What is the value of being a superhost?

Summary We construct a search model where sellers post prices and produce goods of unknown quality. A match between a buyer and a seller reveals the quality of the seller.We look at the pricing decisions of the sellers in this environment. We then introduce a rating system whereby buyers reveal the seller’s type by giving them a ‘star’ ifthey are a high quality seller. We show that new sellers charge a low price to attractbuyers and if they receive a star they post a high price. Furthermore, high qualitysellers sell with a higher probability than new sellers. We show that welfare is higherwith a ratings system. Using data on Airbnb rentals to compare the pricing decisionsof Superhosts (elite rentals) to non-Superhosts we show that Superhosts: 1) chargehigher prices, 2) have a higher occupancy rate and 3) higher revenue than non-Superhosts.