I make up to $9,500 a month renting out my home while my family lives in a trailer in the driveway. Here's how I set up my Airbnb and VRBO business.

• Alexi McKinley rents out her home and lives in a trailer in her driveway for a few weeks every month.
• Her family makes up to $9,500 a month from vacation-rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO.
• Her advice for setting up an Airbnb is to use bright, clear photos and prioritize good communication.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Alexi McKinley, a 26-year-old entrepreneur in Marysville, Washington. Insider has verified her income with documentation. The following has been edited for length and clarity.