When we founded Airbnb, the idea was simple: help ordinary people open their homes, earn extra income and connect travelers with communities in a more authentic way.

New Yorkers have been part of this story from the beginning, welcoming guests into their homes, sharing the city’s spirit with the world, and earning some additional dollars to meet rising costs.

This month, we made a long-term bet on New York’s future: purchasing a permanent home in a historic Manhattan location. It’s more than an office, it’s a statement of confidence in this city.

That statement of confidence might surprise some who have been closely tracking our recent history with New York legislators.

Nearly three years ago the city effectively banned home sharing. The results speak for themselves: 92% of Airbnb listings have vanished, rents remain at record highs, vacancies haven’t moved, and the outer boroughs alone have lost $1.5........

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