When it comes to short-term rentals and B&B hosting, word-of-mouth advice spreads quickly—but not all of it is true. Some “tips” may actually hurt your ratings, reviews, and repeat bookings. Let’s bust three of the most common hosting myths that could be silently costing you 5-star reviews.

❌ Myth #1: Guests only care about low prices

The belief: Keep rates as low as possible and you’ll get more bookings.

The truth: Today’s travelers are smarter and more selective than ever. Multiple studies in hospitality show that cleanliness, comfort, and communication consistently rank above price when it comes to guest satisfaction.

Guests are often willing to pay more if they trust they’ll get:

• A spotless, well-maintained space
• Clear communication from check-in to check-out
• A comfortable stay without hassles

👉 Cheap prices attract price-sensitive guests, but quality attracts loyal guests who are less demanding and more appreciative.

❌ Myth #2: A welcome gift is too expensive

The belief: Only luxury properties can afford to provide extras.

The truth: A small gesture goes a long way. A €3 bottle of water, a local snack, or even a handwritten note can make guests feel valued. These touches create a “wow factor” without breaking your budget.

Why it matters:

• Guests mention thoughtful extras in reviews (free marketing for you).
• First impressions are powerful—guests feel you’ve gone above expectations.
• Tiny costs = huge ROI in satisfaction and ratings.

👉 Hospitality is about experience, not just accommodation. That €3 can translate into a 5-star review.

❌ Myth #3: If no one complains, everything’s fine

The belief: No complaints = happy guests.

The truth: Silence often means indifference, and indifferent guests don’t return. Many guests avoid confrontation, so instead of speaking up, they just don’t book again—or worse, leave subtle negative feedback in reviews.

The fix:

• Proactively check in with a quick message mid-stay: “Hope everything’s going smoothly—let me know if you need anything.”
• Offer an easy feedback channel at check-out.
• Use guest insights to improve continuously.

👉 The hosts who get repeat bookings aren’t the ones who wait for problems—they prevent them.

⭐ Pro Tip: Focus on Quality, Not Quantity

Stop chasing cheap bookings. Attract guests who value comfort, communication, and care. The result?

• Less stress
• Better reviews
• More rebookings
• Higher overall profit

Question for You

Which of these myths did you believe when you first started hosting? Drop your thoughts in the comments!