Ever heard of the “Airbnb review cliff”? It’s a simple concept with big consequences for your Airbnb listing. Let’s dive into what it means and how you can steer clear of it.
Pssssst! Are you more of a video person? Then click HERE to watch Jeff’s video breakdown.
Understanding the Review Cliff
At IntelliHost, we conducted a thorough analysis to understand the impact of review scores on Airbnb listings’ visibility. We studied how slight decreases in review scores, from a flawless 5.0 down to lower scores, affect a listing’s chance of appearing on the first page of search results.
Our study revealed a gradual decline in visibility with each minor drop in review score, which was relatively manageable up until listings reached the 4.5-star threshold. The drop in each additional point resulted in approximately a 1% FP impressions drop.
However, the situation changes dramatically once a listing’s score falls below 4.4 stars. At this point, the likelihood of appearing on the first page plummets by more than 10%, indicating a significant visibility cliff!
This stark drop-off highlights a critical threshold within Airbnb’s search algorithm, suggesting a disproportionate penalty for listings that fall into the 4.3 to 4.4-star range compared to those just a notch above. These findings underscore the delicate balance required to maintain high visibility on the platform and the crucial importance of every tenth of a star in review scores.
Why This Matters
If your listing has only a few reviews, each new review can really swing your overall score. Drop below 4.4 stars, especially with just a handful of reviews, and your listing could really suffer, getting seen by fewer potential guests.
Tips to Stay on Top
Falling off the review cliff sounds scary, but there are straightforward ways to avoid it or climb back up if you’ve taken the plunge.
First Impressions Count: Get those early reviews to be as positive as possible. They set the tone for your listing.
Be Honest with Guests: Tell guests your property is new and that you value their feedback. People are usually more understanding and generous in their reviews when they know you’re just starting out.
Ask for Private Feedback: Instead of a bad public review, ask guests if they’d be willing to give you detailed feedback privately. You can even offer a small discount or refund as a thank you. This helps you fix issues without hurting your public rating.
Focus on Great Service: The best way to avoid bad reviews is by offering an excellent stay. Make sure guests have everything they need and address any issues promptly.
Keep it simple!
These personalized notes do more than just welcome guests; they build a connection, often leading to positive reviews and repeat visits. They demonstrate that you’re a thoughtful and attentive host.
Hungry for More Insights?
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