What does my job as a CoHost really look like?

Of course! Here’s a blog-style post that explains what your job as a cohost really looks like—framed in a way that’s authentic, informative, and engaging. I’ll write it in the first person, assuming you're the author. If you'd like it in a different tone or format (more formal, humorous, etc.), just let me know!

What My Job Really Looks Like as a Cohost (Behind the Scenes)

When people hear that I’m a cohost, I usually get a mix of responses—some think I’m running a podcast, others assume I just hand out keys to guests, and a few imagine I live in a beach house making passive income. Spoiler: it’s none of those, and also kind of all of them.

So let me pull back the curtain and give you a real look at what my job as a cohost actually involves, day to day.

First Things First: What Is a Cohost?

A cohost is someone who helps property owners manage short-term rentals—think Airbnb, Vrbo, etc. I’m not the property owner, but I am the person who makes sure everything runs smoothly: bookings, communication, cleaning, restocking, guest experience, reviews—you name it.

You could call me the behind-the-scenes engine that keeps the listing alive, thriving, and five-star worthy.

1. Guest Communication Is Practically a Superpower

From the moment a guest books until long after they check out, I’m their main point of contact. That means answering questions at 10 PM about how the thermostat works or giving a restaurant recommendation when their dinner plans fall through.

I’m always polite, quick, and clear—and I try to make every guest feel like they’re walking into a professionally run hotel, even if it's a cozy cabin or downtown loft.

2. Crisis Management Comes Standard

The Wi-Fi goes down. The toilet clogs. A guest locks themselves out.

Guess who’s handling it?

I don’t get to panic; I get to solve. Fast. I’ve got a list of local handymen, cleaners, and contacts who can jump in, but a huge part of my job is simply staying calm under pressure. The truth is: being a cohost means being a part-time firefighter (and a full-time problem solver).

3. Cleaning Coordination Is a Science

Timing is everything in short-term rentals, especially when you’ve got back-to-back bookings. I work with cleaning teams, schedule cleanings like clockwork, inspect for damage, and make sure everything is spotless.

I also restock things you probably don’t think about: toilet paper, coffee pods, dish soap, paper towels, batteries, light bulbs—you name it.

4. Listings Don’t Manage Themselves

Keeping a listing attractive and competitive is half the job. I’m constantly updating descriptions, adjusting prices based on demand, replying to reviews, analyzing what competitors are doing, and making sure the photos stay up to date.

Think of it as part hospitality, part marketing, and part analytics.

5. It's About Creating Experiences, Not Just Stays

Ultimately, I’m in the business of experiences. Whether it's setting up a welcome basket, recommending local gems, or offering early check-in after a long travel day, I focus on making guests feel like they’re not just renting a place—but being taken care of.

Happy guests leave good reviews. Good reviews bring in more bookings. More bookings mean success—for the owner and for me.

6. I Wear a Lot of Hats

Here are just a few unofficial titles I hold:

• Guest relations manager

• Quality control inspector

• Logistics coordinator

• Local concierge

• Crisis manager

• Digital marketer

• Pricing strategist

• Cleaner’s best friend

No two days are the same, and honestly? That’s what I love about it.

Final Thoughts

Being a cohost isn’t glamorous in the way people assume—but it is incredibly rewarding. I get to help travelers feel at home, keep properties running smoothly, and support hosts who want to offer great stays without drowning in the details.

So the next time someone says, “Oh, you’re a cohost—what does that mean?” I’ll just send them this.

Because now you know: It’s more than a title. It’s a full-time job that runs on systems, empathy, grit, and a whole lot of late-night guest messages.

Lots of love,

Rualba - "Host with Ru"