Airbnb will soon launch a new service aimed at travelers looking for more luxurious stays during their travels. This new service will match guests with quality-inspected home and apartment rentals. Airbnb is hoping to attract higher-paying travelers who have yet to use the platform and often opt for fancy hotels that guarantee the amenities and service they expect.
Skift reports that new service could launch as soon as this week. It will firs tbe in pilot mode with a select group of hosts as soon as this week, will send Airbnb inspectors into hosts’ homes to ensure they meet a checklist of quality standards designated by the company. If the homes pass the inspection they will be eligible for a featured section of Airbnb’s website and mobile apps. The full service could launch by the end of 2017.
The company has been encouraging hosts to behave more like hoteliers, but this is the first time premium rooms will be packaged into a distinct product with official inspections and incentives for participants. The service is internally referred to as “Select,” but the people said an official name has not yet been determined. They asked not to be identified discussing an unannounced product. The full service could launch by the end of 2017. Airbnb declined to comment.
If you don’t have an Airbnb account, you can sign up get $40 off your first trip of $75 or more. This is the highest signup bonus they’ve offered.
