Diversification in Philippines

Anton7298
Level 10
San Fernando, Philippines

Diversification in Philippines

Hi fellow host,

 

first, please excuse myself if this question is somehow regional but if anyone knows any option to diversify would be highly appreciated.

 

i have been hosting for a year and so far it’s been a good run for us, Thank God!

 

However, I can’t help but worry for being in AirBNB only.

 

I can see time and time again from other host that they are getting suspended for no apparent reason and that keeps me worried. It seems it is inevitable, its just a matter of when we will get that bad guest and we’re done.

 

I’d like to know if anyone here are hosting in Philippines and if there is any for of diversification applicable in our region.

 

I have tried travelnest and also created a facebook page but so far, I have not received any bookings from those 2 platform.

 

any idea what are the options in Philippines.

 

thanks!

4 Replies 4
Paula
Community Manager
Community Manager
Port Moody, Canada

Hello @Anton7298, welcome to the Airbnb Community Center!

 

I am reaching out to one of our most experienced hosts in the Philippines, @Patricia2526, to see if she would like to share some ideas on your questions or suggest ways to improve your listing to get more bookings 😊

 

Regards,

-----

 

Please follow the Community Guidelines // Por favor consulta las Normas de la comunidad

Patricia2526
Top Contributor
Manila, Philippines

Hello @Anton7298 &  Hi and Thanks @Paula 

 

I hope this message finds you well. I’ve been hosting on Airbnb exclusively for the past six years. In that time, I’ve come to appreciate the benefits of using a platform that offers AirCover, which provides an extra layer of protection and peace of mind for both hosts and guests.

 

It’s important to remember that no platform is without its challenges, especially when it comes to disputes or listing suspensions. In my experience, there are always two sides to every story. I don’t think Airbnb will just suspend us without any valid reasons, that’s why I always document everything post check-in and right after guest checked out.

 

Are you on instant booking?

Enabling instant booking removes the uncertainty for guests who prefer to confirm their accommodation immediately. This convenience can attract a broader range of guests, including those with tight schedules or travel plans.

 

Maintaining clear communication with guests and proactively managing your property can often prevent issues from escalating.

Platforms may set the rules, but the relationship we build with guests is what sustains us as hosts.

Anton7298
Level 10
San Fernando, Philippines

 @Paula  @Patricia2526 

thanks for both your reply and attention to my post.

 

I originally post this in the host circle hoping to get the conversation going between other host. But I guess it was moved by admin or moderator and thanks for putting me in touch with an experienced host in PH.

 

@Patricia2526 I totally agree with you on the point that no platform is without challenges, hence, I am looking for diversification.

 

I also believe that there is always 2 side of story. However, AirBNB support, as a dispute handler, should be transparent in decision making. But in my experience, ABB did not show transparency in rendering verdict.

 

I have been in this community for a few months only and mostly hanging out in host circle to see how other host is doing. Unfortunately, me hanging out in there not only prove my case was unfairly closed, others are also having similar experiences and more are coming day by day.

 

Most host have similar sentiments as mine, that to get real support from ABB, it is a painstaking process that if you do not have the patience and perseverance to waste weeks or months of overcoming scripted responses from level 1 support, you will never get the real support you need.

 

I wonder if you would share how you think ABB support is doing compare to then and now. Honestly.

 

Why I am worried and believe that ABB support is not fair?

 

1. They will not provide any reason how and why they come to their verdict on disputes. I do not know how they do it to other host but I am speaking from my actual experience. I have all 5 star review except for 1. That 1 star is clearly coming from a guest with agenda to take advantage of a good host. He was a handicap (according to him). My listing is not for handicap. He has a title “Dr” in his profile. So, I am certain he can read also smart. Given that, He was well aware that my listing is not for handicap. It has stairs. For someone who is a Dr, that is a big red flag. But he concealed his condition. He did not communicate this nor comment anything throughout his 1 month stay. Then after check out. Boom! There it was. 1 star on all category. His reason, guess what? Not safe for handicap. Even in the category of “communication” where it has nothing to do with his handicap condition, the review was 1 star, reason… guess what? Not safe! While in the first place, ABB knows that he should be searching listing under accessible category? Why did he look for a place to stay at normal category and then rate a listing 1 star because place is not safe for handicap which he know it all along before check in. But the worst part, ABB allows his review to stay. Verdict: does not violate the rules. Put yourself in my shoes. Do you think it is fair?

 

2. Review system is also not fair. In all normal people, they would think that 3 is the median. When they give 4️ they would think they are giving a good rating because 5️ they think means the best. But is it? ABB rules for host to stay as Super host is 4.8, the average is 4.7, and when you reach 4.5, your listing will be in danger. On that numbers, 4 is not a good rating at all. It can get your listing suspended. Normal guest will think that rating of 4 star to a good but not so perfect place is still a good thing, but to host, it is damaging. This means this is lack of transparency.

 

But please don’t get me wrong. So far, I am doing good in ABB and I am in good standing and probably doing great compare to other listing in our area. However, the information I posted above is based on real facts and figures and also shared by many host actively collaborating in host circle.

 

Based on my experience and other host in the host circle, abb hosting is becoming more and more difficult.

I do not share the same experience as those who have suffered suspension but I have seen a glimpse that it could happen anytime.

 

If ABB allowed my listing to get a bias review from a handicap who do not read signs, and accepted 1star review for “communication” category because my listing have stairs, what else should I expect?

 

Again, thanks @Patricia2526 @Paula for your attention on my post.

by the way, to answer your question, yes I have instant booking and so far doing great in terms of bookings.

Anton7298
Level 10
San Fernando, Philippines

@Patricia2526 I replied to you last night but it seems you wont see it.

 

Im happy to send it to you by PM if that is OK.