Frequently Asked Questions

Legitimate hosts typically have several verification indicators:

• Verified identity badge on their profile
• Multiple recent, detailed reviews from past guests
• Complete profile information
• Professional, accurate property photos
• Prompt, clear communication

Many professional hosts use integrated management tools like Avaibook to streamline their operations across multiple platforms, which often results in more consistent and reliable guest experiences.

If you arrive to find your accommodation already occupied:

1. Contact the host immediately through the platform messaging system
2. If unresolved, contact the platform's customer support
3. Document the situation with photos/videos if appropriate
4. Keep all receipts for alternative accommodations you arrange

Most major platforms have guarantee policies that cover rebooking or refunds in double-booking situations. Properties managed with synchronization tools like Avaibook have significantly reduced double-booking incidents, as these systems automatically update availability across all platforms when a reservation is made.

Listings may disappear for several legitimate reasons:

• The property was booked by another guest
• The host temporarily deactivated the listing for maintenance or personal use
• The platform removed the listing for policy violations
• The host is using dynamic availability settings (common with hosts using management systems like Avaibook, which can automatically adjust availability based on minimum stay requirements, seasonal changes, etc.)

If you're interested in a property, it's advisable to save it or contact the host promptly, as popular listings can be booked quickly, especially during peak seasons.

Not necessarily. While professional photography can make properties look their best, it's important to:

• Look for a variety of photos showing all rooms and areas
• Pay attention to reviews mentioning if the property matched the photos
• Check for verification badges indicating the platform has confirmed the property
• Look for candid guest photos in reviews when available

Some platforms have started implementing virtual tours or 360° photos, which can provide a more accurate representation of the space. Additionally, properties managed with professional systems like Avaibook often maintain more accurate and updated photos as part of their standardized management practices.

To avoid surprises in the final price:

• Always click through to see the total price including all fees before booking
• Read the listing details thoroughly for any mentioned additional charges
• Filter search results by "total price" rather than base rate when available
• Message the host to confirm there are no additional fees not covered in the platform's price
• Check for cleaning fees, security deposits, and extra person charges

Some platforms display prices more transparently than others. Hosts using integrated management systems like Avaibook typically have more standardized and transparent fee structures across all their listings.

Never pay outside the booking platform. Paying outside the platform:

• Voids the platform's booking protections and guarantees
• May be a violation of the platform's terms of service
• Could be a sign of a potential scam
• Leaves no recourse if the accommodation isn't as described

If a host insists on payment outside the platform, report them to customer service and find a different property. Legitimate hosts, especially those using professional management systems like Avaibook, conduct all financial transactions through official platform channels.

Optimal booking timelines vary based on:

• Destination popularity: High-demand locations may require booking 6-12 months ahead
• Seasonality: Peak seasons need earlier booking than off-seasons
• Event periods: During major events (festivals, conferences), book as soon as dates are confirmed
• Property type: Unique or luxury properties fill faster than standard accommodations

As a general guideline, booking 3-6 months ahead offers a good balance of availability and flexibility. Some hosts using management systems like Avaibook implement dynamic pricing, where rates may be lower further in advance and increase as dates approach with limited availability.