- April 22, 2024
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Heather Beavens got more than guests when she started renting her Palm Coast home through Airbnb nearly four years ago — she made lifelong friends.
“I’ve got friends now in France that I consider family,” Beavens said.
Flagler County residents and members of neighboring communities gathered at Burrito 101, located at 101 Palm Harbor Parkway, as part of a Palm Coast Airbnb host club launch on Wednesday, Aug. 9.
Airbnb, the online application that allows its users to lease and short-t
erm rent their homes, is starting to become immensely popular in the area. There are currently 110 active hosts in Palm coast, and the typical annual earnings in the area average about $7,300, according to Airbnb Public Affairs Director Benjamin Breit.
Palm Coast resident Patricia Rood, who has been using Airbnb for almost a year, said it’s a good way to supplement income. However, she said she was a little anxious the first time she rented her apartment to a stranger.
“Every time I rent it out, I get nervous,” Rood said. “But I’ve never had an issue. I think you have to be observant, and you have to ask the right questions so you know who you’re dealing with.”
Beavens has rented to over 50 families in her time with Airbnb. She’s never had a problem with a guest, either.
“Everybody I’ve rented to has been fantastic and really respectful of the property,” she said. “You really do meet some great people.”
