The Challenge

The Short Term Rental properties have boomed over the past decade fueled by cheap interest rates. Rising interest rates has increased the debt servicing burden and associated risk. The high fees charged (15-20%) by booking platforms like Airbnb fees amplifies the issue by impacting margins. Cashflow is also impacted by delayed payments from these platforms.

This over aching financial consideration along with fact that the booking platforms are biased to their customers against the hosts has led many hosts to venture into direct bookings.

Opinions From Hosts From Facebook Groups

"...Considering now if it makes sense to buy at current interest rates or crowdfund for a cash offer." ~ Adam Kuhn

"We have other options. If AirBNB makes my life worse, I will get another source. There is booking.com, VRBO, word of mouth. I can spend some money to make my properties be viewed! The hosts are running away because the commissions is too high! Watch out!" ~ Adriana Mrsc