Airbnb hacks: Getting into the Secret BnB Rental Market in Kenya

Hosting a bnb has lots of Kenyans dreaming of a way to make some passive income.

While Airbnb dominates the short-term rental scene online, it’s not the only player in the game.

If you’re not keen on paying Airbnb 3-14% of your revenue, you can consider other options. There are plenty of other ways to host a home.

We’ll explore some exciting Airbnb alternatives that could be your ticket to turning spaces into profits. Let’s dive in!

Triply is a local alternative to Airbnb, founded by two Kenyans, Peter and Collins.

Triply offers homes, experiences and activities. Check out how you can host on Triply here.

VRBO is a big new global competitor to Airbnb that is getting a lot of traction.

Then, there is “offline Bnb hosting”

You might not know it, but there is a thriving market for accommodation booked through informal channels like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp.

People are calling it "Offline bnb" and it caters to domestic tourism. It offers cheaper, more diverse options than online booking platforms.

I will tell you why it's a booming business and how to start one.

In Kenya, there are an estimated 40,000-50,000 offline guest houses compared to around 27,000 online listings.

According to Africa Tourism Monitor a wana estimate that kuna about 40,000 informal hotel/guest house establishments in Kenya compared to Airbnb stats that kuna only 27,000 rentals in Kenya.

Hii ni a big indicator that demand iko.

Offline bnb is typically more affordable than online options, hii inaifanya iwe attractive to local guests.

Pia ina offer variety of options from bedsitters to an entire house na hadi compound in a local setting.

Keja za online unaeza pata ziko only suited for international travelers hence hazina that local experience.

Offline channels hutumia methods like WhatsApp, Facebook ama unabook through Instagram that are familiar to local audiences.

Use the power of search terms on socials. It is all about using the right search terms.

For instance, you have a 2 bedroom bnb for rent in Nanyuki. Think about the search terms people might use to find you on socials.

So on Facebook, Tiktok, Instagram, people might search for “Airbnb Nanyuki.” Make sure your social pages, content and hashtags use those relevant keywords.

Crime in bnb’s has been on the rise! Platforms like Airbnb have security measures in place to minimise risk, and ensure you against damages as an owner.

Offline bnb options do not have these saftey measures in place. Make sure you and your guests stay safe. Read more Is Your Airbnb Rental Safe Enough for Your Guests?

Focus on a specific region or type of accommodation (e.g., budget hostels ama family-friendly apartments) kwa region unaeza kuwa msee wa Githu ama Kilimani.

If you are renting, check your rental agreement to see if short term rental is allowed.

When in doubt, discuss with your landlord to avoid conflict.

Your listing depends on how your place looks! Use good light and a good camera, or hire a pro.

Unaeza create Facebook groups, Instagram pages, and WhatsApp communities za ku-showcase your listings.

Kuna msee anaitwa Eddie on IG unaeza check page yake.

Most bookings hu-happen through mobile devices. Ensure listings zako are easily accessible and bookable through mobile platforms.

Tumia tools pia kama booking calendars etc ndio msee anajua when room zako ziko available.

Research local prices na offer competitive rates to attract bookings, Affordable houses tend to attract more clients na hii ni benefit to the host.

Respond to inquiries clients wanaeza kua nazo, be flexible with bookings, na pia ensure a smooth guest experience.

Encourage clients wako kuacha positive reviews and testimonials to build trust with potential guests.

Peris alifanya video on how to ensure you biz appears legit, check it out hapa: How To Market Your Biz Using a Video

On 31st Jan 2024, the government issued a joint statement requiring all operators of short-term rentals to register with the official tourism authority.

Hii move ina-aim to improve guest safety and security by ensuring all accommodations zina-meet specific standards.

The decision ime-follow concerns about recent crimes in Kenya in these rentals.

By understanding the “Offline bnb” market and implementing these strategies, unaeza tap into this growing opportunity na u-build a successful business in Africa's vibrant tourism sector.

But kumbuka, the key lies in understanding local preferences, ku-providing excellent service, na leveraging technology ku streamline operations zako.