Superhost are programs that recognize exceptional hosts, there are a few key differences between the two:

1. Airbnb Superhost is awarded to any host who meets a set of specific requirements related to their hosting activity, guest reviews, and cancellation rates.

2. While Airbnb Plus recognizes hosts with high-quality listings, the Superhost program is open to all hosts, regardless of the type of accommodation they offer.

3.  Plus is a verification program, while Airbnb Superhost is more like a seal of approval.

What are the Requirements to Become an Airbnb Plus Host?

There are a few key requirements that you'll need to meet in order to become a Plus host:

• Submit a $149 nonrefundable application fee
• Your listing must be located in an eligible city - You can check if your city is eligible by visiting the Airbnb Plus website. Currently, homes in 70 cities worldwide are eligible. Cities like London, Los Angeles, Sydney, and other major destinations.
• If you're renting a shared space such as a private room in your house, guests must have access to a private bathroom.
• Your short-term rental must maintain a 95% booking rate, an average of 4.8/5 from guest reviews, and you cannot have canceled any reservations in the last year.

If your property meets the above standards, a professional will come for a site visit to evaluate your short-term rental on the following:

• Maintenance: Your short-term rental must be in tip-top condition to be awarded the Plus badge. This means no amenities are damaged, the home is exceptionally clean, locks on private rooms, and there is strong water pressure in the restroom.
• Amenities: Providing exceptional amenities to your guests is your chance to shine in the evaluation. Fully stock your kitchen with bottled or filter water, coffee makers, ironing boards, streaming services, strong WiFi, etc. Anything you would want in the comfort of your own, you should include here. An Airbnb Plus guest should not be left wanting.
• Design: A strong design is subjective and maybe your most challenging aspect. Consider working with an interior designer or researching to ensure that you choose a theme that is appealing and consistent throughout your short-term rental.

What Benefits Come with Being a Plus Host?

There are several benefits that Plus hosts enjoy, including:

-Higher search visibility - Plus homes are featured more prominently in search results, giving you a leg up on the competition.

-Attracts high-quality guests -  Plus is a designation that is only awarded to properties that meet a certain quality standard. This means that when you become an Airbnb Plus host, you can expect to welcome high-quality guests who are looking for a comfortable, quality stay.

-Increased earning potential -  Plus hosts are in high demand, which means they can increase their nightly rates.

– Professional photos: Plus hosts are given the opportunity to have their homes professionally photographed for free. This is a great way to show off your rental and attract guests.

Is Becoming a Plus Host Right for You?

Whether or not you should become a Plus host depends on your goals as a host. Airbnb Plus may be a good fit for you if you're looking to increase your earnings, attract higher-quality guests, and have your listing featured more prominently. However, if you're just starting as a host or don't meet the requirements, there's no need to worry. There are other Airbnb programs, like Airbnb Superhost, that may be a better fit for you right now.

How to Get Started on Becoming an Airbnb Plus Host

If you're ready to take your Airbnb hosting to the next level, start by visiting the Airbnb Plus website. There, you'll find more information on the program as well as the requirements and benefits. Once you're ready to take the next step, click "Apply now" and fill out the application within your account.

Potential Drawbacks of Becoming an Airbnb Plus Host

Overall, becoming a Plus Host will provide you with numerous benefits. However, there are a few challenges you should be aware of before committing to the program. For example, you do not get as much control over your listing. Airbnb chooses how your photos are laid out, and you do not get to download the images; they belong to Airbnb Plus. Airbnb also decides upon the layout of your wording.

Additionally, you cannot list your Airbnb Plus home on competing sites such as VRBO. You can, however, maintain your direct website for the listing. This would be a large setback in regards to a multi-channel distribution strategy. 

Airbnb Plus is a great way to take your Airbnb hosting to the next level. You'll be able to increase your earnings, attract higher-quality guests, and have your listing featured more prominently. A great way to start getting the five-star reviews you need is to integrate your listing with Host Tools. By automating guest communication, check-in, cleanings, and other hosting tasks, your short-term rental will be set up for success to quickly reach Airbnb Plus standards!

Host Tools provides an automated, unified calendar for short-term rental hosts, allowing you to seamlessly list on all major channels. Start your free trial today!