Have you ever thought about who is behind those amazing 5-star staying experiences you hear about so often with Airbnb? Wouldn’t it be interesting if you could earn a full-time income and manage other people’s property without even owning it? How do some manage to build Airbnb management into a successful business endeavour, while others struggle to get booked? If you’re intrigued by any of those questions, you’re in the right spot.
Whether you are a current Airbnb host looking to scale or a new person wanting to explore the booming short-term rental market, working as an Airbnb property manager could be the career you didn’t know you needed.
In this detailed blog, you’ll learn exactly how to become an Airbnb property manager, plus expert-level tips for managing listings like a pro, boosting bookings, keeping guests happy, and maximising earnings for yourself and the property owners you work with.
What Is an Airbnb Property Manager?
So, what exactly is an Airbnb property manager? Simply, an Airbnb property manager is a professional manager who helps you manage your Airbnb listing. They can help with everything from setting up your listing to dealing with your guests’ enquiries. They will handle all the other logistics, cleaning, and repairs without you having to deal with anything.
But it’s more than just replying to messages and handing over keys. A great Airbnb property manager is part marketer, part customer service, part mechanic, and 100% guest-centric.
Ultimately, you are responsible for either a listing or a portfolio of rentals, and your goal is always the same, to ensure everyone receives a 5-star experience and the guest and property owner leave satisfied!
Why Become an Airbnb Property Manager?
High Demand
Many property owners don’t live nearby or have the time to manage bookings, creating huge demand for reliable managers.
Flexible Lifestyle
Work remotely, set your hours, and scale your business as you grow.
Low Start-Up Cost
You don’t need to own property or invest large sums to get started.
Scalable Income
One property could earn you £300-£800/month. Multiply that by 10 properties, and you’re looking at a serious income stream.
No Two Days Are the Same
If you enjoy variety, problem-solving, and meeting new people (even virtually), this role will keep you energised.
Step-by-Step: How to Become an Airbnb Property Manager
- Learn About the Airbnb Platform
If you’re not familiar with Airbnb’s ecosystem, take time to learn it. This includes:
- How Airbnb listings work
- Rules for cancellations, refunds, and reviews
- How Superhost status affects visibility and trust
- What guests care about when booking
2. Enhance your Communication Skills
This is a people-first business. Your ability to create great guest experiences will determine your success.
Use These Communication Hacks:
- Set up automated responses for faster replies.
- Always greet guests by name and add personal touches.
- Provide clear, friendly check-in and checkout instructions.
- Be available during emergencies, but respect guest privacy.
3. Learn Local Short-Term Rental Laws
In the UK (and many other countries), short-term rentals are governed by local council regulations. You need to:
- Check if licences or planning permissions are required.
- Understand how local taxes apply.
- Ensure safety measures (smoke detectors, fire exits, etc.) are in place.
4. Build a Reliable Support Team
Even if you’re a solo operator, you can’t do everything alone. Build a dependable network of:
- Cleaners (ideally with Airbnb experience)
- Maintenance professionals (plumbers, electricians, handymen)
- Backup keyholders or local co-hosts
5. Use Automation tools
Airbnb property management is much easier (and more profitable) with the right tools. Here are must-haves:
Property management system
Tools like AI Your BnB, Guesty, and Hostaway help you to manage bookings and calendars and guest communication.
Dynamic Pricing Tools
Tools like AI Your BNB, pricelab, beyond, wheelhouse help you to adjust nightly rates to stay competitive.
6. Create a business plan
Want to attract serious clients? Treat it like a business.
- Register your company (sole trader or limited company in the UK)
- Set up a business bank account
- Get public liability and contents insurance
- Create a professional website or landing page
- Use branded email addresses and automated onboarding documents
How Much Do Airbnb Property Managers Make?
Airbnb property management companies can be a very lucrative income stream once you find your rhythm. Being a property manager can be very lucrative if you get into the best property management companies.
The money you could earn from property management can vary greatly depending on your experience and expertise, your location, and the structure of your business. An Airbnb host or property manager can set their commission anywhere from 15% to 50% of the revenue earned from bookings.
This equates to an average of $50k-$60k for most vacation rental managers per year, although salaries begin around $30k and could go up to $130k.
Working for a property management company is more stable, but you will likely pay less in the long run. Property management companies come with a larger client base, but will need to deduct money from those charges for labour, admin costs and so on.
Independent property managers can make more money, but the risks of starting your own business can be too much for some people.
An Airbnb property manager offers a unique blend of financial rewards, flexibility and personal satisfaction. By gaining relevant experience, acquiring necessary skills, understanding local regulations, building a network and leveraging technology, you can establish a successful property management business. Always provide excellent service and continuously adapt to the evolving market to ensure long-term success.
learn How to Start and Succeed as an Airbnb Co-Host or Short-Term Rental Manager in 2025
