@Chris1492 @Laura2592
This is my first draft of a possible addendum to our House Manual.
Yes, I know it could be construed as manipulative, and I also know that it's excessively long-winded, but then so am I.
We want to encourage a certain type of guest who is impressed with the property for all the right reasons, does not look for reasons to take offense, and is not going to wail because Dora forgot to clean the lint-catcher on the dryer. (Again.)
A FINAL WORD: THE AIRBNB REVIEW SYSTEM
We have found that most guests do not understand the Airbnb review system and do not know that a single negative review can result in the host's property being delisted and closed down. Some hosts have encountered guests who think 3 stars is average and lost their businesses because of it.
In fact, the AirBnb platform consists almost entirely of a gigantic, complicated computer program. It doesn't care about you, it doesn't care about us, it only cares about what it thinks will increase profits for AirBnb.
Soon after you check out you will receive a message from the Computer asking you to write a review. The instructions are confusing.
First you will be asked to rate a list of categories, such as cleanliness, accuracy, location, value etc. These ratings DO NOT affect your overall rating. Rate honestly.
Your overall rating is the critical one that may ruin the host. The Computer suggests that 5 stars is for properties that are "Exceptional; Exceeds Expectations."
Four stars is "Good. Would stay again."
That's nice. But when it comes to the host, an average of less than
4.3 stars means: "You're out of business!"
Guests should think very carefully before awarding less than five stars. Many hosts will not accept guests who have a record of doing this because they just can't afford it.
If you have complaints about a host or the property, it is best to state them privately or in your written review if you think other guests should know about it.
Remember: You are not rating your vacation, which may have been unpleasant for various reasons, such as bad weather, personal problems, etc. You are rating the host who has almost certainly done everything possible to make your stay enjoyable.
If you would like to return, but think our prices are too high, please take a business card when you leave and contact us directly to discuss future stays.
Other hosts who have been unjustly punished because of well-intentioned guests who "never leave five star reviews" or thought "Only five-star hotels deserve five star ratings" put this humorous little guide together: