Like anything, there are pros and cons to the decision to listing your primary residence or investment property as an AirBNB.
The answer might be different for people with different properties, locations, and willingness to run their property like a business.
From my research, here are the resounding points that should be considered before you make a decision.
| Pro | Con |
|---|---|
| Earn extra income by renting your property. | Income is taxable and may incur local occupancy taxes. |
| Set your own rates, availability, and stay lengths. | Hosting demands time — cleaning, communication, and maintenance. |
| Adjust nightly rates dynamically for higher profit. | Earnings fluctuate due to seasonal demand or low occupancy. |
| Block off dates for personal use. | Frequent guests can create tension with neighbors or HOAs. |
| Choose who stays and maintain control of your property. | Guests may cause property damage or disturbances. |
| Access Airbnb’s built-in tools like reviews and insurance. | You’re responsible for guest safety and potential liability issues. |
| Turn hosting into a full-time or flexible income stream. | Changing regulations can reduce profitability or legality. |
| Unbooked periods don’t cause loss if renting your primary home. | Still need to secure personal items and maintain privacy. |
| Offset mortgage or living expenses with Airbnb income. | Initial furnishing and preparation costs can be high. |
| Flexible management — self-manage or hire a co-host. | Ongoing costs like cleaning, insurance, and supplies cut profits. |
| Leverage Airbnb’s global reach to attract bookings. | Success depends on maintaining strong reviews and service. |
| Positive reviews boost visibility and revenue. | Requires constant effort to meet guest expectations. |
| Control over your space — decorate and use as you like. | May need to design for travelers rather than personal style. |
In sum, it seems AirBNB can be a wonderful opportunity to leverage your property for passive income under the right circumstances.
On the other hand, owners should weigh the considerations and ensure that it's the right move for them before jumping in.
If you'd like to have a more in-depth conversation depending on your specific property, contact us for a consultation call!
