Airbnb rentals have become a popular alternative to large-chain hotels and short-term apartments. Across the globe, there are thousands of home, condo, and apartment listings from the unique and quaint to the mainstream and trendy. Guests have something to choose from whether they are high spenders or budget-conscious travelers. But you don’t necessarily get the same type of assurances as you do with a brand-name hotel, so in many respects, whatever you choose is a bit of a gamble. Watch out for these six red flags to avoid major disappointment.
1. Smile: You’re on Camera
Airbnb hosts are allowed to use surveillance videos inside their property, including hidden cameras, as long as they disclose camera presence in their listing. While cameras are prohibited from bedrooms and bathrooms, vague language, such as “cameras in common areas” is often used. Sure, the cameras could be a legitimate way to ensure appropriate behavior or protection of possessions, but being secretly watched and recorded may not sit well with everyone.
2. Not Enough Photos
Photos speak volumes when travelers are choosing a place to stay. If a listing has very few of them, no matter how fair or impressive, think twice about staying there. Photos are your best bet for knowing what to expect with regard to cleanliness, amenities, space, and view. Sparse photos might mean the property has one or two nice rooms and the rest of the place leaves much to be desired.
3. Bad Reviews
It’s usually not difficult to find good reviews on Airbnb. Satisfied guests tend to thank their host with a pleasant account of their experience. If a listing has few or multiple bad reviews, then the host or the property probably doesn’t live up to its description. You can do better.
4. Secretive or Questionable Hosts
If the host provides very little information about themselves on their profile, be wary. If something feels scammy or sketchy, don’t take a chance. Also, if a host provides information about themselves that makes you feel uncomfortable or wonder about your safety, search for a different listing.
5. Requests for Advance Payment
Airbnb requires payment through their website and hosts receive your money through the company within 24 hours after your check-in. If a host requires you to pay in cash or through any other means than via the Airbnb site, there’s cause for concern. Best to rent elsewhere.
6. The Same Place Listed in Different Neighborhoods
Some hosts try to puff up the attractiveness of their listing by exaggerating how close it is to a popular landmark or tourist attraction—which might not be a dealbreaker. You can always research distance on your own with an online map. However, other hosts outright lie by listing their property in a number of different desirable neighborhoods, some which might not even border one another. Always check a map to be certain you know where the listed property is actually located. You should be able to see where a host has listed property on his profile. Also, you might notice the same property popping up online under different neighborhoods. If a host lies about location, what can you trust about the rest of his description?
As with any vacation or short-stay rental, always read the fine print, watch out for standard and extra fees, and be aware of cancellation policies. If you’re new to booking with Airbnb, here is a quick guide for newbies.