Scam or just a new host? https://www.airbnb.com/users/profile/1667914880180436986

[Julian2528]

Hello Airbnb Community,

I’m writing to express my skepticism about booking through Airbnb for the first time. I’ve been following this host’s profile on Airbnb, and I have a few concerns.

First, the host appears to be new on the platform, as verified in April. Second, there are no reviews yet for his listings.

I’m a first-time Airbnb user, and I want to have a great experience. However, I’m worried that the host might scam us and leave us without a place to stay during our vacation.

Are there any experienced Airbnb users who can help me out? 

I cannot send a link in airbnb listing, but yea maybe in the title!

[Patricia2526 · Accepted solution]

Hi @Julian2528 

Oh sorry, but I don’t think links can be posted here due to community guidelines. From what you described, it sounds like it’s a fairly new listing that only started around April, so it’s possible they haven’t had any bookings yet or previous guests simply didn’t leave reviews.

Your best option would be to message the host directly and ask any questions you may have about the property, amenities, check-in process, or location. 

Also, remember that both guests and hosts are protected when bookings and communication stay within the Airbnb platform. I would strongly recommend keeping all conversations in the Airbnb inbox and avoiding any requests to pay or book outside the platform, even if they offer discounts. Staying on-platform helps ensure you’re covered by Airbnb support and policies if any issues arise.

[Julian2528]

Thank you very much for your prompt response to my issue. The link is actually mentioned in the title. Could you please look at it for me? Thanks again! 

[Joelle43]

Hello @Julian2528 

I'm afraid we can't access the link to this property and it will get removed shortly by the moderators as it goes against the community center's policy

I'm host myself but also an Airbnb traveller and if you are new to Airbnb, I would pick listings that show the Guest Favourite badge and/or book with hosts that have the Super Host status.  Either one is good and both even better😉n You will be assured of a great stay and you will be dealing with experienced hosts.

Let me just say that scams on Airbnb are very rare but you have to realise too, that as a new guest, hosts are going to have to take a leap of faith with you too.  You have no previous stays where we can see if you were a good guest or not,  so make sure that you introduce yourself and give some details on what is bringing you to the area.  This type of message goes a long way in my book to allay and fears prospective hosts might have when confronted with a brand new guest profil.  Trust is a two way thing after all😉

I hope this helps Julian and you can send a message to hosts without booking or having to pay, by using the Contact host button.  This will make you more confortable I'm sure with your host and you can converse before hitting that reserve button.  Having this two way communication is what makes Airbnb special as not all online platforms allow for this.

Wishing you the best
Joëlle

[Julian2528]

Hey Joelle,

thank you very much. Yea, I will remove the link really quickly. As I looked at the listing again, he also has a co-host that is a super host which I believe is a great index for security and trustworthy.