Possible Scam

[Nicole2905]

Hey Fellow Hosts, 

I am wondering if anyone else has had this experience. If feels scam like to me. I have a new listing, and have gotten  2 very long term stay pre approval requests within the past 12 hours (150 days and 70 days), both are from names I believe are written in Chinese, they do not translate with the "see translation" function. And they are asking for me to add them on whatsapp because it is more convenient. I'm quite sure it is a scam , but I am curious if anyone else if seeing this. I don't see it on any forum which surprises me. I am wondering , what's the scam ?

[Mike-And-Jane0]

@Nicole2905 new hosts seem to be targeted for some reason. Irrelevant of wether it is a scam or not as a new host/listing you need reviews and bookings. Also any stay over 30 nights may create a tenancy depending on your state laws. I would limit stays to a few weeks if I were you .

[Lorna170]

@Nicole2905   Two things to consider before accepting long term rentals:

Check the law in your jurisdiction:  when does a guest become a tenant?  Usually after 28 days in the US.

It is my understanding that payment is only made by AirBnB for the first month, and subsequent payments may not clear due to the guest either refusing to pay or cancelling the card or account used to make the first payment.  There are also those who want to take their payments off system, ending  any support or protection for the host from Airbnb.

IMO if you want to rent long term, have a deposit and a signed lease.  Not Airbnb, especially if you are renting a stand alone property.  

[Helen3]

@Nicole2905 

Check your listing - as a new host you may have a 20% discount set up on your listing in addition to a high long term discount.]

I would advise. 

1. remove the new host discount

2. lower the long term stay discount

3. Make sure you aren't on smart pricing - price in comparison with local hosts for your sort of property

4. Only open your calendar to maximum two or three week stay 

5. Turn off instant book until you build up some experience of vetting guests.

I wouldn't accept these bookings in your situation