Film Scouts

[Sarah6965]

Hi all,

I've fielded a bunch of inquiries from film industry people asking about booking our location for filming/photo shoots. The first time this happened the team actually used the house for accommodations so I allowed it. Following that experience, we decided to list our home with a professional casting agency to assure that any film clients would comply with industry standards (insurance, etc.). We now state clearly in our listing that we do not book film through airbnb but through a third party. The issue is people continue to write to us with these requests and when I try to respond with a link to our casting agent, the message is flagged by Trust and Safety. Would appreciate any insight into how best to handle moving forward.

Thanks!

Sarah

[Karen114]

@Sarah6965  Live links will not be sent to inquiries before booking.  

1. You can explain in your listing that this is possible to host this type of stay,  however they would have to book first with you to get the access to the 3rd party and depending on your cancelation policy, they can cancel within x hours free of charge if this is not a good fit for them. 

2. If this is very popular with your listing,  which it sounds like it is, do your own advertising and networking to attract these types of stays. I am not sure where you would advertise or network however you probably have a good idea as this is something your familiar with. 

[Rebecca]

Hi @Sarah6965 - that's a really unique experience to offer and understand why a third party is beneficial for this type of work. 

@Karen114 has shared some options below, would any of these be an option for you? 

[Helen3]

As you know @Sarah6965 @it's against Airbnbs T&C to direct people to book off platform and can put your listing at risk of being banned .

i wouldn't do as @Karen114  suggests it's fraught with complications as the film maker then has a booking at a much cheaper rate and has no incentive to cancel and rebook at a much higher commercial rate.

i would  just reply to the guest and say you aren't allowed to take commercial bookings via Airbnb but do take them via xxx website . Obviously don't try and add the link just name check it. 

[Margaret491]

@Sarah6965 How much commission does the casting agency charge? I would probably guess at 20%, therefore Airbnbs commission is less so I would use a good channel manger, link the calendars and open bookings to both... Personally I would feel more confident in a airbnb insurance for public liability than a 3rd party agency, but realise this could differ for different countries....