Nina Menkes’ house in Laurel Canyon is beautiful – but also expensive. This has been a particular challenge for the independent filmmaker in recent years.

“The pandemic has of course hit everyone hard, including the film industry, and there have been major strikes,” she explained.

Menkes said the industry has not recovered from the strikes as many had hoped. To help pay her mortgage, she rents out her home through Airbnb when she’s out of town.

“If I couldn’t do that, I would lose the house. It really makes it possible to stay here,” she said.

Menkes said large events that bring even more tourists to the city help homeowners like her. She already has her sights set on the 2028 Games.

“We expect a lot of people to come,” she said.

That’s exactly what’s happening in Paris right now. Airbnb told the I-Team that Paris is on track to host the biggest event in its history.

The company said tens of thousands of new hosts had listed their properties and more than half had received a booking within seven days. Airbnb said the typical host is expected to earn an average of €2,000.

Menkes said that since her friends in LA have been paid far more at major events, she is banking on the Olympics in four years’ time to give her a much-needed financial boost.

“It would mean a lot to me and could fundamentally change my life,” she said.

Tips to get the most money out of your rent

• Take good photos. Make sure they highlight the unique selling points of your home.
• Offer items like books and board games for entertainment.
• Offer device chargers and self-check-in for added convenience.