How to Make Money on Airbnb Without Owning Property


Airbnb provides a platform for anyone to become a host and earn extra income in the vacation rental industry. With over 150 million users worldwide, there’s no shortage of potential guests. In this article, we’ll explore how you can make money on Airbnb without owning property. Let’s dive in!

Can Only Property Owners Make Money with Airbnb?

Many people believe that only property owners can make money with Airbnb. However, this is not entirely true.

While owning vacation rental properties is a great real estate investment and one way to generate income through Airbnb, there are other options available for those who do not have their own Airbnb.

For example, individuals can become co-hosts and manage properties on behalf of owners, or they can offer unique experiences and tours to travelers through the platform.

how to make money on airbnb without owning property

10 Ways to Make Money on Airbnb Without Owning Property

Interested in starting an Airbnb business but don’t own property? No problem! Here are 10 ways to make money on Airbnb without owning property.

1. Airbnb Rental Arbitrage

The Airbnb arbitrage business model involves renting a property at a long-term rate and subleasing it through Airbnb for a higher nightly rate, generating a profit in the process.

By taking advantage of price differences in the long-term rental and short-term rental market, individuals can make money through this strategy.

However, it’s important to check local laws as rental arbitrage requires careful planning and research to ensure legality and profitability.

2. Airbnb Property Manager

Airbnb property managers are individuals or companies who manage Airbnb properties on behalf of owners. They handle tasks such as guest communication, cleaning, and maintenance.

By charging a fee for their services, property managers can generate income from managing multiple rentals at once. To make the job easier, many property managers use vacation rental software to streamline tasks like scheduling cleanings and coordinating check-ins.

With the growing popularity of Airbnb, property management is becoming an increasingly lucrative opportunity for those with relevant experience and skills.

3. Airbnb Cleaning Service

An Airbnb cleaning service owner provides cleaning services to Airbnb hosts in order to maintain high cleanliness standards for guests. Owners can charge a fee per cleaning, or offer packages for multiple cleanings per month.

By building a reputation for quality and reliability, an Airbnb cleaning service can generate steady income from repeat business and positive reviews.

With the growing popularity of Airbnb, there is a growing demand for reliable and efficient cleaning services, making it a potentially lucrative opportunity for those willing to put in the work.

4. Vacation Rental Consultant

As a vacation rental consultant, you can make money by advising property owners on how to optimize their short-term rental properties. This involves providing guidance on pricing, marketing, and property management.

By leveraging your expertise in the vacation rental industry, you can help property owners increase their rental income and achieve greater success. Charging a consulting fee can make this a profitable business model.

5. Vacation Rental Franchise

Investing in a vacation rental franchise can be a profitable way to make money as a franchise owner. By partnering with an established brand, you gain access to their systems and support, which can help you establish and grow your business.

As an existing franchise owner, you benefit from the brand’s recognition and reputation, which can help attract customers and increase rental occupancy rates.

6. Airbnb Experience Host

Airbnb Experience Hosts offer unique and personalized activities to travelers, such as cooking classes, city tours, or outdoor adventures. Hosts can create an experience based on their interests and expertise and set their own prices.

Airbnb takes a commission from each booking, but hosts can still earn a significant income if they provide high-quality experiences that receive positive reviews. Becoming an Airbnb Experience Host can be a flexible and rewarding way to monetize your passions while meeting new people from around the world.

7. Vacation Rental Marketers

As a vacation rental marketer, there are several ways to make money. You can offer your services to property owners by managing their bookings and online presence. You can also create targeted advertising campaigns to attract potential renters.

Utilizing social media platforms and other marketing channels can increase visibility for properties and generate more bookings. Being a vacation rental marketer requires a strong understanding of the industry and effective communication skills with both property owners and potential renters.

8. Airbnb Photographer

Being an Airbnb photographer can be a lucrative opportunity for a freelance marketplace listing photographer. By capturing high-quality images of Airbnb listings, photographers can help hosts attract more guests and increase their earnings.

With the growing popularity of short-term rentals, there is a high demand for skilled photographers who know how to showcase properties in the best light possible. If you have photography skills and are looking for new ways to make money, consider becoming an Airbnb photographer.

9. Interior Designer or Home Stager

Making money as an interior designer for Airbnb hosts involves helping property owners create visually appealing and functional spaces that attract guests. By selecting furniture, decor, and accessories that match the style and personality of each listing, you can help hosts increase their bookings and earn higher ratings.

If you have a keen eye for design and enjoy working with people to bring their visions to life, becoming an interior designer for Airbnb hosts could be a profitable venture.

10. Airbnb Co-Host

Becoming an Airbnb co-host is a great way to earn extra income by helping property owners manage their listings. As a co-host, you can assist with tasks such as responding to guest inquiries, managing reservations, and coordinating check-ins and check-outs.

This allows property owners to focus on other aspects of their business while still earning money from their rentals. If you have strong communication skills and are comfortable with customer service, becoming an Airbnb co-host could be a profitable opportunity for you.

Whether you own property or not, you should look into how to start an Airbnb business and how to make money in real estate to get more ideas if you are interested in this industry.

How Much Profit Does an Airbnb Host Make?

Airbnb hosts can make a decent profit by renting out their homes or apartments to travelers. In the most prominent U.S. cities, the average host profit is about $20,000. This figure varies based on location, property type, and rental duration. Despite costs such as cleaning fees and taxes, hosting on Airbnb can still be a lucrative side hustle or even a full-time income source.

How Do You Make Money on Airbnb Without Buying a House?

There are ways to make money on Airbnb without being a property owner. You can become an Airbnb property manager, offer an Airbnb cleaning service, do Airbnb arbitrage, or do one of the other ideas from our list above. These options allow you to earn income from the sharing economy without having to invest in real estate.

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Kevin Ocasio Kevin Ocasio is a staff writer for Small Business Trends, United States Marine Corps veteran, serial entrepreneur, and certified digital marketer, who writes for various online publications including his own Grind Boss blog.

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