Guest Red Flags - Tips for New Airbnb Hosts

 

Welcoming guests into your Airbnb property is an exciting endeavor, but it's important to be vigilant to ensure a safe and positive experience for both hosts and guests.


As a new Airbnb host, it's essential to recognize potential red flags that might indicate problematic guests. In this practical guide, we'll walk you through guest red flags and provide actionable tips on how to verify guests, communicate effectively, and ensure a smooth hosting journey.


1. Verifying Guests Without Reviews


Hosting guests without reviews can be a bit nerve-wracking, but there are steps you can take to build confidence in their authenticity.


Examples of Verification Methods:

  • Complete Airbnb Profile: Guests who provide thorough information about themselves and their travel plans are more likely to be genuine.

  • Requesting Additional Info: Politely message guests without reviews, asking them about the purpose of their trip and any specific questions you have about their stay.


Sample Message for Guest Verification:


"Hello [Guest's Name],

Thank you for considering our property for your upcoming stay! We're excited to welcome you. To ensure a smooth booking process, could you please provide a bit more information about your trip? It would be great to know the purpose of your visit and any special requirements you might have. This helps us tailor your experience and ensure you have a comfortable stay. Looking forward to hearing from you!"


2. Dealing with Short Bookings and Non-Resident Guests


Some guests might attempt to book shorter stays or claim they won't be staying themselves, which can raise concerns. Airbnb regulations require the person making the booking to be present during the stay.


How to Address Non-Resident Guests:


  • Politely but firmly remind guests that Airbnb regulations require the person making the booking to stay at the property.

  • If a guest insists on booking for someone else, inquire about their relationship to the guest and the purpose of the stay and why doesn’t the actual guest book the stay themselves (remind them that Airbnb can be used in multiple languages, in case language is the issue)


Sample Message for Non-Resident Guests:


"Hello [Guest's Name],

Thank you for your interest in our property! We've noticed that you mentioned someone else will be staying in your place. We'd like to inform you that according to Airbnb regulations, the person making the booking should also be present during the stay. This ensures the safety and smoothness of the hosting experience. Could you please provide more information about your situation so we can better assist you?"


3. Trust Your Instincts


As a host, your instincts play a crucial role. If something feels off or if a guest's communication raises suspicions, don't hesitate to address your concerns.


  • Trust your gut feeling and intuition about potential guests.

  • If a guest's messages are vague or evasive, request clarification.


4. Setting Clear Expectations


Communicate openly with guests about your property's rules and expectations. Clear communication sets a positive tone for the stay.


  • Mention specific house rules and policies in your listing description.

  • Provide detailed instructions for check-in, check-out, and other important aspects.


5. Utilise Airbnb's Messaging Platform


Airbnb's messaging platform is a secure and traceable way to communicate with guests. Avoid sharing personal contact information until after a booking is confirmed.


  • Keep all communication within Airbnb's messaging system to maintain a record of interactions - in case you take the conversation off-Airbnb, the Airbnb cover and guest assistance won’t be valid.

  • Report any suspicious or inappropriate messages to Airbnb's support team.


Being a new Airbnb host comes with its learning curve, and recognizing guest red flags is an essential part of that journey. By verifying guests without reviews, addressing concerns about short bookings or non-resident guests, trusting your instincts, setting clear expectations, and utilizing Airbnb's messaging platform, you can create a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and your guests. Stay vigilant, communicate effectively, and welcome your guests with confidence.


About Us


KeyNest offers you a convenient service for storing and exchanging your property keys. You can drop off a key at any of the 5,000+ locations in our network, so there’s one such Point located next to your property already.


Guests, cleaners or contractors can then collect the key securely from a KeyNest Point, which is usually open 24/7. You'll be notified each time the key is picked up or returned, and you can even customize check-in and check-out times.


KeyNest has an ever-expanding global network of locations located just minutes from your property. To find out more, visit our website: https://keynest.com/

 
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