It starts as a fun side hustle. You list your place on Airbnb, you get a few bookings, and you’re hooked. But then the messages pile up. Guests ask to check in early, the cleaner cancels last minute, and suddenly you’re juggling five different tasks while on vacation or working your 9-to-5.
So the big question becomes: Should you keep managing everything yourself—or bring in a co-host to help? Here’s the honest breakdown of when it makes sense to hand over the keys (figuratively) and why it might be the best decision you make.
Managing It Yourself: The Pros
- Full control over every detail—from messaging to pricing.
- You keep 100% of the income (no commission fees).
- You build your own systems, your own style, your own guest experience.
But Here’s the Reality…
- It’s a part-time job at minimum. Full-time if you’re scaling or managing multiple listings.
- You’re always on. Even at 2AM when a guest can’t find the Wi-Fi password.
- Burnout is real. One bad review after all your hard work? It stings.
What a Good Co-Host Actually Does
- Handles guest communication 24/7 (and keeps response rates high).
- Coordinates cleaning, restocking, and handyman services.
- Syncs your listing across platforms (Airbnb, Booking.com, Vrbo).
- Optimizes your calendar, pricing, and reviews to increase bookings.
It’s Not “Giving Up”—It’s Leveling Up
- Many hosts see better results with co-hosts because they’re not emotionally drained or scrambling all the time.
- You still have input—you’re just not doing it all alone.
- Think of it like a business: Would you try to be the chef, server, marketer, and manager all at once?
Our Take? If It’s No Longer Fun, It’s Time.
- You don’t have to wait until you’re overwhelmed.
- If you’re expanding to a second unit, traveling often, or just want peace of mind—it’s worth it.
- Even virtual co-hosting can take 80% of the stress off your shoulders.
Ready to stop being the middleman and start enjoying true passive income? We can help. Whether you need full co-hosting or just virtual help from behind the scenes, we’ll take care of the details so you don’t have to.
Email us at info@bookedhosts.com or scroll down to fill out our quick property intake form. Let’s make your Airbnb work for you—not the other way around.
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