What to Do When a Guest Asks for a Discount on Airbnb

It starts off friendly. The guest loves your space, says it looks perfect, and then drops the line: “Would you be willing to offer a discount?” If you’ve hosted on Airbnb for any length of time, you’ve definitely gotten this message. And if you’re new—it’s coming. So how should you respond? Should you ever lower your price? And how do you protect your value without risking a booking or a bad review? Here’s exactly how to handle discount requests the smart way.

1. First—Don’t Take It Personally
Guests ask for discounts for all kinds of reasons: they’re on a budget, they’re used to negotiating, or they think “it doesn’t hurt to ask.” It’s not a sign that your price is wrong. Stay calm and remember: you’re running a business, not doing favors.

2. Evaluate the Request Based on the Booking Details
Not all discount requests are the same. Ask yourself:

• Is it a last-minute booking that fills an empty gap?
• Is the guest staying 7+ nights (or more)?
• Is it during a slow season or weeknight with low demand?
  If the booking helps your calendar and doesn’t cost you anything extra, it might be worth offering a small discount.

3. Don’t Discount Just to Avoid an Empty Night
Discounting can attract the wrong kind of guest—someone who expects more while paying less. These guests are often the ones who nitpick and leave 4-star reviews. Sometimes it's better to let the night go unbooked than to invite a high-maintenance guest into your space.

4. Create a Pre-Set Response You Can Use Anytime
This saves stress and keeps your tone consistent. Example:
“Hi [Name], thank you for your interest! We’ve priced the listing competitively for the area, and we typically don’t offer discounts. However, we do offer great value and include [Wi-Fi, free parking, full kitchen, etc.]. Let me know if you have any other questions—we’d love to host you!”
This sets a firm boundary without sounding cold or defensive.

5. Offer Value Instead of Price Cuts
Instead of lowering your nightly rate, consider offering:

• Free late checkout
• Early check-in
• A waived cleaning fee (if you clean the unit yourself)
• A bottle of wine or local snack as a gift
  These gestures add value without undermining your rate—and guests will still feel they’re getting a bonus.

6. If You Say Yes, Make It Conditional and Clear
If you do offer a discount, put it in writing through Airbnb’s “Send Special Offer” tool and clarify:
“We’re happy to offer a [X]% discount for your 5-night stay. Please note this rate is based on your original request and is non-refundable.”
This protects you and sets expectations early.

7. Know When to Say No
If the guest seems pushy, demanding, or tries to guilt you (“We’re students / just had a baby / can’t afford it”)—you’re well within your rights to say no. Remember: guests don’t get to negotiate at hotels or airlines. You are not obligated to offer a discount just because someone asks.

Protect Your Price, Protect Your Peace
Discount seekers aren’t the problem—it’s how you handle them that matters. A confident, professional response builds trust, preserves your value, and keeps your hosting stress-free. You worked hard to create a great space. Charge what it’s worth.

Need help managing bookings, guest messaging, or creating pricing strategies that attract quality guests without discounts? BookedHosts offers virtual co-hosting and full-service Airbnb support to help you earn more while doing less. Email info@bookedhosts.com or scroll down to submit your property today.

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