Should You Sell Your Airbnb?
Springtime tends to bring out the real estate chatter. And lately, there's been a lot of noise in the Airbnb world: people talking about oversaturation, declining bookings, interest rates, and whether short-term rentals are even worth it anymore.
If you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure about whether you should sell your Airbnb, here’s some guidance to help you cut through the noise and tune into what really matters: YOUR GOALS.
First, Ask Yourself: What Are Your Goals?
The decision to keep or sell a property shouldn't start with what’s trending on social or what your neighbor is doing — it should start with what you set out to accomplish in the first place.
Are you in this for long-term equity?
Or do you need immediate cash flow?
Is this a business venture? A family retreat? A future retirement plan?
No one can tell you whether your property’s performance is “good enough” but you.
Our Personal Example
Take our cabin, for instance. It was never about quick cash flow for us. This was a long-term play. We chose a property that felt like a place our family would enjoy. After crunching the numbers, I felt confident that it would at least pay for itself — and that was enough.
It meets our goals today, and as long as it continues to, we’ll keep it. If that ever changes, we’ll re-evaluate.
Knowing what you want from your investment makes these decisions much clearer.
The Noise is Loud, But You Don’t Have to Listen to All of It
Those Airbnb Facebook Groups, First name / friend. Some of the content is helpful, but most of it just stresses me out. We have to remember those groups often attract negativity and complaints. Listen enough to stay informed, take bits and pieces from it but keep it in perspective.
What I’m Seeing in the Market Right Now
If you're leaning toward selling, here are a few things to keep in mind about the current landscape:
Interest rates are still hovering between 6–7%. I think buyers have had time to adjust to this “new normal” and many are ready to move after a year or more of sitting on the sidelines.
There’s more Airbnb inventory hitting the market, but it’s harder for investors to make the numbers work with higher borrowing costs.
Inventory overall is very low, which is keeping prices high — but overpricing your property can backfire. Don’t get greedy. Work with a knowledgeable real estate agent who understands both the short-term rental and traditional markets.
In Summary:
Your Airbnb is part of your personal investment journey. Whether you’re in it for cash flow, equity, family memories, or a mix of all three, the right move is the one that supports your vision.
If it’s still working — amazing — keep it up!
If it needs tweaking — get help — with design, management, pricing strategy, digital optimization, email marketing.
If it’s time to move on — sell smart — hire a professional.
Need help thinking it through or exploring options? I always love to chat real estate.
