How do you handle Inquiries from potential guests asking for reduced rates?

[Janice68]

Hello all,

Recently I have been getting inquiries from potential guests who are asking for lower rates than the one I have posted. Not only are they asking for lower rates, but they are also adding an additional guest (like a spouse or travel partner). I always decline the reservation and explain that my rates are already at an economical price and my policy is to charge for additional guests. Usually they include some "feel good" reason why they are needing a reduced rate, like they are doing a volunteer church event, or are attending a funeral, etc... to justify their requests. I am wondering if others have had this same experience and how you have handled it.

Thanks!

[Cor3]

Hi @Janice68, @Marzena4,

Oh, And defintely Newbies!

[Linda108]

I have never had a request for a discount...period.  @Janice68  I am well priced for what I offer.  I am not greedy and potential guests recognise value.  That being said, I agree with other hosts that sometimes the market changes and you need to stay on top of changes.  I do not know your area but you do. If you feel you are offering a good value, stay true.  This too will pass.

[David126]

I do not give discounts either, I sometimes mention a hotel in the next Town that will out of season, but then they charge significantly more than I do.

It is a question of strategy, the Hotel I mentioned has rates on the high side and usually he will discount for pretty much any reason, AAA, AARP, whatever. He said and I sort of belive him that it seems many people are more focussed on the discount than what they end up paying.

Also the Discounters will usually contact him direct so he has the Booking Site commission to play with.

[Dawn33]

@David126 I was sorry to read about your Iisting being removed. Did you ever hear back from Airbnb?

[David126]

@Dawn33

The message I received, the standard one others have been sent said basically that was it, there is no further communication.

[Dawn33]

I just don’t get it. I am sorry that it happened to you.

[Sandra126]

Don't decline, accept. But accept at YOUR PRICES. That way you will not be punished for declines (and you are). If they ask for extras, add that price too. If they don't book, not your problem.

I have read travel blogs which recommend that you bargain with Airbnb hosts.

[Fred13]

I do the same @Sandra126, accept and totally ignore the request for a discount. It never comes up again.

[Ashley197]

I've had requests for discounts. That's fine, they can ask. However, I've set a boundary with myself and I clearly and kindly communicate that I don't offer discounts because my prices are set as low as they can go already. Sometimes I mention that I empathize with hardship and that we actually AirBnB to offset education and medical costs... sometimes I don't.  This is what I tell myself: there are many listings out there (thousands in my city) where they can find exactly what they need. I set my listing very carefully to avoid vacancies, but also avoid the cost of turnover, risks, etc and there is a "lowest" number for me. At this point, in the slow season, the lowest is what I've got my current pricing at. Moreover, "smart pricing" just continues to drive the pricing lower and lower.  I tell the requester that I empathize and that I set my prices as low as they can go, but that they can continue to watch the page as the date approaches because sometimes "smart pricing" can change over time. They usually either book or don't book at that point. I think it's important (for me) to set and keep clear boundaries to keep my own feelings and energy "clean" and happy about the exchange. I think it's a personal decision, though. 😉   There IS one time I do offer discounts, though: great guests who are looking to return, if they've been pleasant to work with and took good care of the room, and I'm genuinely happy to rehost them.  

[Dawn33]

I have had maybe five requests for lower rates. Two did the “can I get the school teacher rate?” and I had to let them know that they are. I am a school teacher, too. Haha.

i refuse to discount. Those are the worst guests.  Discounts are the gateway drug to bad experiences.