$500 Price Increase after I booked

[Jessica538]

Hello all!

I have booked an apartment out of the country for 3 days and 2 nights on New Years Eve, and the host has requested a change of $500 from $1000 to $1500! 

The host has good reviews but there is nothing on the listing I can find that would explain how my booking would need to be changed for such a large amount. 

I have asked him the reason for the request and am waiting on a reply but there is a 9 hour time difference.

I am wondering if I decline his request will I be penalized? Or will he be able cancel on me and book the place again for a higher price and I will be out of a place to stay?

Thank you for your time.

[Emiel1 · Accepted solution]

Hi,

It's a violation of Airbnb rules to increase the price after booking without a valid reason (like extra guests announced after booking etc..). You will not be penalize if you decline, but you can also do nothing and let the change proposition expire (there is a time limit). After all you are still waiting for the answer of the host ! If the host cancels, he will be penalized (he/she knows that !). If you are uncomfortable with he situation, call Airbnb, explain and let them cancel. Do not cancel yourself, unless the listing has some '48 hours_feel_free_to_cancel_and_get_all_your_money-back" listed rule on it.

Best regards, Emiel

[Jessica538]

Thank you so much for taking the time to respond to me.   🙂