Constant "Can we visit before we book" from new users. Worth it?

[James4234]

Hi Everybody,

We're having a bit of an 'issue' ? with our listing, we have what seems to be an average flow of users messaging us asking to "come see the place before booking".

However, these are new users to the platform, identities verified but only have <>1 month on the platform.

Our place is located in Toronto, Canada and is available for a month and a half, guests are asked to book 28 days or longer.

It's a new listing for us, we're new to hosting. The messages from these users seem suspect, I understand we're new to hosting, and them to travelling. But all the messages follow the same pattern... Family size, duration confirmation, checkout time, request to visit.

Having a friend show them the property while we're out of town is completely possible, but we're scared of a possible scam or crime with it being currently empty.

Has anyone had experience with this previously? this is our own home, its a big gamble.

(The listing has over 40+ photos, and descriptions which would rival a super hosts, all amenities are complete, it's a solid listing)

[Goldie-And-Alexa0 · Accepted solution]

You may show them the place, but do not accept the booking outside of Airbnb platform. This may be cheaper for them, but these dates will not count in favor of your performance. Furthermore, you will not have any protection against misconduct or damage.

Therefore, let them see, and then, direct them to make a booking through Airbnb platform. Only in this way, your performance will increase and all communication and payments will go through the platform, so there will be records of these activities.

Write house rules (for example, no smoking, no parties, no pets, quiet hours, ...). By booking the accommodation, guests agree to these rules.

Take a damage deposit, which will be returned on checkout, upon inspection.

Besides Airbnb, make sure to follow local laws in your country in accordance with short term rentals - for example, take guests' passports and register them in official registry (or whichever rules are applicable in your country).

By taking all these precautions, guests will certainly pay attention on their behaviour and take care of your property!