Airbnb launched a new program Wednesday to help Phoenix renters find apartments where they can host part time.
The company said it will help renters earn extra income to offset the rising cost of living.
Airbnb allows homeowners to host visitors or short-term renters, just like booking a hotel. Historically, the opportunity hasn’t been available to renters because most apartment complexes and landlords don’t allow residents to sublet.
The Airbnb-friendly apartment program begins to change that. Jesse Stein is head of real estate at Airbnb. He said those looking for a place to rent can visit their landing page to browse Airbnb-friendly apartments.
“We’ve also built a custom calculator for individuals looking to move into these buildings to understand what their potential earnings could be depending on their lifestyle," Stein said. "So if one wants to host one night a month, we spit that out of the calculator, based on existing data.”
The program launched with seven available properties in the Phoenix area, but Airbnb plans to add more in the coming months.