This forum is dedicated to connecting hosts with other hosts. Sign up to get the latest updates and news just for AirBnb hosts! Note that we are not affiliated with Airbnb - we are just passionate hosts!
From another forum, a tip that I’ll certainly take advantage of!
I had a recent request that ignored my booking question and simply said, “Hey. Can’t wait to spend the night.” Really??!! I found a sneaky way to not have to decline the request if the guest is new and not very savvy. I replied, “I’m sorry I won’t be able to accommodate you, but if you withdraw your request, you won’t be charged!” They withdrew the request immediately and I didn’t get charged with a decline!
This might be worth trying when I get the truly clueless or entitled…
I get get short notes just like that, some of which are ESL speakers, which I return with a long note and wait for them to acknowledge all. 90% do write back, with “got it” to "I’ve read all and still want to come +more details " Then they get an even longer note from me… but I still think it’s not much better screening than if I had IB.
Personally @NordlingHouse , I would never try and get a guest to withdraw their request as my first response to a newbie requesting to booking with me, who doesn’t supply the information I need to consider their booking .
It doesn’t seem like a good approach. As surely we all want to turn requests into booking if there is the potential for them to be a good match?
Instead I thank them for their interest and remind them of the information I need from them to be able to confirm their booking. In the vast majority of cases, they then go onto supply it.