Can't book because I'm "party" risk

[Sue2605]

Some how I'm a "party risk" ... I'm over 40, no negative reviews.. Been using Airbnb for 10 years..  was trying to book a 6 bedroom house near my house for family members coming from out of town for my daughter's' graduation so that we all can stay in the same house(my house is too small) .... They rejected it and suggested to book a hotel rooms.. like what?  So dumb . Wonder if the hosts knows this is causing  them to lose money.  Host lost chance to earn $3500.  I ended up booking another house near my house thru VRBO.  Airbnb need to reevaluate this whole process. I saw somewhere that if you try to book in same town they'll flag it but why can't locals book it?  Sometimes they need a house.. Maybe there's no power at their house... House is being worked on... Any reason...

[Elegant-Homes-Retreat0]

Hi @Sue2605 👋,

Totally understand your frustration—and honestly, you’re not alone. Many longtime, respectful guests like you have experienced this “party risk” flag, especially when booking large properties locally.

Airbnb’s automated system seems to flag same-city bookings, particularly for larger homes, under the assumption that it might be for a party—even when that’s clearly not the case, like in your situation with family attending a graduation. Unfortunately, hosts usually don’t even know that the system blocked a guest—they just miss out on the booking.

You're absolutely right: there are plenty of valid reasons a local person might need to book nearby—renovations, emergencies, family events, or just more space.

It’s great you found a solution through VRBO, but I agree—Airbnb should seriously reconsider how their risk filter works. It shouldn't punish loyal users, especially those with a long, clean track record.

Thanks for raising this—hopefully it adds to the pressure for Airbnb to refine their system and be more host- and guest-friendly. 🙌

[Helen3]

Hi @Sue2605 

the easiest way to get around this is for the family members to book themselves .

third party bookings are against Airbnb's T&Cs and being local would have triggered Airbnbs anti party policy.

Sorry it didn't work out for you .

[Marie8425]

@Sue2605 

The computer looks at your profile address is in the same area so yes you could be a party risk.  If your relatives live out of state then their profile renting the house doesn't appear as risky to the computer.  If your concern is you wanted to pay an Airbnb Gift Card to the relative.

[Rebecca]

Hello @Sue2605 👋

Sorry to hear you had this issue. Has it since been resolved? You've also had some support here from some of our hosts. Have any of the answers helped? 
 
If so, it's always a lovely gesture to pop a like on the comments 👍  and mark a top answer ☑️ . It's like a big virtual hug to the members who supported you and the best answer also supports other Hosts who may have similar questions in the future. 😊

[Lars384]

Hey @Sue2605,

Ugh, that’s beyond frustrating! You’ve been with Airbnb for 10 years with a spotless record—it makes zero sense for their system to flag you like this. I’d be livid too, especially when you’re just trying to host family for your daughter’s graduation!

Airbnb’s algorithm tends to over-police same-city bookings for larger homes, assuming “party risk” even when it’s clearly not the case. The worst part? Hosts often don’t realize their calendar is being gatekept by an automated tool. They miss out on great guests like you, and you’re left scrambling.

Quick tip for next time: Try messaging hosts directly before booking. A quick note explaining your situation (family in town, needing space for a special event) can sometimes ease their concerns. But honestly, Airbnb’s system needs a major overhaul to trust loyal users like you.

Glad you found a workaround with VRBO, but Airbnb really needs to listen to stories like yours. Congrats to your daughter, though!

---

P.S. Hosts tired of losing bookings to false flags—some folks I know use affordable tech tweaks (like custom AI filters) to avoid these automated hiccups. Feel free to DM if you want details!