Airbnb moved most hosts to the host-only rate of 15.5 percent per booking, or 17.5 percent under a strict cancellation policy. Pick the button that matches your situation. If you're still on the older split-fee model (around 3 percent for you plus a service fee for the guest), your own fee is lower, but your guest pays a markup on top of your price.

A direct booking isn't free. You pay payment transaction costs (roughly 1.5 to 2 percent) and a small contribution for your own site. Together that comes to around 3 percent, far below Airbnb's 15.5 percent.

Because a direct booking saves the fee, not VAT. Lodging VAT (21 percent since 2026 if you're VAT-liable) is due on every booking, whether it comes through Airbnb or direct. That's why the calculator shows the VAT increase as a separate information line. Whether you're VAT-liable depends on your situation; many small hosts fall under the small business scheme. Ask your accountant.

A guest who already stayed with you can be given your own website for a future visit. Seeking contact outside Airbnb before a booking is not allowed and can cost you your account. The safe route: let the first booking run through Airbnb, then offer your own channel afterward.

No, it's an indication. Your real savings depend on how many nights you actually shift to direct and what your site and marketing cost. The calculator shows the order of magnitude, so you know whether it's worth pursuing.