Hi @Mary996 .
I think you have to do what you are comfortable with....
Personally I’ve never allowed on site viewings, when asked, as I say that it goes against our policy and procedures for our Airbnb space. Simple. I’m sure you wouldn’t walk someone through it if you had a guest staying..... So to me, the same privacy rules apply.
The security is that it’s a home first... yours! You get to call the shots as you see fit. Not bend your rules to suit someone else. How needy might they be, or become?
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Other hosts may offer varying opinions that suit you better, but to me if you have a good a
and comprehensive descriptor, plenty of images of the Airbnb space not your personal /private space or the front of the house (if not needed) and then are willing to answer other questions, then that’s more than enough. I’ve said as much when I’ve responded. “Happy to answer any questions you may have, not already covered in the photo images and descriptor of the listing.”
But I never have any intention to walk people through the space. I’m not a large hotel, nor am I taking long term renters.
As extra information if they ask ( but not specifically for the descriptor, unless “other things to note”: You may want to do rough measurements of the floor space of the rooms of interest, the number of power-points, lamps, desk etc in the space/s and if there is wifi available. (no passwords) Washing/ cooking facilities etc. that covers everything basically they want to see for themselves. If a longer stay, are they likely to want to have mail sent to your address, which makes them legal dwellers in many instances. Beware businesses or Govt applications, or scams being set up using your address. (Many a thread in the CC with negative stories)
I agree with @Elena87, that they could make a short booking to get the feel of the place, but I personally would be on guard... What’s your local by-laws for rental lengths needing a lease or squatters rights? Be forewarned and forearmed.
FYI: Do you have locks on personal spaces and filing cabinets and your bedroom door/s etc? I would consider this paramount anyway. Including separate wifi access passwords etc. (Keep your stuff safer and even if using the same IP address, can more easily identify any inappropriate sites, as not being from you or Izzie.)
Another thing to consider is “how long” is a longer stay? Will they be wanting to do heavier cooking if longer term? Smells etc.... Will they want to have “friends” visit and stay over?
This might not matter if STR is the norm, but there is nothing in your house rules that I can see, that may cover any future issues with guests taking over the space, more than you would want them to... more furniture and luggage etc. Always plan for the worst and add to your house rules to mitigate and cover as your contingency plan. They must also accept those house rules in writing. 🙂
Protects everyone as everyone knows where they stand!
I DO hope this gives confidence for you to go with your gut feelings.