Cashing in on your unused spaces with private rental and Airbnb

Jamaicans are not short on creativity when it comes on to business ideas. Many already have what it takes to turn their ideas into making some ‘extra cash’ or even a living.

With local events such as Reggae Sumfest, Rebel Salute, Spring Break parties and others, there is a need for affordable accommodation. This, in addition to the many other attractions that Jamaica boasts, such as heritage sites, rivers and falls, beaches, and eateries, are just a few reasons visitors would want to find reasonably priced rooms with more money to spend on activities.

So, this is where the opportunity knocks for Jamaicans interested in providing a comfy home environment coupled with affordable pricing solutions. Homeowners who are willing to share their spaces or those who have unoccupied properties nearby the tourist attractions and activities  can capitalize on the niche market for short term private home rentals.

With the right ‘word of mouth advertising’ it could be a good and profitable deal, but there is also the other option of signing up with the super popular Air Bed and Breakfast (Airbnb)- an online marketplace and hospitality service which enables persons to lease or rent short-term lodging including vacation, homestays and apartment rentals.

Since the idea was thought of by two friends who had challenges and wanted to make a few bucks in 2007, fast track to today and the company is now worth over $25 billion!

Airbnb has over 3,000,000 lodging listings, in over 65,000 cities and 191 countries. With you the prospective host having the power to decide the cost!

If you choose this option, bear in mind that you may want to make the prospect of using your comfy space attractive. Work out the cost of your own expenses in providing breakfast, electricity and any other expenses that taking in short term boarders will entail and then use that as a guide to set your price.

Remember, there is no better advertisement than a very satisfied customer! And better yet, allow them to see that they have gotten a good deal and you could see your customer becoming your client!

 Signing up with Airbnb

Now that your interest has been piqued, registering with Airbnb is a simple process.

To be a part of the programme, all you have to do is log on to the company’s website and create an account with them and sign up as a host. From there on it’s a matter of following the various steps.

Go on! Help bring more visitors to Jamaica!