Airbnb Just Launched a Very Unique Home Rental Service
Published February 25, 2018 at 8:58 pm
Are you ready to up your Airbnb game?
Airbnb has quickly gained popularity as a go-to platform for renting a home anywhere in the world – whether it’s a house, a condo, or otherwise – and now, the rental service has launched a new category of homes for rent.
Airbnb Plus is basically a premium home rental service, with a listing of spaces you can rent that have been vetted for quality.
The homes available on Airbnb Plus are considered a tier above the rest.
“Airbnb Plus is a new selection of only the highest quality homes with hosts known for great reviews and attention to detail,” says Airbnb Plus’s website. “Every home is visited in person for a 100+ point quality inspection to ensure your comfort. Just look for the PLUS badge.”
These are one-of-a-kind homes, according to Airbnb, that are well-designed, comfortable, and have a “standard set of amenities.”
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What does Airbnb check for?
Things like high-quality linens, comfortable beds, privacy shades, Wi-Fi, and even quality soap and shampoo.
Thoughtfully arranged furniture, enough towels and fluffy pillows, hangers for clothing, drawers to store things, working appliances, functioning locks on bedroom doors, neatness, strong water pressure, and art on the walls are just a few more things Airbnb checks for in order for a home to deserve that “Plus” badge.
According to Airbnb, the vetting process is based on customer feedback. Airbnb surveys show that three fourths of guests on the service are willing to pay more for inspector-approved spaces.
Of course, the home itself is one thing, but dealing with the host can an entirely other battle.
With the sheer volume of hosts and renters using Airbnb, it’s no surprise that Airbnb horror stories exist. Guests have experienced everything from hosts that force them out much earlier than check-out, to hippy commune-style Airbnbs trying to cram in as many guests as possible.
Airbnb Plus hosts are the most highly rated hosts on the platform, says the rental service. They must have a 4.8 or more rating, stellar reviews, and “go over and beyond to create the perfect stay.”
To top it off, Airbnb Plus boasts an on-demand customer support team for renters.
If you’re feeling bougie and looking to start using the service, it’s currently available in Austin, Barcelona, Cape Town, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Melbourne, Milan, Rome, San Francisco, Shanghai, Sydney, and…Toronto!
The homes on the service now do look more beautiful than any Airbnb I’ve stayed at, for sure, but it’ll be interesting to see to what extent Airbnb Plus is “better” than regular Airbnb based on renter experience.
Would you use this service?
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