Running a successful STR isn’t just about having a great property; it’s also about ensuring that you have the high-quality guests staying there. Approving booking requests is one of the most critical aspects of managing a short-term rental, and it requires careful consideration. Accepting the wrong guest can lead to problems ranging from minor inconveniences to significant property damage. Here’s a guide to help you identify red flags and make informed decisions when approving booking requests.
1. Incomplete Profiles
When a guest’s profile is incomplete or lacks essential information, it’s a signal that you should proceed with caution:
Missing Profile Picture: A guest without a profile picture may be new to the platform or could be trying to stay anonymous. While this isn’t always a dealbreaker, it’s worth considering, especially if other details are also missing.
Lack of Verification: Airbnb offers identity verification options, and guests who haven’t completed these may pose a higher risk. Check to see if their email, phone number, and government ID have been verified.
Sparse Bio or No Reviews: A profile with little to no information about the guest, coupled with a lack of reviews, should prompt you to ask more questions before approving the booking.
2. Unclear Communication
How a guest communicates with you during the booking process can provide valuable insight into what type of guest they’ll be:
Vague or Evasive Responses: If a guest is vague about their travel plans or avoids answering your questions, it may be a sign that they’re not being completely honest.
Overly Demanding or Unreasonable Requests: Guests who make numerous demands before even booking may be difficult to satisfy during their stay, leading to potential conflicts and negative reviews.
Last-Minute Bookings with Limited Communication: While last-minute bookings aren’t always a red flag, if the guest is unresponsive or provides limited information, you may want to take extra precautions before accepting.
3. Unusual Group Sizes or Guest Composition
Pay attention to the number of guests and the composition of the group:
Group Size Mismatch: If the guest lists a group size that doesn’t match your property’s capacity, it could indicate plans to bring in extra, unapproved guests, which can lead to overuse of your property and potential damage.
Inconsistencies in Group Description: If a guest’s description of their group doesn’t align with their profile (e.g., a young couple booking for a “quiet retreat” but their profile shows a large group of friends), you may want to dig deeper.
Unaccompanied Minors: If the booking request is for guests under 18 without adult supervision, this is a significant red flag. Most platforms including Airbnb have policy that prohibits unaccompanied minors from booking.
4. Red Flags in Guest Reviews
Guest reviews can tell you a lot about their previous stays:
Consistent Negative Feedback: If a guest has multiple negative reviews, especially about things like cleanliness, respect for house rules, or noise, it’s a sign they might not be a good fit for your property.
No Reviews: While everyone has to start somewhere, guests with no reviews might warrant a closer look. Consider asking them a few additional questions about their stay to gauge their suitability. The only three star review I have ever had in my life was written by a guest after spending her very first stay in my Airbnb.
Non-specific Positive Reviews: Sometimes, positive reviews that are too generic or lacking in detail can be a subtle red flag. Look for detailed, thoughtful feedback in reviews to get a clearer picture of the guest.
5. Unusual Booking Patterns
Certain booking patterns can indicate potential issues:
One-Night Weekend Stays: Properties in popular nightlife areas may attract partygoers looking for a one-night stay. If your property isn’t suitable for parties, this could be problematic.
Booking Far in Advance for Events: Guests booking far in advance for major events (like festivals or concerts) could be planning large gatherings or parties. Make sure your house rules are clear and enforceable in these situations. One way to guard against this is to limit your booking dates to 90 or 180 days into the future. This also better ensures that your pricing method can take into account most planned events in your area.
Local Guests Booking Nearby: Sometimes, local guests booking in the same city can be a red flag, especially if they book last-minute. This might indicate someone looking for a party venue or engaging in other questionable activities.
6. Intuition
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of your instincts:
Trust Your Gut: If something feels off about a guest or a booking request, it’s okay to decline. As a host, you have the right to protect your property and peace of mind.
Seek Clarification: If you’re unsure about a guest, don’t hesitate to ask for more information. A genuine guest will appreciate your thoroughness, while a problematic one might become evasive.
One Important Word of Caution:
As a host, it is essential to ensure that any decisions regarding guest inquiries, further questioning, or rejections are made in full compliance with applicable laws and the hosting platform’s rules. Discrimination based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or any other legally protected characteristic is strictly prohibited. When evaluating potential guests, be mindful to base your decisions solely on legitimate and non-discriminatory criteria, such as the ability to comply with house rules or the suitability of your property for their needs. Always ensure that your reasons for additional questions or for declining a booking request align with the hosting platform’s policies and are free from any biases or unlawful considerations. Failure to do so can get a person delisted on the STR platform or even sued.
Conclusion
Approving booking requests is a critical aspect of hosting on Airbnb, and it’s essential to be diligent and cautious. By paying attention to incomplete profiles, unclear communication, unusual group sizes, and other red flags, you can minimize risks and ensure that your property is in good hands. Remember, it’s always better to take a bit more time during the booking process than to deal with the consequences of a poor guest experience later on.
For more insights and tips on managing your short-term rental, check out my book, “[Master the Stay – The Road to 5-Star Dominance] now available on Amazon.
