Everything You Need to Know About the Airbnb Guest Favorite Badge

How to Get the Airbnb Guest Favorite Badge (and Why It Matters for Your Listing)

If you’ve been hosting on Airbnb for a while, you’ve probably seen the Guest Favorite badge appear on other listings that little mark of trust that instantly draws a guest’s eye. It’s more than just a badge; it’s a symbol of consistent excellence, strong hospitality systems, and a host who truly understands Airbnb strategy and optimization.

At BNB Guardians, we coach hosts and property managers to build businesses that scale. And earning the Guest Favorite badge is one of the clearest indicators that your Airbnb management systems are performing at a high level.

Here’s what it means, why it matters, and how to earn it.

What Is the Airbnb Guest Favorite Badge?

The Airbnb Guest Favorite badge is awarded to listings that consistently deliver top-tier guest experiences. Airbnb determines this based on a mix of high average review ratings (typically 4.9+), positive guest feedback, low cancellation rates, and strong Airbnb guest communication.

It’s different from Superhost status, though many listings hold both. While Superhost recognizes your consistency as a host, Guest Favorite highlights the quality of the guest experience at a specific property. Together, they send a powerful message to potential guests: you’re a professional, optimized host who knows exactly how to deliver.

Why the Guest Favorite Badge Matters for Airbnb Hosts

In today’s crowded short-term rental market, visibility is everything. Earning this badge helps your property stand out in Airbnb’s search results, a major Airbnb SEO advantage. Travelers often filter or subconsciously favor listings with that badge because it signals reliability, comfort, and professionalism.

From an Airbnb marketing perspective, the badge builds instant credibility. Guests trust that your property will meet or exceed expectations. This often leads to:

• Higher click-through rates on your listing,

• Increased conversion rates (more bookings),

• And the ability to justify stronger Airbnb pricing.

Essentially, the badge becomes a trust multiplier for your Airbnb business especially when combined with a sound Airbnb strategy and great systems behind the scenes.

How to Earn the Airbnb Guest Favorite Badge

Earning this badge requires more than luck, it’s about Airbnb optimization, consistency, and hospitality excellence. Here’s how to position your listing for success:

1. Prioritize 5-Star Guest Experiences

Cleanliness, communication, and accuracy are the foundation. Make sure every stay runs smoothly with clear Airbnb guest communication, detailed check-in instructions, and personalized touches that leave a lasting impression.

2. Keep Your Airbnb Listing Creation Accurate and Updated

Outdated photos or unclear descriptions can tank your ratings. Audit your listing regularly: update photos, amenities, and descriptions to reflect reality. Transparency builds trust and prevents negative reviews.

3. Use Smart Airbnb Management Systems

Automate routine tasks like guest messaging, cleaning schedules, and reviews. Tools like Guesty make it easy to maintain consistency across multiple listings while improving response time, a key Airbnb help metric.

4. Respond Quickly and Professionally

Response time affects both your ranking and your reviews. Even if you can’t reply personally, use automation to confirm guest inquiries immediately and follow up with thoughtful, personalized responses.

5. Maintain a Low Cancellation Rate

Guest Favorite hosts rarely cancel. Build backup systems, such as co-hosts or professional cleaners to ensure smooth operations and guest reliability.

How Airbnb Coaching Can Help You Get There

If you’re serious about earning the Guest Favorite badge, having expert guidance can accelerate your results. Airbnb coaching helps you develop clear Airbnb strategies, implement professional Airbnb management systems, and master the art of Airbnb optimization, all while improving your profitability and guest satisfaction.

Whether you’re trying to fix your Airbnb SEO, refine your Airbnb pricing structure, or scale your operations without burning out, the right mentorship and structure can transform your hosting game.

Final Thoughts

The Airbnb Guest Favorite badge isn’t just about recognition, it’s proof that your Airbnb business runs with excellence. By investing in systems, consistent hospitality, and strategic Airbnb management, you’ll not only earn this badge but also position your property for long-term success.

If you’re ready to elevate your hosting strategy and build a business that runs smoothly year-round, join our Airbnb Superhost Academy community on Skool or book a call with us at BNB Guardians.

Let’s optimize your Airbnb business and make your property every guest’s favorite.