Different hosts funneling me to the same listing?

[Luc9626]

I've requested reservations with two different hosts, but both messaged me that their properties weren't available (despite keeping the listing available during those dates after messaging) and both linked me to the same alternative listing that was available... listed by a third host.

This seems pretty shady. Is there a way to report this or flag it with Airbnb?

[Helen744 · Accepted solution]

@Luc9626 Luc it does sound strange and may be a 'bait and switch ' as you say but check and see if the booking has good reviews or ask the hosts why they have chosen to suggest this property or why they have not accepted your booking.? It could be that you do not reach some of the hosts requirements and there are not many Airbnbs in the area that you wish to stay in , after a few more inquiries then feel free to report to Airbnb via the phone numbers that you have.  Good Luck .. H

[Mar125]

@Luc9626 

We have different hosts hosting same location and it’s never shady… you don’t need to think there’s anything shady since hosts won’t get paid until guest has access…

[Mike-And-Jane0]

@Luc9626 There is something strange with your name changing across your excellent reviews that might have concerned the hosts. Other than that the only way you will find out what is happening is to ask.

[Luc9626]

I'm unsure what you mean about my name changing across reviews, but I did send a messaging to each of the hosts linking me to this particular listing and asking about this practice. I'll share info once I get a response!

[Helen3]

I disagree with @Mar125  there are often scammers who pretend to have Airbnb on third party platforms. Or hosts on Airbnb who 'bait and switch' to send you to a listing not on Airbnb or of an inferior quality so you are absolutely right to be concerned. Personally I would report to Airbnb and find an alternative listing with a long established superhost with great reviews. 

[Mar125]

@Helen3 

you are saying hosts sent guest link to properties not listed on Airbnb? If guest’s not cautious enough to go off airbnb transaction, then it’s really not host’s fault. 

As long as it’s on airbnb, whatever host’s recommendation is, it’s totally ok. One listing is not superior to another, and one host is not superior to another.

As long as guest can access, what’s the matter? 

you have to accept a listing that a particular host hosts? it’s not logical. 

[Helen3]

As an experienced host you know it's against Airbnb rules for a host to try and direct a guest who books with them to book a listing with another host, or another listing in their portfolio.  @Mar125  There's even a well known phrase for it 'bait and switch'. 

Of course different listings can be better than others in terms of the quality of the listing, amenities, location etc

I agree your response is not logical. 

[Mar125]

@Helen3 

from what statement you deem the host was directing the guest to a different host’s listing? 

Do you understand that it’s perfect legal to direct the guest to book with another co host’s listing under the same host organization. 

Don’t assume what guest didn’t disclose.

And btw, where does it say that it’s against airbnb policy to refer guests to other host’s listings? would you post policy link? It will be very against my common sense that a host can not refer guests to other listings for free… Unless there’s affiliation or any kind of illegal kick back. 

Again, you keep assuming things that are quite against common sense. and please don’t be personal.

[Breanna]

I just wanted to pop in and share this help article that discusses this situation, albeit breifly >> https://www.airbnb.co.uk/help/article/250

@Luc9626 is right to be wary, but it's good to know that it may not be totally out of left field.