@Denelle1 Firstly, do not decline any inquiries if you don’t want to take that person. You are not required to accept or decline them. You are only required to respond to maintain your response percentage. Answer the questions promptly and send your own questions to them. If they don’t respond, just leave it alone. They haven’t given you the information to make a decision.
As far as newbies to AIRBNB, we often feel negatively towards new accounts because - yes, there are scammers out there and partiers and the like. Remember everyone was new once, so don’t make that the deciding factor for declining a stay. It’s a small consideration to take into account with everything else.
It’s a bit of training on the host’s part with some people about communication. Some act like they are booking a hotel. They just assume they will automatically book it, no questions asked.
If they have a verification, it means their ID or email or phone has been verified. That’s a good thing. But yes, no reviews is a negative.
I often get these these types of requests from folks who are trying to find a place for an out of town work assignment and a hotel is just not the best for a lengthy stay. Find out more information such as why are they planning a month long stay. If it’s a situation where they are searching for housing or “have to be out of their apartment”, this may be a red flag. If it’s a work assignment, this may be fine.
As you are new to AIRBNB, consider whether you are comfortable with a month long stay right now. If that was your goal, all good. If not, you may want to reset your length of stay to a shorter time period.
Just get more information for your inquiries or requests. Use your sixth sense. Anytime I’ve gone against it, I’ve been wrong and regretted it. If you decline, be as honest as you feel but professional.
“Apartment is not suited for guest’s needs”
”Guest has not responded to host’s questions.”
“Guest has indicated use contrary to house rules.”
