We dive into Airbnb’s new 15.5% host-only fee and how property managers can adjust PMS markups to protect payouts. Plus, top travel platforms back the EU’s Code of Conduct for Reviews, strengthening trust and transparency in the online travel ecosystem.
We’re diving into two key developments shaping the short-term rental and hospitality landscape: Airbnb’s new host-only fee structure and the European Union’s formal adoption of a code of conduct for online ratings and reviews. Staying informed on these changes is essential for property managers, hosts, and industry professionals striving to maintain profitability, transparency, and guest trust.
Airbnb Moves to Host-Only Fees: What It Means for Property Managers
Airbnb has officially transitioned to a 15.5% host-only fee, replacing the long-standing split-fee model. This change means that hosts now pay Airbnb’s service fee directly, and guests will no longer see a separate service charge during booking. While the shift simplifies pricing for guests and creates a clearer “all-in” cost, it also places more responsibility on hosts to manage their payouts and markups effectively.
For property managers using a Property Management System (PMS), this update requires careful recalibration. To maintain the same payout after Airbnb deducts its fee, PMS markups should be set to roughly 18.34%, which covers nightly rates, cleaning fees, and additional extras.
Many hosts previously misunderstood the distinction between Airbnb’s fee and the PMS markup required to preserve earnings. Without correct adjustments, property managers risk under-earning or unintentionally altering their competitive positioning in the market. Properly configured markups not only protect host margins but also ensure transparent, all-in pricing for guests, a critical factor in building trust and optimizing conversions.
This update also has strategic implications for channel management. Platforms like Vrbo, Booking.com, and Expedia have different fee structures and guest perceptions, so property managers must consider these variations when balancing their portfolio. Accurately setting PMS markups allows hosts to:
Maintain consistent earnings despite fee shifts
Ensure transparency for guests across platforms
Strategically optimize pricing relative to competing OTAs
By embracing this adjustment, property managers can maintain profitability while enhancing the guest booking experience.
EU Code of Conduct for Online Ratings and Reviews: Building Trust in Travel
Meanwhile, the European travel industry is taking significant steps to ensure trust and transparency in online reviews. Leading platforms—including Tripadvisor, Expedia Group, Booking.com, and EU Travel Tech—have formally endorsed the EU’s Code of Conduct for Online Ratings and Reviews.
Developed collaboratively with accommodation providers, consumer organizations, and the European Commission, the code is designed to:
Combat fake reviews and fraudulent feedback
Strengthen trust in online travel platforms
Ensure consumers have access to authentic, verified guest experiences
Tripadvisor’s recent removal of millions of fraudulent reviews underscores the industry’s recognition that reliable guest feedback is crucial for decision-making. By following the code, platforms commit to safeguarding review integrity across Europe’s travel ecosystem.
For property managers and accommodation providers, this development has important implications:
Encourages accurate and fair representation of properties online
Reinforces the value of authentic guest engagement
Reduces the risk of negative impact from manipulated reviews
As the European travel market becomes increasingly digital, adhering to trusted review practices is not just a regulatory requirement—it’s a strategic advantage that can help build long-term guest loyalty and brand credibility.
Final Thoughts
Episode 326 highlights two key takeaways for anyone involved in hospitality and short-term rentals:
Airbnb’s host-only fee requires proactive PMS management to protect margins and ensure transparent pricing for guests.
Review integrity is now a formal focus in Europe, with industry-wide collaboration to maintain trust and enhance consumer confidence.
Staying ahead in the evolving STR landscape requires both operational agility and a commitment to transparency. By understanding fee structures, adjusting systems, and embracing authentic guest reviews, property managers can optimize profitability while building lasting trust.
