Airbnb is testing a new fee model for hosts who bring their own guests through their own links, reducing the host service fee to a range of 6%–10%, according to messages sent to hosts and shared in Facebook and LinkedIn groups.
The messages, titled “Share your link, get a lower fee,” state that the new “direct booking links” are available in the Listing editor. When a booking comes through such a link, the host fee is reduced, while the booking is still completed on Airbnb’s platform.
How the pilot program works
According to the description received by hosts, the links can be shared via social media, email or other promotional channels. The relevant bookings remain on Airbnb and retain the usual benefits of the platform, including AirCover.
The term “direct booking” is, in this case, more functional than literal: the host can bring the demand themselves, but the transaction does not move outside Airbnb.
What it means for industry professionals
The move is particularly interesting for hosts and property managers who are trying to direct repeat or direct guests to their own booking channels. With this test, Airbnb is showing that the cost of a booking can vary depending on whether the demand comes from Airbnb itself or from the host.
At the same time, the company is transitioning to a single host-paid fee of 15.5% for all hosts by the end of the year, as reported in Skift’s material, while Bernstein estimates that this will increase Airbnb’s take rate to 15.5% from 15.1%.
If the program is expanded, it would confirm that Airbnb’s fee for demand generated by the host themselves is not entirely fixed. For many professionals, this could change the way they compare the cost of a similar reduced-fee model for hosts with bringing the same booking back through the platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the booking take place outside Airbnb when the new link is used?
No. According to the material sent to hosts, the booking continues to take place on Airbnb, with the usual features and benefits of the platform.
Does the lower fee apply to all hosts?
No, this is a pilot test that applies to certain hosts who received the relevant messages. The fee range reported is 6%–10%.
