Hi Everyone...Is it just me or did Airbnb decide unilaterally that they would apply a 48hr grace period attached to the Strict Policy with or without our permission. As a Owner I vehemently oppose such a policy. First it makes no sense as we as Owners chose our own Cancellation Policy and per our agreement with Airbnb we have that right. Whose idea was this anyway?
I am not interested in changing my Strict Policy and should not have this shoved down my throat. A guest has an option of chosing another listing and it is my to my knowledge that both the cancellation policy and the house rules are tagged to the booking before they push the button to book. Why are we as hosts being penalized for setting our cancellation policies to our own liking.
First of, THIS WILL NOT GET YOU MORE BOOKINGS. It will continually fraustrate you and have you in limbo, wondering if the person will cancel within the next 48 hrs. That is not good for any owners peace of mind. Next I have been with Airbnb for several years and 14days is not enough time for a new person to rebook. Chances (90%) are that they were looking when your "fake" guest booked your place, and then went somewhere else. I deal with most vacationeers and they book months in advance, not 14days. I would hate to see a booking on my place for thousands of dollars only to disappear 2 days later, because they have decided to "shop" my listing.
If we as Owners have decided we do not want any of this ridiculous policy of "Grace Period " attachment, why is Airbnb responding that they heard us loud and clear, then ignoring and disrespecting us by saying" But we will roll it out anyway.....May 1st? Not only are you providing a service that we do not want, but you are also exposing our addresses telephone numbers etc, to someone who hasn't booked. In fact a total stanger..I amdefinately not comfortable with that! and while we are on the subject, I chose not to let anyone know my exact location as an inquiry and I am sure I haven't lost any bookings because of it.
We do not want the "48hr Grace Period to the Strict Policy" period.
Pamela ****
Washington DC