How to find direct Airbnb listings: A step-by-step guide to save money

Oct 2, 2024

How to Find the Direct Airbnb Listing: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’ve come across an Airbnb listing and want to book directly to save on fees, there are several methods to track down the listing outside of Airbnb. This guide will walk you through a systematic approach to uncovering the direct listing.

Approach #1: Reverse Google Image Search

The first and most straightforward method is to use a reverse Google image search on the property photos.

How to Do It:

  1. Save the Images: Download one or more key images from the Airbnb listing. Focus on photos that seem specific to the property, like unique interior shots, signs, or branded decor.

  2. Go to Google Images: Open Google Images in your browser.

  3. Upload the Image: Click on the camera icon in the search bar, then upload the saved image(s).

  4. Analyze the Results: Google will show you websites where the same or similar images appear.

What to Watch For:

  • Vacation Rental Websites: Look for the property listed on direct rental platforms, the host’s personal website, or local vacation rental directories.

  • False Positives: Avoid results from stock image sites or generic photos that may be similar but unrelated.

  • Location Clues: Listings may also appear in blogs or news articles referencing the property.

Tip:

If the image is too generic (e.g., a beach or landscape shot), try focusing on images that include the property’s exterior or unique furniture and decor.

Approach #2: Search the Listing Title or Unique Terms

If the reverse image search isn’t fruitful, use the listing’s title or unique terms from the description to find more leads.

How to Do It:

  1. Copy the Title: Take the exact title of the Airbnb listing and paste it into Google. Enclose the title in quotation marks to search for the exact phrase.

    • Example: "Charming Beachfront Cottage with Ocean Views"

  2. Include Keywords: Add specific terms from the listing description, such as the neighborhood name, unique amenities, or phrases like “heated pool” or “fire pit.”

    • Example: Charming Beachfront Cottage with Ocean Views heated pool

  3. Experiment with Variations: If no results come up, try removing generic terms (like “cozy” or “charming”) and focus on unique words or phrases.

  4. Exclude OTAs (Online Travel Agency) websites like Airbnb.com or Vrbo from your search results

    • Example: "Charming Beachfront Cottage" -site:airbnb.com -site:vrbo.com

Tip:

Local rental companies often reuse the same descriptions and titles across multiple platforms, so you might find a direct listing by searching unique details.

Step 3: Look Up Host Information

If the above methods don’t work, dig into the host’s profile on Airbnb to find clues about their identity or business.

Steps to Investigate:

  1. Check the Host’s Name: Airbnb profiles often display the host’s first name or business name. Use this information to conduct a web search.

    • Example: John Vacation Rentals Miami

  2. Examine the Host Bio: Hosts sometimes mention their business or property management company in their bio. Search for this business name directly.

    • Example: "Managed by Sunset Getaways"

  3. Search for Host Website: Use the host’s name or company to find their direct website. If they own multiple properties, they may have a dedicated booking platform.

Tip:

Hosts managing multiple properties often operate through their own websites or smaller regional platforms to save on fees.

Bonus Tips:

  • Use Social Media: Search the property name, host name, or unique features on platforms like Instagram or Facebook. Many hosts promote their properties on social media.

  • Leverage Local Directories: If the property is in a specific area, look for vacation rental directories or local tourism websites that might feature the listing.

  • Contact the Host: If you feel comfortable, you can message the host directly on Airbnb to ask about other ways to book their property.

By following these steps, you increase your chances of finding the direct listing or host’s website. This can help you avoid Airbnb fees, access exclusive deals, or even discover hidden availability.

The Effortless Hack: AirDeals

Don’t feel like playing detective? No problem. That’s where AirDeals comes in. It’s a free Chrome extension that does all the heavy lifting. You just install it, browse Airbnb like normal, and let AirDeals search for direct booking options in the background.

When it finds the direct booking link, it’ll let you know. No extra effort required. Just savings.

Happy hunting—and enjoy your trip!