If you're ready to list on Airbnb but unsure about how to set up your listing for success, we’ve got you covered. Our 11 easy-to-follow steps will help you create a standout listing that’ll get booked by guests in no time.

Detailed and accurate listings attract potential guests and set clear expectations, leading to higher satisfaction and better reviews.

Specify your property type, provide detailed information about the space, list all amenities, and use high-quality photos. 

A competitive and flexible nightly rate is the bread and butter of a profitable Airbnb listing. 

Are you looking to turn your spare room or investment property into a steady income stream? The first step to transforming your property into a profitable Airbnb rental begins with creating a well-crafted listing. Whether you're a first-time host or looking to optimize your existing listing, this step-by-step guide will walk you through listing on Airbnb. 

 Understand the investment potential of any address in the world. 

What are the Airbnb Listing Requirements?

If you're considering going to list your short-term rental property on Airbnb, it's important to understand the requirements to ensure your guests have a safe and enjoyable experience. Here's what you need to know.

All hosts must be at least 18 years old to open an Airbnb account. This age restriction ensures that hosts have the legal capacity to enter into agreements necessary for offering a rental property, showcasing the platform's commitment to responsible hosting.

Airbnb accepts many different kinds of listings as long as they meet the following criteria:

The accommodation, if a mobile home, sailboat, yacht, or other vessel, is semi-permanently attached to a set location and will be parked in a privately-owned space during the reservation.

The listing is accurately represented, located where the host says it is, and is bookable by the host.

In addition to the age requirement, the listing page at the time of booking must accurately describe the property and amenities that will be available to the guest from check-in to check-out. Airbnb outlines the following criteria for listings:

Booking Details: Once a booking is accepted, any changes to the booking details (such as dates or prices) should only be made with the guest's prior consent. 

Location Information: The listing’s location must be correctly represented, including the map pin and address. Disclose any factors that may affect noise levels in the surrounding area.

Type, Size, and Privacy: Clearly describe the type of lodging being offered, whether it’s a private room, an entire home, etc. Detail the setup, such as the number of bedrooms and bed sizes. Specify the level of privacy, including whether there is an on-site property manager or other guests.

Property Representation: The property provided must match what was booked. The photos and description should accurately represent the space. Substituting one listing for another is only acceptable with the guest's prior agreement and acceptance of a trip change request.

Amenities and House Rules: List all amenities and house rules accurately. Essential amenities include toilet paper, soap, towels and pillows for each guest, and bedding. Any restrictions on amenity access, such as limited pool hours, should be clearly communicated.

For more tips and insights on becoming a successful host after you list on Airbnb, explore Airbnb Hosting 101: A Beginner’s Guide.

AirDNA’s powerful yet easy-to-use tools make hosting and investing a breeze. This means having every insight you need, all in one place, always up-to-date.

You want to get your Airbnb listing up and running but are not sure where to start.  Don’t worry—we’ve all been there. The good news is it's easier than you think. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a listing that attracts potential guests and maximizes your rental income.

It is essential to know whether you’re listing an entire place, a private room, or a shared space as it directly impacts guest expectations. You’ll to select from the following options: 

Entire Property: Offers complete privacy for guests, ideal for families or larger groups.

Private Room: Allows you to host while staying on the property, perfect for solo travelers or couples.

Shared Room: Budget-friendly option where guests share a space, similar to hostel accommodations.

Airbnb will prompt you to provide detailed information about the space itself. This helps guests determine if your space meets their needs. Be prepared to give details such as:

How Many Guests: Specify the maximum number of guests your space can accommodate.

How Many Beds and Bathrooms: List the number of beds and bathrooms available.

Sleeping Arrangements: Describe the bed types and sleeping arrangements to help guests plan their stay. For example, indicate if the bed is a queen-size, twin, or sofa bed, and how many guests each bed can accommodate.

3. Enter Your Exact Location on Airbnb’s Map

Enter your property's exact location on Airbnb's map. Highlight nearby attractions, transportation options, and neighborhood features to showcase your location. Keep in mind that you have the ability to only show only the general area of your location to potential guests until a booking is confirmed. 

Also, mention special features like a hot tub, fireplace, or unique outdoor spaces.We have found that certain amenities directly impact overall revenue. 

5. Write Your Title and Property Description

A compelling title and description can be the difference between a guest scrolling past your listing or taking a moment to learn more.

Your title should be concise yet descriptive, highlighting the best features of your property. Use keywords that potential guests might search for, like "views" or "waterfront" or “patio.” Your title should strive to stand out in the search results and also still speak to your ideal guest. 

Provide a brief, honest overview of your space, including layout, decor, and unique aspects. Mention nearby attractions and transportation options to give guests a sense of the neighborhood. Highlight what types of experiences guests can in your space and the surrounding area.

Read our guide on how to write an effective Airbnb property description for more ideas on how to stand out in the search results. 

Invest time or money in high-quality photos to showcase your property at its best. Include:

Exterior Photos: Show the building, garden, or surrounding area.

Interior Photos: Capture all rooms, ensuring good lighting and cleanliness.

Unique Features: Highlight special amenities, like a clawfoot bathtub, or unique aspects of your space, such as a window seat in the library. 

Go the extra mile by including a link to an Airbnb video tour in your listing description. Video tours help guests to better imagine their guest experience in your space.

The right nightly price is high enough to remain competitive with other Airbnbs in the area, but still reasonable enough to attract guests. It’s a tricky balance and figuring out where that sweet spot is can feel daunting. Here’s how you can get started:

Research Similar Listings: Look for properties in your area with similar amenities, locations, and guest capacities to determine a fair and competitive rate for your listing.

Consider Dynamic Pricing Tools: These tools automatically adjust your nightly rate based on demand, seasonality, and local events. As a result, you’re always competitively priced without constant manual updates. You could use Airbnb Smart Pricing inside the app, but dedicated dynamic pricing tools like AirDNA’s Smart Rates™ allow you to create a more tailored pricing strategy. 

Understand Fee Structures: Airbnb offers different fee structures, including a split-fee option that divides the cost of Airbnb services between host and guest or a host-only fee where the host pays the entire service fee under certain circumstances (check out our guide on Airbnb vs Vrbo to learn.

8. Make Check-In and Check-Out Times Clear

Typical check-in times are in the afternoon, which allows you time to prepare the space after previous guests check out. Standard check-out times are in the morning, giving you enough time to clean and prepare the property for the next guest.

Make an informed decision about check-in and check-out times based on your market. If you’re in a remote area where daily flights in or out are limited, consider adjusting your check-out time to better align with departure times. Consider why people are traveling to your city–if it’s popular for its nightlife, you might have happier guests and receive better reviews if you offer a late check-out time.

Clear check-in and check-out times help guests plan their stay and can influence their booking decision. 

9. Set Up Your Calendar and Booking Settings

Adjust your availability settings to block off dates when the property is not available. Set your booking preferences for minimum stay lengths and advance notice requirements to help manage your schedule and prepare for guest arrivals.

You should also regularly update your calendar. This is especially important if you’re listing on multiple platforms. Linking your Airbnb and Vrbo calendars if you list on more than one platform is essential for avoiding double bookings. You may want to consider a host management tool like Uplisting if your listing is on multiple platforms. 

Briefly mention any important house rules in your listing to set expectations, such as policies on noise, smoking, pets, or additional guests. Detailed house rules can be shared with guests after they book, but any inflexible or uncommon policies should be communicated upfront so guests can make an informed decision about whether to book.

If you offer a guidebook to guests after booking, mention its availability in your listing to highlight your commitment to a great guest experience. The guidebook should include recommendations for local restaurants, attractions, transportation options, and emergency contacts.

Before activating your listing, make sure everything is in tip-top shape:

Double-Check All Information: Verify that all details in your listing are accurate and up-to-date. This includes descriptions, photos, amenities, and pricing.

Test Your Listing: Before finalizing and publishing your listing, Airbnb provides an option to preview it from a guest perspective. Check for any errors or missing information and verify that it presents your property in the best light.

Activate Your Listing: Once you’re satisfied with all the details, publish your listing and start welcoming guests. Note that it can take up to 72 hours for your listing to appear on Airbnb.

Your pricing strategy should be as unique as your rental property.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when listing on Airbnb?

Common mistakes that lead to less bookings include setting unrealistic prices, having strict cancellation policies, and not being transparent about additional fees. It's also important to keep your calendar updated to avoid double bookings. For more details, see our guide on Listing Your Vacation Rental on Multiple Platforms.

How can I set competitive pricing for my Airbnb listing?

Research similar listings in your area to set a fair and competitive rate. Consider using dynamic pricing tools to adjust your rates based on demand, seasonality, and local events. This keeps your property competitively priced without needing constant manual updates.

Why is a flexible cancellation policy important?

Guests appreciate flexibility, especially when travel plans change unexpectedly. Offering a flexible cancellation policy can make your listing more attractive to guests and increase your booking rate. Keep in mind that, in some ways, Airbnb rewards hosts that offer more flexible cancellation policies. Hosts are forced to take on the full cost of Airbnb service fees (known as the Host-Only fee) if they have super-strict cancellation policies.

How do I keep my calendar updated to prevent double bookings?

Regularly update your listing’s calendar availability to reflect changes and prevent double bookings. If you're listing your property on multiple platforms, sync your calendars to avoid overlaps. 

How can I get positive reviews from guests?

Keep your space clean, provide a hassle-free check-in process, and communicate promptly with guests. For more tips, read our article on How to Get 5-Star Review.

What should I do if I encounter double bookings?

Use tools to sync your calendars across platforms to prevent double bookings. If an overlap occurs, communicate immediately with affected guests and offer solutions. Learn more in our guide on how to handle double bookings.

It’s free to list on Airbnb. However, Airbnb charges a service fee when you receive a booking. This fee is typically a percentage of the booking subtotal and helps cover the cost of running the platform and providing support. For detailed information, visit Airbnb’s service fee overview.

Feeling overwhelmed about listing on Airbnb for the first time? We’ve got you covered with our 11 easy-to-follow steps to list on Airbnb.

How to Create a Listing on Airbnb

Key Takeaways
Detailed and accurate listings attract potential guests and set clear expectations, leading to higher satisfaction and better reviews.
Specify your property type, provide detailed information about the space, list all amenities, and use high-quality photos. 
A competitive and flexible nightly rate is the bread and butter of a profitable Airbnb listing. 

Are you looking to turn your spare room or investment property into a steady income stream? The first step to transforming your property into a profitable Airbnb rental begins with creating a well-crafted listing. Whether you're a first-time host or looking to optimize your existing listing, this step-by-step guide will walk you through listing on Airbnb. 

Calculate potential earnings

 Understand the investment potential of any address in the world. 

See your STR revenue potential
What are the Airbnb Listing Requirements?

If you're considering going to list your short-term rental property on Airbnb, it's important to understand the requirements to ensure your guests have a safe and enjoyable experience. Here's what you need to know.

Age Requirement for Hosts

All hosts must be at least 18 years old to open an Airbnb account. This age restriction ensures that hosts have the legal capacity to enter into agreements necessary for offering a rental property, showcasing the platform's commitment to responsible hosting.

Property Requirements

Airbnb accepts many different kinds of listings as long as they meet the following criteria:

The space is only used for lodging.
The accommodation, if a mobile home, sailboat, yacht, or other vessel, is semi-permanently attached to a set location and will be parked in a privately-owned space during the reservation.
The listing is accurately represented, located where the host says it is, and is bookable by the host.

Other Listing Requirements

In addition to the age requirement, the listing page at the time of booking must accurately describe the property and amenities that will be available to the guest from check-in to check-out. Airbnb outlines the following criteria for listings:

Booking Details: Once a booking is accepted, any changes to the booking details (such as dates or prices) should only be made with the guest's prior consent. 
Location Information: The listing’s location must be correctly represented, including the map pin and address. Disclose any factors that may affect noise levels in the surrounding area.
Type, Size, and Privacy: Clearly describe the type of lodging being offered, whether it’s a private room, an entire home, etc. Detail the setup, such as the number of bedrooms and bed sizes. Specify the level of privacy, including whether there is an on-site property manager or other guests.
Property Representation: The property provided must match what was booked. The photos and description should accurately represent the space. Substituting one listing for another is only acceptable with the guest's prior agreement and acceptance of a trip change request.
Amenities and House Rules: List all amenities and house rules accurately. Essential amenities include toilet paper, soap, towels and pillows for each guest, and bedding. Any restrictions on amenity access, such as limited pool hours, should be clearly communicated.

For more tips and insights on becoming a successful host after you list on Airbnb, explore Airbnb Hosting 101: A Beginner’s Guide.

Smart investments happen here.

AirDNA’s powerful yet easy-to-use tools make hosting and investing a breeze. This means having every insight you need, all in one place, always up-to-date.

Start exploring for free
11 Steps to Create a Listing on Airbnb

You want to get your Airbnb listing up and running but are not sure where to start.  Don’t worry—we’ve all been there. The good news is it's easier than you think. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a listing that attracts potential guests and maximizes your rental income.

1. Choose Your Property Type

It is essential to know whether you’re listing an entire place, a private room, or a shared space as it directly impacts guest expectations. You’ll to select from the following options: 

Entire Property: Offers complete privacy for guests, ideal for families or larger groups.
Private Room: Allows you to host while staying on the property, perfect for solo travelers or couples.
Shared Room: Budget-friendly option where guests share a space, similar to hostel accommodations.
2. Indicate Details About the Space

Airbnb will prompt you to provide detailed information about the space itself. This helps guests determine if your space meets their needs. Be prepared to give details such as:

How Many Guests: Specify the maximum number of guests your space can accommodate.
How Many Beds and Bathrooms: List the number of beds and bathrooms available.
Sleeping Arrangements: Describe the bed types and sleeping arrangements to help guests plan their stay. For example, indicate if the bed is a queen-size, twin, or sofa bed, and how many guests each bed can accommodate.
3. Enter Your Exact Location on Airbnb’s Map

Enter your property's exact location on Airbnb's map. Highlight nearby attractions, transportation options, and neighborhood features to showcase your location. Keep in mind that you have the ability to only show only the general area of your location to potential guests until a booking is confirmed. 

Hottest Airbnb Markets
Free Airbnb Calculator
4. List Amenities 

Common amenities to list include:

Wi-Fi
Kitchen
Pool
Free Parking
Washer/Dryer
Air Conditioning

Also, mention special features like a hot tub, fireplace, or unique outdoor spaces.We have found that certain amenities directly impact overall revenue. 

5. Write Your Title and Property Description

A compelling title and description can be the difference between a guest scrolling past your listing or taking a moment to learn more.

Your title should be concise yet descriptive, highlighting the best features of your property. Use keywords that potential guests might search for, like "views" or "waterfront" or “patio.” Your title should strive to stand out in the search results and also still speak to your ideal guest. 

Provide a brief, honest overview of your space, including layout, decor, and unique aspects. Mention nearby attractions and transportation options to give guests a sense of the neighborhood. Highlight what types of experiences guests can in your space and the surrounding area.

Read our guide on how to write an effective Airbnb property description for more ideas on how to stand out in the search results. 

6. Add High-Quality Photos

Invest time or money in high-quality photos to showcase your property at its best. Include:

Exterior Photos: Show the building, garden, or surrounding area.
Interior Photos: Capture all rooms, ensuring good lighting and cleanliness.
Unique Features: Highlight special amenities, like a clawfoot bathtub, or unique aspects of your space, such as a window seat in the library. 

Go the extra mile by including a link to an Airbnb video tour in your listing description. Video tours help guests to better imagine their guest experience in your space.

7. Set Your Nightly Price 

The right nightly price is high enough to remain competitive with other Airbnbs in the area, but still reasonable enough to attract guests. It’s a tricky balance and figuring out where that sweet spot is can feel daunting. Here’s how you can get started:

Research Similar Listings: Look for properties in your area with similar amenities, locations, and guest capacities to determine a fair and competitive rate for your listing.
Consider Dynamic Pricing Tools: These tools automatically adjust your nightly rate based on demand, seasonality, and local events. As a result, you’re always competitively priced without constant manual updates. You could use Airbnb Smart Pricing inside the app, but dedicated dynamic pricing tools like AirDNA’s Smart Rates™ allow you to create a more tailored pricing strategy. 

Learn about Dynamic Pricing

Understand Fee Structures: Airbnb offers different fee structures, including a split-fee option that divides the cost of Airbnb services between host and guest or a host-only fee where the host pays the entire service fee under certain circumstances (check out our guide on Airbnb vs Vrbo to learn.
8. Make Check-In and Check-Out Times Clear

Typical check-in times are in the afternoon, which allows you time to prepare the space after previous guests check out. Standard check-out times are in the morning, giving you enough time to clean and prepare the property for the next guest.

Make an informed decision about check-in and check-out times based on your market. If you’re in a remote area where daily flights in or out are limited, consider adjusting your check-out time to better align with departure times. Consider why people are traveling to your city–if it’s popular for its nightlife, you might have happier guests and receive better reviews if you offer a late check-out time.

Clear check-in and check-out times help guests plan their stay and can influence their booking decision. 

9. Set Up Your Calendar and Booking Settings

Adjust your availability settings to block off dates when the property is not available. Set your booking preferences for minimum stay lengths and advance notice requirements to help manage your schedule and prepare for guest arrivals.

You should also regularly update your calendar. This is especially important if you’re listing on multiple platforms. Linking your Airbnb and Vrbo calendars if you list on more than one platform is essential for avoiding double bookings. You may want to consider a host management tool like Uplisting if your listing is on multiple platforms. 

10. Add House Rules and a Guidebook

Briefly mention any important house rules in your listing to set expectations, such as policies on noise, smoking, pets, or additional guests. Detailed house rules can be shared with guests after they book, but any inflexible or uncommon policies should be communicated upfront so guests can make an informed decision about whether to book.

If you offer a guidebook to guests after booking, mention its availability in your listing to highlight your commitment to a great guest experience. The guidebook should include recommendations for local restaurants, attractions, transportation options, and emergency contacts.

11. Complete a Final Review and Go Live

Before activating your listing, make sure everything is in tip-top shape:

Double-Check All Information: Verify that all details in your listing are accurate and up-to-date. This includes descriptions, photos, amenities, and pricing.
Test Your Listing: Before finalizing and publishing your listing, Airbnb provides an option to preview it from a guest perspective. Check for any errors or missing information and verify that it presents your property in the best light.
Activate Your Listing: Once you’re satisfied with all the details, publish your listing and start welcoming guests. Note that it can take up to 72 hours for your listing to appear on Airbnb.
Customize Your Experience

Your pricing strategy should be as unique as your rental property.

Connect your Airbnb
FAQ’s 
What are some common mistakes to avoid when listing on Airbnb?

Common mistakes that lead to less bookings include setting unrealistic prices, having strict cancellation policies, and not being transparent about additional fees. It's also important to keep your calendar updated to avoid double bookings. For more details, see our guide on Listing Your Vacation Rental on Multiple Platforms.

How can I set competitive pricing for my Airbnb listing?

Research similar listings in your area to set a fair and competitive rate. Consider using dynamic pricing tools to adjust your rates based on demand, seasonality, and local events. This keeps your property competitively priced without needing constant manual updates.

Why is a flexible cancellation policy important?

Guests appreciate flexibility, especially when travel plans change unexpectedly. Offering a flexible cancellation policy can make your listing more attractive to guests and increase your booking rate. Keep in mind that, in some ways, Airbnb rewards hosts that offer more flexible cancellation policies. Hosts are forced to take on the full cost of Airbnb service fees (known as the Host-Only fee) if they have super-strict cancellation policies.

How do I keep my calendar updated to prevent double bookings?

Regularly update your listing’s calendar availability to reflect changes and prevent double bookings. If you're listing your property on multiple platforms, sync your calendars to avoid overlaps. 

How can I get positive reviews from guests?

Keep your space clean, provide a hassle-free check-in process, and communicate promptly with guests. For more tips, read our article on How to Get 5-Star Review.

What should I do if I encounter double bookings?

Use tools to sync your calendars across platforms to prevent double bookings. If an overlap occurs, communicate immediately with affected guests and offer solutions. Learn more in our guide on how to handle double bookings.

Does it cost anything to list on Airbnb?

It’s free to list on Airbnb. However, Airbnb charges a service fee when you receive a booking. This fee is typically a percentage of the booking subtotal and helps cover the cost of running the platform and providing support. For detailed information, visit Airbnb’s service fee overview.

Feeling overwhelmed about listing on Airbnb for  he first time? We’ve got you covered with our 11 easy-to-follow steps to list on Airbnb.

How to Create a Listing on Airbnb

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