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Laundry rooms are important, but they’re often not the prettiest of rooms. They also tend to be sandwiched into small spaces or hidden in inconvenient areas of the home. No wonder some homeowners consider remodeling them.

But whether you should undertake a laundry room remodel depends on the size of the space, the kinds of new appliances you want to install, and any special décor touches you’d like to add, among other factors.

A remodel might be worth it if it creates a perky and efficient space or a room that has multiple functions.

Before Starting Your Laundry Room Remodel

If you’ve been thinking about giving your laundry room a clean start, you’ve probably got a lot of ideas and inspiration swimming in your head.

Before embarking on your project, think through what you’re hoping to accomplish by asking yourself the following questions.

What’s the Scope of the Project?

Some upgrades involve small improvements like new paint and cabinetry, while others call for tearing through walls, moving plumbing, or even relocating your laundry room to another area of the home.

Appliances should also be considered. Will you need a new washer and dryer, or do you plan on using the ones you currently have?

What Do You Plan to Use Your Laundry Room For?

While most laundry rooms are used solely for handling laundry, others also act as mudrooms and storage for cleaning supplies, sports gear, and bulk shopping items like bottled water, paper products, and pet food.

What your laundry room is used for will affect the laundry room remodel ideas available to you.

Recommended: Guide to Buying, Selling, and Updating Your Home

How Often and When Do You Do Laundry?

If you have a large family and do washing and drying frequently, that will influence the design of your new laundry room. You may need ample counter space for folding, a fold-down ironing board, or bins to hold each person’s clean clothing.

If you tend to do the laundry during the day, you might want to consider adding a window for some natural light. And if you’re more likely to wash clothes in the evening, under-cabinet lighting may help.

What Are Your Must-Haves?

Some homeowners might want bins and baskets to keep things tidy. Others may be looking to add features like a sink or build out their laundry room to accommodate more counter space.

Whatever your desire, it’s a good idea to list the elements that you can’t live without so you can build them into your budget.


💡 Quick Tip: Don’t overpay for your mortgage. Get a great rate by shopping around for a home loan.

How Much Can You Spend?

The scope of your project will dictate your budget and how you plan to pay for your remodel.

Some homeowners could see a laundry room remodel as a way to increase their home’s value and opt to borrow to pay for the project. Others might choose to keep things scaled down so they don’t spend beyond what they have on hand. A home improvement cost calculator can help you figure out how much your project might run you.

Laundry Room Remodel Ideas

Now that you’ve got the foundation of your project mapped out, it’s time to envision how your laundry room remodel will take shape. That will depend on the following factors.

If You Have Limited Space

Small laundry rooms can still pack a punch, thanks to creative ways to maximize your available space. You can do that by tucking laundry baskets under counters, adding a rod under cabinets to hang clothes, and using wall space for hooks to hang laundry bags or baskets that can hold clothespins, detergent, and dryer sheets.

Don’t forget that laundry rooms don’t need to be actual rooms; if you’re short on space, consider tucking your washer and dryer into an unused closet and installing a farmhouse door for easy access.

Depending on its size, you can then use the prior laundry room as a guest room, home office, nursery, or kids’ playroom.

Recommended: What Are the Most Common Home Repair Costs?

If You’ll Be Using the Room for More Than Cleaning Clothes

The list of ways to use a laundry room is endless, and will largely depend on each household’s needs.

•   Got a large dog? You might consider installing a pet-washing station, especially if you are already planning on undertaking plumbing work.

•   Need a quiet place to conduct conference calls at home? A fold-down workstation meets both communication and laundry needs.

•   Larger families may tuck an additional fridge in the laundry room.

•   People who love to entertain may find storage for plates and glassware in the laundry room.

Your Budget

A laundry room remodel can quickly add up if new plumbing, cabinetry, and construction work are involved.

If you find yourself running beyond what you’re willing to spend, think of creative ways to get the laundry room you want without breaking the bank.

That might entail painting cabinets instead of replacing them, using open shelving instead of custom built-ins, and opting for durable paint in place of tiled backsplashes.


💡 Quick Tip: A home equity line of credit brokered by SoFi gives you the flexibility to spend what you need when you need it — you only pay interest on the amount that you spend. And the interest rate is lower than most credit cards.

DIY vs Calling In an Expert

Many homeowners are comfortable with do-it-yourself projects. In a laundry room remodel, these might include painting, replacing cabinetry, and installing shelving and hanging rods.

Other projects — moving water lines, installing new sinks or drywall, and demolition — require hiring a contractor. Mapping out which projects you will need to outsource will affect your budget and may also affect the scope of your project.

Paying for It

Smaller laundry room remodels, like those that require just a new coat of paint or a retrofitting of shelving to maximize storage space, can be done with fairly little outlay, especially if you do it yourself or have a friend or family member lend a hand.

Larger ones, or those that call for extensive demolition, architectural work, or the services of a general contractor, will be more expensive, of course.

The size of the project — and therefore how much money you’ll need—matters, as does your timeline for paying back any loan.
Here are some options:

•   Cash may be a viable choice, especially for smaller projects.

•   A home equity loan allows you to draw on the equity in your house to get a lump sum upfront, which can finance larger or multiple projects.

•   A home equity loan of credit (HELOC) also leverages your house equity but gives you a revolving line of credit you can draw on if and when you need it.

The Takeaway

Laundry room ideas for remodeling range from DIY tweaks to major overhauls. A laundry room remodel may increase the value of your home or simply make life a little easier. Start by listing what you want to achieve and how you’re going to pay for it.

SoFi now offers home equity loans. Access up to 85%, or $750,000, of your home’s equity. Enjoy lower interest rates than most other types of loans. Cover big purchases, fund home renovations, or consolidate high-interest debt. You can complete an application in minutes.

FAQ

Where do I start renovating my laundry room?

Begin with the big picture of your project and its purpose. Consider what you need from your laundry room. Do you want it to maximize efficiency as you wash, dry, and fold? Do you want it to double as storage space for bulk items or out-of-season coats? Do you want it to provide space where you can work on craft projects? Once you work out your needs and priorities, you can focus on the features you’ll need to make the space work for you.

How long does it take to remodel a laundry room?

The length of time remodeling your laundry room requires depends upon how extensive your remodel is, whether you need professional help or can do it yourself, and whether permits are required for the work you want, among other factors. If you’re repainting or adding a few shelves, you may be able to do it in a weekend. If you’re hiring contractors for work that involves your plumbing or electrical systems or requires them to move walls, it could take as much as four to six weeks.

How much does it cost to move a laundry room?

The price tag for moving your laundry room can vary a lot, depending on where you live and how well set up the new location is for plumbing and electricity — and, of course, what you want to have in your laundry room. The cost can run from $500 to $5,000 or more.

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All loan terms, fees, and rates may vary based upon your individual financial and personal circumstances and state.
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Thinking about installing a new deck, replacing a front door, or even adding an extra bedroom to your home to help increase its resale value? Considering that your home is one of the biggest investments you’re likely to ever make, it makes sense that you’d be interested in increasing its value with some upgrades.

But as you probably guessed, not all remodeling projects provide the same return on investment (ROI).

Using Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value 2024 report, which compares the average cost of 23 remodeling projects in 150 housing markets, let’s look at some of the most popular home improvements based on estimated ROI, time commitment, and cost.

Things to Consider Before Starting a Home Improvement Project

It’s important to note that national averages only tell part of the story. Labor and supply costs, styles, and consumer preferences can vary by location. So before you dive into a project, you might want to consider hiring a contractor, real estate agent, or appraiser to come to your house and give an opinion on which upgrades might provide the most value based on where you live.

You may also want to factor in any immediate needs that a remodeling project can help satisfy. Let’s say, for instance, you’d like to add an extra bathroom. While you may only recoup part of your expenses, having an additional washroom may be worth the cost of a renovation.

Top Home Improvement Projects to Help Increase Your Home Value

Looking to prioritize your wish list? These remodeling projects earned top spots on the Cost vs. Value report.

Garage Door Replacement

Average Cost: $4,513

Resale Value: $8,751

Costs Recouped: 193.9%

General Time Commitment: A few days

Removing an old garage door and replacing it with an attractive, sturdy new one could return every dollar of your initial investment — and then some, according to the Cost vs. Value report. It’s an effective way to improve your home’s appearance from the outside while increasing your home’s functionality for years to come.

With an average cost of $4,513, which includes the door and the cost of labor, it’s also a relatively affordable renovation. While most homeowners would likely hire someone to help install the new garage door, it is something that you could potentially do on your own (with the help of a friend) over the course of a weekend.

If you hire someone to install the door for you, they will likely come to your home twice: first, to take measurements and give you a quote, and then again to install the door.

Entry Door Replacement (steel)

Average Cost: $2,355

Resale Value: $4,430

Cost Recouped: 188.1%

General Time Commitment: One week

A new, safe front door is an attractive quality to prospective homebuyers. Replacing your entry door and jambs with a steel door, “including clear dual-pane half-glass panel, jambs, and aluminum threshold with composite stop,” should get you a good bang for your buck, according to the Cost vs. Value report.

Even better, you and a friend can probably handle installation on your own, though you can certainly hire an installation expert. If you decide to go the pro route, they’ll likely need to come to your home to take initial measurements and then return for the installation. Another option is to measure and order the door yourself and just get help with the installation.

Recommended: 32 Inexpensive Ways to Refresh Your Home

Manufactured Stone Veneer

Average Cost: $11,287

Resale Value: $17,291

Cost Recouped: 153.2%

General Time Commitment: One month

Removing the vinyl siding and adding a stone veneer to the bottom third of your home’s street-facing façade is an effective way to help increase the value of your home, returning 102.3% of the cost of renovation. First impressions matter when it comes to selling a home, and stone veneer is a popular look right now.

Whether you tackle this project yourself or hire a handyperson to help with the installation, this project will take several days to complete. If you choose to hire someone, understand that the construction days might not be successive, so the exterior of your home could be under construction for several weeks to a month or longer.

Minor Kitchen Remodel (Midrange)

Average Cost: $27,492

Resale Value: $26,406

Cost Recouped: 96.1%

General Time Commitment: Four to eight months

When it comes to kitchen remodels, less may be more, at least when it comes to ROI. According to the Cost vs. Value report, major kitchen remodels recoup anywhere from 38% to 49.5% of costs. Meanwhile, a smaller upgrade recoups 96.1% of costs.

What does a minor remodel include? Think faster-turnaround jobs like installing a new sink and faucet or replacing items like cabinet fronts, cooktop, oven range, refrigerator with new models, countertops, or floors.

When creating your budget, you’ll probably want to factor in the cost of expert help, such as an electrician, plumber, and contractor. You’ll also want to be realistic about how long you can devote to the project — and be without a working kitchen. Expect several months at minimum for a remodel.

Wood Deck Addition

Average Cost: $17,615

Resale Value: $14,596

Cost Recouped: 82.9%

General Time Commitment: Three to six months

Nothing beats enjoying family and friends on a deck in your backyard on a sunny day. Potential buyers are typically rightfully happy to pay extra for a deck, and a wooden deck installation could recoup half of what you spend. And ideally, you’ll get the chance to enjoy the deck before you sell your home.

A deck installation is a pretty large project. It will likely need to pass an inspection and adhere to your city’s building codes, and it could increase your property taxes and home insurance costs. So it pays to get the job done right the first time, which may mean enlisting the help of a designer or architect. These pros can map out an initial plan, and a contractor can handle the building.

An online home renovation cost calculator can help provide you with a rough idea of how much a wooden deck — and any other home upgrade project — could cost.

HVAC Conversion/Electrification

Average Cost: $18,800

Resale Value: $12,422

Costs Recouped: 66.1%

General Time Commitment: Anywhere from 1-2 days up to several days, depending on whether your home requires structural changes

Replacing a fossil fuel-burning HVAC system with one that runs on electricity isn’t cheap. Nor is it one to try to DIY. But according to the Cost vs. Value report, you could stand to get back roughly two-thirds of what you put in. Homeowners who decide to make the conversion may also notice a savings in their heating and cooling bills. And there are environmental benefits to consider as well.

Unless you’re a licensed HVAC technician, this is a project best suited for the professionals. Consider speaking with a few different HVAC installation teams to compare potential systems and cost options.

Remodeling Projects With the Lowest Potential ROI

While these upgrades may not deliver the biggest returns, they could still be worth exploring if they fit your budget and lifestyle needs.

Primary Bedroom or Bathroom Addition

Average Cost: $164,649 for midrange; $339,513 for upscale

Resale Value: $58,484 for midrange; $81,042 for upscale

Cost Recouped: 35.5% for midrange; 23.9% for upscale

General Time Commitment: Four to eight months

Adding on a primary bedroom or bathroom may enhance your living experience, but it might not add much to your bottom line. Despite the project’s hefty financial and time commitment, it generally fails to deliver even one-third of the investment.

However, while not a great return, a home addition project of this size could change to the value of your home. For example, a $300,000 home that adds a primary suite for $164,649 could potentially return about $58,000 on the investment. A home that sells for $358,000 instead of $300,000 is a 19.3% increase in the home’s value. If you were to get enough use from the addition to justify the other cost you can’t recoup, it could still be a fine investment.

Again, these figures are purely hypothetical, and the value of expanding your home can depend on a multitude of factors. And if you decide to move ahead with a primary bedroom or bathroom addition, you’ll want to think through how you’ll finance the project. Some options include applying for a home improvement loan, using home equity, dipping into your savings, or using credit cards.

Recommended: Homebuyer’s Guide

Bathroom Addition

Average Cost: $58,586 for midrange; $107,477 for upscale

Resale Value: $20,334 for midrange; $34,997 for upscale

Cost Recouped: 34.7% for midrange; 32.6% for upscale

General Time Commitment: Four to eight months

A bathroom remodel tends to be cheaper than a primary bathroom addition, and it generally sees a slightly better potential ROI. But again, a bathroom addition or any large remodeling project should be considered in terms of both ROI and what you want to get out of your home while you are living in it. And that’s a calculation that only you and your family can make.

The Takeaway

Home renovation shows make upgrades look quick and easy. And while sometimes they can be, in many cases, renovations can be costly and time-consuming. As you consider which ones to make, you will likely want to factor in your return on investment (ROI).

Not all remodeling projects provide the same level of ROI. Projects such as replacing a garage door or adding a stone veneer to your home’s façade tend to see better ROI than adding an extra primary bedroom or bathroom. But ROI is only one consideration. You should also need to consider what you want to get out of your home and whether the time and cost of taking on a big project are worth it.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.

FAQ

What home improvements offer the most value?

According to the Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value 2024 report, the top three home improvement projects that have the best ROI are: replacing the garage door (193.9% of costs recouped), replacing the entry door with a steel version (188.1% of costs recouped), and adding manufactured stone veneer to the home’s exterior (153.2% of costs recouped).

Which home improvement is least likely to increase the value of your home?

Wallpapering, built-in electronics, wall-to-wall carpeting, and a swimming pool are examples of projects that typically don’t increase the resale value of your home.

Does new flooring increase home value?

New flooring can potentially boost the value of your home, especially if your current flooring is worn or in poor condition. Hardwood flooring often provides significant ROI, though luxury vinyl plank and tile flooring can also add value.

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SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SOPL-Q225-016

A financial coach works with clients to help them better manage their money and to develop healthy, long-lasting, finance-related habits.

If you need help getting your finances organized or setting up a plan to effectively work towards your financial goals, you might benefit from the help of a financial coach. These professionals can help clients pay off debt, create an emergency savings fund, stabilize their finances, and develop an overall financial plan.

Unlike financial advisors, financial coaches generally spend more time helping their clients understand the fundamentals of finances, rather than recommending investments and managing their investment portfolios.

Read on to learn more about financial coaches, what they do, how much they cost, and how to find one.

What Does a Financial Coach Do?

According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, a financial coach is a trained professional who collaborates with and guides their clients to reach their financial goals, including:

•   Better money management skills

•   Improved savings, debt levels, and credit

•   More financial confidence

Financial coaches typically individualize their approach based on the needs of each client, with the goal of helping them make progress in the area of their financial life that they identify as most important. For example, a financial coach might help you reach your financial goals by teaching you how to build savings, avoid overspending, or pay down debt.

Financial coaches also often assist their clients with the behavioral and emotional components of managing money. A coach can help you uncover what drives your financial decisions, so you can create a healthier attitude that leads to better money habits.

Coaches often work with their clients over the period of several weeks to several months and may meet weekly or biweekly to provide advice and check on progress. The full coaching process may include:

•   Building awareness around spending habits (usually by tracking daily, weekly, and monthly spending)

•   Defining the client’s financial goals

•   Developing a budget and a financial plan to achieve those goals

Accountability is also typically built into the process. So rather than managing a person’s finances, a financial coach gives clients the tools to help make informed and responsible financial decisions.

What a financial coach can’t do: offer investment recommendations or help clients manage their investment portfolios. While coaches can provide basic advice on the concept of investing, they are not licensed to provide financial advice like financial advisors are, and therefore cannot provide specific product recommendations.

💡 Quick Tip: If you’re saving for a short-term goal — whether it’s a vacation, a wedding, or the down payment on a house — consider opening a high-yield savings account. The higher APY that you’ll earn will help your money grow faster, but the funds stay liquid, so they are easy to access when you reach your goal.

How Much Does a Financial Coach Cost?

Coaching rates typically run between $100 to $300 an hour. But because of the wide range of fees charged by coaches, it’s a good idea to ask about costs upfront.

Unlike financial advisors, who typically charge their fees based on a percentage of the assets under management, financial coaches generally work on a fee-only basis. Some may charge a flat fee based on how long you plan to work together (such as three or six months), while others might charge per session.

How do I Find a Financial Coach?

While there is no required coursework or license, and there are no certifications to become a financial coach, there are training programs run by the Association for Financial Counseling and Planning Education (AFCPE).

You can begin looking for financial coaches in your area at AFCPE.org. It’s also a good idea to ask for personal referrals from friends and family, as well as other financial professionals you know or work with (such as an accountant or financial advisor).

Before selecting a coach, it can help to consider specifically what you are looking for in a financial mentor. This can involve thinking about your own financial strengths and weaknesses, and what your goals are. Are you, for example, struggling to save enough money for a down payment on a house? Or, do your credit card balances keep going up? Identifying your needs can help you suss out the best coach for your situation.

Once you’ve gathered a list of financial coaches, you may want to reach out to each candidate to get a sense of their personality, methods, and coaching style.

Some questions to consider asking:

•   How long have you been a coach?

•   What’s your business specialty?

•   How long do you typically work with clients?

•   What’s your plan to help me reach my goals?

•   What is your availability?

•   What are your fees?

💡 Quick Tip: If you’re faced with debt and wondering which kind to pay off first, it can be smart to prioritize high-interest debt first. For many people, this means their credit card debt; rates have recently been climbing into the double-digit range, so try to eliminate that ASAP.

The Takeaway

Maybe you’ve tried to make a budget but just can’t stick to it. Or perhaps you’ve run up so much debt between credit cards and loans that you don’t know the best way to pay it off. A financial coach can help you structure your budget, build a financial plan, and hold you accountable throughout the process.

Financial coaches also help clients understand and work through deep-seated emotions around money that may be preventing them from being “good with money,” building up savings, and reaching their financial goals.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with eligible direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.

FAQ

What Exactly Does a Financial Coach Do?

A financial coach helps you set and achieve financial goals by providing personalized guidance and support. They assist with budgeting, debt management, setting goals, saving, and investing. Coaches often work one-on-one, offering accountability and motivation to help you make informed financial decisions and improve your overall financial health.

What Is the Average Cost of a Financial Coach?

The average cost of a financial coach ranges from $100 to $300 per hour, depending on the coach’s experience and the services offered. Some coaches offer package deals or flat rates, which can be more cost-effective. Shop around and compare prices to find a coach that fits your budget.

What Is a Financial Coach Not Allowed to Do?

A financial coach is not allowed to manage your investments, provide legal advice, or act as a fiduciary. They cannot make financial transactions on your behalf or offer specific investment recommendations. Their role is to provide guidance and support, not to handle your money directly.

What is the Difference Between a Financial Coach and a Financial Advisor?

A financial coach focuses on behavior and mindset, helping you set and achieve personal financial goals through accountability and support. A financial advisor, on the other hand, provides professional advice on investments, retirement planning, and wealth management. Advisors often manage your investments and offer more technical financial planning services.

SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. The SoFi® Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

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Although we do our best to recognize all Eligible Direct Deposits, a small number of employers, payroll providers, benefits providers, or government agencies do not designate payments as direct deposit. To ensure you're earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, we encourage you to check your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit posts to your SoFi account. If your APY is not showing as the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. As long as SoFi Bank can validate those details, you will start earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit from the date you contact SoFi for the next 31 calendar days. You will also be eligible for the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit on future Eligible Direct Deposits, as long as SoFi Bank can validate them.

Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, Wise, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder's Eligible Direct Deposit activity to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility.

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SOBNK-Q225-049

Renting out part, or all, of your home on a rental platform can be a lucrative sideline. Just keep in mind that it can take an investment of time, effort, and money to create and maintain a welcoming space for guests. And the plan could potentially backfire if you side-step some key legal and insurance steps.

To help ensure your venture is a success, here are some things you may want to consider before you start renting on Airbnb or a similar site.

1. Understanding Local Rental Laws

Before listing your home on a home-sharing site, it’s a good idea to research and make sure you fully understand local laws regarding renting out your home.

Laws that govern home shares vary around the country. In some cities, for instance, it’s illegal to rent a home as an Airbnb unless it’s your primary residence. In others, hosts can only rent out a portion of their home, and must be present during the guests’ stay. Laws about short-term rentals are also constantly changing.

If you own a condo or belong to a HOA, there may be other legal hoops to jump through, since you will likely need to get permission before opening your doors.

2. Checking With Your Landlord (if You’re Renting)

Looking to rent out a room in your home you rent? It can be wise to first carefully read through your own rental agreement.

Leases and agreements can contain language barring renters from subletting the home outright or without the express consent of the landlord. If you’re unsure even after reading the fine print, you may want to have a conversation about it with your landlord.


💡 Quick Tip: Help your money earn more money! Opening a high-yield bank account online often gets you higher-than-average rates.

3. Talking to Your Neighbors

While neighbors can’t tell you what you can and can’t do on your own property, they can make things difficult for you.

Prior to renting out your home, you may want to do the neighborly thing and pop in or give them a call to let them know what you are planning and do your best to ease any of their concerns. Who knows — they might even end up keeping an eye on the property for you while you’re away.

4. Being Prepared to Pay Taxes

Sure, renting your home on Airbnb may bring in a nice source of passive income. Like all income, however, this may be subject to state and federal taxes.

According to the IRS, third-party settlement organizations (like Airbnb and other vacation rental host sites) are required to issue a Form 1099-K when the amount of total transaction payments exceeds $2,500 in tax year 2025 and $600 in tax year 2026 and beyond.

5. Considering All the Expenses Involved in Renting

While it may be more fun to think about the extra income that could result from your home rental, it can also be important to think about all the expenses involved.

For example, you may have to purchase items to get the space ready, along with any amenities you will offer guests (like toiletries or coffee), and cleaning supplies (or, pay for a cleaning service), and more.

You may want to make a list of all your potential expenses and consider how it will affect your potential profits.


💡 Quick Tip: If you’re creating a budget, try the 50/30/20 budget rule. Allocate 50% of your after-tax income to the “needs” of life, like living expenses and debt. Spend 30% on wants, and then save the remaining 20% towards saving for your long-term goals.

6. Finding a House Manager if You’d Rather Not do all the Work

Does managing your listing, bookings, and maintaining your rental property sound like a lot? You might consider hiring a manager to do it for you.

There are a number of property management companies around the country. that specialize in managing short-term home rentals.

These agencies will handle everything from writing (or boosting the exposure of) your listing to communicating with guests to cleaning and taking care of repairs. Some charge a commission (i.e., a percentage of bookings), while others charge a flat monthly service fee.

7. Making Space for Guests

Prior to accepting your first guests, it’s a good idea to make sure you have room for them — and that typically means more than just a clean, freshly made bed.

You may also want to offer some empty drawers so that guests can unpack their clothing, and possibly also a free shelf in the bathroom for their toiletries.

8. Putting Away Valuables

While it’s nice to think that everyone is trustworthy, that may not always be the case. It can be a good idea to safely stow away any valuables when you are opening your home to people you don’t know.

You can do this by getting a heavy-duty safe. Or, you might want to lock off one room of the home as an “owner’s closet” that guests cannot access.

9. Checking With Your Insurance Company

Airbnb offers its hosts its own liability insurance. Though this covers a wide array of potential issues, including bodily injury to guests and any damage to the property, it may not cover everything. Plus, different home rental platforms may offer different levels of insurance coverage.

It can be a good idea to also check in with your own homeowners or renters insurance to see what type of coverage these policies offer.

10. Writing a Detailed Description

Ready to list? When it’s time to write a description of your home, it’s a good idea to make your listing as detailed as possible, and even include the flaws of your home. A home need not be perfect to list on Airbnb. However, the company suggests that honesty is the best policy.

It can be a good idea to tell guests exactly what they’ll find when they arrive, as well as highlight your home’s special features, such as the location or unique amenities of your space. For more ways to make your listing stand out, you may want to check out Airbnb’s “writing tips.”

11. Taking High Quality Photos

Before taking photos of your space, you may want to spend some time arranging everything as if you were getting ready to welcome your first guest. This can help showcase your space to its best advantage, and also help set your guests’ expectations before they book.

It’s also a good idea to shoot in landscape format (photos in search results are typically displayed in landscape, so vertical photos won’t showcase your space as well), shoot in the middle of the day when there is plenty of light, and to highlight any unique features or amenities.

12. Creating an Information Binder

It can be helpful to make a packet of information for your guests which includes key information, such as the Wi-Fi password, your contact number, and house rules (such as check-out time and anything that guests need to take care of before they leave).

You may also want to include instructions on how to work on anything quirky, such as the television or coffee maker, as well as local entertainment and restaurant options.

13. Offering A Few Extra Amenities

There are millions of listings on Airbnb. If you’re hoping that your rental will make financial freedom a reality, you’ll want it to stand out from the crowd.

Throwing in some extras can help encourage guests to choose your home over others. Are you near a popular beach? You may want to consider keeping some beach chairs and sand toys stored in the garage for guests to use.

Simple add-ons, like the use of your bicycles or a parking tag, may not cost you much (or anything) to offer, yet significantly increase the popularity of your listing — along with your earnings.

💡 Quick Tip: Bank fees eat away at your hard-earned money. To protect your cash, open a checking account with no account fees online — and earn up to 0.50% APY, too.

14. Making a Decision about Pets or No Pets

Before you list your property it’s a good idea to decide if you want your home to be a space for pets or not.

This is a personal decision, but you may want to consider whether or not your space is well-suited for pets (a light suede couch, for example, might not last very long). If you do decide to make your home pet-friendly, you could add in an additional fee for cleaning.

15. Learning How to Price a Property Right

You may think your home looks and feels like a million bucks, but that doesn’t mean travelers will pay a premium.

To understand how to price an Airbnb listing correctly, it’s a good idea to comb through comparable listings in your area to get a sense of what other people are charging.

You can also use a free online calculator like airDNA. You just need to input all your data, including home size, if it’s pet-friendly, location, etc., to get a recommended price for your listing.

Recommended: 33 Ways to Make Income From Home

16. Deciding How You Want to “Screen” Guests

It is against Airbnb’s nondiscrimination policy to decline a booking based on “race, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or marital status” or impose different standards for specific guests.

What hosts can screen for are people who may not be a good fit for their property by being as descriptive as possible in their listing. If your home is not a good fit for children, you may want to make that clear in your listing.

Do you want to limit the noise after specific hours to respect neighbors? You may want to be specific about that in your listing so you bring in the type of customer you are hoping to attract.

17. Learning About Enhanced Cleaning Standards

Airbnb, along with many other rental platforms, require hosts to use an enhanced five-step cleaning process between guests.

The protocol includes special measures, such as using disinfectants approved by your local regulatory agencies for use against Covid-19 on all high-touch surfaces (and letting them stand for the amount of time specified on the label) and washing all dishes and laundry at the highest heat setting possible.

18. Thinking About Turnover Time

Before you rent all or part of your home on a rental platform you will want to think about not only when you want to rent your home out, but also how long it will take you to get it properly cleaned (using the five-step protocol) and ready for the next guests.

Will you need 24 hours between guests or can you get the home ready in just a couple of hours? This will determine exactly what dates you are able to accept guests, as well as what check-in time you want to put in your listing.

19. Testing Your Rental With Friends

When you’re getting close to listing your space, you may want to try testing out the system with a few friends.

Inviting people you know and trust to rent your space (free of charge or for a low fee) won’t do much to get that extra income stream flowing, but it can help you work out the kinks, as well as garner you some (hopefully positive!) reviews.

Friends can also tell you honestly what you might do differently or change to improve the rental experience. This way, you’ll feel confident once people you don’t know arrive.

20. Being Ready for Bookings Right Away

With millions of users all over the world, it may be a good idea to go into listing your property believing you’ll receive guests right away.

While this may not happen, it’s better to be prepared for visitors, then wait to see how your listing performs before readying your space for guests.

21. Looking At Your Reviews

After guests depart they may leave you a review of their stay. It’s a good idea to not only look at the reviews but to take them to heart. Reviews can make or break Airbnb rentals.

While it can be tough to digest criticism of your home, if guests complain about something that can be easily fixed, it can be in your best interest to fix it.

Reading positive reviews can be a good way to see your rental from an outsider’s perspective and make changes to improve your listing.

22. Accepting the Fact You Can’t Please Everyone

Sometimes, people are just difficult, or nitpicky, or just aren’t the right match for your listing and will leave a nasty review that feels unwarranted.

If you see a review that falls into that camp, it can be wise to just forget it and move on. This can often be a better approach than starting a fight in the comment section, which may only end up making you look bad to potential future guests.

23. Working Toward Superhost Status

Becoming an Airbnb superhost can increase your earnings by giving your more visibility and letting guests know that they can expect the best when staying with you.

Superhosts are featured in search results and get a Superhost badge on their profiles and listings to help them stand out. After each year as a Superhost, they’ll get a $100 travel coupon.

To become a Superhost, hosts must complete at least 10 stays in the past year (or 100 nights over at least three completed stays), have a 4.8 or higher average overall rating, respond to 90% of new messages within 24 hours, and cancel bookings less than 1% of the time.

Recommended: Money Management Guide

24. Deciding If Airbnb Is the Only Platform for You

After deciding to list on Airbnb, it’s then time to decide if that’s enough. There are, after all, a number of other home rental platforms to choose from, including Vrbo, Booking.com, and Flipkey. It’s up to you how many different listings you’re willing to maintain.

25. Keeping Your Calendar Up to Date

Once you list your home on Airbnb (or any other rental platform), it can be wise to keep your rental calendar as up-to-date as possible. This way, guests don’t accidentally book a stay when you have your in-laws visiting or when you otherwise want to use your own space.

If a date looks to be free to a potential guest but you forgot to mark it as unavailable, it can become a frustrating experience for both parties.

The Takeaway

If you have an extra room, or your home is vacant for several months out of the year, you may be tempted to list it on a home rental site.

But before you start posting photos on Airbnb, there are several things you may want to think through — from legal and insurance issues to the time and expense involved in getting (and keeping) your space ready for guests.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with eligible direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.

FAQ

What should you know before renting your home on Airbnb?

Before renting your home on Airbnb, it’s important to understand local laws and regulations, as some areas have restrictions on short-term rentals. It’s also a good idea to check your homeowner’s insurance to ensure it covers Airbnb rentals, and carefully read Airbnb’s host liability coverage. Finally, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with Airbnb’s host policies and prepare your home for guests by ensuring it’s clean, safe, and well-stocked with essentials.

Do I Need Permission to List My House on Airbnb?

Yes, you may need permission to list your house on Airbnb. Check your local laws and regulations, as some cities and neighborhoods have restrictions on short-term rentals. If you rent rather than own your home, you’ll want to review your lease agreement, as it may prohibit subletting or short-term rentals. Additionally, consult your homeowner’s association (HOA) if applicable, as they might have specific rules. Always ensure you have the necessary permits and approvals to avoid legal issues and fines.

Is Renting out an Airbnb Worth It?

Renting out an Airbnb can be worth it if you manage it effectively. It can provide a steady income stream, especially in high-demand areas. However, it requires significant effort, including maintaining the property, managing bookings, and dealing with guest issues. It also comes with costs, such as cleaning, utilities, and potential wear and tear. You’ll want to weigh the benefits against the time and financial investment. If you enjoy hosting and are willing to put in the work, however, it can be a rewarding venture.

SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. The SoFi® Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

Annual percentage yield (APY) is variable and subject to change at any time. Rates are current as of 12/23/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. Fees may reduce earnings. Additional rates and information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet

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Although we do our best to recognize all Eligible Direct Deposits, a small number of employers, payroll providers, benefits providers, or government agencies do not designate payments as direct deposit. To ensure you're earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, we encourage you to check your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit posts to your SoFi account. If your APY is not showing as the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. As long as SoFi Bank can validate those details, you will start earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit from the date you contact SoFi for the next 31 calendar days. You will also be eligible for the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit on future Eligible Direct Deposits, as long as SoFi Bank can validate them.

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