TECHNOLOGY
Airbnb 2.0
Home share giant expands reach
BY MONIQUE DU TOIT
A
decade ago, Airbnb began its fast-paced journey of revolutionising the hospitality industry. In recent years, the news has been filled with complaints about the tech giant’ s effects on real estate availability and affordability. But many property owners have also been able to launch successful businesses through the platform. In fact, since its inception, hosts have earned more than $ 41bn worldwide. Amid mounting pressure to apply stricter legislation to the home share industry, Airbnb recently unveiled what it’ s calling“ A Roadmap to Bring Magical Travel to Everyone.”
At its event, presented on 22 February, Airbnb laid out its plan for the next 10 years. Airbnb co-founder, CEO, and Head of Community, Brian Chesky explains that they“ want to go further by supporting and expanding our community so that in 10 years time, more than 1 billion people per year will experience the benefits of magical travel on Airbnb.” At the moment, the platform is home to 4.5million places to stay in 81,000 cities. Airbnb’ s strategy leading to 2028 consists of four key changes: 1. Four new property types At the moment, the platform allows for three property types: Shared Space, Private Room, and Entire Home. Now, hosts will be able to add Vacation Home, Unique Space, B & B, and Boutique. The company explains that this“ will give greater choice of accommodation options to guests, provide greater transparency over the types of accommodation available, and help hosts better showcase what’ s unique about them to better match with guests’ preferences.”
2. Airbnb Collections The company is launching the option for travellers to choose a home based on their specific situation-“ perfect homes for every occasion.” Now, the platform will feature Airbnb for Family and Airbnb for Work. Upcoming collections will include Social stays, Weddings, Honeymoons, Group getaways, and Dinner collections.
3. New Tiers Homes that have been personally verified will be classified as Airbnb Plus. According to the company, the goal is to“ recognise hosts who go above and beyond to provide outstanding hospitality.” These homes will have been inspected and verified in person against a 100 + point checklist. Aspects like cleanliness and design will feature prominently. For Airbnb Plus hosts, some of the advantages include top placement, expert photography, and premium support. Daily rates for these homes will also be higher.
4. Beyond Airbnb will be launching a new type of travel: Beyond by Airbnb. This will offer users custom-designed trips including homes, customer experiences, and top hospitality.
CUSTOM-MADE LISTINGS
Airbnb is working with Miami-based Newgard Development Group to develop the Niido Powered by Airbnb complexes.
These new apartment complexes will be designed with home sharing in mind. Residents will be able to share their units for up to 180 days per year. There will also be an app made available that seamlessly integrates with Airbnb- simplifying checking in and assisting guests. This app will also enable tenants to trigger services provided by a MasterHost- a dedicated person on-site in charge of hospitality, cleaning, and anything else guests might need
Airbnb and Niido will work together to design the units and buildings. Features will include keyless entry and shared common spaces. Niido will retain full ownership of the buildings, with tenants being able to sign annual leases.
Tenants who choose to share their homes will be part of the platforms Friendly Buildings Programme, in which revenues are shared between hosts and landlords.
The first such complex will consist of 324 units and will be launched in Florida. The company explains that this model presents an opportunity for tenants who spend a disproportionate amount of their monthly salary on rent, while offering guests a unique and superior experience.
20 MARCH 2018 SA Real Estate Investor Magazine