Airbnb select to offer loans and advice to hosts under new scheme

The trial, dubbed Airbnb Select, will see rental firm provide home improvement loans as it seeks to standardise offerings

Airbnb is looking to take an increasingly active role in ensuring the homes it offers for rent on its site are pleasant to stay in, from offering loans to hosts for home improvements to actively partnering in the construction of an apartment block in Florida, according to reports.

The changes, which see the company move further than ever from its origins as a listing site connecting holidaymakers with hosts who have a spare room, could help Airbnb cement its position as an alternative to traditional hotels.