INVESTING
Airbnb arbitrage has become an increasingly popular side hustle for Gen Z, but what sets this generation apart is their innovative use of social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram to fuel their success.
Rather than simply renting properties and turning them into short-term rentals, Gen Z entrepreneurs are leveraging their online presence to build brands, share their stories, and establish themselves as thought leaders in the Airbnb and real estate space.
• Social Media as a Business Tool: Gen Z entrepreneurs leverage Tik- Tok and Instagram to build personal brands, share Airbnb tips, and drive business growth.
• Influencer-Entrepreneurship in Real Estate: Young investors combine Airbnb arbitrage with content creation, monetizing their success through courses, eBooks, and mentorship programs.
• Impact on Housing Markets: Critics warn Airbnb arbitrage drives up rental prices and contributes to housing shortages, prompting calls for stricter regulations in some cities.
At the heart of this phenomenon is the rise of‘ influencer-entrepreneurship.’ For these young investors, the line between running a business and being a social media personality is becoming increasingly blurred. They not only generate income from their Airbnb listings but also from the content they create about their experiences.
Through TikTok videos and Instagram reels, they share tips on how to start Airbnb arbitrage, handle tenant communications, and maximize profits— all while showcasing a lifestyle that appeals to followers looking for financial freedom and flexibility. This builds a community around their brand, helping them grow both their business and social media influence simultaneously
A key factor driving this trend is the visual and narrative appeal of Airbnb arbitrage. The behind-the-scenes content that these young entrepreneurs share— ranging from setting up stylish rental properties to showcasing the passive income they generate— resonates with a broad audience. Many viewers, inspired by the success stories and the“ get rich with Airbnb” messaging, become eager to follow the same path. For Gen Z, it’ s not just about making money through real estate; it’ s about‘ branding themselves as successful entrepreneurs’.
These influencers also monetise their growing audience by offering online courses, eBooks, and mentorship programs on how to replicate their
38 REI MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024 / JANUARY 2025