What Is Airbnb?

Airbnb has changed how people travel and find accommodation. It connects travellers with homeowners who rent out rooms, apartments, or entire homes. Instead of staying in hotels, guests can book unique spaces worldwide. If you’re new to the platform, check out this beginner’s guide to Airbnb to understand the basics of hosting.

The platform has grown fast. What started as a small idea is now a global business with millions of listings. But what makes Airbnb special? Why do so many people choose it? And what does the future hold for this type of accommodation?

Let’s break it down.

How Airbnb Works

Airbnb is an online marketplace that lets people list, find, and book places to stay. It works through a website and mobile app, making it easy for hosts and guests to connect.

Here’s how it works:

1. Hosts list their property – Homeowners or renters create a listing with photos, descriptions, and pricing. They decide the rules and availability.
2. Guests search and book – Travellers browse listings based on location, price, and features. They can read reviews before booking.
3. Payments go through Airbnb – The platform handles payments securely. Guests pay in advance, and hosts receive their money after check-in.
4. Both parties leave reviews – After a stay, hosts and guests rate each other. This builds trust in the community.

Airbnb offers different types of stays:

• Entire home – A private space with no shared areas.
• Private room – A bedroom in a shared home, usually with access to common areas.
• Shared room – A space shared with others, like a dormitory-style setup.

This flexibility makes Airbnb popular among budget travellers, families, and long-term guests.

Airbnb’s growth in Australia shows how the platform has become a preferred choice for both travellers and property owners.

Why Airbnb Became Popular

Several factors helped Airbnb grow into a global success.

• Affordability – Many Airbnb listings are cheaper than hotels, especially for extended stays. Travellers can find budget-friendly options that fit their needs, whether it’s a private room or an entire home. For families and groups, splitting the cost of a rental can make accommodation much more affordable than booking multiple hotel rooms.
• Variety – Unlike hotels, Airbnb offers a wide range of properties. Guests can stay in modern apartments, countryside cottages, tiny homes, or even treehouses. This flexibility appeals to travellers looking for unique experiences rather than standard hotel rooms.
• Local experiences – Staying in a residential home allows guests to experience a destination like a local. Many Airbnb hosts provide personal recommendations for restaurants, attractions, and hidden gems, creating a more immersive travel experience.
• Ease of use – The Airbnb platform makes booking simple. Guests can filter searches based on price, amenities, and location. Secure payments, instant booking options, and detailed reviews help travellers make informed choices.

One example of Airbnb’s impact is its rise in cities with expensive hotels. Sydney, for instance, sees high demand for accommodation. Tourists often prefer Airbnb for better value, especially during peak seasons.

Airbnb also appeals to digital nomads and remote workers. With long-term booking options, many travellers use Airbnb as a home base while working from different locations. They benefit from home-like amenities, such as full kitchens and workspaces, that hotels don’t always offer.

However, despite its popularity, some users face common Airbnb challenges, such as last-minute cancellations, hidden fees, and inconsistent experiences. While most stays go smoothly, it’s important for guests to read reviews and communicate with hosts to ensure a great experience.

The Financial Benefits of Hosting on Airbnb

Hosting on Airbnb can be a great way to earn extra income. Many property owners use it to cover mortgage costs, pay off debts, or build long-term wealth. Some even turn it into a full-time business by managing multiple properties. With the growing popularity of short-term rentals, many hosts see strong returns compared to traditional long-term leases.

Here’s why hosting can be profitable:

• Higher earnings – Short-term rentals often generate more income than long-term leases. Since Airbnb allows hosts to charge per night, they can maximise revenue, especially during peak seasons or major local events.
• Flexibility – Unlike long-term rentals, Airbnb lets hosts decide when to list their property. They can block out dates for personal use or only rent out their space when they need extra income.
• Control over pricing – Airbnb allows hosts to adjust pricing based on demand. Dynamic pricing tools help set competitive rates that attract guests while maximising earnings.

For example, in tourist-heavy areas like the Gold Coast, some hosts make thousands of dollars a month. Events like music festivals, sporting events, and school holidays drive demand, allowing hosts to charge higher rates.

However, hosting isn’t passive income. It requires effort to maintain the property, manage bookings, and communicate with guests. Cleaning, restocking essentials, and handling unexpected issues can be time-consuming. Many hosts use airbnb management services to handle these tasks, ensuring a seamless experience for both guests and property owners.

Common Challenges of Using Airbnb

Despite its benefits, Airbnb isn’t perfect. Both guests and hosts face challenges that can impact their experience. While the platform offers flexibility and affordability, it also comes with risks that aren’t as common in traditional hotels or long-term rentals.

For guests:

• Cancellations – Some hosts cancel bookings at the last minute, leaving travellers scrambling for alternatives. While Airbnb provides rebooking options and refunds, finding a replacement can be stressful, especially during peak seasons when accommodation is limited.
• Hidden fees – The price shown on the listing isn’t always the final cost. Cleaning fees, service charges, and local taxes can significantly increase the total price. Some guests only realise this after reaching the checkout page.
• Inconsistent quality – Unlike hotels, Airbnb listings vary in cleanliness, maintenance, and amenities. While reviews help gauge reliability, there’s always a risk that a property won’t meet expectations.

For hosts:

• Property damage – Some guests may damage furniture, appliances, or even walls. While Airbnb offers a Host Guarantee, it doesn’t cover everything, and hosts often need additional insurance.
• Difficult guests – Some travellers disregard house rules, disturb neighbours, or cause excessive wear and tear. Managing these situations can be stressful and time-consuming.
• Local regulations – Many cities have introduced restrictions on short-term rentals. Some require permits, limit the number of rental days per year, or impose additional taxes. Failing to comply can result in fines or listing removal.

To avoid problems, many hosts carefully screen guests, set clear house rules, and invest in insurance. Guests can also reduce risks by reading reviews, checking cancellation policies, and communicating with hosts before booking. For a deeper look at common issues, check out our guide on common Airbnb challenges.

FAQs

1) Is Airbnb cheaper than hotels?
It depends on the location, season, and type of accommodation. In many cases, Airbnb is more affordable, especially for longer stays or larger groups. Hotels often have fixed rates, while Airbnb hosts can adjust prices based on demand. However, hidden fees like cleaning costs and service charges can make some listings as expensive as hotels.

For budget-conscious travellers, comparing options is essential. Some Airbnb listings include kitchens, allowing guests to save money by cooking meals. In contrast, hotels provide amenities like housekeeping and breakfast, which may justify the cost for some travellers.

During peak seasons, Airbnb prices can rise due to high demand. It’s always a good idea to book early or check for discounts. Travellers looking for the best value should also read reviews to ensure they get quality accommodation.

2) What happens if a guest damages my property?
Airbnb provides a Host Guarantee, which offers some protection for property damage. However, this guarantee has limitations and doesn’t cover all types of damage. For example, it may not reimburse for normal wear and tear, cash losses, or some high-value items. Because of this, many hosts take additional precautions, such as requiring security deposits or purchasing private insurance specifically designed for short-term rentals.

To reduce risks, hosts should document their property’s condition before and after each stay. Taking detailed photos and keeping an inventory of valuable items can help in case of a dispute. Setting clear house rules and screening guests based on past reviews can also help prevent issues.

If damage occurs, the host can file a claim through Airbnb’s Resolution Centre. Providing strong evidence, such as photos, receipts, and repair estimates, increases the chances of a successful claim. Many experienced hosts also use rental agreements to further protect their property and set expectations for guests.

3) Can you make a full-time income from Airbnb?
Yes, some hosts earn enough to turn Airbnb into a full-time business. However, success depends on several factors, including location, property type, and pricing strategy. Properties in high-demand areas—such as major cities, beach destinations, or popular tourist spots—tend to achieve strong occupancy rates, allowing hosts to generate consistent income.

Many successful hosts use professional airbnb management services to handle guest communication, cleaning, and pricing optimisation. This helps streamline operations and maximise earnings while reducing the host’s workload.

To succeed, hosts must treat Airbnb like a business. This means investing in high-quality furniture, ensuring the property is well-maintained, and offering a seamless guest experience. Successful hosts also optimise their listings, respond to guests quickly, and adjust prices based on demand. Those who provide great customer service and maintain positive reviews often see higher profits, repeat bookings, and long-term success in short-term rentals.

4) Is Airbnb legal in all cities?
No, short-term rental laws vary depending on the city and country. Some locations allow Airbnb rentals with few restrictions, while others have strict regulations to control the impact on housing markets. In certain areas, hosts can only rent out their property for a limited number of nights per year or must obtain permits and licenses before listing. Some cities also require hosts to pay special taxes or collect tourism levies from guests.

Before listing a property, hosts should research local laws to avoid legal issues. Many councils have strict regulations to maintain neighbourhood stability and prevent housing shortages. For example, Sydney and Melbourne have introduced rules that limit short-term rentals in certain zones. Non-compliance can result in fines, penalties, or listing removal from Airbnb.

To stay compliant, hosts should regularly check local policies and consider using professional property management services that handle legal requirements and ensure a smooth hosting experience.

5) What are some alternatives to Airbnb?
While Airbnb is one of the most popular short-term rental platforms, several alternatives offer different benefits depending on a traveller’s needs.

• Vrbo – Specialises in whole-home rentals, making it a great option for families and groups who want privacy and extra space. Unlike Airbnb, Vrbo does not offer shared spaces, focusing only on full-property rentals.
• Booking.com – Originally a hotel booking platform, Booking.com now includes short-term rentals, vacation homes, and apartments. It’s ideal for travellers who want a mix of traditional hotels and alternative stays in one place.
• Homestay – Focuses on cultural exchange by connecting travellers with hosts who live on-site. This option is great for those looking for a local experience with personal interactions.

Each platform has unique advantages. Travellers should explore different options based on their budget, location, and preferences to find the best accommodation for their trip. Comparing fees, policies, and cancellation terms can also help secure the best deal.

Ready to Make the Most of Airbnb?

Airbnb has changed the way people travel and host, offering unique stays and flexible income opportunities. Whether you’re looking for a memorable getaway or considering turning your property into a short-term rental, understanding how the platform works is key to success.

If you’re thinking about becoming a host but aren’t sure where to start, expert guidance can make all the difference. Visit BNB Booking to learn more about how professional Airbnb management services can help you stay organised, compliant, and profitable. 

Please call us today on 1300 146 514 to learn more or leave an enquiry and we will get back to you as soon as possible.