If you’re an Airbnb host, you’ve probably come across Airbnb’s Smart Pricing feature. It sounds tempting—it automatically adjusts your nightly rate based on demand and other factors. However, before you rely on Airbnb’s built-in tool, you should seriously consider PriceLabs, a dynamic pricing platform that offers far more control and better results.

Here’s why you should skip Smart Pricing and check out PriceLabs instead.

Airbnb Smart Pricing: What’s the Catch?

Airbnb’s Smart Pricing tool aims to optimize your nightly rates by adjusting them automatically based on demand, seasonality, and local competition. While it seems convenient, there are a few key issues:

  • Low Price Bias: Smart Pricing often favors lowering your price too much in an attempt to fill up your calendar. By having a price lower than market value, your will make less profits, and worse of all, attract “goddamn guests” which are a nightmare to deal with.
  • Lack of Customization: The feature gives you very limited control over the factors that determine your pricing. Once Smart Pricing is turned on, Airbnb takes the reins, which could lead to lower nightly rates than you’re comfortable with.
  • No Market Intelligence: Smart Pricing relies on data within the Airbnb platform, which may not give you the full picture of your local market. It’s not as sophisticated in terms of analyzing real-time trends or providing insight into your competition.

While it’s easy to set and forget, Airbnb’s Smart Pricing could be leaving money on the table.

Why PriceLabs Is a Game-Changer

PriceLabs is an advanced pricing tool designed specifically for short-term rental hosts, offering way more flexibility and control than Airbnb’s Smart Pricing feature. Here’s how it stacks up:

  • Dynamic Pricing Adjustments: PriceLabs uses real-time market data, analyzing local supply and demand to ensure your rates are competitive and optimized for the best return. Unlike Smart Pricing, it doesn’t just aim to fill your calendar—it aims to maximize your revenue.
  • Customizable Rules: With PriceLabs, you can set your own parameters, such as minimum and maximum prices, last-minute discount strategies, and seasonal adjustments. This level of control allows you to tailor your pricing to match your unique property and business goals.
  • Comprehensive Market Data: PriceLabs pulls data not just from Airbnb but from a variety of platforms, giving you a clearer picture of your local rental market. You’ll have access to valuable insights, such as trends in occupancy rates and local competition, which Airbnb’s Smart Pricing doesn’t provide.

Why You Should Avoid Airbnb Smart Pricing

Using Smart Pricing may result in lower prices and less control over your listing. If you rely solely on Airbnb’s tool, you’re at the mercy of its algorithms, which prioritize occupancy over profitability. PriceLabs, on the other hand, focuses on maximizing your revenue by providing a more detailed, customizable, and strategic approach to pricing.

 

How to Get Started with PriceLabs

The best part? PriceLabs offers a 30-day free trial for new users. You can connect your Airbnb listing to PriceLabs, and within minutes, you’ll have access to optimized pricing suggestions that are more competitive and likely more profitable than what Smart Pricing offers.

To get started, create an account with PriceLabs and connect your Airbnb listing. Within the first month, you’ll see the difference in how much more revenue you can generate compared to Airbnb’s Smart Pricing tool.

Final Thoughts

Before you make the mistake of relying on Airbnb’s Smart Pricing, give PriceLabs a try. With its robust customization options, dynamic market analysis, and focus on maximizing profits rather than just filling up your calendar, it’s a superior choice for Airbnb hosts looking to optimize their earnings.

Looking for help with managing your Airbnb property? Contact us at for full-service property management! We’ll take care of everything from pricing strategies to guest communication so you can focus on growing your rental business.