Guests asked for the property address - what’s your opinion on this?

[Linda4964]

A guest sent a message request and hasn’t booked yet. He asked if I could show him the inside of the property. From past experience, I’ve done that before -and it was a bad experience.

So, I politely declined and explained that we’re not able to offer in-person viewings before booking, but that I’d be more than happy to answer any questions or share extra photos or details to help him feel confident before booking.

Then he followed up by asking for the exact address so he could “pass by.” Honestly, I don’t understand why some people can be so frustrating- the listing already shows the general area and surroundings clearly enough.

I’d love to know what you all think about this situation. Thank you!

[John5097]

Hi @Linda4964 

I also don't give out the address prior to booking. This has only happened a few times and even though I was very confident it was just someone who wanted to make sure it was a legit place, I still declined. 

My biggest concern would they decide to drop by whenever they want and may not even understand that other guest may be staying, or maybe even think that's a good idea to chat with them also or who knows what. 

All guest need to make a reservation and have a designated check in and check out time. 

I probably responded that my insurance only allows registered guest and are very strict, and that I try to keep the listing as accurate as possible. Mine is all 5 star reviews and guest had zero stays and was prob just very distrustful of making reservation on Airbnb and wanted to see it first. He said he was already in town on trip and wanted to book for a later date. 

* I also would have declined a reservation request but thankfully guest didn't send one. So maybe i just said "sorry that's not possible" and declined the inquiry, which prevented them from sending a reservation request. 

[Joan2709]

@Linda4964 

Agree with @John5097 ...

That would be a big NOPE from me! (John said it nicer 😁)

[Shelley159]

Also agree with @John5097 , especially about the risk of the person potentially trying to interview present guests or neighbours if they're so unsure.

I wouldn't go into too much detail, I think it's sufficient to say it's unfortunately a highly unusual request, so you wouldn't be comfortable.

[Greystone0]

HI @Linda4964 ,

Agree with the excellent advice given.

The only other thing that occurs to me, as this happens on our end, is guests want to know distance to a particular spot (restaurant, event location, whatever) or if walkable to whatever. And so in this case we get the 'spot' and then provide details accordingly.

Doesn't sound like this applies to this particular case but just adding as a general idea.

There is a new 'block' button that @Joan2709 has identified and perhaps this can be applied here! I too really dislike these requests for in-person tours, it's such nonsense.

Good luck!

[Linda4964]

Yes, I did ask that, but he wanted to know how well-manicured the neighborhood was. It’s actually a very nice area, and the homes are well-kept. Mine is a new build -modern and beautifully done. Apparently, he decided against it because it’s not one of those ultra-wealthy neighborhoods he’s used to. Next time, I won’t waste my time on that kind of guest. Thank you for your (all) kindness and time 😊

[Elaine701]

@Linda4964 

A couple of things come to mind

First, if he's local and wants to stop by and "look at the house" then this is not a good sign. I always question the intentions of a local wanting to book my place. Or even come to look. Sounds like a party to me. Or perhaps worse. 

Second, and I've always felt this was rather laughable; on your listing, where it shows your location... You know, that map with a broad circle showing where your place is roughly located - you know, somewhere within that circle...

Well, invariably, the exact center of that circle is where your place is located. Anyone can pinpoint it easily. Just zoom in on the exact center of the circle on the map. There's your location. 

So, anyone who wants to look can just get in the car and go there. You're not really well protected by that. 

[Helen3]

As you know it's against Airbnb's T&C to share contact information with guests before they book. @Linda4964 

I would never agree to show a guest around before they book - all the information they need to make a booking decision is/should be on your listing. 

Nor would I share the address.

[Linda4964]

Thank you @Helen3 I’m well aware of that. There were no guests at the time, and I never shared any personal information such as my phone number or anything else. All communication took place strictly through the Airbnb app. 👍