“While an IPO allotment to a small percentage of hosts won’t make up for a year of financial struggles experienced by so many people who relied on the site for income, Airbnb optimists like Richard Fertig say the IPO reflects brighter days ahead for the business.

Richard Fertig, founder of Short Term Rental University, agrees with Airbnb’s advice, but he warns it’s unlikely you’ll get all of your money back. Because you’re dealing with a human and not a robot, Fertig recommends appealing to them with your health concerns and hoping they will be empathetic to your case.

“ABC Action News spoke with Fertig over Skype to talk about how Tampa Bay area residents can make money listing even one bedroom in their home as a short-term rental property.”