What drivers are to rideshare companies, landlords are to Airbnb. In response to complaints, the company is upping outreach to its hosts.

Landlords and their rentable properties are Airbnb's bread and butter, and the company is increasing its efforts to keep them happy. Marisa Kendall writes, "To some Airbnb hosts, the move is an attempt to fix a broken communication chain between Airbnb's landlords and its management."
"Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky promised to open some company board meetings to landlords, hold quarterly Q&A sessions over Facebook Live, create a 'Host Advisory Council' and send periodic email updates." Chesky also differentiated Airbnb from other technology giants currently experimenting with artificial intelligence. Makes sense, since it would be hard to automate renting out one's home to strangers.
In addition to serving as hosts, landlords can also make it easier for Airbnb on the political side of things. "Another reason Airbnb may want to keep its landlords happy — they play a key role in the company's efforts to lobby local governments and fight the 'historic power of the hotel industry.'"
FULL STORY: Airbnb vows to give its landlords a louder voice

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?

Washington State’s Parking Reform Law Could Unlock ‘Countless’ Acres for New Housing
A law that limits how much parking cities can require for residential amd commercial developments could lead to a construction boom.

Wildlife Rebounds After the Eaton Fire
Following the devastation of the Eaton Fire, the return of wildlife and the regrowth of native plants are offering powerful signs of resilience and renewal.

LA to Replace Inglewood Light Rail Project With Bus Shuttles
LA Metro says the change is in response to community engagement and that the new design will be ready before the 2028 Olympic Games.
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