Airbnb has completely changed the game for short-term rentals, giving property owners a great way to make money from their homes. But running an Airbnb isn’t as simple as just listing your place—it takes time, effort, and know-how. How hands-on you want to be is up to you—fortunately, there are different ways to manage your rental.
Some hosts prefer to manage everything themselves, from guest communication to cleaning, while others prefer to hire a full-service management company to handle all the work for them. Each approach has its pros and cons, so it’s all about finding the right fit for you.
Here are the five different Airbnb management options to help you decide which one is a good fit for you:
- Traditionally Self-Hosted Airbnb: Best for hands-on hosts who want to manage their properties full-time
- Automated Airbnb with Software and Tools: Best for tech-savvy hosts who want to automate some of their property management tasks
- Airbnb Co-Host Services: Best for hosts who need help but still want most control over the business
- Half-Service Airbnb Management: Best for rental property owners who want to reduce workload but still want involvement
- Full-Service Airbnb Management: Best for hands-off property owners who want a completely passive income stream from rentals
1. Traditionally Self-Hosted Airbnb
Traditionally self-hosted Airbnb is when a property owner manages everything independently. This includes creating and optimizing the listing, handling guest communications, managing check-ins and check-outs, cleaning, maintenance, and pricing strategies. Self-hosting allows owners to have full control over their property and maximize profits.
How It Works
Property owners handle all aspects of their Airbnb business. They must stay on top of guest inquiries, reviews, pricing changes, and operational logistics. This option requires a significant time investment but offers complete flexibility and control over guest experiences.
How Much It Costs
The costs associated with self-hosting are primarily operational expenses, including:
- Cleaning fees (if you’re hiring external cleaners)
- Cost of maintenance and repairs
- Utility bills
- Listing platform fees (Airbnb takes around 3% of the total booking cost)
- Marketing and professional photography (optional)
Who It’s Best For
- Hands-on hosts who enjoy managing every aspect of their rental and who have the time to do it by themselves.
- Local property owners who live nearby and can quickly respond to guest needs or emergencies.
- Owners looking to maximize profits by avoiding management fees and keeping full control over pricing and expenses.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Full control over pricing, policies, and guest interactions
- Maximized profit potential and fewer expenses
- Personal touch can lead to better reviews
Cons
- Time-consuming and requires ongoing effort
- Stressful during peak seasons
- Requires knowledge of hospitality and customer service
2. Automated Airbnb with Software and Tools
This approach allows property owners to automate most aspects of their Airbnb business using software solutions and digital tools. These tools help with pricing optimization, guest messaging, smart locks for self-check-ins, cleaning schedules, and revenue tracking. This method allows rental property owners to handle their day-to-day tasks themselves with the help of technology.
How It Works
Property owners integrate Airbnb automation software such as Guesty, Smartbnb, PriceLabs, and more. These tools streamline operations by automating guest communication, adjusting pricing based on demand, and scheduling cleaners after each stay. Smart locks allow guests to check in and out without owner (or property manager) involvement.
How Much It Costs
- Software subscription: $10 to $50/month (varies by provider and features)
- Smart locks: $100 to $300 (or more) one-time investment
- Cleaning and maintenance expenses remain the owner’s responsibility—costs vary depending on scope
Who It’s Best For
- Busy professionals and remote hosts who don’t have time for daily management or can’t be physically present but still want to maximize their rental income and avoid property management expenses.
- Owners managing multiple properties who need efficient systems to handle bookings, cleaning schedules, and guest communications.
- Tech-savvy hosts who are comfortable using automation tools like dynamic pricing software, smart locks, and AI-powered messaging systems.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Reduces time spent on manual tasks
- Improves guest experience with quick responses and automated processes
- Allows owners to manage listings remotely
Cons
- Still requires some involvement for maintenance and issue resolution
- Software costs can add up
- Less personal touch for guests
3. Airbnb Co-Host Services
Airbnb co-hosting involves hiring a trusted individual or company to assist with management tasks. A co-host can handle guest communication, check-ins, cleaning, and even pricing adjustments while the property owner retains some oversight. Owners still have control over key decisions, such as setting house rules, approving major expenses, and monitoring overall performance to ensure their Airbnb aligns with their goals and standards.
How It Works
A co-host is added to an Airbnb listing as a designated manager. The property owner and co-host agree on specific responsibilities, which can range from guest interaction to full-on management. Co-hosts are paid either a fixed fee or a percentage of booking revenue.
How Much It Costs
- Typically 10% to 30% of booking revenue, or a fixed fee per month depending on the arrangement
- Cleaning and maintenance costs remain separate
Who It’s Best For
- Owners who live far from their rental: A local co-host can manage on-the-ground tasks like key exchanges and property inspections.
- Hosts with busy schedules: If you don’t have time to respond to guest inquiries or coordinate cleaning, a co-host can take care of those tasks.
- New Airbnb hosts: A co-host can offer guidance and expertise to help optimize listings, pricing, and guest experiences.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Reduces workload for property owners
- More affordable than full-service management
- Customizable level of service
Cons
- Requires trust in the co-host’s ability
- Fees cut into profits
- Owners still handle some responsibilities
4. Half-Service Airbnb Management
Half-service Airbnb management covers some essential services like guest communication, listing optimization, and cleaning coordination while leaving the property owner responsible for maintenance and financial decisions. This setup provides a balance between convenience and control. It allows property owners to benefit from professional assistance while staying actively involved in key operational and financial decisions.
How It Works
The management company or co-host handles operational aspects, such as booking management and customer service. The owner remains involved in major decision-making and property upkeep.
How Much It Costs
- Typically 20% to 40% of rental income
- Cleaning, maintenance, and supplies are additional costs
Who It’s Best For
- Owners looking to reduce workload without full-service costs: It provides professional assistance without the higher fees of full-service property management.
- Hosts who want flexible management: Owners can customize which tasks to outsource and which ones to keep under their control.
- Hosts who want support but still want involvement: This option allows owners to delegate specific tasks, like guest communication and cleaning, while handling pricing and strategy themselves.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Relieves daily workload
- More affordable than full-service management
- Owners still have control over property decisions
Cons
- Management fees reduce profitability
- Owners remain responsible for maintenance and repairs
- Less flexibility than self-hosting
5. Full-Service Airbnb Management
Full-service Airbnb management handles every aspect of hosting, from listing creation and guest communication to cleaning, maintenance, and pricing optimization. This option provides a totally hands-off experience for property owners.
How It Works
A professional management company takes full control of the Airbnb listing. They manage bookings, guest support, check-ins, cleaning, maintenance, and revenue strategies. Owners simply receive passive income while the company handles everything else. This strategy lets property owners enjoy the benefits of owning a rental business without having to deal with the inevitable stress and headaches that often come with it.
How Much It Costs
- 25% to 50% of booking revenue (varies per provider)
- Some companies charge additional fees for maintenance and cleaning
Who It’s Best For
- Hands-off property owners: Ideal for those who want a completely passive income stream without dealing with daily operations.
- Busy professionals or investors: If you don’t have time to manage bookings, guest interactions, or maintenance, full-service management takes care of everything.
- Owners with multiple properties: Managing multiple rentals can be overwhelming, and a full-service company can streamline operations across all listings.
- Remote property owners: If you don’t live near your Airbnb, a professional management company ensures guests have a seamless experience without your direct involvement.
- Owners who prefer stress-free hosting: With experts handling everything from guest communication to maintenance, you don’t have to worry about day-to-day management, occupancy, and profits.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Completely passive income
- Professional guest management improves reviews
- Maximizes occupancy with dynamic pricing strategies
Cons
- Highest cost among management options
- Owners lose direct control over property
- Some companies charge additional hidden fees
Bottom Line
Choosing the right Airbnb management option depends on your budget and how involved you want to be in managing your rentals.
Self-hosting offers full control but requires effort, while automated Airbnb tools can streamline operations while letting you make decisions. Co-hosting services provide flexible management support, whereas half-service management balances delegation with owner oversight. Full-service management is the best option for those who want an entirely hands-off experience, but it often comes with higher fees.
The best Airbnb management strategy should align with your goals, resources, expertise, and level of involvement you can commit to your vacation rental business.
