What a co-host actually does, and whether you need one
A co-host takes the daily operating work off an owner’s phone without taking the property away from them.
The short version
A co-host runs some or all of the operating work around a short-term rental. That can mean answering guests, coordinating cleaners, dealing with maintenance, checking pricing, and giving the owner a clear view of what happened.
The owner still owns the listing and the big decisions. The co-host becomes the person making sure the ordinary work is actually done.
When it starts to make sense
You probably do not need a co-host for one quiet property if you enjoy the work and can answer quickly. You may need one when messages interrupt your evenings, turnovers depend on repeated reminders, or small maintenance jobs keep becoming guest problems.
The useful test is not whether you are capable of doing it. It is whether doing it is still the best use of your time.
What to ask before hiring one
Ask who answers messages, what happens when the usual cleaner cancels, how maintenance spending is approved, and what the monthly report looks like. Good answers are specific.
You should also know what is not included. A short clear scope prevents frustration on both sides.