strange request

[Jennifer842]

Hello,

new host here...have hosted two bookings and have two more booked, but got an odd request from someone today asking if she could use my postal address (in exchange for a paid booking and a good review...but she won't actually be staying here) and mail something to my house. A postcard from Google. I'm not so sure about this use of AirBnb. Has anyone else had this happen? Jennifer

[Alexandra316]

@Jennifer842 That sounds unbelivably skechy. I wouldn't allow it. 

Logically, why would she pay you a night's rent to receive a postcard?

[Jennifer842]

That's what I wondered. My gut says no...I don't want my home address associated with who knows what business. She says she's not local so can't set up a p.o. box. Anyhow, I got all excited that I had another booking, then totally disappointed when it was this weird request! Thanks for confirming my initial reaction.

[Alexandra316]

@Jennifer842 I know what you mean: you think you've got a reservation, or a good chance at one, and it's disappointing when it's something else. It sounds like you're doing pretty well though! I'm sure it won't be long before another legitimate request comes through: your place is really cute.

Some unscrupulous people do seem to prey upon the enthusiasm of new hosts, and it's too bad.

[Jennifer842]

Thanks Alexandra...yes, disappointing and hope someone else doesn't do it and have some unfortunate results. And thanks re: my place being cute...we had lots of fun with our first two sets of guests...and are quite amazed at how we seem to be a place people want to stay "on the way" to other places...so that works for us! 🙂

[Matthew285]

@Jennifer842 it must be something a bit sketchy.

A person could rent a mailbox for months for less than the cost of renting a room.

I wonder if it is related to this:

http://thirdmarblemarketing.com/search-engine-optimization/google-business-verification-postcards/

https://support.google.com/business/answer/4588357?hl=en

[Jennifer842]

Yes, I don't know. Also, I'm in Canada (and not in any kind of a major centre) and she's in the US at the other end of the continent from where I am...so it seemed even more odd to me. I declined nicely and she thanked me and sent xox...so I guess all is well, but I wondered if this is something hosts shoud be aware of? As someone brand new, I wanted to check my gut reaction here, and am glad I did. Thank you!

[Susan10]

I wouldn't allow it, plus I would report it to Airbnb.  A similar request is when the person says they are a photographer and just want to use your place for a day to shoot and pays for a complete night.  Just say no, another legitimate request will come along.

[Jennifer842]

Ok, good idea. Thanks!

[Lisa723]

Do not do it! Google sends this postcards to verify business addresses. She's trying to use your address fraudulantly. Report to both Airbnb and Google!

[Jennifer842]

Yes, thanks. I'll figure out how to tell Airbnb.

[Fred13]

The 'in exchange for a good review' yet not actually staying, was the most 'interesting' part.

[Jennifer842]

Yeah...so dishonest!