Air BNB – Pros and Cons

Did you know that we currently own a few AirBNB (Vacation Rental) Properties here in Lethbridge?  Investing in an Airbnb or VRBO homes can be a lucrative opportunity for those looking to grow their real estate portfolio and earn passive income. However, like any investment, there are pros and cons to consider before making any financial decisions. Below, we will dive into the pros and cons of investing in an Airbnb or VRBO homes, helping you to make an informed decision about whether this type of investment is right for you.

Pros:

1. High Demand: One of the biggest pros of investing in an Airbnb or VRBO home is the high demand for this type of accommodation. The sharing economy has made it easier than ever for people to travel and experience new places, and many are looking for unique and affordable options. Airbnb and VRBO have responded to this demand by offering platforms that connect travelers with owners of vacation homes, providing a one-stop-shop for all their travel needs. As a result, the demand for Airbnb and VRBO homes has increased, and there are now millions of listings available in hundreds of countries all over the world.
2. Flexible Revenue: Another pro of investing in a Vacation Rental home is the flexibility that it provides. Unlike traditional long-term rentals,  Vacation Rental homes can be rented out for short-term stays, allowing owners to generate income on a more flexible basis. This means that owners can choose to rent out their homes for a few days at a time or for longer periods, depending on their needs and preferences. Additionally, because Airbnb and VRBO homes can be rented out for short-term stays, owners can take advantage of peak travel periods and generate higher revenue during these times.
3. Potential for High Returns: Investing in a Vacation Rental home can also offer the potential for high returns. Vacation rentals typically command higher nightly rates than traditional long-term rentals, and as a result, owners can earn more money from their investments. Additionally, because Airbnb and VRBO homes are often located in popular tourist destinations, owners can take advantage of the high demand for these properties and generate even higher returns. With the right property and proper management, owners can earn a substantial amount of passive income from their investments.
4. Location Independence: Another pro of investing is the location independence that it provides. With Airbnb and VRBO, owners can benefit from their investments regardless of where they are located. This means that owners can earn passive income from their homes even if they are not physically present. (Like one time I said to my wife that we should buy a condo in Hawaii, and rent it out, and she said no.) This is a great opportunity for owners who live in one place but want to invest in a property in a different location. Additionally, owning an Airbnb or VRBO home in a popular tourist destination can provide owners with a convenient and affordable place to stay whenever they travel. (Like if you wanted to travel to Hawaii)
5. Tax Benefits: Owning an investment property can also offer various tax benefits, including the ability to deduct expenses related to maintaining and operating the property. These expenses can include mortgage interest, insurance, and property management fees. Additionally, owners can also claim depreciation on their investments, which can reduce their taxable income and increase their overall returns. By taking advantage of these tax benefits, owners can maximize the return on their investment.

Cons:

1. Competition: One of the biggest cons of investing in an Airbnb is the competition. With millions of listings available, it can be challenging to stand out from the crowd and attract travelers to your property. Additionally, Airbnb and VRBO charge fees for listing your property and for each booking, which can reduce your profits. To be successful, owners must make sure their property is well-maintained, stylish, and competitively priced to attract travelers. Justin also uses excellent photography for his Airbnb, which helps it to stand out. 

2. Legal and Regulatory Restrictions: One of the biggest cons of investing in an Airbnb or VRBO home is the legal and regulatory restrictions that may apply. Depending on where you are located, there may be local regulations that limit or even prohibit the use of short-term rentals. This can include restrictions on the number of nights that a property can be rented out, restrictions on the types of properties that can be used for short-term rentals, and zoning regulations. Owners must be aware of the local regulations and make sure that their properties are in compliance.
3. High Operating Costs: Another con of investing in an Airbnb home is the high operating costs that can be involved. These costs can include cleaning fees, property management fees, and repairs and maintenance. Additionally, because Airbnb and VRBO homes are often rented out on a short-term basis, owners must make sure their properties are always in top condition and ready for the next guests. This can be time-consuming and expensive, especially if repairs are needed.
4. Insurance Requirements: Investing in an Airbnb or VRBO home also requires owners to obtain adequate insurance coverage. This can include liability insurance, property insurance, and travel insurance. Obtaining the right coverage can be difficult and expensive, especially if you are located in a high-risk area. Additionally, some insurance companies may not provide coverage for Airbnb and VRBO properties, making it even more challenging to find adequate insurance.  Did you know that AirBNB and VRBO give you $1,000,000 of extra insurance for every stay?
5. Management Responsibilities: Another con of investing in an Airbnb or VRBO home is the management responsibilities that come with owning an investment property. Owners must make sure that their properties are well-maintained, clean, and ready for guests. They must also deal with guest inquiries, bookings, and check-ins and check-outs. Additionally, owners must be available to respond to emergencies and resolve any issues that may arise. This can be time-consuming and stressful, especially if owners have other commitments.
6. Dependence on Tourist Season: Investing in an Vacation Rental home can also be dependent on the tourist season in the area. If the property is located in a popular tourist destination, owners can benefit from high demand and high returns during peak travel periods. However, during the off-season, demand for Airbnb and VRBO homes can be low, and owners may struggle to generate enough income to cover their costs. Additionally, owners must be prepared for fluctuations in demand, and be ready to adjust their pricing accordingly. Street Wheelers is always a high-demand time in Lethbridge. 

There are many good reasons, and some not-so-good reasons to invest in any real estate venture.  Short-term rentals could be right up your alley, or you may be leaning towards a regular revenue property. If you’d like more information on this, please feel free to contact us, and we can give you some more personalized advice. Justin owns and operates 2 Air BnBs in Lethbridge, and enjoys a very low vacancy rate throughout the year.