Instant booking v Reviewing requests

[Ann51625]

Hi,

I am a new host and just had my first three bookings, which I reviewed first.   

I really like that system, as seeing the Airbnb information about them is reassuring.  If I change to instant booking, do I lose this feature?

Is there a disadvantage to not using the Instant booking system that I may not be aware of?

Kind regards,

Ann

[Lorna170]

@Ann51625   Giving yourself time to review prospective guests while you are a new host is a smart process.  Once you are comfortable with AirBnB and have an idea as to the kind of guest you are successfully attracting, you can decide whether or not to turn on instant booking.  With instant booking you can request that the guest has "a good track record".  The disadvantage? A guest that has no reviews or is brand new to AirBnB is considered a guest with a good track record and can book your property instantly, with no time for you to communicate and find out more about the guest.  

[Joelle43]

Hello @Ann51625 

I agree with @Lorna170, if you appreciate the peace of mind and control that being able to communicate with guests before accepting their reservation then stick to that for now.  I've been a host for 6 years now and still do not offer IB as I want to make sure that guests read and accept my house rules before I go ahead and confirm their booking.  My apartment is not child friendly and I don't accept pets and am always surprised that I still get requests to bring Fluffy despite my no pet rule!  

Allowing IB does offer better visibility on the platform but you won't be able to review your guests before they book.  If they are illegible for IB and let's be honest, practically all guests are,  they can automatically book your place and you have no say in the matter.

For more info, read the link below;

https://www.airbnb.co.uk/help/article/1510

[Rebecca]

Thanks so much for sharing this help article @Joelle43, it's really helpful.  

@Ann51625 have you had a look into it and read the advice from @Lorna170 and @Joelle43? It would be great to know what you decide to do going forward, as it may help other new hosts that ask the same question 😊