How Airbnb Changed My Life

After a full renovation on my home, I needed ways to boost my income. I wanted to avoid selling the home so soon after updating.

My 9 to 5 state government job as a secretary was not sufficient. The government was under a freeze so a promotion was not in sight. A second job was out of the question.

The upstairs had two unused bedrooms and a bathroom, updated and furnished. The original plan was for my family visiting, but that would only be a couple times a year.

I thought about renting the rooms. My first thought was Craigslist. I was reluctant because of the horror stories about Craigslist.

I was also not sure about renting rooms because of lack of privacy or being robbed, worse of all the tenant harming or killing me.

The room renting would be the best way. I had a home security system installed. That would be worth the investment for going the room rental route.

I Google-searched room rentals to find alternatives to Craigslist. I came across this site called Airbnb. I never heard of it. After reading about it I saw, to some extent, people book a room in your home just like a hotel. Guests can stay for a few days or few weeks, and not get locked in a lease agreement. That was something new to me. I never imagined one can just book a stay to a stranger’s home.

I thought it was worth a shot. It seemed like operating a business, which is something I have been dreaming about.

I took photos of my home and created the listing. Because my listing was new, I didn’t expect immediate bookings. I saw in a couple days my listing got some views.

I looked at other listings nearby and see how they operate. Providing a basic breakfast free of charge was a way people got bookings and good reviews.

I received an inquiry from a young woman who needed a place to stay for three days. After answering her questions, she booked her stay in my home. I looked forward to hosting my first guest.

Guest’s questions also taught me how to improve my accomodation and listing description.

My first guest arrived. I welcomed her with a smile and showed her the property.

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