Airbnb challenged in Manila, Philippines price-wise?

[Paul-Christian0]

Hello, am a superhost in Metro Manila, Philippines! 

Greetings to all warm and great hosts out there!

I just would like to share my experience.  Our capital is experiencing a fast growth in real-estate property but as in addition to our prices being already cheap, there are a number of booking sites and budget-hotel chains that are offering cheaper alternatives than airbnb.  Usually, cheaper than airbnb.  I feel that these other booking sites are sometimes waiving their fees in order to fill out nights that will not be sold.  Hope Airbnb can act on this fast to edge out competition! I am feeling the grunt of having to compete with these budget hotels offering cheaper prices than mine because Airbnb fees doesn't change according to demand like their smart pricing.  It stays the same!!

What are your thoughts on this?

[Cormac0]

@Paul-Christian0 

a race to the pricing floor is no good for anybody in the long run, thats why below cost selling is banned in some countries.

Be carefull for what you wish for.

[Lydia288]

I am a new Host and I am aghast at the rates of Airbnb in Manila.  I just cancelled a month-long booking when I realized that what I will make from this booking might just cover the electric bill that it will generate.  I suggest that we create a group among Airbnb hosts in Manila so we can have more reasonable pricing and make money for everyone.  Back in the 1990's, a 1 BR gets used to rent out for P2500/day or about $50.  Now Airbnb's default pricing for my 2 BR/2 Bathroom is $17/night.  I can, of course, raise it, but I think it will be better if we all agree to self-police and not try to cut the price to these ridiculous levels.

[Lydia288]

Hotels are more flexible with pricing on day-to-day basis. When it's low season, the rates are low and they are able to up the rate to the sky when the demand is high.  Apparently, Airbnb pricing is strictly based on your location.  So if your competitors are 20 sqm studios, it doesn't matter as long as you are within the same location.