Managing an Airbnb is filled with fun (in most cases). Hosts meet new people, make extra income, and be their own boss—all these benefits bring joy. 

However, like any business, the work can pile up fast. If a host manages the rentals alone, they have to do everything themselves—handle bookings, talk to guests, clean after each stay, manage reviews, and keep their calendar and pricing up to date.

It can quickly become a full-time job, and hosts start to think about getting some help. 

Help for hosts? There are two options: hiring a cohost or working with a property manager. Both can take a lot of the pressure off the hosts’ shoulders.

But what do cohosts and property managers actually do? What are the differences? Which one should you work with? This guide explains everything. 

What is a Co-host?

A co-host is someone who helps you manage your Airbnb listing. They work directly with you, the host or property manager, (as a team member under your command).

Co-hosts can handle as much or as little as you want. Some only help with guest communication or another particular, while others take care of everything you want them to.

Common tasks a co-host can handle:

• Messaging with guests before, during, and after their stay

• Organizing cleanings and restocking supplies

• Handling check-ins and check-outs

• Managing your calendar and adjusting nightly rates

• Writing reviews for guests

• Helping with emergencies or last-minute problems

Cohosts are often individuals (can be your friends, family members, or a trusted local).

You can even hire a dedicated co-host team to handle this role. For example, DOSbnb is one such team—you can contact them to get your co-host or discuss with another team.

Once you get a candidate, you can add them to your Airbnb listing as co-hosts and give them permission to manage tasks. They don’t need to own the property.

What is a Property Manager/Management Company?

A property manager or short-term rental management company is a business or professional service that handles your Airbnb from top to bottom—everything. 

These companies usually have a team and a system for managing multiple properties.

They’re more “hands-off” for the owner, which can be helpful if you live far from your Airbnb or just want someone else to handle everything.

Services a property manager may offer:

• Full guest communication and support

• Cleaning and laundry management

• Dynamic pricing and revenue optimization

• Professional photography and listing creation

• Marketing and running ads

• Maintenance and repair coordination

• Guest screening and security checks

• 24/7 support and on-call services

Property managers are more formal and structured than co-hosts. They can have contracts, set service packages, and charge higher fees, but they also offer full-service management.

Co-host Vs. Property Management: What Are the Differences?

The primary differences between co-hosts and property managers lie in these aspects:

• Their role

• Payment receiving and issuing

• Local laws or licensing 

• Listing control

The role of a co-host is limited (or can be limited), and they don’t need any local license to operate. They don’t own the listing (the primary host’s account does). The payments are received into the Airbnb or primary host’s account and then sent to the co-host.

On the other hand, property management has complete control over a property, including listing, renting, marketing, payments, and everything else. They receive the payment, keep theirs, and send the remaining to the property owner. 

Here is a table to better see the differences between a co-host and property manager:

Which One Should You Go For?

The right choice depends on your situation, goals, and how involved you want to be.

Choose a co-host if:

• You want to stay involved but need help with some tasks

• You want a more flexible, personal arrangement

• You’re managing one or two listings

• You prefer to split the income directly on Airbnb

• You live nearby or still want to oversee things sometimes

Choose a property manager if:

• You want a hands-off experience

• You own multiple listings or plan to scale up

• You live far from the property or don’t have the time

• You want professional systems, pricing tools, and 24/7 guest support

• You’re okay paying a bit more for convenience and full service

Conclusion

In the end, whether you choose a co-host or a property manager comes down to how hands-on you want to be with your airbnb assistant.

Cohosts offer flexibility and a personal touch, while property managers provide full-service convenience and professionalism.

Both options can ease your workload and help your rental thrive.

Take stock of your goals, budget, and availability—then choose the support system that fits best.