How to Reply to Reviews on Airbnb: A Host’s Essential Guide to Common Guest Feedback

There’s nothing quite like discovering that your efforts have significantly impacted your guest’s vacation experience – and that they’re eager to return for another stay. On the other hand, receiving a bad Airbnb guest review can be a downright nightmare to any host.

The impact of such criticism can be disheartening, whether it’s due to a guest leaving your place in shambles or simply being a challenging individual to accommodate.

Why Airbnb Reviews Matter

Let’s cut to the chase, shall we? Potential guests are scouring your reviews to decide if your listing is the real deal. Reviews are like a seal of approval from an unbiased source – like social proof that your listing lives up to the hype!

So, it’s in your best interest as an Airbnb host to – good or bad.

Proven Tips on Make Airbnb Reviews Work in Your Favor as a Host

From crafting thoughtful to addressing negative guest reviews head-on, these strategies will help you build a strong reputation that attracts more bookings and high star ratings and keeps guests coming back.

  1. Communicate with your guests promptly. It’s important to communicate with your guests promptly by responding to their messages, giving clear check-in and check-out instructions, and notifying them of changes to the listing or house rules before arrival.
  2. Be flexible with your cancellation policy. Understanding the need of guests to cancel a few days before their stay due to unforeseen circumstances is more likely to result in positive reviews without permitting last-minute cancellations.
  3. Keep your bookings updated. Consistently update your calendar to prevent double bookings and avoid any miscommunications.
  4. Be the first to leave a review for your guest. Remember that guests usually don’t leave a review right after checking out. However, by leaving a review for them, you increase the possibility of them reciprocating and leaving one for you.
  5. Simply ask. After their stay, ask for feedback, which can increase the likelihood of positive reviews and demonstrate your commitment to providing excellent service.
  6. Use keywords in your responses like “guest Airbnb reviews,” “Airbnb guest,” “Airbnb respond to a review,” and “more positive reviews” in your responses to boost your listing.
  7. Consider using Airbnb guest review response generator. It’s like having a witty, friendly sidekick to help you craft the perfect response when you use an Airbnb guest review response generator. Not only will it save you time, but it will also ensure that your responses are friendly, professional, and on-brand.

How to Respond to Common Negative Airbnb Guest Reviews (with Response Templates)

Negative review example #1:

The apartment was not as clean as I expected. The furniture had dust and stains, and the bathroom wasn’t properly cleaned.

How to respond to a bad Airbnb review example template #1:

Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback, [Guest’s Name]. We apologize for the cleanliness issues you experienced during your stay. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we take such concerns very seriously.

We have addressed your concerns with our housekeeping team to ensure that future guests do not encounter similar issues. We hope to have the opportunity to host you again and provide a more enjoyable experience. Please contact us directly if you have any further concerns or suggestions.

Why it works

  • It addresses the issue mentioned in the review and apologizes for any inconvenience caused.
  • Potential guests can see the host’s willingness to address concerns based on the guest’s feedback.
Negative Review Example #2:

The Wi-Fi connection was terrible during my stay. I used my mobile data most of the time, which was inconvenient.

How to Respond to a Bad Airbnb Review Example Template #2:

[Guest’s Name], we apologize for the poor Wi-Fi connection you experienced while staying at our Airbnb property. We understand how important reliable internet access is for our guests, and we’re sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused.

We have since addressed the issue by upgrading our Wi-Fi equipment to ensure a stronger and more stable connection for future guests. If you ever decide to stay with us again, we’d be more than happy to offer a discount as a token of our appreciation for your understanding.

Why it works

  • Acknowledges the guest’s concerns and offers an apology for the inconvenience.
  • Demonstrates that the host has taken action to resolve the issue for future guests.
  • The host offers a discount as a goodwill gesture, encouraging the guest to consider a return stay.
Negative Review Example #3:

The check-in process was confusing, and it took us a while to figure everything out. Clearer instructions would have been helpful.

How to Respond to a Bad Airbnb Review Example Template #3:

Thank you for bringing this to our attention, [Guest’s Name]. We apologize for any confusion you encountered during the check-in process, and we understand how frustrating that can be after a long journey.

Based on your feedback, we have revised our check-in instructions to provide more clarity and ensure a smooth arrival experience for our future guests. We value your input and hope you’ll consider staying with us again so we can provide the seamless experience you deserve.

Why it works

  • It shows that the host has taken the feedback seriously and improved to prevent future issues.
  • The host appreciates the guest’s input and invites them to return for a better experience.

How to Respond to Common Positive Airbnb Guest Reviews (with Response Templates)

Positive Review Example #1:

The apartment was cozy, clean, and well-equipped. We felt right at home and had a fantastic stay. Highly recommended!

How to Reply to Reviews on Airbnb [Positive Review Template #1]:

Thank you for your kind words and recommendation, [Guest’s Name]! We’re thrilled you enjoyed your stay and found the apartment comfortable and well-equipped. It was a pleasure hosting you, and we hope to welcome you back for another memorable experience.

Why it works

  • Expresses gratitude for the guest’s positive feedback and recommendation.
  • Reinforces the aspects of the stay that the guest enjoyed.
  • The host invites the guest to return, fostering a positive relationship for future bookings.
Positive Review Example #2:

The host was incredibly responsive and helpful throughout our stay. They provided great local recommendations and made sure we had everything we needed.

How to Reply to Reviews on Airbnb [Positive Review Template #2]:

[Guest’s Name], we appreciate your lovely feedback, and we’re delighted to hear that you found our communication helpful during your stay. It’s always a pleasure to assist our guests in making their trips enjoyable. Thank you for choosing our Airbnb property, and we look forward to hosting you again on your next visit!

Why it works

  • It highlights the host’s commitment to making guests’ experiences enjoyable and memorable.
  • The host expresses enthusiasm for welcoming the guest back, creating a positive and lasting impression.
Positive Review Example #3:

The location of this Airbnb was perfect! It’s close to public transport, restaurants, and local attractions. We couldn’t have asked for a better spot.

How to Reply to Reviews on Airbnb [Positive Review Template #3]:

Thank you for sharing your positive experience, [Guest’s Name]! We’re glad you found the location convenient and enjoyed exploring the surrounding area. It was an honor to host you, and we hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back in the future for another exceptional stay.

Why it works

  • It conveys appreciation for the guest’s feedback and highlights the aspects they enjoyed during their stay.
  • It shows that the host takes pride in providing their guests with a convenient location and a pleasant experience.
  • The host expresses eagerness to accommodate the guest again, fostering a positive relationship and encouraging future bookings.

Final Thoughts

Your replies as an Airbnb host can demonstrate your commitment to providing excellent hospitality and help build trust with potential guests.

If you want to learn how to respond to google reviews, remember always to keep your responses professional, empathetic, and solution-oriented. Also, consider using an Airbnb guest review response generator to easily respond to any reviews given with countless resources at your disposal.

Take the time to address guests’ concerns and thank them for their feedback. After all, happy guests lead to even happier hosts!

What you should read next: Go Beyond 5-Star Reviews on Airbnb: The Ins and Outs of the Review System