Why Professional Photography and the Right Amenities Are Non-Negotiable for Your Airbnb Listing
In today’s competitive short-term rental market, standing out isn’t just a bonus—it’s a necessity. And two of the most powerful tools at your disposal…Professional photography and strategic amenities.
The Power of a Picture
Airbnb has made it clear: listings with professional photos see 24% more bookings and generate 40% more revenue. That’s not just a nice-to-have—that’s a game-changer. These numbers come directly from Airbnb, and given that we’re all trying to crack their algorithm, we should treat this data not as a suggestion, but as a requirement.
But it’s not just about having high-quality photos—it’s about having the right photos. The Airbnb algorithm is popularity-driven. Just like Amazon wants you to keep shopping and Netflix wants you to keep watching, Airbnb wants users to stay on their app. That means they promote listings that people want to click on. And what do people click on? Listings with eye-catching thumbnails, desirable amenities, and great value.
Amenities That Move the Needle
Not all amenities are created equal. According to a recent AirDNA study, hot tubs top the list when it comes to boosting revenue. Homes with a hot tub earned 33% more than comparable homes without one in the same market. That’s a massive return on investment.
Why? Because hot tubs—and pools—are featured filters on Airbnb. Guests actively search for them. So if your mountain cabin doesn’t have a hot tub, and the one next door does for just $30 more per night, guess which one gets booked?
Competing in Today’s Market
The days of “list it and they will come” are over. Today, you have to compete. That means:
- Investing in featured amenities that guests are searching for.
- Capturing professional photos that highlight those amenities.
- Creating a listing that people want to click on—because that’s what Airbnb wants to promote.
If you’re not doing these things, you’re not just leaving money on the table—you’re making it harder for your listing to even be seen.
Success on Airbnb isn’t about luck—it’s about strategy. And the most effective strategies start with great visuals and smart investments. So, if you haven’t already, now’s the time to upgrade your listing. Because in this game, visibility is everything—and the right photo or amenity could be the difference between a booking and a scroll-past.
