Instant Booking is one of Airbnb’s most popular features, created to improve the user experience of its platform. Instead of having to contact the host beforehand, users can filter property searches based on availability and location, and instantly make a booking once they see something that fits their needs with just a few mouse clicks.
How does it work?
The Instant Book feature works as follows:
1. A visitor searches for a suitable property on Airbnb.
2. He/she finds a rental that he/she wants to book.
3. They press the "Book Now" button.
4. After a few seconds, they will receive an email confirmation.
5. The reservation fee is paid. Transaction completed.
Instant Book is not only great for discounted properties and same-day bookings. Guests can filter to see only Instant Book properties and Airbnb will prioritise those Instant Book listings over standard listings in search results, so more bookings will naturally lead to more opportunities for your property to be reviewed, which in turn leads to increased credibility, and subsequently more bookings!. Really helpful if you're looking to gain Superhost status.
Allowing guests to book without reviewing them
A concern that is often raised by hosts is that of bookings taking place without the guest being reviewed, Airbnb have taken care of this so hosts can set certain conditions on the booking, such as that the guest must have been recommended by another host at least once and that the guest has provided a government ID.
It's wise to select both additional conditions. That way you can take advantage of the bump in the search results without having to open up your space to anyone who creates an account on Airbnb.
In addition, Airbnb allows hosts who use instant book to cancel a reservation penalty-free if the host feels uncomfortable with the guest or if the guest has broken a house rule.
Conclusion: Airbnb Instant Book or Not
The decision of having an instant book solely depends on the host and their preference. For hosts who like to attract last-minute bookers, live in the rental already or want to make more profit, the instant book feature is appealing.
Whereas hosts who like to screen their guests prior to their departure, have enough time to get the property ready, and want to avoid any risks, they may prefer to stick with the normal booking system.
Why not give it a try and see whether Airbnb Instant Book has a positive effect on your business. As time goes by, you can decide whether or not to continue to use it.
