How do we start a community

[Hugh81]

How do we start an Airbnb Community?  We have approximately 100 Airbnb hosts in our area and are not in a big  city currently being served by a community.

[Bhumika]

Hey @Hugh81 ,

Have you had a chance to look at the Official Airbnb Local Host Clubs in your area. 
 
If you are not able to find one, you can also apply to become a Host Club Leader for your Host group and local area. You can know more about how to start a Local Host Club here : https://www.airbnb.co.uk/resources/hosting-homes/a/lead-your-local-host-club-293.

[Hugh81]

Thank you Bhumika!   I got on the link and filled out an application.  Airbnb seems to concentrate on cities.  We are in a rapidly growing area of Central Tennessee.  Three years ago there were only 4 STRs in our county and now there are over 40.  We need to get organized to help each other and have some fun doing it.   Thanks again.   Hugh

[Sarah5000]

Hi Hugh 81, so happy to hear that you want to create a community there, perhaps a regular meet-up coffee chat will keep everyone in touch while the FB club is creating ? I often catch up my hosts who is nearly me for a regular coffee chat or doing online zoom too. 

[Hugh81]

Hi Sarah!  There are three hosts in our county that have been hosts the longest. We get together. The number of new hosts has exploded.  We don't have any way to get in touch with them.  

[Helen3]

Hello @Hugh81 

you don't need to wait to become an 'official' airbnb local group you can just go ahead and set up your own local area group on FB/Meet Up etc to help you network 

[Hugh81]

Helen,  I agree but without Airbnb's assistance, how would I get the contact information about other hosts in the area?  Many of us have probably gotten the "request for information".  That starts out, "Hi, I don't really want to make a reservation but I wanted to know about ....".  I won't do that to another host.

I am definitely open to suggestions.  

Here is an example.  "We are putting together a list of vacation rentals in XXXXXXXXXX to prepare for our events, poke Sallet Festival, Freedom Fest, and Granville festivals. Our meeting will be a networking opportunity for owners. And give each the information on XXXXXXXXXXXX marketing website. Message us with questions"

I have added the XXXXX to remove possible personal information.  

[Hugh81]

This should be following the next post.  Sorry.  An added bit of info.  I believe the person sending the note was a "V" host.

[Hugh81]

I am definitely open to ideas.  We are starting an awareness campaign to show how STRs have a huge impact on smaller communities.  Tnx!  Hugh