@Wendy-and-Frank0 Last August I posted a suggestion similar to yours in Host Voice. It is now archived and did not receive sufficient interest from the hosts to send it to Air BNB. Here is what I wrote:
I would like a simple mandatory on line training for all new hosts before their listing is activated. The training would require reading basic hosting processes, responding to "test questions" then becoming certified to activate. I am dismayed by the number of new host errors on the basics such as, cancellations, refunds, photos, licensing, payout, Instant Book, managing calendar, etc. Many hosts who may have even made it to Super Host also ask basic questions when something doesn't go as planned. I hope this idea is not seen as trying to keep new hosts out. I think new hosts good for all of us, especially if they are savvy about Air BNB.
I think several things are happening simultaneously. Air BNB has expanded expedentially world wide with new hosts and also with new guests. The cozy community of hosts and guests may be threatened. Add to that, the cities that either see short term rental as an income source or as a threat are reacting and specifying Air BNB no matter what platform is being used. Air BNB is reacting with marketing changes for growth but suffering from poor customer service and response time due to the increase.
The development of the city Home Sharing Host Clubs is a good response to help educate and support existing hosts only if Air BNB makes it a priority to support the clubs.
New hosts make mistakes which either penalize them or the guests. If the hosts at least had to ensure they understood the basics that would alleviate some mistakes and reduce the pressure on the Air BNB staff. Many hosts complain that the guests do not read their house rules and I find that many hosts do not read the basic hosting information provided by Air BNB.
Thank you for your thoughts about some type of new host requirements
