Suzanne Edwards’ Post

Planning to create your own vacation rental platform like Airbnb? Uncover the costs involved in building an App like Airbnb and turn your business idea into a strategic reality. Get the insights at https://lnkd.in/gDfDKYz5 #TechInvestment #Entrepreneurship #AirbnbClone #AirbnblikeApp #appdevelopment #softwaredevelopment #vacationrentals #vacationrental #technology #softwaredevelopment #travel #Appticz

🌟 Staggering 🏡 Incredible it is. I had the privilege of meeting an elder parent whose son is living in New Zealand. This encounter shed light on a heartwarming aspect of the Airbnb community that often goes unnoticed. While many see Airbnb as a way to earn extra money, it's essential to remember that for some, it's not about the income but the connections it fosters. In India, one of the fastest-growing categories of Airbnb hosts is empty nesters—senior citizens whose children have moved to different cities or settled abroad. They find themselves in spacious homes, often with extra rooms, and an abundance of life experiences to share. These parents are not reliant on the Airbnb income for their livelihood. Instead, they open their homes to travelers to combat loneliness, find new friends, and infuse vitality into their lives. What's truly remarkable is that their desire for connection has created a unique ecosystem. More and more people are seeking accommodations in these warm, welcoming homes to experience not just a place to stay but a sense of belonging. It's a beautiful exchange of stories and experiences, a cross-generational bond. For hosts, it's an opportunity to meet fascinating people, be engaged, and give back to the community. Whether it's hosting guests for leisure or business, Airbnb has allowed them to transform their homes into vibrant hubs of activity and knowledge. At this point, I realized that Airbnb platform is more than just a way to earn money, it's about enriching lives and fostering relationships across the globe. So, the next time you book an Airbnb, remember that it's not just a place to sleep—it's a chance to connect, learn, and create memories with remarkable individuals like these elder hosts. Let's celebrate this incredible community that exemplifies the true essence of Airbnb - connection, culture, and shared experiences. CIZO thanks to Airbnb 🌏✨ #Airbnb #Community #Connections #Hospitality #SharingExperiences

We dropped Geek Estate's latest Ecosystem Intelligence resource last week, this one on Home Exchange, Sharing, and Swapping. Few would question whether there is demand for free or cheap places to stay with locals. Since there is a far cheaper way to travel than Airbnb, people use it—to the tune of 30%-40% of all trips being friend/family stays. That number should be higher, but hospitality networks seem primed to fail. At the core, it begs the legitimate question: Are there enough hosts to fulfill the virtually unlimited demand for free places to stay? The reality is the way the real world works—answering a text, email, or phone call every few weeks is perfectly fine with the majority of hosts. Virtually everyone in the world is willing to host under the right circumstances: When specifically asked by someone in their trusted network, and if they are in town, have the space, and are without other plans during that time period. It’s safe to say that hosts aren’t demanding we solve the problem of “help me host more people for free.” Thus why the two defining companies of the sector—Couchsurfing International and Airbnb—both offer paid facilitation. Those who have been around the industry for years know that Airbnb started its journey as essentially “paid Couchsurfing.” It’s of course well beyond that now as proptech’s unquestioned category leader. Couchsurfing started in 2004 as a grassroots global community built and run for free by each local community. It raised venture capital in 2011 in conjunction with converting to a B Corp and again in 2012—these moves were ultimately a net negative for the community, as was the paid gated access added in late 2023. Both companies lost the plot on their original missions, even though there is demand in the sector for robust solutions to the problem of securing free or low-cost housing while traveling. Hence the rise of home shares, exchanges, and swaps. It's worth noting, the more short-term rental regulation passed (such as NYC's Local Law 18), the more favorable the growth prospects for the growing array of private marketplaces such as MyPlace. Other companies mentioned in the landscape: bewelcome, CircleHome, HomeExchange, Nesterly, Kindred, kommu, ReRent, Silvernest, Sparrow, TrustedHousesitters, HorizonApp.co, & Warmshowers GEM Diamond members can read the full company summaries here: https://lnkd.in/ghhPs4ac Not already a member, apply: https://lnkd.in/g6Cu7uVQ #homesharing #homeexchange #homeswapping

I bet you’d never guess which company sparked the idea for BabyQuip… Airbnb. When you think about it, the journey makes sense. Here’s how it happened: In late 2011, I left TRUSTe (now TrustArc) and moved to San Francisco, right up the hill from AirBnb. On a lark, I started AirBnb-ing the upstairs rooms in my own home, and suddenly, I was making real money. At the time, Airbnb was big, but it hadn’t exploded yet. I was taking time off between TRUSTe and my next venture, and I really dove into being a vacation rental host. As an early adopter, I could tell that the rental market was changing the way people were traveling as well as the way they were working. I was watching the gig economy grow before my eyes. My entrepreneurial side saw the impending change and thought, “What’s coming? What’s going to happen here?” I wanted to get into the market, but I wasn’t sure how. I saw founders with property management companies, cleaning companies, and new vacation rental apps, but none of those entries into the market spoke to me. At the time, I was also advising with Women's Startup Lab. One day in early 2016, Kerri Couillard came into the lab and described “Babierge” a baby gear company she launched in Santa Fe (which happened to be my hometown). It clicked for me right away. I knew as a vacation rental host I didn’t want to buy, store, clean, or have the liability for baby gear beyond a Pack n’ Play. I saw an opportunity to get into the rental industry in a way that felt authentic to me. As soon as Kerri pitched the idea, I said, “I should be your CEO.” We joined forces, and ultimately, BabyQuip was born in May 2016. Being an early adopter means thinking about change before most people. If that sounds like you, trust your gut. Don’t be afraid to act on your instincts.

In the early days of Airbnb, founders Brian Chesky, Joe Gebbia, and Nathan Blecharczyk had a vision to create a global community connecting hosts and travelers through an online marketplace. They wanted to offer a simple way for hosts to earn extra income from their properties while providing travelers with unique, homely accommodations that were often cheaper than hotels. Their design-driven approach focused on building trust among strangers, allowing them to live together harmoniously. This approach led to a successful business model, where hosts could share in Airbnb's success. Throughout their journey, Brian, Joe, and Nathan remained committed to fostering a sense of connection and belonging within their community. They believed they had only scratched the surface of what Airbnb could achieve and were dedicated to finding new ways to support their growing family of hosts and travelers. Airbnb's founders understood that their platform was about more than just making money – it was about bringing people together and creating memorable experiences. Their innovative ideas and relentless pursuit of building a global community have shaped Airbnb into the thriving platform it is today. #airbnb #innovation #management #digitalmarketing #technology #startups #marketing #socialmedia #socialnetworking #motivation #personaldevelopment #jobinterviews #sustainability #personalbranding #education #productivity #travel #sales #socialentrepreneurship #fundraising #strategy #business #networking #branding #brandstrategy #brandawareness #brandidentity #brandbuilding #contentmarketing #businessgrowth #successstories #businessquotes #businessideas #businesstips #success #sales #womeninbusinessindia #entrepreneurshipwomen #startupwomenpodcast

"The journey of a startup founder is about more than just a product; it's about creating an experience. Airbnb started with air mattresses, but the real magic was in connecting people and fostering a sense of belonging." Here is the story of a well-known startup Co-Founder & CEO of Airbnb - Brian Chesky having a quest to design a world where he could escape to. In October 2007, faced with a sold-out design conference in San Francisco, Chesky seized an unconventional opportunity. Transforming his home into a makeshift bed and breakfast, he called it Airbedandbreakfast.com. This marked the genesis of Airbnb—a platform initially built on air mattresses.   Chesky, inspired by a chapter titled "Snow White" and driven by the idea of storyboarding the perfect vacation, envisioned an end-to-end journey designed for Airbnb users. Founders bring a unique blend of passion, the ability to rename and rebuild, but scaling and mortality pose challenges. His mantra? "If you're disciplined, focused, and you have a small idea, dream, or goal, you can build something vast."   Yet, no one told Chesky about the loneliness inherent in the founder's journey. Starting Airbnb with friends, the startup evolved into a corporation, isolating you in a bubble that’s going to detach you from reality. Chesky emphasizes the importance of culture in the long run. If you review all the work and you say not good enough. Eventually, you could not join the meeting. But people know what you’d say. You are not in the room, and the same action happens as if you are in the room. Here it goes from management to culture.   Then, the disaster strikes. Prompting an emergency board meeting where he quoted Andy Grove, “Bad companies are destroyed by a crisis. Good companies survive a crisis, but Great companies are defined by a crisis.” Brian wanted Airbnb to be in 3rd category.   In these moments, Chesky learned that in a crisis, you make principal decisions, not business decisions. The lessons drawn from the journey are profound. Chesky underscores the pitfalls of leadership isolation, emphasizing on staying connected with family, friends, and other entrepreneurs. He dispenses practical advice for aspiring founders—focus on the first step, not the mountain top.   In shaping Airbnb's identity, Chesky shifted the focus from spaces to people. Airbnb, not just a platform to find accommodation; it's an entity that understands and resonates with its users. Beyond homes, it's about connecting with a community that truly knows and values you. #startup #founders #airbnb

Wanna know the best parts about owning an Airbnb business??!!! ✨ 1️⃣ Freedom and Flexibility! You get to be your own boss, set your own schedule and manage your listings on your terms! 2️⃣ Extra Income! 🤑 You can get some really high returns by renting out an additional space in your current home or a second home! It's an incredible way to increase your income! 3️⃣ Travel Perks! Use your Airbnb business as an opportunity to explore new places and stay in different Airbnb's and gain ideas from other hosts! 4️⃣ Low Startup Costs: Compared to traditional hospitality ventures and many parts of Real Estate, starting an Airbnb business can be a lot more budget-friendly! 5️⃣ Showcase Your Style: You can design your space to reflect your personality and create a fun and unique guest experience. 6️⃣ Expand Your Skills: The skills it takes to be a great host, from customer service to communication, will certainly translate over to all other areas of life. 7️⃣ Thriving Community: You get to be a part of a community of hosts from all over the world who share tips and insights to help you succeed. 8️⃣ Optional - Meeting New People: If you choose to, you may get to interact with travelers from around the world and create meaningful connections. Ready to embark on this exciting journey? Start your Airbnb venture now! 🚀 #Airbnb #realestate #sevenfigures #incomestreams #househack #levelup #liveyourbestlife #travel #wealth #generationalwealth #wealthbuilding #worksmart #millenials #financialfreedom #sixfigures #freedom #coaching #consulting #free #getrich #Hospitality #Entrepreneurship #Travel

The story of Brian Chesky, Joe Gebbia, and Nathan Blecharczyk, and their journey with Airbnb is important to read for several reasons. Firstly, it serves as a source of entrepreneurial inspiration. Their story showcases how a simple idea and innovative thinking can disrupt an entire industry. From humble beginnings of renting out an air mattress, they built Airbnb into a global hospitality phenomenon. This narrative can motivate aspiring entrepreneurs to think creatively, take risks, and pursue their own groundbreaking ideas. This story demonstrates the transformative power of the sharing economy. By connecting travelers with local hosts willing to rent out their space, Airbnb revolutionized the way people travel and experience new destinations. It has enabled a more personalized and authentic travel experience, fostering connections between hosts and guests from different parts of the world. Understanding the growth and impact of Airbnb helps individuals grasp the potential of the sharing economy and its role in reshaping traditional industries. The challenges faced by Chesky, Gebbia, and Blecharczyk offer valuable lessons in resilience and adaptability. The founders encountered regulatory obstacles, legal disputes, and trust issues during Airbnb's early years. However, their willingness to collaborate with governments, policymakers, and local communities helped them navigate these challenges. Their ability to adapt and address concerns not only ensured the platform's legitimacy but also fostered trust among its users. The Airbnb story sheds light on the power of community building. By encouraging hosts to provide exceptional hospitality and unique experiences, Airbnb created a sense of belonging and connection among its users. This emphasis on community has played a crucial role in establishing Airbnb as a trusted platform and fostering positive experiences for both hosts and guests. Lastly, the growth and success of Airbnb reflect broader shifts in consumer behavior and preferences. The platform's popularity signifies a desire for more personalized, cost-effective, and immersive travel experiences. Understanding the factors that contributed to Airbnb's rise can provide valuable insights into emerging trends and changing consumer demands. Check out their remarkable success story serves as a testament to the transformative impact of innovative ideas, determination, and a commitment to creating value for users! -MCG #connections #experience #success #growth #community #inspiration #people #travel #power #building #hospitality #entrepreneurs #founders #legal #consumerbehavior #sharingeconomy

Exciting News! Join me in making a difference with the Airbnb World Housing Program! 🏠💙 Hey friends! 👋 I'm thrilled to share an amazing opportunity to make a positive impact together. 🌟 Airbnb has teamed up with the World Housing Program, and we can all play a part in providing safe and secure housing for those in need. 🏡💖 Here's how you can help: 1️⃣ Book a Stay: The next time you plan a getaway, consider booking through Airbnb. A portion of your booking goes directly to the World Housing Program, contributing to housing projects worldwide. 2️⃣ Host for Good: If you're an Airbnb host or considering becoming one, you can make an even greater impact. By hosting through the World Housing Program, you're directly supporting housing initiatives, creating a ripple effect of positive change. 3️⃣ Spread the Word: Let's amplify the reach of this incredible initiative! Share this post and let your friends know how they too can be a part of something meaningful. Together, we can make a real difference in the lives of those less fortunate. 🌈💕 Let's turn our travel plans into opportunities for positive change! ✈️🤝 Please visit this link: https://lnkd.in/gESkETHj

Airbnb - from air mattresses in a cramped apartment to tech titans... The Airbnb journey began in 2007 when co-founders Brian Chesky, Joe Gebbia, and Nathan Blecharczyk were struggling to cover their rent in San Francisco. They noticed that a design conference was coming to town, and all the hotels were fully booked. Seeing an opportunity, they decided to offer their own living space as an alternative accommodation option. With no budget for furniture, they bought a few air mattresses and hosted their first guests. It wasn't just about making extra money; it was about creating a unique and affordable travel experience. They provided not only a place to stay but also a warm and welcoming environment. This innovative idea laid the foundation for Airbnb, which has since grown into a global platform with millions of hosts and travelers. It's a remarkable reminder that entrepreneurship often begins with seizing opportunities and providing value in unexpected ways. The Airbnb story teaches us that a simple idea, combined with determination and a commitment to excellent service, can lead to extraordinary success. Similarly, Short-Term Rental (STR) investing is still in its early stages, and now is a great time for investors to take a chance, even starting with just one property. Sure, for old cranky banks and lenders financing STR properties can be a challenge, but Diggifi - Real Estate Investor Financing understands this space better than anyone. If you're considering STR investments or need tailored financing solutions, reach out to me at [email protected] to learn more...or just shoot me a DM. 🚀💼 #Airbnb #entrepreneurship #realestateinvesting #STRInvesting