Fake inquiries

[Tracy620]

I operate in a county which recently removed the STR restrictions.  I opened up my calendar and was flooded with a bunch of inquiries all day with people that wanted discounts on the upcoming weekends. After a few failed negotiations, I gave up and said no more discounts. What was the deal with all of these, seems like they were all fake.

[Linda108]

In spite of what the county has done, the City of La Quinta still does not allow STR.  I am surprised Palm Desert is allowing.  As to your question, I think there is a belief being promoted that all types of accommodations will be hurting for business and thus are seeking discounts.  I don't agree that is true for local travelers seeking just to get away.  I agree with Brian C that local travel will be booming as soon as it is allowed.  As you are not required to decline or accept inquiries, I would have a standard message that politely states your intentions to maintain your rates and just respond to the inquiry with a canned message.  Also, I would not allow IB at this time as you will need to vet the guests more closely.

[Tracy620]

For clarification, STR’s are not open in Palm Desert either. I briefly opened when Riverside rescinded their order, and then received clarification that this was not the case in Palm Desert.