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Did you know that a rented apartment could make you good money? Just work on it; put things in place and list them on Airbnb. Dorcus Nakakaawa, a 32-year-old entrepreneur, invested in this venture and has no regrets.

She rents two units on an apartment block in Najeera, a suburb of Kampala. She lives in one and rents out the other.

According to Nakakaawa, the real estate industry has opportunities for those who are willing to use them.

“During a week-long workshop abroad, I learned about the Airbnb business. Hotel rooms were expensive. A friend searched for Airbnb, and we all loved the homely environment,” she adds.

According to SearchLogistics.com, there are currently over five million Airbnb hosts worldwide and 7.7 million active listings in 191 different countries, including Uganda. (Courtesy photo)

Derrick Kayo, a property expert with Kayo Properties and Construction, says Airbnb is a lucrative business, but you have to understand how it works before enlisting your property.

He describes it as an online marketplace that connects people who want to rent out their property with those looking for short-stay accommodation. Airbnb offers an easy way to earn money from your property.

He says many guests find Airbnb rentals cheaper and homier than hotels, which is why Airbnb is becoming popular.

“You don't have to own a house to earn money. Just rent an apartment and enlist it,” he says. However, you should first secure the landlord's approval, as some may not allow subletting.

According to SearchLogistics.com, there are currently over five million Airbnb hosts worldwide and 7.7 million active listings in 191 different countries, including Uganda.

Aside from that, Kayo advises intending investors to first identify a strategic neighbourhood to rent an apartment or bungalow in. It should be accessible and close to amenities such as shopping centres, daycare centres, and hospitals. The neighbourhood should also be secure. A picturesque view is an added advantage.

In addition to that, the apartment should be self-contained with a kitchen, bathroom(s), and toilet(s) in good condition. Some clients prefer to prepare their own meals. Remember that guests provide feedback, which affects your ratings. If your property is in a slum or an insecure neighbourhood, your ratings will keep dropping.

In the end, you will be out of business. “Imagine guests coming to a place far from the main road on a very bad road only to be welcomed by burglars. Their feedback will scare away other clients,” he says.

However, the location in terms of floor is also important. On an apartment without a lift, avoid renting on the upper floors, lest you limit clients with mobility issues, such as the elderly and those with disabilities. Where possible, Kayo advises consulting an expert for advice.

“We always help people choose the right locations and solutions to optimise listings, enhance guest experiences, and maximise their earnings,” he says.

In Kampala and Wakiso, he lists the current top suburbs for Airbnb as; Muyenga, Munyonyo, Entebbe, Kyanja, Najjera, Nalya as well as Kololo and Naguru. But there are also many guests who prefer places outside that list, some going as far as upcountry. So, don’t limit yourself.