Strategy, Not Saturatio:  Reading the Market with Precision


I. Introduction: From Momentum to Maturity

Over the last decade, Tbilisi rose quietly into one of Eastern Europe’s most profitable short-term rental markets. Affordable entry prices, year-round tourism, visa-free access, and walkable neighborhoods created ideal conditions for Airbnb growth.

But 2025 is no longer defined by early opportunity,  it is shaped by strategic entry.

The question has shifted from “Is it worth it?” to:

Can your approach outperform the market that now exists?

The answer is still yes: when the investment is deliberate rather than hopeful.


II. Why Airbnb Took Off? The Structural Advantage

Tbilisi’s rise wasn’t accidental. It was built on policy, accessibility, and simplicity:

✔ Visa-free access for 90+ nationalities
✔ Tourism flow across all four seasons
✔ No zoning laws restricting Airbnb use
✔ Entry prices far below EU capitals
✔ Walkable districts with authentic character

By 2022, active listings passed 12,000, with many operators reporting gross yields above 12%. A system emerged that rewarded early action which especially when paired with well-managed listings.


III. 2025: A Market That Now Thinks for Itself

Airbnb still works but it now rewards structure over optimism.

Key shifts shaping performance in 2025:

  • Higher supply in popular districts
  • Seasonal variance in demand
  • Professional-grade listings competing with hotels
  • Platform algorithms prioritizing responsiveness, pricing history, and reviews
  • Currency stability influencing perceived value

The era of “buy and list” is over.
Performance now depends on clarity of strategy not just location.


IV. Top Districts for 2025! Where Strategy Still Wins

DistrictStrengthsBooking Consistency
MtatsmindaHistoric, central, tourist-heavyVery strong
Sololaki / Old TbilisiArchitecture, balconies, charmHigh
ChughuretiHip, local, walkableStrong
AvlabariBudget-friendly, metro access, viewsMedium–High

Note: Saburtalo and Vake perform better with long-term rentals and digital nomads rather than short-term Airbnb stays.


V. Yield & Performance Snapshot (2025)

Average market indicators:

MetricRange
Nightly Rate$35–$90
Occupancy65–85% (summer peak)
Gross Yield9–12%
Net Yield5–7% (after tax & costs)

Winning Formula:
→ One-bedroom apartment
→ Intelligent renovation
→ Central district
→ Professional management
 → Clean/tidy entrance, shared spaces


VI. So What Works in 2025 for AirBNB?

✔ What Works

  • Prioritize tourist-friendly districts
  • Design spaces with visual appeal
  • Work with trusted management firms
  • Use multiple platforms (Airbnb + Booking.com + local sites)
  • Employ dynamic pricing across seasons

❌ What Fails

  • Overpricing without reviews
  • Buying in low-demand neighborhoods
  • Ignoring logistics and turnover rates
  • Failing to register for tax

Success is no longer in visibility alone, it’s in consistency.
Reliability now outperforms novelty.


VII. Legal & Tax Landscape Is Still Investor-Friendly

Georgia remains one of Europe’s most open Airbnb environments:

✔ No licensing or unit caps
✔ Simple registration for income tax
Tax rate: 5–20%, depending on structure
✔ Revenue Service may request guest data

ExpatHub handles full setup, tax compliance, registrations, documentation, and legal oversight ensuring the investment is strong before the listing goes live.


VIII. Airbnb vs Long-Term Rental: Choosing the Right Engine

CategoryAirbnbLong-Term Rental
YieldHigherModerate
StabilitySeasonalConsistent
WorkloadHighLow
Best LocationsTourist zonesSaburtalo, Vake, Dighomi

There is no universal answer, only strategic alignment with your goals.
Yield may be higher with Airbnb but effort and regulation must be accounted for from the start.


IX. How ExpatHub Builds a Sustainable Model

Our Real Estate Purchase Assistance Service is built to protect investment outcomes from the moment of purchase:

  • Property sourcing & investment analysis
  • Legal due diligence and contract review
  • Tax registration and reporting
  • Links to vetted Airbnb management companies

Whether you are securing your first apartment or expanding a portfolio
we ensure your approach is legal, profitable, and resilient.


X. Final Reflection: A Market That Rewards Discipline

Airbnb in Tbilisi is still profitable in 2025. But its strength now lies in preparation, not speed.

The winners will be those who treat Airbnb not as a quick opportunity
but as a structured asset with rules, timing, rhythm, and responsibility.

If you’re planning to enter or optimize for the market,
ExpatHub ensures your investment is compliant, strategic, and built to last from day one.

The question is no longer “Does Airbnb work in Georgia?” It is: Are you ready to make it work well?

If you prefer to go it alone in the research and selection process, we still can assist with the essential due diligence legal work.



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Brian Loughnane
Brian Loughnane

Head of Real Estate Services @ExpatHub.ge. He is our expert in the Georgian Real Estate market, with a deep understanding of the buying process, and focused on representing client interests.