First time host question

[Gary-And-Georgia0]

Hi. We have stayed at countless properties and this is our first time hosting. Turns out that our first reservation request [20 days] is from a first time customer. It makes me a little leary because I've heard only rent to people with ratings. Thoughs? Advise?

[Joan2709]

@Gary-And-Georgia0 

Wellll...I usually don't recommend new Hosts accept long bookings; especially with no reviews. Many times unscrupulous guests look for new listings as they know the Host is not experienced and take advantage.

Remember, you are trying to get as many bookings as possible in a short time (with 5-star reviews). I think this is a bit too much of an unknown while you are still trying to navigate as a new Host. I would decline; but of course that is up to you. I'm sure other bookings will come your way that are much less risk.

[Tara0]

Hi @Gary-And-Georgia0 There's a first time for everyone, so I wouldn't judge merely on that basis. I've had many first timers over the years and only very, very rarely a less positive experience, and only for a short stay. I've had more bad experiences with guests who've had previous good reviews. 

A 20 night stay suggests the guest has a very specific purpose for their visit. I would assess on the basis of how they sound in their message, and the plausibility of the reason given for their stay. If they haven't said why they want to stay, then ask.

In terms of the tone of message, the ideal is firstly a friendly greeting (Hi Gary!) then the inclusion of a positive comment about your listing or saying they're looking forward to staying, and giving the reason for their stay. It doesn't have to be a long explanation or fulsome praise, just enough to tell you they're a normal considerate person. 

The worst sort of guest will just say something like, 'I'll be arriving at 4pm' and nothing else - no greeting, no nothing. Even then, they probably won't be a horror guest, just not a friendly one and/or one who only communicates to convey a problem. 

[Tara0]

P.S. @Gary-And-Georgia0 If you're not sure, copy and paste the opening message here without the guest's name. 

[Gary-And-Georgia0]

They were removed before I had a chance to reply.  @Tara0 

[Tara0]

Hi @Gary-And-Georgia0 

Okay, well then I suggest you might learn from my tips about friendly communication. 

[Cora-Lee0]

heck no

[Trude0]

Seems like you dodged a bullet there! 

I’ve hosted many first time guests - they have all been great guests. The very few guests I’ve hosted that were less than great, were experienced guests with 5 star averages…

Having said that, I only host  shorter stays (2-7 nights), and the guest house is right next to my own house. 20 days is long, and I agree with @Joan2709: Aiming for many short stays instead of few long ones when starting out, is better. 

Also, beware of a common scam attempt, where new hosts are often targeted: 

- You receive an Inquiry, not a Request to book (read up on the difference)

- Long stays - often around a month

- New guest, no stays/reviews

- Guest asks strange questions,  about things they could easily find out themselves/things that are already explained in your listing

- You don’t quite ”get” why this guest/group would want to come to your place/town, and stay that long - something seems ”off”

- Guest asks for films/more photos  -  and you would have to communicate off platform to send them.

Avoid!