Pre approval

[Laurie18]

How is it that, as a host, I received a pre approval inquiry from a member since 12/2015 with no other information on her profile other than her name? I thought there were minimum profile requirements. How am I supposed to make an informed decision on someone who wants to stay in my home for 8 nights?
Laurie, host since 11/2015.

[Amaris0]

Hi,

I understand your concern and I have come across some guest without profile information. This is how I personally view it, I would be more concerned with how many/ nature of verifications the guest has. Although it's nice and advisable even, to have a profile, in reality anyone can write whatever they want on a profile i.e., I could say I'm a junior doctor, enjoy field trips, classical music etc. etc. (none of this is true) and you’d accept this but none of this information is actually verified. 

I would suggest you look at their verifications, does the guest have any reviews, is the guest a host themselves, does the guest have a clear profile picture and then you can always ask them to tell you a bit about themselves and the purpose of their trip or any other questions to put your mind at ease.

Ultimately, if you still don't feel comfortable after a bit of communication between both of you then follow your instincts and decline the request.

Wish you all the best,

Ama

[Paul0]

Hi @Laurie18,

Even though they registered some time ago they simply may not have used Airbnb till now. The changes to verification have been relatively recent. Educate them through the process a little to be a better Airbnber.  You'll test the friendship / their willingness and learn more about whether or not you want to Host them.

Cheers,

Paul

[Nadya2]

Hello: I have been a host since 2015. I have so far had one succesful guest.  I made one after the other  2 pre-approval. I heard nothing further from either of them.  The reason recorded is 'Not possible'.  Is anyone able to advise me of why this is so, and how I can change this?

[Frances11]

Hi.  I've gotten a number of these requests and try to write back with a "as you will be staying in my home I really need to know a bit more about you - where do you live, what do you do, what brings you to my area." This usually does the trick and if they don't give a satisfactory answer I just say no -- that's the beauty of the process, in my opinion. Oh and like someone else mentioned, I always make sure they have a few verifications. 

I rely on answers a lot - a number of my guests are new to Airbnb and young, and I guess I don't feel their lack of travel should mean they don't get to stay in a nice place.  This has worked for me so far - famous last words ;-).