How to Start an Airbnb Business in Lagos

 

Lagos is buzzing with tourists, business travelers, and locals looking for short-term stays—and you can turn this demand into serious income with an Airbnb business.

Imagine earning N50,000 – N300,000 per month from just one property. Sounds too good to be true? It’s not. With the right strategy, you can build a thriving Airbnb business in Lagos—even if you don’t own a property!

This guide breaks down exactly how to start, manage, and scale your Airbnb business in Lagos—from finding the perfect property to attracting 5-star guests.

Ready to turn your space into a money machine? Let’s dive in!

1. Why Airbnb in Lagos? (The Opportunity in 2025)

• Tourism is booming – Lagos remains Nigeria’s top destination for business and leisure travelers.

• High rental demand – Many expats, remote workers, and Nigerians prefer short-term stays over hotels.

• Better returns than long-term rentals – Airbnb hosts earn 2-3x more than traditional landlords.

Real-Life Example: Tunde started with one apartment in Lekki in 2023. Today, he manages 5 Airbnb units earning him N1.2M monthly.

2. How to Start – Step by Step

🏠 Step 1: Choose the Right Property

You don’t need to own a property—you can:
✔ Rent & Sublet (Find a landlord open to short-term leases)
✔ Lease-to-Rent (Agree with a property owner to manage their space for a cut)
✔ Use Your Own Space (Spare room? Perfect!)

Best Locations in Lagos for Airbnb (2025):
📍 Lekki/Ajah (High demand from expats & tourists)
📍 Victoria Island/Ikoyi (Luxury business travelers)
📍 Surulere/Yaba (Budget-friendly for locals & digital nomads)

💰 Step 2: Calculate Startup Costs

Expense	Estimated Cost (Naira)
Security Deposit (if renting)	200,000 – 500,000
Furnishing (Bed, TV, AC, etc.)	300,000 – 1,000,000
Professional Photos	20,000 – 50,000
Airbnb Listing Setup	FREE

Pro Tip: Start small—a single room or studio can generate N40,000 – N100,000/month.

📱 Step 3: Create a Winning Airbnb Listing

Your listing is your sales pitch. Make it irresistible:
✔ High-Quality Photos (No dark, blurry pics!)
✔ Catchy Title (e.g., “Luxury Lekki Apartment with Pool Access”)
✔ Detailed Description (Mention WiFi, security, nearby attractions)
✔ Competitive Pricing (Check similar listings in your area)

Hack: Use Airbnb’s “Smart Pricing” tool to adjust rates automatically.

🛎️ Step 4: Deliver an Amazing Guest Experience

Happy guests = 5-star reviews = more bookings.
✔ Quick Responses (Reply to inquiries within 1 hour)
✔ Cleanliness (Hire a cleaner between guests)
✔ Small Touches (Free water, snacks, local tips)

3. How to Manage Your Airbnb Like a Pro

📅 Automate Your Bookings

• Use Airbnb’s calendar sync to avoid double bookings.

• Set house rules (check-in/check-out times, no parties).

🔐 Safety & Legal Tips

✔ Get landlord approval (If renting).
✔ Install security cameras (outside only!).
✔ Register your business (CAC for tax purposes).

📈 Scaling Your Airbnb Business

Once your first unit is successful, expand by:
✔ Adding more properties (Partner with landlords).
✔ Offering premium services (Airport pickup, chef services).

4. How Much Can You Earn? (2025 Projections)

Property Type	Monthly Earnings (Naira)
Single Room	40,000 – 100,000
1-Bedroom Apartment	80,000 – 200,000
3-Bedroom Luxury Apartment	250,000 – 500,000+

Pro Tip: Peak seasons (December, Easter) can double your income—adjust prices accordingly!

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Poor Guest Communication (Leads to bad reviews)
❌ Underpricing or Overpricing (Research competitors!)
❌ Ignoring Maintenance (A leaking tap can ruin a guest’s stay)

Starting an Airbnb in Lagos is one of the smartest side hustles (or full-time businesses) you can launch in 2025. With the right property, great service, and smart pricing, you can build a passive income stream that grows over time.

Have you tried Airbnb hosting in Lagos? Share your tips (or questions) in the comments!

Found this helpful? Share with a friend who needs a profitable business idea! 🚀