Reason why Airbnb CEO rented out his spare room on the app for anyone to stay in
If you don't have faith in your own product, then how can you expect people to buy into it?
Unlike complaints that Elon Musk doesn't actually drive around in a Cybertruck, Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky wanted to prove that he believes in his business, even going as far as renting out his spare bedroom in a bid to prove the online holiday platform is safe for anyone to use.
Chances are that when you book Airbnb, you're one of those who immediately filters the 'whole property' option or you're more than happy sharing a communal space with the home's owner.
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Chesky understands these concerns, and keen to prove that Airbnb is 'as safe as houses', he’s sporadically rented a room in his San Francisco home out to the public since November 2022.
Chesky gave cameras unprecedented access to his house, showing off some impressive art he did in high school and him trying out his best photography skills to make his 'light-filled corner bedroom' attractive to potential guests.
On the listing, Chesky describes the space as a "thoughtfully designed suite featuring personal photos and artifacts from the early days of Airbnb." It boasts panoramic views of San Francisco's Castro neighborhood, which is filled with boutiques, restaurants, and coffee shops.
With use of a full bathroom, chef’s kitchen, and living room with floor-to-ceiling windows, the only conditions were that you were okay with Chesky's golden retriever, Sophie.
In the video, Chesky explained how he and former schoolmate Joe Gebbia blew up three air mattresses and placed them in their living room to turn it into a bed and breakfast.
From that tiny acorn, the mighty oak of Airbnb was born - currently worth $83.7 billion.
Asked whether he’s really going to have a complete stranger stay with him, Chesky nonchalantly said, "For real. I did it 15 years ago, I'm gonna do it again." Safe to say, his spare room is a bit of an upgrade from an inflatable mattress.
Explaining his motivations in the video, Chesky says: "Today, just like back then, people are looking for ways to earn extra money. More people than ever are interested in hosting. But we know there are a couple of obstacles to putting your place on Airbnb."
As well as saying it's hard to get started, Chesky understands how some might be 'nervous' to host guests. The video was a clever way to promote the Airbnb Setup feature that pairs newbie hosts with veterans, as well as showing off its upgraded Aircover.
It seems that Chesky has rented out his room a handful of times, but with six stays and all being awarded a five-star rating, his San Francisco home is in the top 10% of Airbnb properties. The last visitor appears to be November 2023, but if you fancy meeting the man himself, keep an eye out to see if it becomes available.