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Airbnb has strengthened its hold on the property market by partnering with a listings portal, enabling people to try an area before they commit to living there.
The deal between Airbnb and Rent.com.au allows people to “try before they buy” and “test drive a new neighbourhood before signing a rental lease”.
Under the agreement, more than seven million people can now book apartments, houses and private and shared rooms with a few clicks on the Rent.com.au website.
Rent.com.au CEO Greg Bader said the idea is for people to “test drive their new community”.
“We can all look at the photos and descriptions on our website and that gives us a good idea of the property we are moving into, but it doesn’t really paint the full picture of a new community,” Mr Bader said.
“Whether for a weekend or a week, holiday or work, move in and get a feel if a place is right for you. Explore, experiment, suss out the clubs and pubs, check the commute to work, time the school run, or just chill at a local café.
“Airbnb is a great way for people to get a real taste of what their new location is like and offer instant community connection. Entering into a new lease is a big deal in terms of commitment, so why not take the time to really make sure an area is for you?”
Mr Bader said renting is an intimidating and daunting process and it’s logical for renters to want to weigh up their options. The perks, he said, also extend to private landlords.
“We also see benefits for private landlords in securing long-term tenants or extra income. Rental cycles vary for different landlords, so if there is a student focus, for example, there is real probability of vacancies over the Christmas period, so why not list on Airbnb to cover those periods?”
Mr Bader said the partnership “[simplifies the process with direct access from our site, so customers can easily book a short Airbnb stay in the suburb of their choice.
“It’s a game-changing approach to renting and helps to give renters the best possible choice and range of services imaginable.”
Do you think this is good news for property owners and buyers? Will Airbnb help or hinder the real estate profession? Let us know in the comments below.
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