How much will you pay for a 5* review?

[Mike V.]

I was in a situation today where $100 bought me a nice 5* review on AirBnB.  Basically, a guest was pissed about something stupid.  Not my fault at all but that doesn't really matter when it comes time to leave their review.  I called the guest and offered $100 refund in exchange for the review and they were thrilled... Went from prob a 3* to a 5*.  Worth every penny to me.  (Nightly rate here $350).  I've had these situations pop up here and there and have gone up to $200 if the issue is my fault (A/C died as an example).   I've also waived early check in fees, and late departure fees and clearly state something like,  "I'm happy to allow an early check in.  It' normally a $50 fee but i'll waive it in exchange for a nice 5* review".  I'm batting close to 100% with the nice reviews and on the off chance something weird pops up this usually buys me some good will so they don't review at all.  (as opposed to a bad review).  

I'm less likely to do these things on the properties that have 50+ reviews but for those under 20 a bad one can hurt a lot.  

I was curious what some of you all do, and what the most you've paid for a review is. 

[John Underwood]

I have 99% 5 star reviews on VRBO and 100% 5 star reviews on airbnb and just offer excellent customer service and a great vacation experience. I am in the 300 to 500 per night range. So far I have not had to bribe anyone for 5 star reviews. If there is a problem I take care of it immediately. I have even replaced both of my HVAC units that worked perfectly because they were older so as to not chance one of them going out at a bad time while someone was staying there.

Most people understand issues, it's how you respond and correct the issues that makes a difference with your customers.