Hand overnight guest messages to a custom AI bot while you monitor the replies
Airbnb owner Akshay Bajaj, who held a full-time job, built an AI bot named Alfred to handle guest communication after virtual assistants quit, monitored the bot's replies, reported faster responses and higher reviews, and later expanded the idea into the HostEasy platform.
At a glance
- Tools used
- Custom AI botAirbnb
- Category
- STR operations
- Audience
- STR host
- Difficulty
- Builder
- Source
- As an Airbnb owner, I was tired of responding to guest messages at 2 AM... So, I built an AI bot
Akshay Bajaj · LinkedIn · Jan 1, 2025 - First step
- Write a property FAQ document from your last 50 guest questions before building any bot.
Suggested prompt
Written by this directory, inspired by the source. Replace the [bracketed] parts.
You answer guest messages for [property name]. Use only the facts below. Property FAQ: [check-in/out times, door code process, Wi-Fi, parking, hot tub rules, trash day, appliance instructions, local recommendations]. House rules: [paste]. Rules: reply in under 80 words, friendly and clear. Never offer refunds, discounts, early check-in, late checkout, or extra guests; instead say "Let me check with the host and get right back to you" and tag the message HOST. Tag any safety, damage, or lockout message URGENT. Guest message: [paste]