Everyone loves talking about the money you can make on Airbnb. And yes—it can be lucrative. But what rarely gets mentioned is how quickly those profits shrink if you don’t plan for the hidden costs.
Whether you’re thinking of starting an Airbnb or already have one running, it’s time for a reality check. Here's what it actually costs to run a successful short-term rental—and what you need to prepare for if you want to make real income.
1. Cleaning Fees (Even If Guests Pay Them)
- You’ll pay your cleaner more than the guest fee during deep cleans or last-minute turnarounds.
- Factor in restocking costs: toilet paper, soap, coffee, detergent, and small damages.
- Have a backup cleaner—because one missed turnover can cost you a 5-star review.
2. Platform Fees
- Airbnb takes a percentage of every booking—usually 3% for hosts, more for guests.
- If you list on multiple platforms (Booking.com, Vrbo), expect higher commissions or subscription fees.
3. Taxes, Permits & Licensing
- Some cities require STR licenses, registration fees, and lodging taxes.
- Don’t skip this step—penalties are no joke and could shut your listing down.
- Talk to an accountant about what income you’ll need to declare and how to write off expenses.
4. Repairs & Wear and Tear
- Guests don’t treat your home the way you do. Expect scuffs, broken blinds, stained towels.
- Budget for monthly repairs or replacements—even small things add up fast.
- Consider setting aside 5–10% of your income for property upkeep.
5. Automation Tools & Tech
- Channel managers, pricing tools, smart locks, and messaging platforms can run $50–$150/month.
- But they save time, prevent double bookings, and improve guest experience—so they’re often worth it.
6. Time = Money
- Answering guest messages. Scheduling cleanings. Coordinating handyman visits.
- If you're doing it all yourself, factor in the value of your time.
- Ask yourself: is this still passive income… or another job?
So, What’s the Bottom Line?
- Most Airbnb hosts spend 30–40% of their gross revenue on expenses.
- But smart, organized hosts still walk away with strong monthly profits—especially if they outsource the time-consuming stuff.
You can still make great money on Airbnb. You just need to treat it like a business—not a weekend hobby.
Want help running your Airbnb like a pro? Whether it’s full co-hosting, cleaning, or remote guest management—we’ll make it easy and profitable. Email us at info@bookedhosts.com or scroll down and fill out the form to get started.
.png)
