Why Shifting from “Our” to “Your” Transforms Your Airbnb Listing and Boosts Bookings.

When it comes to creating a compelling Airbnb listing, every word counts. The language you use in your description is your first chance to welcome potential guests and make them feel at home. One subtle yet powerful way to elevate your listing is by replacing “our” with “your” when describing the space.

I recently worked with a host who had done an excellent job tailoring her listing to appeal to her ideal guest. However, one area for improvement stood out immediately: her frequent use of “our” throughout the description. I suggested she switch to “your,” helping potential guests feel the space was thoughtfully curated just for them rather than a shared or generic property. This small linguistic shift completely transformed the tone of her listing, allowing guests to imagine a private retreat designed around their comfort—a dream getaway, not just a visit to someone else’s house.

Let’s explore why this simple change can have such a big impact on your listing’s effectiveness:

1. Creating a Sense of Ownership

Using “your” instead of “our” helps guests picture themselves in the space. When they read phrases like “your cozy bedroom” or “your private oasis,” they instantly feel more connected to the property. This language encourages them to visualize their belongings on the nightstand or themselves relaxing in “their” living room. This sense of ownership fosters emotional investment before they even book.

2. Inviting Guests to Visualize Themselves There

Imagery is a powerful tool in any listing, and it becomes even more effective when combined with words that invite guests to imagine themselves in the space. For example, a description like, “Relax in your personal backyard retreat,” immediately triggers a mental image where the guest is the central character. By visualizing themselves enjoying the space, guests are more likely to feel confident about booking.

3. Building a Sense of Exclusivity and Personalization

Airbnb travelers often seek unique experiences tailored to their needs. Swapping “our” for “your” implies that the home has been designed specifically for them. Phrases like “your spa-like bathroom” or “your sunlit breakfast nook” make guests feel personally invited and valued, creating a sense of exclusivity that sets your listing apart.

4. Promoting Emotional Connection

While logic plays a role in decision-making, it’s often emotion that seals the deal. Using “our” can make the description feel distant, as it subtly reminds guests that the property belongs to someone else. Switching to “your” shifts the perspective, making the description more inclusive and guest-centered. This simple change invites guests to feel like the space is already theirs, fostering a stronger emotional connection.

Here’s an example: Compare “Our pool area has a mix of sun and shade with three tables and umbrellas” to “The pool area, just steps from your front door, offers the perfect mix of sun and shade. Three tables with umbrellas provide a shady spot for you to relax and get lost in a good book.” The second version is far more inviting and personal.

5. Reflecting a Warm, Hospitable Tone

Choosing “your” communicates thoughtfulness and hospitality. It shows that the host has designed the space with the guest’s experience in mind, offering more than just a property to stay in but a true home-away-from-home. In a competitive market, this level of warmth can make your listing stand out and leave a lasting impression.

The Takeaway

By making a simple language adjustment in your Airbnb listing, you can transform how potential guests perceive your space. Switching from “our” to “your” helps guests feel like they’re not just booking a property but stepping into a space thoughtfully crafted for them. This subtle yet impactful shift can elevate your listing’s emotional appeal, making it more inviting, personal, and ultimately more likely to convert views into bookings.