Is It Okay to Accept Bookings Outside of Airbnb?

Hosts often face a dilemma when they receive inquiries for their properties both on Airbnb and other platforms. It's a question of whether it is acceptable to accept bookings outside of Airbnb while still complying with the rules and ensuring a positive hosting experience. In this article, we will explore the logistics, benefits, and considerations involved.

Listing on Multiple Platforms

When a host lists their property on multiple platforms such as Airbnb, VRBO, or other local rental sites, they are effectively expanding their reach and potentially increasing the number of potential bookings. However, this can complicate the management of their calendar and can lead to issues if the bookings overlap.

It is generally acceptable to list your property on multiple platforms, provided that you manage your calendar carefully and ensure that your bookings do not overlap. You can use tools and calendar management techniques to keep track of all your bookings and avoid double-bookings.

Blocking Out Dates on Airbnb

One common method to manage bookings on multiple platforms is to block out dates on your Airbnb calendar. This ensures that no one can book your property on Airbnb for dates you have already reserved elsewhere. This practice helps maintain transparency and fairness with your guests.

Instructions on how to block out dates on Airbnb include:

Log in to your Airbnb account. Navigate to the calendar section. Select the dates you need to block out. Use the block feature to prevent further bookings on those dates.

By blocking these dates, you can continue to accept bookings on other platforms while ensuring that your Airbnb calendar remains accurate and up-to-date.

Handling Different Types of Inquiries

When dealing with inquiries from different sources, it's important to have a clear policy. Here are some guidelines:

Inquiries on Airbnb

If you receive an inquiry via Airbnb, it's generally best to honor the platform's terms and conditions. When Airbnb brings you a reservation, they deserve to be compensated for their services. Furthermore, as Airbnb is a regulated platform, it may provide a level of protection against untrustworthy guests.

Inquiries Outside of Airbnb

When you receive a random inquiry outside of Airbnb, you have some flexibility. In some cases, you might want to refer the guest to your Airbnb listings. This is a good practice as it ensures that the guest follows the same terms and conditions as other guests on the platform.

In other cases, such as dealing with returning guests from specific locations (e.g., Argentina), you might make direct reservations. This can be beneficial for several reasons:

Saving on Exchange Rates: Guests in certain countries may face unfavorable exchange rates when using credit cards for local charges. By making direct reservations, you can help your guests save on costs. Reducing Taxes: Credit card transactions can result in hidden fees and taxes in some countries. Direct reservations can help avoid these additional charges. Building Trust: Returning guests may prefer the convenience and familiarity of dealing directly with you, especially if they have had positive experiences in the past.

Conclusion

Managing bookings on multiple platforms is a nuanced practice that requires careful planning and execution. By understanding the rules, using effective calendar management techniques, and handling different types of inquiries appropriately, you can maximize your potential bookings while maintaining a positive hosting experience for all your guests.

In summary, it is acceptable to accept bookings outside of Airbnb as long as you manage your calendar effectively, block out dates on Airbnb, and follow a clear policy for handling different types of inquiries. This approach will help you maintain a successful and transparent hosting business.