How to Become an Airbnb Co Host
To become an Airbnb co host, you either get invited by a listing owner you already know, or you build a hosting track record and apply to Airbnb's Co Host Network, which requires an average guest rating of 4.8 or higher, enough recent stays, a cancellation rate under 3 percent and a verified identity. Either way, what keeps owners working with you is reliable operations: fast replies, consistent cleaning and clear reporting.
Co hosting is one of the most natural paths into the hosting business if you do not own property, and it builds on skills many cleaners and property helpers already have. Here is how to go from first listing to steady clients.
Two ways in
| Path | How it works | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Direct invite | A listing owner adds you to their listing with a permission level they choose | Friends, family, neighbors, cleaners already working with a host |
| Co Host Network | You apply to Airbnb's network and owners find you by location | Experienced hosts who want new clients |
Path 1: A direct invite
Any listing owner can invite you. Airbnb's steps for adding co hosts have the owner go to the Listing editor, choose Co hosts, enter your phone number or email and pick your permissions. A full access co host can also invite someone to a single listing.
This is how most people start. If you already clean or manage turnovers for a host, offering to take on guest messaging or restocking is a natural next step.
Path 2: The Co Host Network
The Co Host Network is Airbnb's directory of local co hosts. Hosts can browse or submit a request for help, and co hosts choose their own services and pricing. It is available in Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Puerto Rico, South Korea, Spain, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Co Host Network requirements
Airbnb's requirements article says that to join you need:
- An active listing as a host, full access co host, or calendar and messaging co host
- 10 or more stays, or 3 or more stays adding up to 100 or more nights, in the past 12 months
- An average guest rating of 4.8 or more across your accounts and listings
- A cancellation rate under 3 percent, with exceptions for certain valid reasons
- A verified identity
- A profile photo that clearly shows your face and your individual name, not a business name
To stay visible in search on the network, Airbnb says you need to keep a rating of 4.7 or higher, respond to hosts within 24 hours at a rate above 90 percent over the last 90 days, and keep your account in good standing.
What happens after you apply
Per Airbnb's article on what to expect after you request to join:
- Airbnb emails you about next steps
- If approved, you are invited to set up your profile
- You are invited to a local welcome session, then hosts can connect with you
- In high demand areas, you may be waitlisted, and resubmitting does not speed it up
Setting up your profile
Airbnb's profile setup article covers:
- Services: full service support, individual services, or both
- Price range: for full service support, with specifics discussed directly with hosts
- Service area: where you can work in person, within about 60 miles (100 kilometers)
- About you: a short description of your hosting experience
- Reviews: hosts can read reviews for listings you support
Airbnb's guide to joining the network lists services co hosts can offer, including listing setup, pricing and availability, booking request management, guest messaging, onsite guest support, cleaning and maintenance, photography, interior design and help with licensing and permits.
Check local rules first
Airbnb's joining guide says it is your responsibility to know which local regulations apply and to hold any required licenses, permits and registrations, and notes that a real estate broker license may be required in some places depending on the services you offer. Check with your city or state before you take on paid clients.
Getting paid
Once you are co hosting, the listing owner can set up a co host payout so Airbnb pays you directly. Airbnb's co host payouts article says the owner can choose a cleaning fee payout, cleaning fee plus a percentage, a percentage or a fixed amount per booking. Only the owner can set this up, and you need a payout method, verified identity and any required taxpayer information.
For how to set your rate, see how much do Airbnb co hosts charge.
Building a track record if you are starting from zero
- Host your own space, if you can. Even a spare room builds reviews and experience with the platform.
- Co host for someone you know. A friend or family member's listing gives you real stays and ratings.
- Start with operations. Cleaning coordination and restocking are the tasks owners most want off their plate. See the Airbnb turnover checklist.
- Protect your ratings. Your average rating follows you into the network, so cleanliness matters from day one.
- Keep your cancellation rate low. Only accept what you can deliver.
What owners actually want from a co host
From the owner side, the worries are simple: Is the home ready for every guest? Are messages answered quickly? Will I hear about problems before a guest does?
The co hosts who keep clients answer those questions before they are asked:
- A clear written scope and spending limit
- Fast, polite guest messaging
- A consistent cleaning standard with photos from every turnover
- Prompt reporting of damage with evidence, filed within Airbnb's 14 day window for damage requests
- A simple monthly summary
Clyn helps with the turnover piece. Your cleaners take photos in the Clyn app, the AI checks each photo against the property's standard and flags anything missed before the next check in, and the owner gets a pass or a fix list with a dated photo record. It gives owners proof without needing to call you, which is a strong reason to keep working with you as you add homes. For a broader look, read how Airbnb co hosting works.
FAQ
Do I need to own a property to be an Airbnb co host?
No. A listing owner can invite you to their listing. To join the Co Host Network, you need an active listing as a host or as a qualifying co host, plus the rating, stays and cancellation requirements.
How many stays do I need to join the Co Host Network?
Airbnb requires 10 or more stays, or 3 or more stays totaling 100 or more nights, in the past 12 months. See the requirements.
Do I need a license to be a co host?
It depends on where you work and what services you offer. Airbnb says co hosts are responsible for local licenses and permits and that a real estate broker license may be required in some places.
If you want every turnover checked before check in, you can try Clyn free on one property at clyn.com.