Control when and how you host
Set your availability and house rules.
By Airbnb on Apr 22, 2026
Listing your place
Control when and how you host
Understanding the basics
Control when and how you host
You can host full-time, seasonally, or just while you’re traveling. The Airbnb app makes it easy to manage your hosting schedule. With built-in tools, you can control your availability, booking preferences, and house rules.
Decide when you’ll host
Use your calendar to set and adjust your availability.
- Add your dates. Open your calendar for the next 3, 6, 9, 12, or 24 months, or specify which dates you want to host. You’ll see big events and holidays right in your calendar.
- Determine preparation time. Select how much notice you need before guests arrive. Allow same-day bookings, or require 1, 2, 3, or 7 days’ notice if you prefer more time.
- Set trip lengths. Specify the minimum or maximum number of nights guests can stay. For example, you might require a 2-night minimum.
Select your booking preferences
You can customize your calendar with a few simple settings.
- Add a guest maximum. Determine how many guests can comfortably stay at your home.
- Choose how guests book. Instant Book allows guests who meet your requirements and agree to your house rules to book available dates immediately. If you prefer to review requests individually, you can turn off Instant Book.
- Select check-in and checkout times. You decide how early guests can arrive and how late they can depart.
All booking guests must be identity-verified to use Airbnb. You can view each guest’s profile before they arrive.
Set expectations for guests
House rules let guests know what’s expected of them before they check in.
- Select house rules. Choose from rules covering smoking, pets, events, quiet hours, maximum number of guests, check-in and checkout times, and commercial photography or filming.
- Add additional rules. You can write requests for anything specific to your space, as long as they’re reasonable and aligned with Airbnb’s policies.
If a guest violates your rules, contact Airbnb Support. With clear house rules and the right settings in place, you can host with confidence.
Information contained in this article may have changed since publication.
Listing your place
Control when and how you host
Understanding the basics
Control when and how you host
Airbnb
Apr 22, 2026
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