The Hidden Challenges of Keeping a High Ranking on Airbnb and Booking.com – And How CiaoStay Consistently Stays on Top in Malta
In today’s ultra-competitive short-let market, maintaining a high ranking on Airbnb and Booking.com is no longer a “nice to have” – it is the difference between a fully booked calendar and a property that struggles to attract guests. For hosts and property managers in Malta, where tourism demand is high but competition is intense, visibility on major OTAs (online travel agencies) directly determines revenue, occupancy, and long-term profitability.
However, achieving a high position in Airbnb’s search results or Booking.com’s ranking algorithm is not simple. Both platforms use complex performance metrics, and even small mistakes can push a listing down the results page. Here are the main challenges property owners face – and how CiaoStay has developed a proven strategy to keep its managed properties ranking highly all year round.
Why It’s So Difficult to Maintain a High Ranking on Airbnb and Booking.com
1. Highly Competitive Market Saturation
Malta’s short-let market has exploded in recent years, especially in areas like St Julians, Sliema, Gzira, Valletta, Mellieħa, and St Paul’s Bay. With hundreds of similar listings competing for attention, standing out in search results is a constant battle.
2. Strict Performance Algorithms
Both Airbnb and Booking.com reward listings that constantly perform well across multiple factors, including:
Fast response times
High review scores
Low cancellation rates
Accurate availability
Competitive pricing
High-quality photos and descriptions
A small slip in any of these areas can immediately reduce a property’s visibility.
3. Guest Expectations Are Higher Than Ever
Even small issues – such as unclear check-in instructions, slow WiFi, or minor cleanliness concerns – can negatively impact reviews. And because guest reviews significantly influence ranking, hosts must maintain exceptional consistency.
4. Constant Price Fluctuations
Ranking is also influenced by dynamic pricing. Listings priced too high drop in visibility. Listings priced too low underperform and hurt revenue. Finding the perfect balance requires real-time monitoring, which most hosts struggle to keep up with.
5. OTA Algorithms Change Frequently
Airbnb and Booking.com regularly update their ranking systems, meaning what worked last year might not work today. Without a clear strategy, hosts are quickly left behind.
The CiaoStay Strategy: How We Keep Properties Highly Ranked in Malta
CiaoStay has built a data-driven, results-oriented strategy designed specifically to keep properties ranking high on Airbnb, Booking.com, and other major OTAs. Our goal is simple: maximise visibility, boost occupancy, and increase revenue for property owners.
Here’s how we do it.
1. Professional Listing Optimisation for Maximum Visibility
We craft listings using SEO-optimised titles, keyword-rich descriptions, and engaging storytelling tailored for Airbnb and Booking.com algorithms.
Our team highlights:
Unique selling points (e.g., sea view, close to beaches, nightlife, business hubs)
Local attractions (e.g., Spinola Bay, Sliema Promenade, St George’s Bay)
Amenities travellers search for (WiFi, AC, smart check-in, workspace, free parking, etc.)
This ensures the property appears in relevant searches and attracts the best-suited guests.
2. Real-Time Dynamic Pricing With AI-Driven Tools
CiaoStay uses advanced pricing software and real-time market analysis to stay ahead of fluctuations in demand.
We monitor:
Local events
Seasonal trends
Competitor pricing
Occupancy rates
Weather-driven demand
Our pricing adjusts daily to stay competitive while maximizing income. This is a key factor in maintaining top rankings.
3. Exceptional Guest Communication and 24/7 Support
Airbnb and Booking.com reward hosts with:
Fast response times
Clear communication
High guest satisfaction
CiaoStay operates with dedicated guest communication specialists who respond instantly to inquiries, requests, and issues. Guests feel supported – and the platforms reward this with higher rankings.
4. Hotel-Level Cleaning and Maintenance Standards
Cleanliness is one of the most important ranking factors.
CiaoStay maintains:
Professional cleaning teams
Hotel-quality linens
Scheduled deep-clean routines
Ongoing property inspections
Higher cleanliness scores translate directly into better visibility in search results.
5. Automated Check-In & Smart Technology
We implement smart locks, automated instructions, and seamless check-in/out experiences.
This reduces guest friction and improves review scores – both crucial for ranking.
6. Consistent Review Management and Reputation Building
CiaoStay monitors every review and proactively encourages positive feedback by delivering a seamless experience.
We also:
Address issues immediately
Respond to reviews professionally
Track guest satisfaction trends
A growing number of 5-star reviews is the fastest way to reach and keep a top ranking.
7. Multi-Platform Distribution & Calendar Synchronization
CiaoStay ensures maximum online visibility by listing properties across:
Airbnb, Booking.com, VRBO, Expedia, Agoda, Trip.com, and more.
We use advanced channel managers to maintain:
Zero overbookings
Real-time availability
Consistent performance across platforms
This boosts ranking while maximising occupancy.
Why CiaoStay Is the Most Effective Choice for Property Owners in Malta
With years of experience in the Maltese short-let market, CiaoStay has crafted a system that ensures properties stay:
High-ranked
Fully booked
Consistently profitable
Our approach blends technology, hospitality expertise, and deep local knowledge of Malta’s tourism dynamics.
Whether you're renting an apartment in St Julians, a seafront home in Sliema, or a luxury penthouse in St Paul’s Bay, CiaoStay ensures you outperform competitors and maintain a leading position on all major booking platforms.
Ready to Keep Your Property at the Top of Airbnb and Booking.com?
Contact CiaoStay Malta today to discover how we can increase your ranking, boost your occupancy, and maximise your rental income.
