How to Use Airbnb Reviews to Skyrocket Your Listing’s Ranking

Why Airbnb Reviews Can Make or Break Your Hosting Success (And How to Maximize Them)

If you're trying to build a profitable short-term rental business, there's one simple thing that can skyrocket your visibility and bookings faster than almost anything else: Airbnb reviews.

But here's the thing most new hosts don’t realize: Reviews don’t just show up. You’ve got to earn them, and sometimes even ask for them the right way.

At BNB Guardians, we’ve helped new and experienced hosts turn struggling listings into Superhost-level performers, and reviews have always played a massive role in that transformation. So let’s break down why they matter, how to get more of them, and what you can do to set your listing up for 5-star success.

Why Are Airbnb Reviews So Important?

The truth is, guests don’t just read reviews, they rely on them.

In fact, over 75% of guests won’t book a place unless it already has good reviews. On top of that, Airbnb SEO heavily favors listings with more positive reviews, pushing them higher in search results. That means:

• More visibility

• More clicks

• More bookings

• More income
  

So if your listing isn’t getting the love it deserves, it might not be your photos or pricing, it could be your lack of reviews.

How to Get More Airbnb Reviews (Without Begging Guests)

One of the biggest pain points we hear from new hosts is: “How do I get guests to leave reviews?”

Here’s what works:

1. Leverage Airbnb’s Double-Blind Review System

Airbnb uses a system where neither party can see the other’s review until both are submitted. This encourages guests to leave honest feedback, and it gives you an opening to lead by example.

2. Always Review Your Guests First

Want to increase your review rate? Be the first to leave one. It signals that you’re a responsive, engaged host, and it nudges guests to reciprocate.

3. Automate Your Reviews to Save Time

At BNB Guardians, we teach our coaching clients how to use automation tools to leave personalized-yet-efficient guest reviews. It’s part of our Airbnb management and guest communication strategy that frees up your time and ensures no guest goes unacknowledged.

The Secret to Getting 5-Star Feedback Every Time

Before you start chasing reviews, make sure your listing actually deserves them.

Write a High-Converting Listing

Your Airbnb listing creation should clearly explain:

• The location and layout

• Amenities and sleeping arrangements

• House rules and unique features

• What makes your place stand out
  

If guests know exactly what to expect, they’re less likely to be surprised, and more likely to leave you a glowing review.

Use Professional-Grade Photos

Photos are the first impression. If they’re dark, outdated, or taken with your iPhone 7, it’s time for an upgrade. Great photos can set expectations, reduce cancellations, and attract higher-quality guests.

Deliver a Seamless Guest Experience

This is where it all comes together. From smooth check-ins to sparkling clean spaces, what you deliver during the stay matters just as much as what you promise in the listing.

We coach our Airbnb Super Host Academy members on how to systematize the entire guest journey—from pricing and Airbnb marketing to setting up cleaning teams and communication workflows.

Reviews Aren’t Just Feedback—They’re a Growth Tool

Every review gives you insight. Pay attention to what guests loved, and what they didn’t. This is how you grow from a side hustle to a scalable short-term rental business.

And for Airbnb, reviews are part of how they ensure hosts and listings meet the platform’s standards. So if you're looking to become a long-term player, consistent, quality reviews are non-negotiable.

Need Help With Airbnb? We’ve Got Your Back.

If you’re tired of chasing guests for reviews, unsure why your listing isn’t converting, or simply want to grow faster—you don’t have to figure it out alone.

👉Join our Airbnb Super Host Academy community on Skool or book a call with us at BNB Guardians. We’ll help you build smarter systems, attract better guests, and get the kind of reviews that fuel real financial freedom.