The sharing economy has transformed the way people utilise their properties, giving them a viable means of generating extra income and providing enriching experiences for travellers.
With the aim of connecting home hosts with the newest products and services, the Australian Home Hosting Expo recently announced its inaugural expo, which will be held at the Melbourne Showgrounds on November 25.
“There is a market for companies to provide innovative products and services to set people’s listings apart,” said Suzette Sutton, founder of the Australian Home Hosting Expo. “In Australia, an average of 68% of homes are either owned or mortgaged so [the] client-base for home hosting platforms is a significant part of the Australian population.”
The disruption of the accommodations industry has been firmly cemented by the launch and rapid growth of Airbnb. Additionally, Australia is now seeing a burgeoning market aimed at tapping into this booming industry.
“Every host, whether they are listed on an online platform, or house swap or house sit, endeavours to provide a unique experience for their guests,” Sutton said.
Aside from offering travellers the chance to live like a local, Sutton suggests bringing a personalised experience to guests. These include unique décor and furnishings, local knowledge about things to see and do in the area, transportation information, in-house conveniences such as coffee machines and babysitting services, as well as extra little touches that will set each host apart from run-of-the-mill hotel accommodations and other hosts.
There are plans for the Australian Home Hosting Expo to be held in other cities, like the Gold Coast, Sydney, and Perth in Australia, as well as Auckland in New Zealand.
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