How are the search results ordered?
The order listings appear in is constantly changing, and the factors that influence search rankings are numerous and shift every day.
Our algorithm, which determines the order in which homes appear, uses machine learning (automated learning).
Every day, it learns from how members use the site and the updates they make. Based on this information, it ranks listings from most to least relevant for you, depending on your search.
In practice, the algorithm aims to highlight homes that are most likely to lead to a completed exchange. It therefore favors hosts who are active, responsive, and whose profile best matches your request.
How can you get your listing to rank higher in search results?
To increase your chances of appearing higher in results and attracting guests, here are some suggestions ranked from most to least impactful.
1. Stay active on the platform
This is by far the most important factor. A recently active host is more likely to appear higher in search results.
- Update your calendar regularly (both availability and unavailability), not just once a year.
- Reply to the requests you receive, even if you are unable to host.
- Accept and complete exchanges: every recent pre-approval and completed exchange sends a positive signal.
- Log in regularly and keep your listing up to date (photos, description, amenities).
2. Respond to requests quickly
Simply replying is no longer enough. Speed matters just as much as whether you respond at all.
- Aim to reply within 24 hours whenever possible.
- Your response rate is calculated over recent time periods (the last 2 weeks, and the last 2 and 3 months). A strong historical response rate does not make up for a recent period of inactivity.
- Turn on notifications (email, push, mobile app) so you never miss a request.
3. Pre-approve actively
Hosts who frequently pre-approve requests are more likely to rank higher.
- Pre-approve requests that match your criteria, even when the exchange does not always go through.
- A recent track record of pre-approvals and completed exchanges directly increases your visibility.
4. Make your listing worth saving
A home saved as a favorite by members may appear higher in their results, and more broadly in those of members with similar profiles.
- Choose a great cover photo: it is what encourages people to click and save your listing.
- Add at least 5 photos (the more the better), covering different rooms and angles.
- Put some thought into your listing title.
5. Complete your listing and profile to 100%
A complete listing ranks higher than an incomplete one.
- Aim for 100% completion on both your listing and your user profile.
- Write a detailed description of your home covering rooms, amenities, the neighborhood, and local tips.
- Write a detailed description of yourself in your profile too: this is a factor taken into account.
- If possible, add an English version of your descriptions: this will make you more visible to international members.
6. Complete all verifications
Verified members may rank higher than non-verified members.
- Verify your email, phone number, social media accounts, and identity.
- Fully verified members build more trust and receive more requests.
7. Deliver quality exchanges to earn strong reviews
Reviews left by your previous exchange partners (communication, cleanliness, and accuracy of the listing) are factored into ranking calculations.
- Communicate clearly before and during the exchange.
- Prepare your home so that it matches the photos and description.
- A successful exchange = strong reviews = better rankings over time.
💡 In short: the most powerful way to appear higher in search results is to stay active and responsive: keep your calendar up to date, reply quickly, and pre-approve regularly. Everything else (photos, description, verifications, GuestPoints, reviews) strengthens that foundation.