This statement may be a little controversial but here it goes:
REVIEWS ARE NOT THE BEST WAY TO SEE IF A GUEST WILL BE A GOOD GUEST
After a comprehensive data analysis of incents over ~627 trips in one building, guest characteristics were analyzed. There were 20 incidents over the course of this time and almost 50% were guests with 5 stars or above! That is nuts.
From this data, the #1 way to tell if a guest will be a good guest is last minute bookings, specifically 1 or less days in advance. A lot of these bookings were instant-booked with guests having 1+ good reviews which means nothing.
What does this mean?
It means that you NEED to REMOVE instant booking for last minute bookings.
Go to your listing --> Pricing and Availibility --> Advance Notice --> Select at least 2 days, recommended 3 or 7. Check-off For Instant Book hosts: Allow guests to send reservation requests without advance notice.
You are not turning away business because any guest can request to book!!
Now, if someone tries to book within the advance notice time, what do you do?
CHARGE A DEPOSIT
You may charge a deposit through the resolution centre BEFORE your guest stays. This acts as both a deterrent and easy recourse if your guest breaks the rules. Here is what I write if someone is unable to instant book:
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Due to ongoing Airbnb issues, I require a security deposit before your stay. The amount of the deposit is $250.
**How it Works**
After I accept your reservation I will request $250 through the resolution center. You just go to airbnb.ca/resolutions and accept/pay before check-in. I will pay it back at latest 5pm on checkout day.
**Deposit Terms**
The deposit can be withheld for the following reasons:
1) Any condo board fine that the guest has incurred due to violating condo rules such as illegal activities or breaking house rules.
2) Any fine specified in the house rules for breaking house rules.
3) Extra cleaning at a rate of $30/hr above standard cleaning time. The standard cleaning time for a 1bed/1bath is 2.5 hours. Add 30min for extra bedroom and 30min of every bathroom above that.
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