REFUND

[Inza0]

I want to give a refund at check out rather than a low discounted rate, which will equate to the same amount. Do you think that would come across as attractive? Also I am not adding a service charge...

[Lisa658]

@Inza0

Any time you deviate from the norm on a platform it is not the best idea.  If I was a guest I would imagine hassles in getting the money refunded because their real agreement is with AirBnB - not with you. 

Is this a specific incentive for guests to leave the property clean or just a marketing idea?  If you catch a guest who clicks on your listing who is prepared to pay the price you have advertised, why would you negotiate a lower rate?  It will not be visible to those who have a lower price point in their searches so I would vote this is not a good idea.

You cannot say that you will waive the service fee as this is not within your authority to change.  I would list the price that you think it is worth based on your research and leave it at that.

Lisa

[Inza0]

NOTED....what then would be a simple formula to determine a security deposit.

[Linda108]

Hello @Inza0.  Welcome to hosting on the Air BNB platform.  I have noted a few items in your listing that might be problematic.  I offer my observations for your consideration.

1.  It appears you have your address in the beginning of your description.  Air BNB does not disclose your actual address unless there is a confirmed reservation.  It is considered a safety issue.

2. The cleaning fee is charged to the guest only one time per booking and you have a daily fee in your description.   Some hosts will offer an additional cleaning fee for stays longer than a week, but most do not.

3.  Pictures  Your profile picture is the same flowering bush as your listing picture.  A clear picture of you is more welcoming to most travelers.  Also, of the 7 pictures you provide only 3 are of the interior.  Guests like to have a better idea of what they will be using so, you might add more pictures of what the guest will have access to.

4. Obviously your faith as a Roman Catholic is very important to you.  Air BNB has a non-discrimination policy and you will find many travelers from around the world and of other faiths will be uncomfortable with your public sharing.  Perhaps a personal conversation with a guest would be a better way for you to make the offer.

I wish you success!

[Inza0]

Thank you for your input it was most helpful....unfortunately the site does not recognize my exact address so when I attempt to put it it I am unable to move forward also I hae a few computer challenges but I am constantly reviewing which would be my input to Air BNB to allow review before posting as I would not like potential clients to think I am an airhead or someone they woud not like to do business with...will proceed with your suggestions....again, thank you so much.

On another matter, please share as to how I would calculate a deposit as my REFUND is not viewed in a favorable light.

Thanks for the assistance to this novice.

[Lisa658]

@Inza0

If you want to include a security deposit, you can go to 'Your Listing" on the black menu bar at the top then click on "Pricing".  Scroll down to "Extra Charges" and click "Edit".  Here you can enter the Security Deposit.  Guests will not be charged for this on their credit card at the time of booking so it is preferable to them rather than paying an actual deposit that you promise to refund.  Look at other listings in your area and see what amount of security deposit is the norm to charge.

Once you confirm a booking, you can give your address and directions to the guest on the message system.  If the incorrect address is attached to your listing you may be wise to contact AirBnB and have them change this for you so that no guests are accidently left lost from misinformation that is included in the listing.  Send them the instructions again a couple of days before they are due to arrive.

https://community.withairbnb.com/t5/Help/Contact-Airbnb-A-Community-Help-Guide-UPDATED/m-p/413245

Best of luck to you, Lisa