First Time on Airbnb: Need Help Verifying Listing Legitimacy

[Owais9]

Hey everyone, I’m new to Airbnb and came across a listing that looks great, but I’m not sure how to verify its legitimacy since it’s my first time using the platform. Can anyone share tips or red flags to watch out for when checking if a listing is legit? Your advice would be incredibly helpful!

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**[Identifiable listing  link removed in line with the Community Center Guidelines- Please note that is not allowed to post a listing link unless posted by a listing owner due to privacy concerns]

[Mike-And-Jane0]

@Owais9 The link will be taken down soon but I've had a look and conclude

1) The property is probably real

2) There is a red flag against the host though in that he has been hosting for many years and yet this property only has 7 reviews.

Look at his profile and then the reviews for different places. Many are good - some are dire. I do wonder if the host keeps getting bad reviews and then closes one listing and opens another to hide this fact. Of course he may just rent out different places over time.

[Mike-And-Jane0]

@Owais9 And another thing - This host has 16 listings. I personally would go for someone with fewer listings!

[Owais9]

Hi, thank you for replying. Do you think i should book somewhere else?

[Mike-And-Jane0]

@Owais9 read all his reviews and make a decision. If it is a bit cheaper than a better competitor then perhaps go elsewhere - If its a really good deal then perhaps risk it.

While I am here I also have the following advice:

Search in an area (say London) and then use the filters to find the right place at the right price. Filter out fewer bedroom places and higher priced places, filter out home shares (unless that is what you are looking for) and then read the reviews of what is left.

[Rebecca]

Hi @Owais9 👋

What did you decide to do in the end? It would be great to hear from you. 😊