How to Rent Out Through Airbnb

Have you been dreaming of a renovation? Or maybe you just need a little extra cash to put toward your savings. Renting out your living space through Airbnb could be the way to go! Whether it's a full house or just a spare bedroom, Airbnb is a great way to make money on the side, without the hassle of having an extra job. Founded in 2008, Airbnb has revolutionized the way people travel and how they experience new places through modernized hospitality. Stay one night, or a month, the choice is up to the host and guest. As the host, you can also set your own rental price based on your city, neighborhood, and amenities. The money you make back from renting could help pay off the mortgage in your current house, or even help pay for a second home that you only use for part of the year. The possibilities are endless. Curious about how you can get started? Here are the facts.

Anyone Can Host

Have a spare room in your downtown apartment? A treehouse behind your childhood home? A 5-story mansion with a beach view? All are welcome with Airbnb. It's free to create a listing and easy to sign up. As a host, you will be expected to follow basic requirements that protect both you and your guests.

Free to List

As we mentioned above, it's free to list through Airbnb. However, once you receive a reservation, you will be charged a service fee. This will generally be about 3-5% of your listing price. Fundera also recommends that Airbnb hosts take into consideration the following factors that could impact how much you get paid:

• Weekly or monthly discounts
• Weekend or seasonal pricing
• Payment for any co-hosts you enlist
• VAT in certain non-U.S. locations

Set Your Own Price

One of the most beneficial factors of renting out your space through Airbnb is the ability to set your own price. The price you charge is completely up to you and can be changed based on demand, season, events in your area, or even additional fees you might foresee. Airbnb also has a "Smart Pricing" tool that let's hosts set their prices to automatically go up or down based on changes in demands for similar listings. For example, if the World Series ends up in your city, and other 2-bedroom private space listings are in high demand, the tool will help you adjust the price of your listing accordingly. Score!

Protection Against Damage

According to the Airbnb Host Guarantee, up to $1,000,000 is provided in protection to a host for damages to property in the rare event of damages that go above the security deposit. This program does not cover cash, collectibles, rare artwork, jewelry, pets, or personal liability.

Important Tax Information

As a host, you'll have to report your Airbnb income and expenses to the IRS if you rented the space for more than 14 days of the calendar year, similar to if you were to rent out an investment property on your own. If you earn more than $20,000 and had 200+ reservations over the calendar year, Airbnb will send you a Form 1099-K. Hosts who have had their taxes withheld from their payouts will receive a tax form from Airbnb to accurately report their income. Read more here.

Potential Earnings

Depending on your location and size of listing, Airbnb will give you an average monthly earning. These numbers will greatly vary by your circumstances. For example:

• Portland, OR | Entire Place | 4 guests: $1,872/month
• Las Vegas, NV | Private Room | 2 guests:$782/month
• Seattle, WA | Shared Room | 1 guest: $1,041/month
• Boise, ID | Entire Place | 6 guests:$2,003/month

Tips for Hosts

• Be flexible with check-in and check-out times
• Be honest about your space and amenities
• Provide information about the area for your guests
• Nix the expensive stuff--provide snacks and amenities but be realistic with your budget
• Use a keyless lock if you're not meeting with your guests at check-in
• Keep the space clean
• Leave extras of everything (towels, toilet paper, tissues, etc.)
• Provide the basics a hotel would like blankets and shampoo

Are you considering an investment property to rent out? Contact a Mortgage Advisor today for more information!