Retirement means that you finally have time to travel and experience the world. However, booking hotels can quickly become expensive. In addition, the rooms lack any feeling of ‘home.’ Nor does a hotel offer any insight into the region’s locals and culture. Instead, the hotel is just a remote island set apart from the vibrancy of the region. However, you do have a choice of more home-like accommodations with Airbnb which suites seniors well, especially those looking to spend an extended amount of time in one area.
Airbnb is a place that helps seniors and others make connections with homeowners around the world who want to rent out their houses a short time to tourists visiting the area. House for rent are grouped into the following criteria:
Price Price | Airbnb charges 3% from homeowners and 6%-12% from guests. |
Features Features | Provides houses, apartments, and condos around the world for affordable rental fees |
Ease Ease | Very easy to use website that lets you filter the homes listed by what is important to you. |
Customer Service Customer Service | 24-hour customer service via their toll-free phone number. Email is also available. |
Empty-nesters and retirees often find themselves with one or two open rooms vacant in their homes. Such seniors might want to consider home-sharing to make extra money while meeting new people. Also, snowbirds who own two homes could rent out one house while spending time in the others.
Seniors who want to travel often enjoy renting from Airbnb because they can rent a whole house for an extended trip.
Health-related score
Pros:
Overall, whether you are a guest or a host, Airbnb has innumerable benefits that make it a valued service for seniors. As a guest, you can explore protected extensive house-sharing listings that help make traveling affordable. If you are a host then you can earn extra income. Either way, Airbnb is a respected service with exceptional customer service that makes travel stays easier and more enjoyable.
Cons:
Although not long, there are a few disadvantages to Airbnb such as misleading advertisements. The host controls the photos and descriptions of the homes so they can misrepresent everything from the appearance, size, or local amenities. Also, some listings have a minimum required the number of nights so you might not be able to reserve certain homes for a short-term trip. VAT tax is often a reality for both guests and hosts. Airbnb does charge additional fees like I guest service fee, but these such expenses are comparable to that of a hotel. A 3 percent host service/processing fee is also charged. Hosts can experience property damage, but Airbnb does have insurance that offers protection. However, insurance is not available in all places. Also, a 3 percent host service fee is charged which can add up over time if you have a lot of reservations for your home.
Bottom Line:
Many seniors dream of traveling when they reach retirement age. With Airbnb, that dream can become an affordable reality. You can pick an affordable home in a location that you want to explore. House sharing provides you with the opportunity to soak up the local culture while staying in a comfortable residence instead of cold hotel room. Retirees who own a residence might want to consider house sharing on Airbnb to make extra money to supplement their social security and retirement. Depending on the form of house sharing you choose, having house guests can also help alleviate loneliness and give you an opportunity to meet new people. Often playing host is a fun way to pass your time.
Airbnb has won the following awards:
They have been nominated for:
Overall, we highly recommend Airbnb as a great way to enjoy house sharing in numerous locations around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is it safe to use Airbnb?
Yes, it is a safe service used by people around the world.
Is Airbnb Customer Service Good?
Many seniors become confused with online sites, but Airbnb’s customer service is exceptional so seniors can always call to talk to a ‘live’ person.
Can you rent long term?
You can rent a property for a few days or the summer. You’ll need to discuss your requirements with the host.
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5 min read
Oct. 23, 2019
