Different ways of Contacting a host

[Megan12]

So,

I am so sure that this is explained somewhere on the site, but I am having a hard time getting a super clear answer.  

As a host, I have the "Instant Booking" option on.  Most people instantly book and that is great.  Sometimes, though, I am still sent requests that I have to pre-approve, and then the guest has 24 hours to book.  Also, i am also sent requests that I only have to approve for the booking to happen.

I have not used AirBnB as a traveler except once, and I instantly booked.  And I would really like to know how the guest is sending me an inquiry for me to pre-approve or approve.  Could someone please detail out the different options in terms of booking, from the guests perspective?  It would help me be of greater service to my guests. 

Thanks in advance!

Megan 

[Alice-and-Jeff0]

@Megan12 - when a guest selects the option "contact the host", this will result in an Inquiry.  An inquiry will require you to respond within 24 hours in some way.  Inquiries do not require that you decline or accept - although you should.  

If you have a reservation Request, that is because the guest does not meet the requirements you have set for a guest to Instant Book. When they try, it will result in in a request to you to approve.  You must approve or decline within 24 hours or else penalties for failing to respond will be enforced (blocked dates on the calendar).  

https://www.airbnb.com/help/article/363/what-does-each-reservation-status-mean

https://www.airbnb.com/help/article/234/i-m-a-guest--how-do-i-check-the-status-of-my-reservation

https://www.airbnb.com/help/article/272/can-i-require-guests-to-be-verified-before-booking

https://www.airbnb.com/help/article/1170/what-are-the-requirements-to-book-on-airbnb

[Megan12]

Thank you!!!!!!!