11 Telling Signs for a Guest that says the Airbnb is a Red Flag

Vacations and Airbnb’s have become synonymous. Booking an Airbnb can be an exciting way to experience a new place, but it’s essential to prioritize safety. Watch out for the red flags while booking your next Airbnb. 

Incomplete or Vague Listing Information

A listing with minimal details about the property, host, or neighborhood can be a cause for concern. Trustworthy hosts usually provide comprehensive information. By comprehensive information, I mean that the property will have 360-degree photos, there will be information about the locality and the availability of basic utilities. 

Unverified Host Profile

Ensure the host has a verified profile with reviews and photos. A lack of verification could indicate a fraudulent account. Reviews can be ignored if the property listing is brand new but a profile owner without a personal photo and verification is a potential red flag. 

Excessive Booking Flexibility

Be wary of listings that offer unusually flexible booking terms, especially with instant book options. Legitimate hosts often require pre-approval. Flexible booking terms can be due to non-seasonal visits, which is fine. Otherwise, trust hosts that follow a pre-approval process. Automated bookings often mean the hosts will be unavailable. 

Unreasonable Price

If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Extremely low rates compared to similar listings in the area might indicate a scam or unsafe conditions. A family friend went for such a listing and found that the Airbnb was located in a building site with construction noise until late evening. There were zero refunds. 

Poor Quality Photos

Low-quality or insufficient photos can hide issues with the property. Be suspicious if the property listing does not have clear pictures of the space. You can reach out to the property owner and ask for photos. If the owner is still unwilling to share, it is definitely a red flag. Also, if photos are shared on DM, make sure they match the interiors of the listed photos. 

Lack of Reviews

A listing with no or very few reviews could be a red flag. Guest reviews provide valuable insights into the property and host. It is not a sure shot red flag because the property could be newly listed. Check the listing properly to identify if the property listing is a new one or not. 

Unusual Communication

Be cautious if the communication of the host is evasive, urgent, or pressuring you to book quickly. Genuine hosts are usually patient and responsive. Airbnb usually shows the response time of the listing owners. A response time of over 80% is a good sign meaning that the owner takes the business seriously. 

Request for Personal Information

Legitimate hosts will never ask for personal information like your social security number or bank account details before booking. If the Airbnb host asks for personal information that is not required to process the booking, report it to Airbnb immediately. Do not share any personal identity documents via messages. 

Suspicious Location

Research the neighborhood before booking. Areas with high crime rates or isolated locations can pose safety risks. Also, these areas are often available at lesser costs because of the high crime risks. Do some research of the area you want to stay and get an idea of the costs. If hotels are selling at $250 on an average and the Airbnb one costs $20, there is something fishy! 

Unclear Cancellation Policy

A strict or non-refundable cancellation policy could indicate potential issues with the property or host. Prefer those hosts that follow the refund policy of the host platform, Airbnb. Usually, hosts deduct 1-day booking costs if there is a last minute cancellation. However, if the listing has a zero amount refund policy, think twice before booking that property. 

Gut Feeling

Trust your instincts. If something feels off about the listing or the host, it is probably best to look elsewhere.