Co-hosting is booming as Airbnb hosts scale their portfolios or look for more passive income. But agreeing on a fair split can be tricky. Pay too little and you won't attract quality help. Pay too much and your margins disappear. Here's what you need to know to structure a deal that works for both sides.
What Is a Co-Host?
A co-host is someone who manages a short-term rental property on behalf of the owner. They handle day-to-day operations like guest communication, cleaning coordination, and problem-solving so the owner doesn't have to. Unlike a traditional property manager, co-hosts often work with just a few properties and may have a more hands-on, personalized approach.
Typical Co-Host Fee Structures
There's no single standard for co-host compensation. Here are the four most common models:
Percentage of Gross Revenue
The most common structure. The co-host takes a percentage of total booking revenue before any expenses are deducted.
Typical range: 10-25%
Percentage of Net Profit
The co-host takes a percentage after expenses (mortgage, utilities, cleaning, etc.) are deducted. Requires more accounting transparency.
Typical range: 25-50%
Flat Monthly Fee
A fixed amount regardless of bookings. Works well for predictable workloads and properties with consistent revenue.
Typical range: $300-800/month
Hybrid Model
A small base fee plus a lower percentage. Gives the co-host income stability while keeping incentives aligned.
Example: $200/month + 10%
What Affects the Rate
Scope of Responsibilities
Is the co-host just answering messages, or are they handling everything from pricing adjustments to emergency repairs? More responsibility means higher compensation. A co-host who only responds to guests is worth far less than one who runs the entire operation.
Property Revenue
Higher-revenue properties often command lower percentage rates because the absolute dollar amount is still significant. A co-host might accept 15% on a property grossing $8,000/month ($1,200) but expect 25% on one grossing $3,000/month ($750).
Market Competition
In competitive markets with many co-hosts, rates may be lower. In areas where experienced co-hosts are scarce, they can charge a premium. Research what others in your market are charging before negotiating.
Experience Level
An experienced co-host with a track record of maintaining high ratings and occupancy can justify higher fees. A newcomer might need to start at the lower end to build their portfolio and reputation.
Fee Ranges by Service Level
Here's what to expect based on what the co-host actually does:
Guest Communication Only
Responding to inquiries, managing bookings, answering questions during stays
Communication + Cleaning Coordination
All messaging plus scheduling cleaners, quality checks, handling turnover issues
Full Service Operations
Dynamic pricing, review management, restocking supplies, coordinating maintenance and repairs
Full Service + Marketing
Everything above plus listing optimization, photography, multi-platform distribution, direct booking strategies
Gross vs Net: Which Is Better?
Both approaches have trade-offs:
Gross Revenue Split
- + Simple to calculate
- + Predictable for both parties
- + No expense disputes
- - Co-host less motivated to control costs
Net Profit Split
- + Aligns incentives on expenses
- + Can feel more like a partnership
- - Requires full expense transparency
- - Can lead to disputes over what counts
Most co-hosts prefer gross revenue splits because they're simpler and avoid arguments about which expenses count. If you go the net profit route, define exactly which expenses are included in your written agreement before you start.
Red Flags to Watch For
Whether you're hiring a co-host or becoming one, watch out for these warning signs:
Demanding over 30% for basic services
Unless they're providing truly full-service management with marketing expertise, anything above 30% of gross is a red flag.
No clear contract or scope
Verbal agreements lead to misunderstandings. Get everything in writing including responsibilities, compensation, and termination terms.
Wanting full control of your listing
A co-host needs access to manage the property, but the owner should always maintain primary control of the Airbnb account and listing.
No references or track record
Ask for references from other property owners. A legitimate co-host should have no problem providing them.