If you’ve ever booked an Airbnb, you’ve probably noticed that the final price at checkout is more than just the nightly rate. It can feel a bit like a puzzle, but don’t worry – we’re about to break it down for you in a way that’s clear and straightforward.

At Casas Chiquita, we believe in transparency and value so you can book your stay with confidence and avoid surprises. Let’s dive into what those fees are all about!

Breaking Down Airbnb Fees

💰 Nightly Rate

This is the base price set by the host per night, and it can vary. It depends on a few factors.
✔ Location: Places near a big attraction like a beach or a national park will likely cost more.
✔ Size & Amenities – Larger homes or those with cool perks like hot tubs or game rooms tend to have higher rates.
✔ Seasonality – Peak times like holidays and summer vacation months can drive up prices.

🛏️ Cleaning Fee

Most hosts, including us, charge a one-time cleaning fee per stay. This covers the cost of getting the place sparkling clean for you and typically includes:
✔ Professional cleaning to make sure everything is spotless.
✔ Linen & towel laundering.
✔ Restocking essentials like toiletries and paper products.

At Casas Chiquita, we keep our cleaning fee fair while ensuring you walk into a fresh, welcoming space.

📲 Airbnb Service Fee

Airbnb charges a service fee to support its platform, customer service, and secure payment processing.
✔ Guest Service Fee: Usually around 14% of the booking total.
✔ Host Service Fee: A 3% cut taken from what the host earns.

💡 Pro Tip: Some hosts offer discounts for longer stays, which can help lower the service fee percentage.

🏡 Occupancy Taxes & Local Fees

Depending on where you’re staying, there might be local taxes, like hotel or tourism fees, that Airbnb collects and sends to the local government. These vary by city or state but are often legally required. For example, in Luray and Rileyville, Virginia, you’ll see occupancy taxes just like you would at a hotel. 

The good news? Airbnb calculates these automatically, so you don’t have to do any math.

How to See the Full Price Before You Book

Airbnb makes it easy to know exactly what you’re paying before you book. Here’s how:

✔ Click on the listing and enter your travel dates.
✔ Look at the price breakdown under the “Total Before Taxes” section.
✔ Check for discounts as some hosts offer weekly or monthly rate reductions.
✔ Review cancellation policies to know your options if your plans change.

Tips to Save on Your Airbnb Stay

Want to stretch your budget further? Here are some tricks to keep costs down:

✔ Book early – Prices often rise closer to the check-in date, especially in busy seasons.
✔ Stay longer – Many hosts, including Casas Chiquita, offer discounts for extended stays.
✔ Check for special offers – Some hosts provide direct discounts or special promotions.
✔ Travel off-peak – Prices tend to be lower when demand is lower.

Because Transparency & Value Matter

Understanding Airbnb fees helps you plan your budget and avoid unpleasant surprises. At Casas Chiquita, we aim to provide transparent pricing – no hidden fees, just a comfortable and well-maintained space for you to enjoy.

Looking for a cozy stay in Luray or Rileyville? We’d love to host you and make your Airbnb experience stress-free! 💛