Happipad expands in BC
Anita Sthankiya - Aug 16, 2019 - Okanagan Biz

Photo Credit: Happipad

The Kelowna based app that matches guests seeking fixed-term affordable rental accommodation with verified hosts who have spare bedrooms has now expanded out of the Okanagan.

Happipad has announced the launch of their new web app which allows them to serve all of British Columbia. This is a big step for the company as they move into a larger network of home sharing services.

“Think of it as a blend of AirBnB and Match.com,” explained Cailan Libby, Happipad CEO and Co-Founder. “The intended section to service is medium term accommodation, so anyone looking for shared living arrangements of one month or greater.”

With the new service, Happipad offers background screening on both the host and guest, matching them up based on preferences. The company then provides a rental contract, they handle a section of the cost of rent, and provide support throughout the living arrangement.

“As these are all shared living arrangements, we want this to be a harmonious environment. So, if there are any disputes or conflicts that come up, we have a support team to assist with all of that,” added Libby.

With the integration of the new web app, Happipad now has listings in Nanaimo, Abbotsford, Prince George, Kamloops, Vernon, Kelowna, and some planned for Vancouver.

“Like any new service, it takes time for adoption but early users have loved it. Just the other day we had a 93-year-old man in Kelowna come down to our office and sign up. He is living alone, he’s a bit of lonely and can have some students to share his house with,” said Libby.

Happipad was launched two years ago in Kelowna and has worked hard to help address the affordability of housing by using the real estate infrastructure that is already in place.

“The problem that exists, is we as a society have a hard time opening up our homes to people who we would otherwise consider a stranger,” explained Libby. “Happipad’s role is to is to instil confidence in these individuals who have extra space, who feel comfortable listing their homes and inviting someone in. Whether it be someone for one month or maybe a student for up to eight months. It’s really up to them.”

The evolution of Happipad has been to see how people use their homes, how they live and to leverage that to serve the greater community.


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