guest requesting discounted rate

[Kerry-Phil0]

I received a request from a couple wanting to stay 2 nights over the weekend at a discounted rate. Our rate is cheaper for 2 nights than you can pay for a motel for one and amongst the cheapest on Airbnb, especially given the nature of the property.

I declined it as I know many people here have experienced only grief from guests making similar requests. However, guest does have 19 positive reviews...thoughts anyone? I am thinking of maybe offering them a discount if they move their stay to during the week but then how much do I discount it by?

What concerns me a bit is that accidents happen and if the guest can't afford full price, they probably can't afford to compensate for any damage they may cause....

Thanks all

[Stephanie6]

Hi @Kerry-Phil0, Some guests will always ask for a discount.  My standard response is "We are not offering discounts at this time."  I have had two guests ask and then book without a discount.  They were both excellent guests and I gave them great reviews.   

[Kerry-Phil0]

@Stephanie thanks for that. I haven't approved or declined the request yet and have written something along those lines back... will see what happens I guess

[Nancy103]

If you want to give a discount, go ahead, but don't feel pressured.  I have decided not to rent to guests that have asked for discounts.  In my experience, those that ask for a discount and then agree to pay full price are never satisfied. 

[Danielle513]

Chiming in on this thread even though it's a few years old.   I have made exceptions in the past and given discounts, but my prices are very reasonable and it does raise a red flag if someone starts a booking request with an expectation of a discount.