Recently I've been thinking that Airbnb is just becoming too greedy with its 'service' fees and exorbitant exchange rates. When I asked what the service fee was about, I was told it was for website maintenance and mediation costs - but when you consider just how many thousands of people are staying in Airbnb accommodation every day without problems, I'd be interested to know how much is needed for mediation?! Also, how much do a few emails cost?? How often do they need to spend real money by taking matters to court? Basically everyone now pays a day extra on their booking, plus the percentage paid by the host and the guest - all in all around 18%+ which is more than your local letting agent!
I then noticed they've started advertising on prime time tv in the uk - hardly necessary, and very expensive ......
When I had a Euro payout sent to my UK account, they gave me an exchange rate of 1.28 euros to £1 which is .15 more than average banks. Not happy with that ...
i know from my guests that Airbnb are becoming too expensive and they are looking for alternative rental/letting sites. Shame really, as it started as a good idea, but they've become too big for their boots, and it's all about making more and more money now, so I'll be looking to advertise elsewhere.
