To be or not to be a host in the peer-to-peer accommodation sector

Abstract

This paper explores the interdependency between the intention to host and one’s expected profit level in the peer-to-peer accommodation sector, and examines whether factors affecting these decisions differ for those residing in cities and regional areas. Using survey data on 488 respondents, the intention to host was found to be disjoint from profit level and trust issues hindering hosting differed in cities and regional areas. While embracing sharing philosophy was a significant motive for would-be hosts, economic/opportunity cost and potential regulation in the form of threshold rental-free days have no impact on intention to host or expected profit level. These findings not only have implications for both traditional and online accommodation platforms in their quest to affect the supply of hosts but also informs regulators about who might host and why or what regulations might not deter would-be hosts.