The Power of First Impressions: Why Airbnb Hosts Can't Afford to Get It Wrong

The Power of First Impressions: Why Airbnb Hosts Can't Afford to Get It Wrong

By Hamid Turay
April 12, 2025

When Julia Henderson arrived at her Colorado Airbnb after a long flight from Connecticut, she was met not with a smiling host or a thoughtfully arranged welcome basket, but with a broken keypad and a pile of trash bags lining the hallway. “I almost turned around and booked a hotel,” she said.

In an age where reputation is shaped by stars and reviews, first impressions are no longer just social niceties—they're the cornerstone of success in the short-term rental economy.

The Airbnb Aesthetic Begins at the Curb

Whether it’s a penthouse in Manhattan or a cozy brownstone in Harlem, guests renting through Airbnb are not just looking for a place to stay—they’re investing in an experience. That experience begins the moment they approach the property.

“A clean entryway, clear instructions, and a welcoming atmosphere set the tone,” said Lauren Tam, a professional Airbnb interior designer based in New York City. “It signals to guests that the host has thought about their comfort before they even walk through the door.”

Trust Is Built in the First 60 Seconds

In a world of digital keys and contactless check-ins, guests often rely on subtle cues to gauge trustworthiness. A scuffed door, musty smell, or cluttered entry can sow immediate doubt. According to a 2024 survey by Lodging Insights, 78% of Airbnb users said their initial impression of a property determined their overall satisfaction, even before encountering the amenities.

“You can have Egyptian cotton sheets and a Smart TV, but if the lighting is cold and the place feels sterile or neglected, guests will mentally check out before unpacking,” said Tam.

Reviews Start at the Door

First impressions don’t just impact the stay—they influence future bookings. A poor first encounter often translates into lukewarm reviews, which can dramatically affect a host’s visibility and income.

“Airbnb’s algorithm rewards consistency,” said Marco Estevez, a former Airbnb experience manager. “Hosts who create memorable, positive first moments are more likely to earn five-star ratings, repeat guests, and coveted ‘Superhost’ status.”

Small touches—like fresh flowers, a handwritten note, or curated local recommendations—are inexpensive investments that yield significant returns.

Hospitality Is in the Details

In cities like New York, where the line between hotel luxury and homey comfort is increasingly blurred, details matter. A dusty lamp or a sticky floor might be overlooked by a landlord, but for an Airbnb guest paying $300 a night, it’s a dealbreaker.

“Guests expect personality and polish,” said Estevez. “They want to feel like they’re walking into a space that’s been thoughtfully prepared—not a crash pad between rentals.”

The New Currency of Credibility

Ultimately, first impressions convey care, professionalism, and a promise. They say: This space was made ready for you. That’s not just good hosting—it’s good business.

For Henderson, her Brooklyn stay turned around after the host responded promptly, sent a cleaner, and offered a bottle of wine as an apology. “I ended up leaving a four-star review,” she said. “But if that first night had gone differently, it could’ve easily been five.”

In a world where one star can make or break a booking, first impressions are not just important—they’re everything.