How Much Does It Cost to Hire an Airbnb Property Manager?

Managing an Airbnb takes time, effort and experience. From guest communication to cleaning and maintenance, there’s a lot to handle. That’s why many hosts turn to professional Airbnb management services. But how much does it cost to hire one?

Fees vary depending on location, property type and services offered. Some managers charge a percentage of rental income, while others use fixed monthly pricing. Understanding these costs can help you decide if a manager makes sense for your property.

Below, we’ll break down pricing structures, common fees and what influences total costs. You’ll also see where hiring a manager adds value and what to look for before signing on.

1. Pricing Models for Airbnb Property Management

Airbnb property managers charge in different ways. Here are the most common pricing structures:

Commission-Based Fees

Most managers take a cut of your rental earnings. This fee usually ranges from 15% to 30% of the total income from each booking. The more your property earns, the more they earn too.

This model works well if you want results tied to performance. However, it can add up fast in high seasons, especially if extra fees get tacked on.

Flat Monthly Fees

Some managers prefer a set monthly fee. This often ranges from $200 to $1,500, depending on location, property size and services offered.

Flat fees are predictable. But if your booking rate drops, you still pay the same. That makes it better suited to properties with consistent demand.

Hybrid Models

A hybrid model combines both. For example, a manager might charge 10% of income plus $300 per month.

This structure gives a balance of fixed costs and performance incentives. It also spreads risk for both host and manager.

2. Additional Fees to Consider

The base management fee is just the start. Most property managers charge for extra services. Understanding these costs upfront helps avoid surprises.

Cleaning and Turnover Fees

Cleaning fees usually range between $50 and $250 per stay, depending on property size and location. Some managers include cleaning in their commission. Others pass it on to you or deduct it from guest payments.

Maintenance and Repairs

Whether it’s a leaking tap or broken appliance, you’ll likely be charged for labour, materials and sometimes a service fee. Some managers apply a markup on third-party costs. It’s smart to budget $500 to $2,000 per year for ongoing upkeep.

Guest Amenities

Managers may supply toiletries, coffee, tea and linens. These small touches improve reviews, but the costs can add up. Supplies are often billed separately or included in premium service tiers.

Marketing and Listing Support

Some services include professional photos, dynamic pricing or listing updates. These extras may cost $200 to $1,000, depending on the package. If done well, though, they can boost occupancy.

Guest Issues and Damages

Cleaning after a party or fixing a broken chair may lead to added charges. Some managers offer damage coverage, but this may cost $10 to $50 per month depending on the plan.

3. What Affects Airbnb Management Costs?

Several key factors can push your management fees up or down.

Where Your Property Is Located

Urban markets like Sydney or Melbourne often come with higher fees due to demand, competition and cost of living. In regional or low-volume areas, prices are usually lower.

The Type and Size of Your Property

A studio apartment takes less effort to clean and manage than a four-bedroom beach house. Larger homes with outdoor areas or pools need more maintenance and guest support.

Your Booking Volume

More bookings mean more work for the manager. If you’re consistently booked, a commission model may end up costing more than a flat fee. On the other hand, with seasonal properties, a fixed monthly cost could be a financial strain.

Level of Service You Need

Some hosts want only the basics: guest check-in, cleaning and a few messages. Others want full-service support. The more your manager handles, the more they’ll charge. You can get a clear idea of full-service pricing in this comprehensive Airbnb property management guide.

4. Is It Worth Hiring an Airbnb Property Manager?

Hiring a property manager depends on your goals, time and location. For some, it’s a game changer. For others, it eats into profits.

If your time is limited or you live far from your rental, a manager can take a lot off your plate. They can handle bookings, guest messages, emergencies and cleaning—letting you focus on income.

But if you enjoy hosting and your calendar isn’t packed, you might not need help. Consider whether the extra income from higher occupancy will outweigh the cost of hiring.

Hosts often ask when to hire an Airbnb property manager—and the answer usually depends on how hands-on you want to be and how complex your setup is.

5. A Real-World Example: Sarah’s Experience in the Gold Coast

Sarah owns a two-bedroom unit near Surfers Paradise. She started by managing it herself—handling bookings, meeting guests, managing cleaners and fixing things on weekends.

After a year, she was burnt out. Her occupancy was sitting at 65%, and she couldn’t keep up with messages during her day job.

She hired a local manager for 20% of her income. They used dynamic pricing, arranged same-day turnovers and responded to guest queries within minutes. Sarah’s occupancy climbed to 90%, her nightly rate improved and her reviews skyrocketed.

In her case, hiring a manager paid off. Her stress went down, and her revenue went up. It worked because she chose a team that fit her goals. She focused on quality over cost—and it paid off.

If you’re considering making the switch, it’s worth reading up on choosing the best Airbnb management service, especially if you’re after full support.

6. Choosing the Right Airbnb Property Manager

Not all managers are created equal. Some will lift your earnings and ratings. Others just go through the motions. Choosing the right property manager matters.

Here’s what to look for:

• Local experience – They should know your market, pricing patterns and guest expectations.
• Clear pricing – Ask what’s included and what costs extra. Get it in writing.
• Proven performance – Good reviews and high-occupancy properties show results.
• Tech tools – Managers should use automation for messages, calendars and pricing.
• Support availability – They need to be quick with guest problems and emergencies.

FAQs

1) How much do Airbnb property managers charge in Australia?

Fees usually range from 15% to 30% of your rental income, or you might pay a flat fee between $200 and $1,500 per month. The price depends on location, property type and the level of service. High-end homes in major cities often come with higher fees due to demand and complexity. Smaller units in regional areas may be cheaper. Always compare offers carefully, especially what’s included in the base fee versus extras.

2) Are Airbnb management fees tax-deductible in Australia?

Yes, Airbnb management fees are generally tax-deductible as part of your rental property expenses. You can also claim costs for cleaning, maintenance, supplies and some utilities. Make sure to keep good records and speak with a tax advisor. The deductions you can claim will vary depending on how your Airbnb is structured and whether it’s part of your primary residence or a standalone investment.

3) Can I negotiate management fees?

In some cases, yes. If you own multiple properties or have a high-performing listing, managers may offer discounts or custom packages. Be polite but direct—ask what’s negotiable. Some services might reduce their percentage slightly or waive setup fees to win your business. Others may tailor their package to suit your budget by removing non-essential services.

4) Does Airbnb offer its own property management services?

No, Airbnb does not manage properties directly. You’ll need to hire a third-party manager or manage the property yourself. Airbnb only provides the platform for bookings, reviews and payments. Property management is handled outside the app, though many third-party services integrate with Airbnb’s calendar and tools for a smoother experience.

5) What’s the best way to find a reliable Airbnb manager?

Start by looking at managers with local experience and strong guest reviews. Compare service levels and pricing. Read contracts closely. You can use this guide to choosing the best Airbnb management service to help narrow down your options and avoid common mistakes. A good manager should improve both your income and guest satisfaction.

Take the Next Step Toward Stress-Free Hosting

Hiring an Airbnb property manager isn’t just about saving time—it’s about running a better business. The right team can boost bookings, raise nightly rates and protect your property from wear and tear.

Whether you want help with one property or several, working with experienced professionals can make your Airbnb far more profitable.

If you’re looking to maximise income while reducing your workload, start exploring the expert services at BnB Booking. You’ll find flexible options that suit your goals, budget and location.

Please call us today on 1300 146 514 to learn more or leave an enquiry and we will get back to you as soon as possible.