New to Airbnb – Interested in Airbnb Arbitrage in Gold Coast (from Melbourne)

[Yen958]

Hi everyone,

I’m completely new to Airbnb and short-term renting. While researching, I came across the concept of Airbnb Arbitrage, which sounds quite appealing at first glance.

I live in Melbourne and am planning to start my first Airbnb property in the Gold Coast. I was wondering if anyone here has experience running Airbnb Arbitrage in the Gold Coast, especially if you’re hosting remotely from another state.

Any advice, tips, or lessons learned would be greatly appreciated! I’m still in the early stages, trying to understand what I’m getting myself into before taking the plunge.

Thanks in advance for your insights and guidance!

Kind regards,
Yen

[Elisa]

Hi @Yen958 😊, 

Thank you so much for sharing this here.

That’s fantastic! How did you come up with the idea?

You can connect with hosts from your area and ask them your questions by checking here 👉 Local Host Clubs. 

Let me know how it goes!

[Frances3408]

@Yen958 . This is going to sound like tough advice but as a landlord I would run a mile from a tenant that has your ideas and lack of experience. Have you researched the Gold Coast short term rules? There is a hefty fee payable to the council as well as more rules than many other jurisdictions. 

For arbitrage to be profitable it requires winners and losers. Google the stories of the losers.

[Helen3]

Hi @Yen958 

Arbitrage is a very risky business .

how would you plan to pay the rent and all bills if you don't get the incôme you need through bookings to cover your costs?

are you able to comply with any local STR regulations ? 

why are you looking to host in an area you don't live in? 

@Yen958 

[Jason114 · Accepted solution]

@Yen958  Most users in this forum are owner-hosts, so they might not fully see it from your perspective.. but Airbnb arbitrage is a legitimate and scalable business model when done right. The key is to have a proper lease agreements in place that explicitly allows subleasing for short-term rentals, so you're operating above board. And be sure to check local regulations/requirements for hosting in the area.

Also, consider including a flexibility clause that lets you exit the lease within 60–90 days if things don't work out.. this protects you financially if the market shifts or the property underperforms. Starting remotely is doable, but make sure you have a reliable cleaner, co-host, or local manager on the ground before launching. And remember, Guest experience is paramount.