Interested in making a little extra money? Thanks to vacation rental websites like HomeAway and Airbnb, it's easier than ever. You may feel a little uneasy inviting complete strangers into your space, but with these five HomeAway and Airbnb safety tips, you can feel more comfortable with the idea—and start earning extra income.

Airbnb Mail

1. Redirect your mail

You don't want any financial statements or checks arriving in your mailbox while strangers are staying in your home. Ask the post office to hold your mail when you have guests. Simply fill out the online form from USPS.com. If you're hosting guests long-term, purchase a post office box and have your mail sent there.

2. Create a home manual

Think of your home manual as a comprehensive guide to your house, neighborhood, and city. A three-ring binder works fine and allows you to add, remove, or update pages over time. Include useful information, such as the Wi-Fi password; where to put the garbage and recycling; the location of the fire extinguisher and exit stairs; and the number for the nearest walk-in clinic or emergency room. Add a list of "house rules," which may include check-in and check-out times, and stipulations about noise levels, smoking, and pets. Include a map of the neighborhood with your favorite coffee shops and restaurants highlighted. Mark the grocery stores and "must-see" points of interest. Your guests will appreciate your thoughtful suggestions, and—in the event of an emergency—they will know where to turn for help.

Airbnb safe

3. Lock up valuables and important papers

If you're renting out your house or apartment, consider storing your valuables and important paperwork somewhere safe. You may want to compare the cost of buying a safe with the monthly fee of renting a safety deposit box at a bank. Before stashing away any valuables, photograph each one. Make copies of important documents and store those in a separate location. Put the original papers in a sealed plastic bag to guard against moisture. Remember that safety deposit boxes are only accessible during bank hours. If you decide to buy a safe, be sure to keep it out of sight, such as in your attic, garage, or basement.

4. Get a VPN router

When people stay in your apartment or house, they'll want access to the internet. If you give out your Wi-Fi password, it's possible that a tech-savvy renter could hack into your network. Once in, the hacker can later redirect you or other guests to fake login pages to steal passwords or push malicious software to phone apps. Even if your guests aren't hackers, if they do anything illegal online, such as illegally download music or movies, it can be traced to your internet address. The best way to avoid any problems is to set up a virtual private network, otherwise called a VPN. It comes with its own Wi-Fi password and establishes an anonymous internet link between the source of information and its destination. CNET offers an overview on the best VPN services currently available.3

Airbnb ADT House

5. Install an ADT security system

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, more than 3 million burglaries were reported in 2016.1 A security system not only gives you peace of mind, but it also helps your guests feel more secure. ADT Security Services offers security features that both hosts and renters will appreciate, such as motion sensor lights that help illuminate dark entryways, the ability to arm and disarm the system remotely, and sensors that alert occupants to hazards, such as fire and carbon monoxide. You can also change the entry access code for each new occupant, renters can't get in after they've checked out. Check with the host company's website for their specific guidelines about the best way to disclose the presence of an apartment security system. Airbnb, for instance, recommends you include the information in your home manual.2

Depending on where you own property, you could make a decent amount of extra income by renting your home or apartment. By taking these few simple steps, you'll improve your home or apartment security system and make your guests feel doubly secure.

References

  1. Morgan, Rachel E., and Kena, Grace. "Criminal Victimization, 2016." U.S. Department of Justice. December 2017, NCJ 251150. Accessed March 19, 2018. https://www.bjs.gov/content/pub/pdf/cv16.pdf
  2. "What are Airbnb's rules about electronic surveillance devices in listings?" Airbnb. Accessed March 19, 2018. https://www.airbnb.com/help/article/887/what-are-airbnb-s-rules-about-electronic-surveillance-devices-in-listings
  3. Gewirtz, David. "The Best VPN services for 2018." CNET. January 25, 2018. Accessed March 19, 2018. https://www.cnet.com/best-vpn-services-directory/
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