How to Get More 5-Star Reviews (as a Landlord)

Ask any successful host and they’ll tell you: glowing 5-star reviews are the fuel that powers a thriving Airbnb business. High ratings boost your visibility, build guest trust, and often lead to more bookings at higher rates. But understanding how to get 5-star Airbnb reviews — consistently — is both an art and a science.

At Eason Stays, we manage short-term lets across the UK, and we know exactly what it takes to create memorable guest experiences that lead to rave reviews. Whether you’re new to Airbnb or want to level up your existing listing, this guide shares proven strategies that landlords can use to earn — and keep — that all-important 5-star rating.

Why 5-Star Reviews Matter More Than You Think

Airbnb uses your review rating as a key metric in determining your visibility, booking rate, and even eligibility for Superhost status. Here’s what great reviews directly influence:

• Search ranking on Airbnb
• Guest confidence and conversion rates
• Repeat bookings
• Your ability to charge higher nightly rates
• Less resistance to short-notice bookings

It’s not just about being liked — it’s about being trusted.

How Airbnb Ratings Work

Airbnb guests rate their stay on a scale of 1 to 5, based on multiple factors:

• Accuracy of the listing
• Cleanliness
• Communication
• Location
• Check-in process
• Value

Even a few 4-star ratings can drag your average down. The difference between 4.8 and 4.9? It could be dozens more bookings a year.

Let’s Get Into It: How to Get 5-Star Airbnb Reviews

If you’re wondering why your rating isn’t climbing — or how to ensure every guest leaves a glowing review — here are actionable strategies that work.

1. Nail the First Impression

Why it matters: Guests start forming opinions the moment they book — not when they arrive.

What to do:

• Send a welcome message right after booking
• Provide clear check-in instructions with photos or a map
• Use a warm, friendly tone in all messages

Automation tools can help you stay on top of pre-arrival communication without overwhelming your schedule.

2. Cleanliness is Non-Negotiable

Why it matters: Cleanliness is one of the top-rated — and most commonly criticized — areas in guest reviews.

What to do:

• Hire professional cleaners with a checklist tailored for Airbnb
• Double-check details: fridge shelves, under the bed, remote controls
• Provide fresh linens, towels, and toiletries every time
• Leave a subtle scent (like lavender or citrus) to signal freshness

3. Over-Communicate the Essentials

Why it matters: Guests rate based on how easy and smooth their stay felt.

What to do:

• Create a digital guidebook with WiFi details, house rules, local spots, etc.
• Label key items in the property: router, bins, thermostat, etc.
• Message your guest 24 hours after check-in to ask how things are going

Timely communication is often mentioned in positive reviews — and its absence in bad ones.

4. Add Small Touches That Feel Big

Why it matters: Guests remember the unexpected extras, not the basics.

What to do:

• Leave a handwritten welcome note or a treat like biscuits or bottled water
• Provide USB chargers, a coffee pod machine, or a Netflix-ready TV
• Add local touches: restaurant discounts, a guide to nearby walks, or parking info

These small gestures create emotional connection — and 5-star experiences.

5. Be Available (But Not Overbearing)

Why it matters: Guests want reassurance that someone is there if they need support — but they also want privacy.

What to do:

• Use a dedicated guest messaging platform (or Airbnb’s app) to stay responsive
• Respond within an hour or less whenever possible
• Avoid surprise visits or excessive follow-ups

AtEason Stays, we offer 24/7 guest support as part of our service, so landlords can relax while we keep the guest experience seamless.

6. Set Clear, Realistic Expectations

Why it matters: Disappointment happens when reality doesn’t match the listing.

What to do:

• Accurately describe the space, amenities, and neighborhood
• Mention potential quirks (e.g., “occasional city noise,” or “steep stairs”)
• Include honest, unfiltered photos — professionally taken, of course

Transparency helps avoid negative surprises and builds trust from the start.

7. Ask for Reviews the Right Way

Why it matters: Guests are more likely to leave a review if prompted kindly and professionally.

What to do:

• Thank your guest via message after check-out
• Gently mention that you’d love to hear their feedback
• Leave them a positive review first — Airbnb reminds them to return the favor

Sample message:
“Thanks again for staying with us! We hope you had a great time. If you enjoyed your stay, we’d be grateful if you could leave a quick review — it really helps us and future guests. Safe travels!”

Bonus Tip: Don’t Panic Over the Occasional 4-Star

Even top-rated hosts receive the occasional less-than-perfect rating. It happens. The key is to:

• Learn from it
• Address issues quickly
• Keep striving to improve

Consistency over time matters more than any single review.

What Guests Say in 5-Star Reviews (Common Themes)

• “Exactly as described”
• “So clean and well-stocked”
• “Great communication”
• “Perfect location and easy check-in”
• “Felt like home!”

If you consistently deliver on these expectations, 5-star reviews will come naturally.

How Eason Stays Helps Landlords Earn More 5-Star Reviews

At Eason Stays, we’ve helped landlords across the UK increase their average Airbnb rating by improving everything from listing optimisation to housekeeping quality and guest communications.

We focus on:

• Fast, friendly, and professional messaging
• Consistent cleaning and staging standards
• Local team support for guest requests
• Streamlined check-in and feedback management

In short, we handle the hard work so you can enjoy the results — including more 5-star reviews (and the bookings that follow).

Want Better Reviews and Higher Earnings?

Get a Free Compliance Check and Property Valuation

Let us show you how your current Airbnb setup stacks up — and what simple changes could lead to more 5-star reviews and repeat bookings.

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Final Word: Reviews Reflect Experience — So Focus on the Experience

Getting more 5-star Airbnb reviews isn’t about manipulating the system — it’s about creating a genuinely excellent guest experience from start to finish. From clear communication to cozy touches, every detail counts.

And the good news? These improvements don’t have to be expensive or complicated. With the right systems — and the right team behind you — 5-star ratings can become your standard, not just a goal.

Let Eason Stays help you raise the bar, wow your guests, and grow your short-let income the smart way.