HOUSTON – As Houston gears up to welcome the FIFA World Cup, excitement is building far beyond the stadiums. Local businesses, restaurants, and the tourism sector are preparing for a major economic surge — and Airbnb hosts say they’re ready to cash in.
Greater Houston Luxe, one of the city’s major short-term rental management companies, is already planning for unprecedented demand. The company expects to list some properties at up to 500% above normal rates, adjusting pricing as the tournament approaches.
Designing for a Global Audience
Inside one of the company’s 60 Airbnb listings, the prep work is already underway. Hand-picked décor, professional photography, and a focus on five-star guest experiences are part of the strategy to stand out in what experts call one of the fastest-growing and most competitive short-term rental markets in the U.S.
Damon Oubre, owner of Greater Houston Luxe Properties, which manages 60 rentals across the region, says hosts are preparing for an unprecedented boom.
“We’ve got to maximize revenue and get our clients the most profits we can,” Oubre said. “You can’t just throw a couch, a couple of beds, and a flower on the table anymore. Guests have options now. You need to be distinct and have solid reviews before FIFA arrives.”
A Record-Breaking Opportunity
Airbnb estimates that Houston-area hosts could welcome roughly 31,000 guests during World Cup events. Average earnings are expected to hit about $3,000 per stay, depending on property size and location.
Oubre says pricing strategy will be key:
“Increase prices now. Some people are going 500% — even 1,000% — on weekends. I’d start at about 300% for FIFA and slowly bring prices down. And always watch what hotels are doing.”
No Extra Property? No Problem.
Homeowners without an entire property to rent can still participate in the economic boom. Oubre says even spare bedrooms can generate major returns.
“Anyone with a home and a spare bedroom can really benefit. It’s not an extra expense — it’s just extra income.”
That means a room typically listed at $150 per night could reasonably start at $450 during World Cup events.
With the tournament still months away, Houston hosts say the time to prepare is now — and the payoff could be huge.
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