Libman Tax - June 2019

WHY SENIORS ARE FLOCKINGTO HOME-SHARING PLATFORMS An Opportunity for Easy Money and Social Engagement

Home-sharing allows them to tap into these resources. According to Priceonomics, U.S. Airbnb hosts bring in a monthly average of $924.

But home-sharing can do more than boost your income. By opening a room in your home to travelers, you’ll encounter all kinds of people you might never otherwise meet, prompting dynamic social interactions and meaningful connections. The rating systems on Airbnb and similar platforms almost entirely prevent would-be troublemakers from entering your property, and users report that when a rare negative experience does occur, the company typically has your back. It’s a great way to stay socially engaged while staving off loneliness. Best of all, running a modestly successful Airbnb usually doesn’t take much work. It simply requires you to set up a neat, welcoming space, keep in contact with your guests, and ensure the check-in and check- out processes are as straightforward as possible. In fact, senior hosts seem to have a leg up on their younger counterparts, as elderly hosts earn the most consistently positive ratings across the globe. Airbnb and The Freebird Club won’t make you rich, but they’re relatively low-effort enterprises that come with some massive benefits. If you’re looking for a little busywork, some extra cash, and a little social interaction in your retirement, hosting may be your best bet!

The freedom of retirement certainly comes with its perks, but challenges of post-work living exist as well. Chief among them, for most elderly folks, are fears of social isolation and financial insolvency, as having coworkers and a regular income are not as common in retirement. Perhaps this is why so many retirees are flocking to home-sharing platforms like Airbnb or its seniors-only cousin, The Freebird Club. Airbnb reported last year that the 60-plus age bracket is its fastest- growing demographic worldwide, with the number of senior hosts as much as doubling every year. Home-sharing platforms can be a tremendous boon to a tight retirement budget. It’s an especially attractive option to elderly folks who find themselves rich in assets but struggling with liquid finances.

Some Pretty Cool Clients!

Claude and Audrey

Having spent the greater part of my life helping manage people’s financial affairs, I’ve learned the importance of maintaining professionalism in certain work environments — I’ll admit, I usually learn best through my own misfortune. But while I do take my job seriously, I love having awesome clients who make the day go by a little faster by making me laugh. Claude Johnson and his super special someone Audrey are the best examples. Claude and Audrey have been clients of mine and my dad’s for over 30 years. During that time, I’ve dubbed them the funniest couple I know. I’m not exaggerating; I actually make sure I use the restroom before I meet with them because they make me laugh so hard. (Sorry if that’s too much information!) Sometimes we joke that we spend so much time laughing during our appointments that I don’t get any work done. Lately, this claim seems like more than a joke. Their daughter, Sarah, joins them from time to time, as she is also one of my clients. Let me tell you, the funny bone certainly runs in the family.

Claude and Audrey are retired now, but they still make a point to stay active in the community by participating and funding several amazing charities. They are the type of people you meet and immediately want to go out and grab a burger and a beer with. I look forward to seeing them every year. Thank you, Claude and Audrey, for making my job fun and for making my ribs hurt from all the giggles. You two are awesome!

2 • www.AdamLibman.com • Pay Less Taxes by Implementing Tax Reduction Strategies

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