Tactical changes that turn scroll-bys into bookings—without overhauling your whole space.
You’ve cleaned, styled, and listed your short-term rental… but bookings still aren’t what they should be. The problem might not be your space—it might be your listing.
At Lumos Host, we audit and revamp Airbnb listings every day. Here are five proven listing fixes that help STR hosts stand out and boost their conversion rates—without adding another throw pillow.
1. Cut the Clutter in Photos (and Words)
Guests scroll fast. If your first impression doesn’t land, they move on.
✅ What to do:
- Remove clutter from your photos—no cords, air fresheners, or random magnets.
- Use natural light and show off space, not just stuff.
- Ditch tired buzzwords like “cozy” and “quaint.” Replace them with clear, visual language.
📸 Example:
Instead of “Charming Studio Downtown,” try “Boho Loft w/ Skylight & Garden View.”
💡 Pro Tip: Your cover photo is your hook. Choose one that tells a visual story of your guest’s future stay.
2. Move Testimonials to the Top
People trust people. Highlighting a favorite review in your listing description builds trust fast.
✅ What to do:
- Pull one great review that captures the guest experience.
- Place it at the start of your description (before you list features).
💬 Example:
“Our favorite Airbnb ever! The fire pit was such a vibe and the hammock under the stars was pure magic.” – Emily, April 2024
💡 This builds instant credibility—and keeps people reading.
3. Rework Your Description to Feel Like a Vibe, Not a Checklist
A list of features won’t make someone feel anything. Good copy invites guests to imagine themselves in your space.
✅ What to do:
- Talk like a guest would: “Sleep in. Make coffee. Watch the sun rise from your private deck.”
- Show the vibe: romantic, adventurous, tranquil, playful.
📝 Instead of:
“Queen bed, TV, kitchen, fast Wi-Fi”
Try:
“Kick back on the couch with Netflix after a beach day, then crash in the king-size bed with blackout curtains and a ceiling fan overhead.”
💡 The more visual the story, the more likely they’ll hit “Book.”
4. Spotlight What’s Special—Not Just What’s Standard
Wi-Fi isn’t a feature. Everyone has it. But that neon sign, clawfoot tub, or rooftop sunset? That sells.
✅ What to do:
- Think about what guests photograph or mention in reviews.
- Highlight those unique features early in your description.
⭐ Guest magnets:
- Backyard hammocks
- Outdoor tubs or showers
- Fire pits or garden lights
- Record players, murals, themed rooms
💡 Use one “hero detail” in your title. Example: “Desert Casita w/ Cowboy Tub + Mountain View.”
5. Get an Expert Audit Before You Give Up
Sometimes, it’s hard to see what’s not working when you’re the one who wrote it. A second opinion can uncover blind spots fast.
✅ What to do:
- Book a Lumos Host Listing Audit.
- We’ll review your title, photos, layout, guest experience, pricing, and reviews.
- Get actionable feedback and a checklist for improvement.
💡 Most clients see booking increases within a month after optimizing.
Bottom Line: Clean, Clear, and Guest-Centric Wins
Guests don’t just want a place to stay—they want a feeling, a moment, a memory. The right listing strategy can help you deliver that from the very first scroll.
Need help bringing your listing to life?
We’ll audit your STR and rebuild your listing copy, photos, and guest flow to turn views into bookings.
