How To Get 5 Star Reviews on Airbnb

Last December, I visited Stockholm and stayed in an Airbnb property. It’s an amazing city, and I was inspired by how the Swedes embrace the winter months. Every home, café and shop emitted a cosy feel, with an abundance of low lighting, blankets and hot chocolate. Yet, the property we stayed in lacked the snug feel. For a start, there were no cushions or blankets to sink into on the sofa. Equally, the cutlery drawer contained no forks. Small details, yet they matter if you want to get 5 star reviews on Airbnb.

Are 5 Star Reviews on Airbnb Important?

Properties listed on Airbnb receive guest reviews and ratings from 1 to 5. While a 4 may seem good, the average UK property rating in 2025 was 4.75. As a result, anything below that is considered under-par. With multiple options in most towns and cities, the competition is fierce. So, it makes sense to invest in providing an exceptional experience.

As the vast majority of guests use the rating and reviews to inform their booking decisions, you’ve got to aim high to secure a high occupancy rate and income. Bookings are higher for those with ‘Super host’ status, which is achieved with a consistent score of 4.8+.

Guest Essentials for Short Term Lets

Airbnb properties receive their overall score from 5 categories: cleanliness, communication, check-in experience, accuracy and value. So, your starting point is to nail the basics. Guests want to arrive at a spotlessly clean property, with everything in good working order. They expect the essentials to be included, from toilet roll and fluffy towels to WIFI, coat hooks and cutlery!

You need high-quality photos of the rooms and any outdoor space to attract bookings. However, those images, along with your descriptions, need to accurately reflect the property. That means, if you’ve not updated them for a while, it’s time for a refresh.

In addition, you need a professional approach to communication. Be proactive in contacting guests and be prompt in responding to their enquiries. That’s before, during and after their visit.

A Critical First-Hand Review

You don’t get 5 star Airbnb reviews from meeting expectations; you’ve got to exceed them. For this, I strongly advise that you stay in your property for a few nights. Sleep in the beds and sit in the chairs and sofa to ensure they are comfy and have adequate soft furnishings. Do the bedroom curtains keep out the light, and are the pillows plump?

Cook in the kitchen to be sure that there is more than sufficient crockery and basic provisions, such as oil, teabags and coffee. Use the shower, load the dishwasher and work from the desk for a morning. All the while, use your critical eye to notice anything that’s not up to standard. Equally, consider what additional touches would enhance the experience. If you are unsure, invite a trusted friend over and be open to their honest feedback.

Now, updates and upgrades require an investment of time and money. However, this is quickly recouped with a few extra bookings. So, is it time to modernise the décor, undertake some minor repairs or incorporate a few added touches?

As an interior designer, I’ve updated numerous holiday home interiors, including Airbnbs. I bring an objective perspective and experience as an Airbnb guest to help you maximise the potential of your property. An interior revamp and styling can enhance the space and offer added visual appeal. It’s a case of adding comfort without clutter. Then, you just need to refresh your online photos!

Personalisation to Boost Ratings

Thoughtful additions can transform a place to stay into a home from home. My suggestion is to focus on your ideal guest. Is your property typically booked for business, family breaks or couple escapes? Now, step into their shoes and consider what they would love to find. This might range from a bottle of wine to a booster seat, board games or indulgent toiletries. I think that a locally sourced treat is a bonus!

One highly valuable addition is to share your local knowledge. Most guests will be unfamiliar with the location, so your recommendations are helpful. Where is a great place to eat? What local attractions are a must-see? Can you provide a timetable for the nearest bus stop? Is there a lovely route for walkers? Are there rainy day attractions in the area?

Final Thoughts

For most hosts, bookings dip at during winter. That makes it a great opportunity to get your property in tip top condition for future guests. Remember that exceeding expectations is the way to beat the competition and get 5 star reviews on Airbnb.

If you are keen to enlist the services of an experienced interior designer, please contact me for an initial discussion.