How to attract the RIGHT guests
1. Take Control with Manual Approvals
First and foremost, you can turn Instant Book off to manually approve or deny booking requests. While Airbnb hides profile photos until a booking is confirmed to prevent discrimination, you can still vet guests by checking their past reviews and asking clarifying questions. Never feel pressured to approve a guest if you feel uncomfortable due to their communication style, poor reviews, or a total lack of history. A simple, "Sorry, I am unable to host you at this time," is perfectly acceptable.
2. Ease Into Instant Book
If you prefer the convenience of Instant Book, you can set specific criteria, such as requiring a "Good Track Record" and a Pre-Booking Message. Guests who don't meet these requirements will be forced to "Request to Book," giving you the final say. It can be intimidating to start with Instant Book right off the bat; consider keeping it off for your first few reservations until you get the hang of the platform.
3. Request an Experienced Guest First
When creating your listing, you can specify that you would like an experienced guest for your very first reservation. This ensures your debut hosting experience is with someone familiar with the platform's etiquette. If your listing is already live, you can find this setting under Account > Your first guest.
4. Clarify Suitability for Children
In the "Guest Safety" section of the Listing Details tab (viewed on desktop), you can specify if your space is unsuitable for certain ages.
Pro Tip: Pay close attention to the interface here. Selecting the checkmark means the place is NOT suitable for that age bracket, while selecting the "X" means it IS suitable. Double-check this to ensure you don't accidentally filter out the wrong groups!
5. Same-Gender Hosting for Shared Spaces
If you live on the property and share common areas like the kitchen or bathroom, you are permitted to specify in your House Rules that only guests of your same gender may book. If you receive a reservation from someone of a different gender, you are allowed to cancel penalty-free. Read the full policy details here.
6. Define Your "Ideal Guest" in the Description
Be explicit about who your home is best suited for. Use phrases like, "This property is ideal for travelers who love X, Y, and Z." Mention specific details like steep stairs, the presence of pets (for those with allergies), or safety hazards for toddlers. Always ensure your description remains compliant with Fair Housing laws and Airbnb’s Nondiscrimination Policy.
7. Emphasize Quiet Hours
Airbnb has a dedicated section for Quiet Hours, but if noise is a major concern, mention it in your House Rules and description as well.
Example:"Our HOA strictly enforces quiet hours. Please keep voices low and refrain from playing music on the patio after 8:00 PM. Violations may result in fines."
8. Use Strategic Cancellation Policies
To attract guests who are committed to their travel dates, consider setting your cancellation policy to "Firm" or "Strict." This helps filter for travelers who are ready to commit and helps protect your calendar from last-minute gaps.
9. Set Clear House Rules
Don’t rely solely on Airbnb’s standard options. Use the "Additional Rules" section to cover the specific nuances of your property, such as trash removal instructions, parking limits, or specific appliance rules.
10. Require a Profile Photo
You can require guests to have a profile photo under the "Policies and Rules" tab. While the photo remains hidden until the booking is confirmed, it provides peace of mind and helps you recognize your guest upon arrival. If a guest’s photo is an avatar or a cartoon rather than a face, you can contact Airbnb to cancel the booking penalty-free.
11. Set Interaction Preferences
Do you enjoy socializing with your guests, or do you prefer a hands-off approach? You can set these expectations in the "Info for Guests" tab. Being upfront about your level of interaction prevents social awkwardness and ensures a better "vibe" match.
12. Disclose Additional Screening Requirements
Airbnb provides basic identity verification and AirCover protection, but your HOA or community may require more—such as a third-party screening (e.g., RentSpree), a signed lease agreement, or a copy of a government ID. You must include these requirements in your House Rules so guests know exactly what is required of them before they commit to a booking.
