All Forum Posts by: Richard Ibeh

@Sara Abernethy I've used Kigo - it's more for enterprise managers but something to look at and compare with other software. There's also MyVR and most notable Guesty.

@Collin S. if you have multiple units there's properly, breezeway, turnoverbnb, and vrscheduler. For one unit a simple calendar sync or google sheets should suffice.

@Daniel D Ryan what Nancy said. Throw it up on Airbnb/VRBO first then worry about your own website. I'm a big believer in direct bookings but you'll need to utilize the existing marketplaces first to gain traction then invest in your own site. Most owners who own one house do not have their own website and make a great living..mainly only managers or those with multiple units set up a site.

@DeAndre Xavier Thomas I just want to point vacation rentals are not "Airbnbs". Airbnb is simply a marketplace to advertise vacation rentals. Better to learn the language now if you're getting the industry. There's a wealth of info all over this forum...I would spend a weekend and dive in.

@Brian Mitchell You can start reaching out to corporate companies within your vicinity and advertise to them. I've met a lady who has a master lease from a hospital where they pay her 10k/month (regardless if it's occupied) and they house patients there.

I would find out from your HOA first what restrictions you have in terms of renting. You might only be able to do once a year or three times a year.

@Rob Denn Hi Rob, what you mentioned is exactly the reason why Airbnb is being banned in multiple cities. Owners cramming guests inside of houses that should only sleep 3-4 but hosting 8-10. For a 2bed I would have one King/Queen in the master and a bunk bed in the guest room. In the living area, I would add a sleeper sofa or the murphy bed as you mentioned to maximize space. I would not go overboard trying to fit people into every inch as it'll lead to nothing but issues.

@Jason Johnson If I had to choose it would be the arcade machine -reason being it should work unless as you have power. All other items rely on extra pieces to operate which guests tend to lose. However, I'm with @Luke Carl where I would not provide anything extra. You won't receive any more reviews/income and it's just a cost to you'll incur to replace.
Guest value an exceptionally clean home and great customer service over any amenity.

And these were 6-12 month leases - not short term. 

@Jack Walker I've rented out rooms in my personal house before and it generated more money than the traditional lease. However, it will depend on where you are located. I don't expect someone in a low cost of living area to earn much more but if you're in cities like NY, San Fran, LA, Chicago, Miami, DC, Boston, Seattle etc it's a no-brainer. Make sure to advertise all utilities included as that's the major selling piece.

@Ryan Diogo you need permission from the landlord. If your agreement states no subleasing you can be under hot water. It's easier to approach the owner and let them know what you would like to do instead of going behind their back and getting into a legal mess.
Most people that successfully sublease to Airbnb offer the landlord above-average market rent and have a proposal. You're pretty much acting as tenant and property manager so need to show why they should allow you to operate a mini business from their home.