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How Airbnb works

What is Airbnb and how does it work? Everything you need to know

What is Airbnb?

Airbnb is one of the most widespread platforms worldwide for managing vacation rentals. While the platform offers great business opportunities, it also faces a great deal of competition.
The advertiser's goal on the platform should always be to persuade guests to rent their property , as well as to reach potential guests who are looking for accommodation.

How does Airbnb work?

What are the requirements to become an Airbnb host?

From July 1, 2025, it became mandatory in Spain to register all tourist properties in the Single Registry of Tourist Rentals and to display the registration number in the Airbnb listing. Without this number, the accommodation cannot be listed on the platform.

To host on Airbnb, you generally need to meet several basic requirements . While these can vary depending on the location and specific Airbnb policies, the common requirements are detailed below:

1. Have a suitable space for lodging:

Before posting your listing on the platform, make sure your accommodation is ready.

At a minimum, it must have the basic amenities covered, although if you want to get more out of it and attract a greater number of guests, you should take care of it to make it attractive to users of the application.

It might be a good idea to prepare a welcome letter for the holiday rental, as well as some basic house rules.

The accommodation can be a private room, a whole house, an apartment, or any type of property that meets habitability standards.

2. Create an Airbnb profile:

You must register and create a detailed profile on Airbnb.
In your profile, you will need to provide personal information and verify your identity.

It's a very basic and simple process where the platform itself will guide you through the process successfully, providing all the necessary information, including the type of property you want to list.
You'll also need to add a title, description, and photos of the property.
We recommend conveying maximum trust and being as transparent as possible from the outset in your listing communications, as well as with potential guests.

3. Comply with local regulations and laws:

It is essential to know and comply with local laws regarding short-term rentals, obtaining the necessary tourist permits or licenses.

In Spain it is necessary:

  • Register the property in the Single Registry (from July 1, 2025).
  • Present a tourist license if required by the autonomous community.
  • Comply with the Guest Registration Act by sending traveler details to the authorities within the first 24 hours of arrival.
  • Manage tax obligations (personal income tax, VAT in some cases, and tourist tax if applicable).

4. Detailed property listing:

You need to create a listing for your property that includes detailed descriptions, high-quality photos, and set prices, cancellation policies, and house rules.

5. Provide basic amenities:

Make sure your space has basic amenities like clean sheets, towels, toilet paper, and other essential items for guests. These basics, when present, are usually the norm, but their absence can cause significant discomfort.
At a minimum, the accommodation must have smoke detectors and a fire extinguisher, which are mandatory in most regions. Always keep a first-aid kit handy and ensure you maintain good cleaning and maintenance practices.

6. Accept as many requests as you can

This is important for having a presence on Airbnb. Keep in mind that the platform's goal is to provide the best possible experience, so try to accept as many requests as possible and cancel as few reservations as possible.
As a host, you should aim to meet the minimum quality standards.

With the Check-in Scan , you can manage your guests' check-in process completely automatically. You can also integrate it with any smart lock, so that when guests check in, they can access the accommodation without any physical contact with the host.

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What is Airbnb and how does it work?

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7. Maintain positive communication with your guests:

Responding to guest inquiries promptly and efficiently is highly valued by the platform. It's recommended to reply within 24 hours of receiving the message. This
isn't just about being favorably received by the platform's algorithm; it's about ensuring smooth communication with users and guests.
The host should be available to resolve any issues guests may encounter during their stay.

8. Get positive stay reviews

Getting positive reviews is the result of providing good service, or the service that guests expect. Encourage reviews by sending reminders to guests via text message or email.
If you manage to get positive feedback and a high average rating, the platform will consider it positively.

9. Safety and maintenance:

Make sure the property is in good condition, safe and clean before each guest arrival.

These are the general requirements, but it is advisable to review Airbnb's specific policies and guidelines and applicable local laws to ensure full compliance.

Important tips for hosts on how Airbnb works

Create attractive and original ads to persuade platform users to choose your rental. You can also find inspiration in other ads if you don't have much time to create your own.

Attractive and eye-catching content

Titles: Use direct titles

  • Use direct and persuasive titles , keeping in mind that this is the first thing a user will see. Avoid words like "pretty" or "great location" and focus on aspects that only your accommodation can offer.
  • Upload high-quality photos of the property you're renting ; many users will be attracted simply by the quality of the images. Always make sure to show the best possible angle.
  • When writing a description of the accommodation, be sure to mention nearby points of interest (monuments, parking, attractions, etc.) to highlight the apartment's location. If it's a coastal property, you can also include the distance to the beach.
  • You should also mention the amenities included in the accommodation ; this is an important point for the user when making a decision.
  • Always make sure to keep in mind the positive reviews from previous customers.

How does Airbnb pay the host?

Airbnb pays hosts through various payment methods, which may vary depending on the host's country. Common methods include:

  • Bank transfer : The money is transferred directly to the host's bank account.
  • PayPal : Funds are sent to the host's PayPal account.
  • Payoneer Prepaid Debit Card : Hosts can receive payments on a prepaid debit card.
  • Western Union : Some hosts may choose to receive payments through Western Union.
  • Other methods : Depending on the host's location, other payment methods may also be available.

Payment is usually made 24 hours after the guest check-in, and it may take several days for the funds to appear in the host's account depending on the payment method chosen.

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