Problem Statement:
- Direct bookings can be flagged for manual review (e.g., when guests use keywords like "party" in their message)
- Unlike Airbnb and VRBO bookings where you can waive guest verification and rental agreements, direct bookings don't offer this option
- This means you can't self-approve bookings from people you know (like family) who triggered verification unintentionally
Current Workaround:
- You can waive guest verification and rental agreements for Airbnb and VRBO bookings
- For direct bookings, you're stuck waiting for Hospitable's support team to complete manual review
Impact:
- Delays in approving bookings, especially urgent ones (like tonight's reservation)
- No control over the verification process for direct bookings
- Inconsistent experience between OTA and direct booking channels
Proposed Solution:
- Add the ability to waive guest verification for direct bookings, similar to the existing option for Airbnb and VRBO
- Allow hosts to self-approve direct bookings without waiting for manual review
Unlock:
- Full control over verification for all booking channels
- Ability to quickly approve bookings from trusted guests (family, friends)
- Consistent experience across OTA and direct bookings