Global STR Opportunities, Hawaii’s Green Fee, and New Enforcement Actions
Summary
This week's industry news covers global STR market opportunities, Hawaii's new "Green Fee", and a crackdown on illegal rentals in Fort Myers Beach using new software. Hosts should pay attention to these trends as they can impact investment decisions and operational compliance.
Key Insights
- •Birmingham, Alabama is expected to make decisions on STR regulations in the first quarter of 2026.
- •Realtor.com highlights top global markets for STRs, with affordability driving investment decisions towards international options like Saint Barthélemy, Mykonos, and Cabo San Lucas.
- •Hawaii's new "Green Fee" adds a 0.75% tax to vacation rental stays, effective January 1st, funding environmental initiatives.
- •Fort Myers Beach is using new software to enforce vacation rental rules and has identified over 500 unregistered or non-compliant listings.
Action Items
- ✓Hosts in Hawaii should update their pricing to reflect the new "Green Fee".Effort: lowImpact: medium
- ✓Hosts in Fort Myers Beach should ensure their listings are registered and compliant with fire safety inspections to avoid fines.Effort: lowImpact: high
- ✓Hosts in Birmingham, Alabama should monitor the city council's decisions regarding STR regulations and consider participating in the public discussion.Effort: lowImpact: medium
Tools & Resources
- →AirDNA: AirDNA data is cited in the article.
Watch Out For
- ⚠Failing to register and comply with regulations in Fort Myers Beach could result in fines.
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