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March 2024: in a bold move, Airbnb removes 100,000 listings from the platform
In a major overhaul, in the first week of March 2024, Airbnb has taken down a staggering 100,000 listings as part of its commitment to enhancing "quality and reliability" on its platform. It was announced in its recent "Spring Product Update."
This massive removal marks the largest action of its kind by the company, accompanied by the assurance that Airbnb is actively developing new tools to prevent these delisted homes from reappearing on the platform. The move underscores the company's dedication to providing users with a more consistent and trustworthy experience.
The initiative stems from Airbnb's introduction of a hosting quality system last April, a comprehensive evaluation process that analyzes properties based on various factors, including subcategory ratings, host cancellations, listing accuracy, and communication quality. In the wake of this system's implementation, Airbnb has identified and subsequently removed 100,000 listings that consistently delivered a subpar guest experience.
Airbnb emphasized the significance of instilling confidence in its users, stating, "Every day, an average of nearly 1 million guests put their trust in Airbnb as they check into a listing. Each one of them should feel confident that they know exactly what they can expect before they book."
Furthermore, Airbnb disclosed that nearly 1.5 million listings are set to complete the company's verification process by the end of the month. This verification initiative, launched in September, focuses on providing badges to listings in the United States, Canada, Australia, France, and the United Kingdom. The company is set to introduce additional tools, including video and photo verification, and will extend the listing verification process to 30 more countries in the fall.
As part of its ongoing improvements, Airbnb is also updating its "Guest Favorites" identification system, initially launched in November. The system will now showcase a "unique highlight" for listings in the top 25% based on ratings, reviews, and reliability, and a distinguished "trophy icon" for the top 1%. Meanwhile, listings in the bottom 10% will be clearly identified, offering users a more informed choice when selecting their accommodation.
Airbnb Quality Initiative FAQ
Why has Airbnb removed 100,000 listings?
It was a way to fight the ongoing issue on the platform - scammers and fake listings. More info can be found here.
How does Airbnb decide which listings to remove?
Airbnb decides which listings to remove by looking at past bookings and photos or videos submitted by hosts. This helps them see if the listings match what guests are expecting. It's easier for hosts who are professionals because they have to confirm that their listings are accurate and that they have permission to say so. If a property management company is involved, Airbnb's account managers help with the verification process.
For new hosts, Airbnb will soon have new tools available in the initial five countries where they're verifying properties. These tools will make it easier for hosts to submit photos and videos to prove the accuracy of their listings.
What new tools will Airbnb introduce as part of its verification process expansion?
Airbnb will introduce video and photo verification tools to enhance the verification process. Additionally, listing verification will be extended to 30 additional countries in the fall, providing a more comprehensive verification system worldwide.
How is Airbnb updating its "Guest Favorites" identification system?
Airbnb's "Guest Favorites" identification system will now highlight listings in the top 25% based on ratings, reviews, and reliability with a "unique highlight." Listings in the top 1% will receive a distinguished "trophy icon," while those in the bottom 10% will be clearly identified.
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KeyNest offers you a convenient service for storing and exchanging your property keys. You can drop off a key at any of the 7,000+ locations in our network, so there’s one such Point located next to your property already
Guests, cleaners or contractors can then collect the key securely from a KeyNest Point, which is usually open 24/7. You'll be notified each time the key is picked up or returned, and you can even customize check-in and check-out times.
KeyNest has an ever-expanding global network of locations located just minutes from your property. To find out more, visit our website.