Airbnb Co-Hosting: Responsibilities, Income & Tools for New Co-Hosts
Learn what an Airbnb co-host does, how much co-hosts earn, key responsibilities, pros & cons, and printable tools to simplify your hosting journey.
What Is an Airbnb Co-Host?
An Airbnb co-host is someone who helps a property owner manage their short-term rental. It’s a growing role in the hosting world because it allows you to earn money without owning property.
Co-hosts can assist with everything from guest communication to cleaning coordination, and their responsibilities depend on the agreement with the host. For many people, co-hosting is an entry point into the short-term rental industry.
Key Airbnb Co-Host Responsibilities
If you’re considering becoming a co-host, here are the most common duties:
Guest Communication → Responding to booking inquiries, sending check-in details, answering questions during the stay, and following up for reviews.
“Guest communication is one of the most time-consuming tasks. See my full post on ‘Airbnb Guest Communication Tips’
Listing Management → Updating photos, writing descriptions, adjusting pricing, and keeping calendars accurate.
Check-Ins & Check-Outs → Greeting guests (or managing self-check-in systems) and ensuring smooth departures.
Cleaning & Maintenance Oversight → Scheduling cleaners, restocking essentials, and reporting repairs.
Amenities & Guest Experience → Making sure the property is well stocked and thoughtful extras are provided.
Pro Tip: Staying organized is key. Many co-hosts use printable Guest Communication Templates and Cleaning Checklists to keep tasks consistent and stress-free.
How Much Do Airbnb Co-Hosts Make?
One of the most common questions is: how much do Airbnb co-hosts earn?
There are a few common income models:
Percentage of Revenue → Many co-hosts earn 10–20% of each booking.
Flat Fee Per Booking → A set dollar amount per reservation.
Monthly Retainer → A fixed amount, often for ongoing responsibilities.
Example: If a property generates $3,000 in bookings per month and you earn 15%, that’s $450 per month for one property. Managing multiple listings can quickly increase your income.
Pros and Cons of Becoming an Airbnb Co-Host
Pros
Flexible work you can do part-time or full-time
Earn money without owning property
Build skills in hospitality and property management
Cons
Income depends on bookings (seasonal fluctuations)
Responsibility for guest satisfaction
Requires organization and clear agreements
Tips for New Airbnb Co-Hosts
If you’re just starting out, these tips will help you succeed:
Set Expectations Early → Use a clear Co-Host Agreement Template to outline duties and pay.
Use Systems & Templates → Don’t reinvent the wheel—tools like Cleaning Checklists and Welcome Books keep everything running smoothly.
Over-Communicate → Guests and hosts both appreciate timely updates.
Learn From Experience → Start with one property, refine your process, then scale.
Tools & Resources for Co-Hosts
Running properties efficiently requires organization. Here are a few resources that can save you time:
Co-Host Agreement Template → Define roles, responsibilities, and income clearly.
Guest Communication Templates → Pre-written messages you can customize in seconds.
Amenities & Cleaning Checklists → Never miss a detail when preparing for guests.
Welcome Book Template → Create a professional guidebook that elevates the guest experience.
Want more inspiration Check out these Airbnb welcome basket ideas and Amenities that make you stand out
Want to save time and impress your hosts? Check out my Airbnb Host Templates Collection — printables designed to make co-hosting simple and professional.
Airbnb Co-Host FAQs
What’s the difference between a co-host and a property manager?
A property manager often handles multiple rentals and may be licensed, while a co-host usually supports one or a few listings with flexible tasks.
Do co-hosts need insurance?
It depends on your agreement with the host. Some responsibilities may require additional coverage, but Airbnb’s Host Guarantee can cover certain situations.
How do I set my co-host fee?
Research your local market and start with 10–15% of booking revenue. Adjust based on the level of responsibility.
Final Thoughts
Airbnb co-hosting is a flexible way to earn income and gain valuable hospitality experience without owning property. By understanding your responsibilities, setting clear agreements, and using the right tools, you can succeed as a trusted co-host.
Ready to start strong? Grab my printable Co-Host Agreement and Airbnb Host Templates to keep your business organized and professional from day one.