APRIL 14, 2025
Why Is My Airbnb Listing Not Performing?
If you’ve found yourself repeatedly asking, “Why is my listing not performing?” you’re not alone. The vacation rental market is competitive, and even small details can significantly impact your booking rates. Let’s dive into the most common reasons your listing might be underperforming and how you can fix them.
Pricing and Comp Set: Are You Competitive?
One of the top reasons listings don’t perform well is that the pricing isn’t aligned with the market. To address this:
- Check Your Competition: Regularly review similar properties in your area. What amenities do they offer? What are their nightly rates? Your pricing should align with comparable listings.
- Stay Current: Prices fluctuate with seasons, holidays, and local events. Regularly adjusting your rates keeps you competitive and appealing.
Ensuring your prices match market expectations is key to optimizing your listing performance.
Images: Grab Attention from the First Scroll
Photos make or break your listing. If everyone in your area features the same kind of hero image, your listing won’t stand out. Here’s how to fix it:
- Choose a Unique Hero Image: Instead of the standard living room shot, highlight something special—like a vibrant patio set, relaxing hot tub, or stunning ocean view. Your first image should stop potential guests from scrolling past your listing.
- Showcase Your Best Features First: Your top five images must highlight distinct amenities or spaces, offering a quick, engaging overview of what guests can expect.
Outstanding visuals set your listing apart and attract more bookings.
Listing Copy: Easy to Skim and Inviting
Vacation-goers browse listings quickly. Dense paragraphs and complicated descriptions turn them away. Make sure your listing is easy to scan and inviting:
- Use Short Sentences: Concise sentences and clear bullet points help readers quickly grasp important details.
- Paint a Picture: Write your copy to help guests visualize themselves enjoying your property. Mention relaxing activities, comfortable amenities, or scenic views to evoke vacation vibes.
A well-written, scannable listing significantly improves engagement and booking rates.
Key Takeaway: Why Is My Airbnb Listing Not Performing?
Understanding these essential components—competitive pricing, striking images, and reader-friendly copy—can dramatically enhance your vacation rental listing’s appeal and performance. Regular reviews and updates to your listing will keep you ahead of the curve and consistently booked.
Join The STR Sisterhood and get real-time feedback on your listing in the Listing Rx space—it’s totally free to join!
