WoW Linda,
Thanks for pulling my coat so to speak!. A person's face, and perhaps race do factor in when a guest decides to book a place but to what degree?. I also know that the area, cost, amenities, proximity to mass transit, night life/ local restuarnts,l events , reviews even house rules are all taken into account when a savvy guest books a place.
One indicator of skepticism because I can't prove that it is was discrimination. Is when guests ask is my area safe? and several others wanted to visit before booking. I believe that some of my guest are (xenophobic) have never even lived with or may not know a person outside of their race but will make the exception. When it depends on their career or job and feel relatively safe doing so because its Airbnb.
I'm the new kid on the block and only do long term, 31+ days and have been busy for 1.5 years and finally. NO bookings and it feels good. I've had some great experiences and some really bad ones In my short time as a host. I believe its because guests becaome complacent after 30 days and feel that they can do whatever they want.
As one previous host said: Not the exact quote but something like, if they don't like what they see, then they can go elsewhere! but I am in no way siding with Airbnb when It comes to letting the guest see who the host is to ease their doubts before booking when host can't do the same!. Furthermore and on second thought, I'll leave my image up, so they don't have to guess who's coming to dinner!