I made a mistake and booked a shared home.

[Christopher1806]

On the 25/09/23 I booked a 2 bed room unit in Manila for my family of 5, I had my filters set to privet house only so it was not shared, however the listing I booked said shared bathroom this did not ring any bells for me as I thought its shared between us.

A week later after talking with host she said to me do you realise this is a shared house, as she got the feeling 
I did not know, once i found out I have asked to cancel as I cannot stay due to many safter reasons and health reasons.

The host has offered to refund me when a new person books in but cannot say when I will get my money back which under normal circumstances would be fine with me. But given I get paid monthly, and I spent 4k on flights and I don't have the money to book another unit it makes my choice hard.

I have explained this to the host she keeps saying follow the steps.

I need advice as I want to book another place before the prices goes up but I cannot due to the lack of money, at this point I am thinking about canceliing my whole trip and lose the almost 5k alrady.

[Christopher1806]

Also I been told my family which has an 8 year old girl and 2 other girls with be staying with 5 guys this is not safe.

[Helen3]

It's unfortunate as you say that you booked without properly reading the listing to realise you were booking a shared space @James3814 

when you say your family will be sharing with five guys what exactly is the set up . Have you booked two bedrooms in a shared home? 

What cancellation policy does the host have ? 

[James3814]

That sounds like a frustrating situation for you. Have you considered reaching out to Airbnb customer support for assistance with canceling and potentially receiving a refund? They may be able to help mediate the situation with the host. It's also a good idea to look for alternative accommodations in case your refund does not come through in time. Best of luck.

[Till-and-Jutta0]

So sorry to hear you made a booking mistake, @Christopher1806 

Some cancellation policies allow a cancellation within a short period after booking without any loss (grace period).

Please understand, that the host can't cancel on behalf of you: you book - you cancel.

The host would be punished by Airbnb for cancelling a booking.

[Loretta126]

Do you understand that the host does not have your money?  AirBnB holds your money until after you check in.  So the host can't give you a refund since they don't have your money.  They would be loaning you money if they gave it "back" to you right now.

Most airlines will give you credit for future flights even on non-refundable tickets.  Perhaps you could reschedule your trip to a time when you can find an affordable place that's suitable.

You might try calling AirBnB customer service. Assuming you are due some refund (such as 50%), they might apply your remaining 50% and their service fee to another property and you wouldn't be out all that money.