Airbnb Plus Requirements for Hosts: Here’s How to Qualify

By Ryan Drew | Superhost and Vacation Rental Expert | Last Updated January 24, 2025

How To Get Your Property Listed On Airbnb Plus

Airbnb Plus is a premium tier designed to showcase the best Airbnb properties that meet high standards for quality, comfort, and design. It provides a unique opportunity for hosts to attract discerning guests who value thoughtfully curated spaces and superior hospitality. If you’re considering applying for Airbnb Plus, this guide will walk you through the program’s requirements and benefits.

What Is Airbnb Plus?

Airbnb Plus is distinct from the Superhost program. While Superhosts are recognized for outstanding hospitality, Airbnb Plus is centered around homes that have been personally verified for quality, design, and comfort. Launched in 2018, the program highlights properties that reflect a higher standard of guest experience.

Properties in Airbnb Plus are inspected in person by a third-party representative to ensure they meet the program’s stringent criteria. Unlike traditional listings, Airbnb Plus properties often come with exclusive benefits, such as professional photography, premium placement in search results, and access to dedicated support.

Benefits Of Airbnb Plus

Hosts accepted into Airbnb Plus enjoy several advantages:

  • Higher Visibility: Airbnb Plus listings appear higher in search results and receive premium placement on the platform.
  • Verified Badge: A verified status builds trust with potential guests.
  • Increased Earnings: Hosts can charge higher nightly rates due to the elevated quality standard.
  • Professional Support: Access to interior design advice, editorial guidance, and premium customer service.

Airbnb Plus Host Requirements

Before applying to Airbnb Plus, you must meet specific hosting criteria:

  1. Consistent High Ratings: Maintain an average rating of at least 4.8 over the past year.
  2. Strong Booking Record: Accept 95% of booking requests and avoid cancellations over the past year.
  3. Entire Place Or Private Bedroom: The property must be either an entire home or a private bedroom with a private bathroom.
  4. Location: Your property must be in one of the designated cities where Airbnb Plus operates.

Airbnb Plus Home Checklist

Airbnb Plus homes must meet over 100 standards related to design, amenities, and maintenance. While Airbnb does not disclose its full checklist, here are key areas to focus on:

Thoughtful Design

  • Cohesive Style: The interior design should reflect a unified aesthetic, free of clutter.
  • Unique Character: Each room should have design elements that highlight the host’s personal style.
  • Inviting Spaces: Furniture should be arranged for easy navigation, with decor that enhances the ambiance.

Well-Equipped Amenities

Airbnb Plus properties must provide essential amenities to ensure guest comfort:

  • Bathroom Essentials: Towels, shampoo, conditioner, hand soap, and body wash.
  • Fully Stocked Kitchen: Cooking utensils, diningware, salt, pepper, oil, filtered water, and tea/coffee.
  • Entertainment And Connectivity: Television with streaming capabilities and high-speed WiFi (minimum 5 Mbps).
  • Additional Essentials: Iron, ironing board, and hair dryer.

Impeccable Maintenance

  • Spotless Cleanliness: Ensure the property is clean and free of visible wires or clutter.
  • Well-Kept Outdoors: If applicable, outdoor spaces should be free of weeds and debris.
  • Smooth Check-In: Offer self-check-in options like digital locks or lockboxes for guest convenience.

Application Process

To apply for Airbnb Plus, hosts must pay a non-refundable $149 application fee. However, paying this fee does not guarantee acceptance. Once you’ve applied, an Airbnb representative will visit your property to perform a detailed inspection, evaluating it against the program’s rigorous standards.

Tips To Qualify For Airbnb Plus

  1. Enhance Guest Communication: Prompt and clear communication can help maintain high ratings. Automation tools can streamline messaging and improve response times.
  2. Invest In Design: Work with an interior decorator to create a cohesive and memorable look for your space. Focus on balancing style with functionality.
  3. Keep It Well-Maintained: Regularly inspect your property to ensure everything is in working order, and address any maintenance issues promptly.
  4. Upgrade Amenities: Providing thoughtful extras, like high-quality linens or locally sourced welcome gifts, can elevate the guest experience.

Is Airbnb Plus Worth It?

Joining Airbnb Plus requires effort, time, and financial investment, but it can be worthwhile for the right hosts. The program can significantly boost your property’s visibility, trustworthiness, and earning potential. However, it’s not ideal for every host. Consider your goals, budget, and willingness to meet the program’s high standards before applying.

Conclusion

Airbnb Plus offers hosts the chance to stand out in a competitive market by showcasing their property as a premium option. By meeting the program’s stringent requirements and maintaining a focus on guest satisfaction, you can attract high-quality bookings and potentially increase your revenue. If you’re ready to invest in your property and elevate the guest experience, Airbnb Plus could be an excellent opportunity for your hosting business.


Related Questions:

What are the Perks to Having an Airbnb Plus Property? 

Having Airbnb Plus status will help your property to stand apart.  This lets guests know that your property is top-notch. Your listing will be more searchable, and you have the option to raise your price.  Ultimately, having an Airbnb Plus property should raise the number of bookings you experience throughout the year and result in more money.

How do you Keep Airbnb Plus Status? 

You have to meet certain requirements to keep listing your property with Airbnb Plus.  First, you must maintain an average of 4.8 overall stars. You also must have no canceled reservations over the past year.  Exceptions may be made if there are extenuating circumstances.

You must also fulfill your commitment to only book through Airbnb or your own website, not to list your property with any other sites, and to update your calendar in Airbnb.

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