Should I say something?

Inna22
Level 10
Chicago, IL

Should I say something?

This guest booked  months ago for a group. We have been in constant contact, they confirmed they were traveling multiple times. They’re scheduled to arrive on 21 August. Today she is telling me that she wants to look for a cheaper house and will I give her a refund. I told her my standard cancellation policy would apply. I’m trying to decide if I should preempt her trying to cancel with me through extenuating circumstances and then using a voucher for cheaper place. If she pulls that one on me, I will fight it tooth and nail. We have it clearly documented in Airbnb messaging. Question is, should I say anything to her now? Or she might not even know about extenuating circumstances and I will be telling her? Or when she goes to cancel she will see that button right then and there? I’m thinking perhaps I should say: in case you were considering canceling through extenuating circumstances, it’s been documented here that that is not is the case and your attestation will be fraud. I encourage you not to do it as I would fight it? I would definitely be asking for a negative review if I say that.   I just don’t know what the best course of action is

16 Replies 16
Robin4
Top Contributor
Mount Barker, Australia

@Inna22 

You know, at times I am full of Sh*t. I keep on telling users here not to deal with a haggler!

I got this enquiry the other day .....

Discount request A.png

 

First big red flag.....never rent to a haggler,  but I let her know what I offered for what I charge and she seemed to accept that so I left the lines of communication open instead of rejecting the enquiry.

 

Next she wanted to come and see the property before booking. I told her that was against Airbnb's rules and I would not risk my business by operating outside the platform rules. But she was insistent that they were over a barrel and would definitely proceed. Can you see how much of a soft touch I am becoming! I am disregarding everything I tell other hosts to observe!!!! 

Next came this.....

Discount request b.png

She came and looked at the property and said it was just what they needed, she would talk to her husband and book.......that was two days ago. 

Yesterday another booking slid in for the same dates.........and I took great delight in accepting that reservation! I don't like being manhandled by a hagglerDiscount request C.png

Tonight the original enquiry has got back to me complaining that she can no longer book those dates and I had to tell her....."I did warn you, an enquiry is not a booking, I told you we do end up with a full calendar each month and I am sorry but those dates are now no longer available"! 

 

Inna, she is summarily pissed off!!!! 

 

Cheers......Rob

 

 

 

@Robin4  I have to say I enjoyed the ending of your story and her being left without a reservation. I am sure those who did book will end up being amazing guests