It does open up the opportunity for new entrants to come in that are like "X but in the old days." Though it's now harder with a big incumbent and the cycle will probably repeat again if they're successful.
I'm a firm believer that most hosts will stop renting after a few guests. The turnover must be high, only covered by the new supply of hosts following the hype. It will dry up eventually and mostly professional hotels will remain.
what are their fees even for?
I've never ever encountered mandatory fees for (often shitty) WiFi and a daily paper, which I don't want. Some hotels (usually at the upper scale) may charge for WiFi if I chose to use it, but won't just tack it to the bill if I don't.
Offering a low price to then switch to a higher price, which is not even visible when you book, but only when you're about to use the service and can't turn back without penalty is a bait and switch it's fraud; plain and simple.
I don't get why the law doesn't hammer down hard on such practices.
Would love to see your place on Overnight. Our core focus is people who are open to hosting friends/members of their communities.
I used to rent out a room on Airbnb, it was a great experience. Both renting and staying I met cool people, as they were often keen to chat or hang out. And cheaper than a hotel, usually hostel prices. I never minded that staying in someone’s house would often mean a haphazardly tidied room with no available cupboard space.
Fast forwards a few years and I rent out a spare room to a friend at below market price, well below Airbnb price. I can’t be bothered with the standard that people now expect, I hate the attitude of Airbnb (ie use instant book or get fcked), and I find myself feeling guilty at contributing to the short supply in housing.
Nor have I stayed in an Airbnb for a couple of years, I’m back to hotels. It’s not cheaper (what are their fees even for?), and it’s usually a purposed Airbnb property, rather than someone’s home. It’s lost it’s magic.