Would you risk booking off-Airbnb for a cheaper deal?
Posted by ColdStage9200@reddit | budapest | View on Reddit | 6 comments
So I found this Airbnb host in Budapest — he’s been hosting for 12 years, has 3 listings, 1,000+ reviews, and a 4.42 rating. I messaged him on Airbnb, and then he gave me his WhatsApp. He offered me a cheaper deal if we book directly (about €200 less than Airbnb’s price).
The offer: • 1 month stay • €250 deposit by Sept 10 • Rest (€610) on the second day after we arrive • Apartment looks super nice, good neighborhood • He even offered to FaceTime me to show the place
The only thing that’s making me pause: the exact apartment he sent pics of isn’t listed on his Airbnb profile — just 3 other ones.
Is that a normal thing or kinda sketchy? Would you take the cheaper deal or just stick with Airbnb for the protection?
ElHopanesRomtic713@reddit
In Hungary it is absolutely normal doing business over the counter but that doesn’t mean it isn’t illegal or risky.
Airbnb became illegal in some areas or specific buildings so I think that’s the reason, he has an apartment in a building where it is not allowed anymore.
tothgera@reddit
you mean, under the table :)
Noamrachel@reddit
I’ve done this a few times in outside of Hungary and it’s always been fine for me, it was exactly how you describe and facetime is a good idea. BUT in most cases I could see the reviews of the apartment in question, as it was listed on Airbnb.
One thing I’m not clear on - if you say no, that you’d rather book on Airbnb and pay the added €200, would you be booking a different apartment? Since the one in question isn’t listed?
CreepToesCrazy@reddit
it's probably legit and he has multiple people. the place will probably be worse than the listing is about it. dont pay in advance tho. it's on him now
Absurd_Cucumber@reddit
For the first time I never book off airbnb. If stayed there before and met the host, the second time I would consider it.
Kobakocka@reddit
I would still book with AirBnb, you got covered that way. If i book outside of AirBnb, i always book at a hotel, otherwise anything can happen.
I would only book this way, if i already met the host (eg. last year i booked their airbnb room) and seems honest.