Airbnb is an online platform that enables people to advertise their spaces for short-term rentals. The term is short for “Air Bed and Breakfast,” a nod to the co-founders’ original concept of charging travelers to sleep on air mattresses to earn money to pay for their San Francisco lease.

The hosts nowadays list guesthouses, flats, and small rooms. You can also lease just about anything through the app, like outdoor tents, sleeping bags, couches, and even boats. If you want to make extra income, consider taking an in-depth Airbnb course to become a Superhost. Also, know the answer to these four critical Airbnb hosting questions first:

1. How much will you earn?

Before you become a host, ensure it pays off. The best approach would be to enter your details in the Airbnb calculator to get a potential income estimate. You need not enter confidential information — just the city, your space, and the number of guests that you can accommodate. It will show your monthly income potential, focused on the space getting rented for half of the month, and the rates of identical areas in your location.

Next, search for similar spaces. How does it compare to your area? How can you compete with these rentals?

2. How much does it cost?

There is no charge if you are listing your room on the platform, but you will want to take into account any additional costs you could incur as a host.

Hosting Fees: Every time a reservation gets accomplished, Airbnb will charge you 3% of the earnings. Include it in the rental price. The hosting charge is worth it, as you will never find a more streamlined way to advertise your rental with competitive pricing and coverage.

Taxes: Many cities have transient occupancy tax based on your location. Build this additional cost into your pricing and match it to hotel clients who pay taxes. You may have to clarify this to every client, and you can learn the best approach for this through an Airbnb course.

Host Protection Insurance: Does your home insurance cover short-term rentals? Remember that the platform offers host protection insurance to U.S. hosts, which encompasses guest accidents, but you still have to do some research. You may need to buy a business policy that covers rental properties.

Maintenance costs: The hosts may charge a housekeeping fee for their rentals, although the service charges will always apply.

Goods and commodities: Bear in mind that you need to replenish the room, including cleaning supplies, toilet paper, etc. — after every booking.

You will probably need to know how much cash you need to spend on the space before listing it. The area might need a new coat of paint or a new batch of tiles. Pick up some ornaments or potted plants, too.

3. Is it legal?

Before becoming a host, check the State’s short-term rental laws on the official website. In certain cities, you need to register, get a license, or obtain permission before listing the estate or accepting guests. Other forms of short-term stays may be illegal, and state governments can differ in the manner they enforce regulations. Consult with your homeowners’ association, your landlord, if you are a tenant and your neighbors. If you are authorized to lease with Airbnb, ensure you politely remind your visitors to be mindful of your surroundings.

4. Can you meet the host requirements?

• Airbnb specifies the five essential responsibilities that you should meet.
• Supply the necessities, namely tissue paper, shampoo, sheets, and at least a towel or pillow for each visitor.
• Be receptive to your prospective tenants, reply to accommodation inquiries, and requests within 24 hours.
• Accept booking requests if you are available.
• Minimize cancelations.
• Maintain an excellent overall rating.

If you could answer the four essential questions, you are now ready for an in-depth Airbnb course to be on your way to becoming a Superhost. If you have any other concerns, the platform provides a 24/7 support line for hosts, so contact them if any issue comes up.

Many organizations across the globe have shifted their IT infrastructure to cloud computing in recent years, and AWS is the preferred partner to facilitate that. AWS has a pay as you go model, and yet its costs tend to go out of control. Many organizations are looking for answers on how to reduce AWS costs. In this article, we would elaborately discuss some of the ways you can optimize your AWS cost to fit your budget. 

Website Traffic

One of the ways to optimize AWS cost is to monitor your website’s traffic. By using an analytics tool, it would become easier to gauge when your site is attracting the most traffic or when the traffic is low. The timing of the traffic spiking and reducing plays a vital role in how you configure your AWS settings. Once you know the timings, the EC2 instances can be set accordingly to keep the costs under control. The instances of EC2 are charged hourly, and it can be configured with respect to the traffic volume and its timings. 

Auto-Scaling

Auto-scaling is another AWS option you can choose to ensure that your EC2 instances do not get charged when it’s not required. The EC2 instances are dynamic and can be increased or decreased as per the requirements. Turning on auto-scaling for EC2 instances would ensure that the instances are launched only at the time of need and do not continue to operate when not required. It helps in scaling down the cost considerably.

AWS Storage Optimization

Storage is one of the crucial factors when optimizing AWS cost. Many storage options are offered by AWS, such as Elastic File System, Simple Storage Service, Glacier, and Elastic Block Store. Glacier is the cheapest of them all, and the EFS is the most expensive. With Glacier option, you can store a gigabyte of data for just $0.004 a month, which is highly affordable and conducive for small businesses and startups. If the data in your business doesn’t need to be modified, deleted, or retrieved regularly, Glacier is a decent option. 

Virtual Private Cloud

If your business is data-intensive and there is a constant movement of data required, setting up a virtual private cloud (VPC) is recommended. AWS costs you when moving data, and such data transfer fees can accumulate to become a considerable sum over time. Setting up VPC endpoints and connecting the same with the AWS servers would not require the internet and make data transfer secure and seamless. It is one of the most effective ways for AWS cost optimization. 

Amazon Lambda

Using Amazon Lambda for audio file processing, video editing, image resizing, and other such queuing jobs is an ideal option. Using Amazon Lambda ensures there is no need to run expensive private or dedicated servers for the purpose. When the image or the video is uploaded, the S3 instance is triggered, and the customers are charged only for the amount of time their code is operational. 

These are the few answers to how to reduce AWS costs that can be easily implemented. Taking the help of an AWS architect and professional might be a good idea if your AWS infrastructure is cluttered and unorganized. Keeping track of EC2 instances, using VPC, and optimizing your storage requirements would drastically help in reducing your AWS bills. 

Have you just joined the Airbnb bandwagon? Are you looking for ways to increase the gains of your short term rentals? Being an Airbnb Superhost is a sure-fire method of growing the profitability and marketability of your properties.

What is the program?

Since 2016, Airbnb has awarded the Superhost status to hosts who have earned an excellent reputation in their online platform. This recognition gives hosts an edge over their competitors by suggesting them as top picks for potential guests.

They can also sometimes appear in advertisements, thus, providing higher visibility rates and traffic at the host’s page. It was reported that those who have given this status are experiencing 60% more revenue per day and an 81% higher rate of occupancy than regular hosts.

Requirements to Become a Superhost

The host should accept an average of ten bookings for short term rentals a year. It’s an indication that the property has high marketability.

Another criterion is the response rate of the host. The host should make it a habit to respond to potential guests promptly and maintain a 90% response rate.
The response rate matters because it shows that the host is professional and serious about addressing the concerns of guests. It also requires that the host receive 5-star reviews from at least 80% of guests who have stayed in the property.

Further, the host should have a good record of confirmed reservations. Hosts who cancel bookings often regarded as unreliable. Canceling bookings, especially at the last minute, can cause hassle for the guests. It might also turn them off from using Airbnb.
The platform conducts the assessment for the program every start of January, April, July, and October. If approved, a Superhost badge will automatically appear at the page of your listing to indicate your VIP status. A host can gain or lose this status if she/he could not adequately satisfy all of the requirements.

How to be a Superhost

Two of the essential qualities that guests are looking for in a host are reliability and honesty. Because much of the requirement depends on the satisfaction of the guests, make sure that you set the right expectations for them.

It can easily happen by providing accurate photos of the property’s rooms and amenities. If there are any concerns with regards to the place or the living arrangement, inform them upfront.

If you’re employing the BNB Formula of handing many properties all at once, make sure that the landlord is aware that you have an Airbnb guest over. This way, the guests will not become placed in a compromised position.

To make yourself more agreeable to them, be available to answer their inquiries or respond to their needs. It also helps if you place some personal touch like leaving a simple note on their desk or giving them a welcome drink upon their arrival.

You can also courteously invite them for a meal if you have the time. Lastly, make it a point to leave reviews to your guests. Doing so will encourage them to give you positive feedback, as well.

Boosting your short-term rental services takes a lot of hard work and consistency. However, the payoff is more than adequate to compensate for the effort that you will be exerting.

There are more than 900 insurance companies in America that offer health plans. With those numbers, it can be tricky to find one that is right for you. Just like any industry, there will be some agents who are not interested in your welfare as much as they are with their commission.

Before you even try to look for “insurance agents near me,” ask yourself the following questions:

• How healthy are you?
• Do you have a chronic condition that prevents you from leading a healthy lifestyle?
• Are you taking maintenance medication?
• How often do you visit a doctor in a year?
• How much can you budget on your health insurance?
• What are your preferences when it comes to health coverage?
• Do you have company health insurance? How much does it cover?

Answering those questions will give you a reasonably good idea of the type of insurance that is right for you.

Ultimately, you may select one of the following:

Traditional plans — These are health insurance coverage that will take care of most expenses when you get hospitalized. It is crucial since the average American spends almost $4,000 for each day of hospital stay. The insurance company will shoulder the cost after deductibles and out-of-pocket payments. In most instances, you only pay 20% of the total expenses.

Disability Plans — Disability insurance will cover the cost in case you miss time off work due to an injury. It will also repay you if you have a long-term disability and could no longer gain employment.

High-deductible plans — They demand a lower premium, but you do need to pay higher deductibles. Talk to your insurance agent if this is the best plan for your situation.

Managed care — Health maintenance organizations and preferred provider organizations are among the entities included in this plan. You may pay a lower premium and, in some instances, it does not require a co-pay cost. However, you cannot choose your doctors since physicians only recognized it within the closed network.

Conversely, before you type “insurance agents near me,” on the Google search bar, prepare your questions first. In that way, you do not forget anything when it is time to talk to the agent:

How much is the premium, and who is entitled to get the benefits? What are the medical services included in your plan?

What type of plan is ideal for your situation? What can they recommend? Is the fee-for-service ideal when it comes to your budget, or should you consider a managed plan? What are the pros and cons of each service?

Which is better for you, a deductible or a co-pay? What are the advantages and disadvantages of each option?

Will your insurance cover the medical costs for your spouse or children? What if your children are already of age or if they move out of the house? What if they already have a job?

Can you use my insurance for regular medical check-ups? What about maintenance medication, do you get reimbursements?

What about if you have a pre-existing condition?

Do you need to call the doctor for an appointment, or you can walk in for a check-up?

What if you are on a trip overseas and you are in a medical emergency, can you use your insurance then?

These are some of the questions you ask your agent. Of course, it is best to do your due diligence and go online.

Do you often find yourself asking about retirement? After years of hard work, it’s finally time to retire. You may have already started thinking about it, but the question is, when is the right time to retire? 
 
Not everyone is ready to retire, and it doesn’t matter how prepared you think you are. You may earn a high monthly income, but if you don’t invest in your future, then your present will be at stake.
 
Here are some signs that will help you know the answer to the question, “Can I Retire Yet”? 
 
1) You’re Free of Debt
 
If you’re already living a debt-free life and you don’t foresee any debts in the future, then you’re one step towards retirement. 
 
However, if you still owe the bank some money, such as your credit card bills, then it’s best to postpone retirement until you’re completely debt-free.
 
Surely, you don’t want to worry about any type of debt. Remember, retirement is meant to live your golden years fully. You need to make the most out of it! 
 
2) You Don’t Support Anyone
 
Another sign that you’re ready to retire is when you’re no longer supporting anyone. It could be that your children already have stable jobs and families of their own. 
 
However, if you’re still supporting your children and helping them out regularly, then it’s probably not the best time to retire. This also applies if you even support your parents, who require your financial support. 
 
3) You Have a Withdrawal Plan
 
You have spent years saving up for retirement, and now that you’re asking yourself the question “Can I Retire Yet?”, it’s probably time that you establish a withdrawal plan. 
 
A withdrawal plan allows you to know the right amount of money you can safely get from your savings every year. 
 
Having enough money to cover you throughout the years after retirement is one thing. However, you can’t just withdraw all the money in the bank. You need to have a withdrawal plan, and if you already have one, then you’re one step closer to retirement. 
 
4) Your Healthcare Is All Sorted Out
 
Retirement should be fun, but you also have to consider that it doesn’t make you younger. You will probably have lesser stress by this time, but still, age can bring health problems, and it’s best that you’re prepared for anything. 
 
When you retire, you will not have a stable source of income. So, before you retire, you have to sort out potential healthcare costs such as premiums, etc. 
 
Long-term care is possibly an expense that you will face in retirement, and it’s not cheap. Healthcare costs can also be unpredictable, so it’s best that you’re ready to take on such a task. 
 
If you already have this sorted out, then you’re almost ready to retire. 
 
5) Your Loved Ones Agree
 
Retirement does not involve you only. If you’re married, you have to consider what your spouse thinks and how it affects them. If you’re single, you might have to consider what your family has to say. 
 
The opinions of the people you will be spending your retirement years with have a say on whether it’s the right time for you to retire or not. Consider their opinion because you don’t want to have any problems with them in the long run regarding your retirement. When you have their go-signal, then consider yourself free as a bird. 
 

Most small businesses wait until the last day to ready their books for the tax season. Getting an early start, whether you do it yourself or use tax companies, will reduce your tax burden and minimize the struggles you go through at the end of the year. It could even increase your tax deductions. Here are three tips on preparing your business for the tax season.

Update Employee and Independent Contractor Details

Do not wait for the end of the year to collect your employee and contractor details. If your business works with independent contractors and not employees, you will be required to submit 1099 form – this is a form that reports any payments over $600 made to contractors. Before submitting the details, call contractors to ensure you have up-to-date information.

If you do not have a W-9 form on file, submit one to the contractors and ask for contact details and business tax identification number. By January 31, every employee should receive a W-2 form to ensure you have the correct contact details.

Maximize Deductions

As the end of year approaches, you need to take advantage of tax deductions to pay as little tax as possible. To start with, buy new office equipment or furniture towards the tax season to qualify for tax deductions. You can also contribute in-cash or in-kind to a charitable organization. Instead of disposing of your old equipment and furniture, give them to a qualifying charitable organization, and you could reduce your tax burden by a large percentage.

Another way to reduce your tax burden is to give end-year bonuses to your employees before December. Bonuses given before the start of the tax period qualify your business for tax deductions. Still on employees, and end year party (that is limited to all employees and not you and your family) may qualify for up to 100 percent tax deductions as established by IRS.

Gather All Documents in Time

Receipts, invoices, and any other documents needed to file your tax returns must be ready by the start of the tax period. Organize all your tax documents in an easy-to-access folder. Keep in mind that some of the materials need to be prepared way ahead of time. 

If you are looking to get information on how to make, save, or deal with money, you may want to consider reading a Millennial Money Blog. This blog offers sound advice on how you can navigate through finances and maximize them the best way you can.

Dealing with finances can be taxing and undesirable due to the technicalities that come with them. At times, you might find yourself stuck due to the complications that arise with handling money. Whether you are looking to earn on the side or trying to better allocate your cash for purchases, there are many techniques you can utilize. 
 
Reading a blog may be much less daunting compared to doing manual research. You will likely not find as many technical terms, and you will be able to digest information more easily. 

Millennial Money Blog have been on the rise lately because of the increasing concern for personal finances. As such, they serve as excellent sources of valuable information.

You no longer need to subject yourself to extensive research because you can learn many things from these blogs. As the world of finance is vast, millennial money blogs or blog posts tend to focus on specific themes. 
 
Money-making and Money-saving

The most common topics for a Millennial Money Blog would be how to make and save money. With the various ways you can earn and save money, you must find a blog that applies to your situation and goals. Some blogs may talk about side hustles, while others promote taking small steps to save a considerable amount of money potentially.
 
Budgeting

Perhaps one of the most useful information you can get from a Millennial Money Blog would be advice on how to budget your money. If you have ever had to work with limited funds, then you may have struggled with figuring out how exactly to work around with whatever amount you had.

Budgeting can often be seen as a mundane task since it requires calculations and lots of thinking. Several bloggers, however, have tried to discuss the concept of budgeting in a more exciting way. Rather than try to impose a strict method of allocating money, bloggers would usually share perspectives or mindsets to go about budgeting. 
 
Achieving Financial Freedom

Several Millennial Money Blogs also discuss financial freedom or being free of debt. These may commonly target college students, start-up business owners, or other groups of people who may need to source capital elsewhere. Blogs that highlight financial freedom show that it is possible to get rid of debts and, after, build on your savings. 
 
Investing

With investments being a hugely technical field of finance, bloggers have tried to explain this in layman’s terms. There are many things to acquaint yourself with if you intend to enter the world of investments. Typically, blogs that focus on investments would advise how to invest the right way or what factors you must consider before investing.
 
Whatever type of information you may be looking for, Millennial Money Blogs are a rich source of advice and perspective.

You may sometimes think of money as something complicated, but these blogs depict them as something less daunting. They offer several tips, tricks, and techniques that you can utilize to achieve your goals. However, you must remember that not all advice applies to everyone, so it is also a matter of understanding what works best for you or your situation.