Technology entrepreneurs and founders of Brightspark and its iStopOver.com website, Mark Skapinker and Anthony Davis, are encouraging South Africans to list on the site to rent out their homes or rooms in their homes during the upcoming World Cup.
iStopOver was originally created to link travellers around the world looking for alternatives to hotels, with homeowners interested in renting out space, be it a room or an entire house.
The site allows homeowners to list their properties and have direct contact with prospective guests.
Unlike other websites providing rental arrangements, iStopOver protects both parties by managing all financial transactions. The website provides tools and advice to hosts on creating a listing and facilitates communication between hosts and their potential guests. The transparency of communication between hosts and guests through the website is an asset for both parties. Listing is free for homeowners and the 15% surcharge is carried by the guest.
For the World Cup, iStopOver has partnered with several South African companies, including two of South African real estate companies, Jawitz Real Estate and Seeff Properties.
Homeowners have the option of listing directly with iStopOver or through one of the South African affiliates who will manage the entire process. This would involve taking photos for the website, posting the listing, collecting the money and taking keys.