Why the problem isn’t always the algorithm — and the steps you can take today to turn things around.

Launching a short-term rental is exciting. You’ve poured time, energy, and money into getting your property guest-ready. But what happens when your listing goes live…and nothing?

In this Hosting Hotline episode, Sarah and Annette answer a frustrated new host who hasn’t received a single booking in their first month. Their neighbor’s house (with a pool) looks busy, and they’re wondering if saturation, fees, or bad luck are the problem.

Here’s the truth: every host will face stretches of low demand. Success comes from focusing on what you can control. Sarah and Annette outline a clear framework:

1. Audit Your Listing Presentation
Professional photos, guest-focused descriptions, accurate amenities, and a frictionless booking process are non-negotiables. Sometimes hosts overlook simple issues like blocked calendars, confusing fees, or minimum stays that scare guests away.

2. Identify True Competition
It’s easy to compare your property to the wrong neighbor. If your listing doesn’t have a pool, don’t benchmark yourself against one that does. Use dynamic pricing software to see exactly where you fall against properties that share your core features and guest avatar.

3. Leverage Your Data
Airbnb’s Insights tab offers powerful information if you turn on professional hosting tools. You can see if guests are finding your property, how often they click through, and where conversions drop off. This data helps you pinpoint whether the issue is visibility, pricing, or positioning.

4. Shift Your Mindset
Hosting isn’t passive income — it’s running a small business. Blaming the algorithm, fees, or saturation won’t get you bookings. Auditing your listing, tracking your numbers, and making constant adjustments will.

The Bottom Line
After one month without bookings, patience isn’t the answer — urgency is. By taking ownership and making strategic changes, you can move from frustration to momentum. Every host has been through dry spells, but the successful ones keep testing, tweaking, and learning until they get results.

Resources Mentioned:

YouTube Video: The Secret Airbnb Setting That Improves Listings by 300% – Deep dive into Airbnb settings that can boost visibility and conversions.

Lodgify – All-in-one software to manage bookings, sync calendars, and build your direct booking site.

Have More Questions? We’d love to hear from you! Submit your hosting questions to the Hosting Hotline and tune in to the podcast for answers. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for more tips: @thanksforvisiting_.

Download a transcript of this episode.

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