News
Stay updated with the latest STR industry news and regulations
This article summarizes five major trends that shaped the STR industry in 2025 and anticipates their impact on 2026. Key takeaways include increased regulatory pressure, platform changes (like Airbnb's fee structure and off-platform policies), and shifts in how hosts approach growth and scale. Hosts should stay informed about these evolving dynamics to navigate the changing landscape.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) is scrutinizing real estate agent commissions, potentially impacting the costs associated with home sales. Hosts should be aware that the DOJ is pushing back against practices that might inflate commissions, which could indirectly affect property values and thus, rental investments. This may lead to changes in the real estate market, potentially impacting costs for hosts.
This article discusses the importance of using an Airbnb rental agreement to protect hosts by clarifying house rules, defining guest expectations, and offering legal protection. It recommends including specific clauses such as guest names, property details, check-in/out dates, house rules, costs, and HOA rules. Hosts should consider using a rental agreement, and should have their attorney review it before use.
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) is prioritizing legislation in 2026 focused on increasing housing supply and affordability, including the ROAD to Housing Act and the More Homes on the Market Act. These bills aim to streamline permitting, incentivize housing development, and address capital gains tax limitations to unlock more housing inventory. Hosts should be aware of these potential changes as they may impact property values and market dynamics.
This article strongly recommends that short-term rental hosts, even those with a single property, form an LLC to protect their personal assets from potential lawsuits. It explains the risks of not having an LLC and offers guidance on setting one up, including potential pitfalls like triggering the "Due on Sale" clause if you already have a mortgage.
A Hilton Head couple was barred from using their short-term rental as a 200-guest wedding venue. Hosts should be aware of local regulations that may restrict the use of their properties for events, even if allowed under general STR guidelines.
This article discusses the struggle between cities wanting to regulate short-term rentals and a state that prohibits such local control. Hosts need to stay informed about local regulations and advocate for their interests if they live in an area where cities are seeking greater control.
This article warns hosts that offering too many services to guests could lead the tax office to classify their Airbnb as a hotel, potentially changing their tax obligations. Hosts should review the services they offer to avoid unintended tax implications.
This article discusses the intersection of Cape Town's housing crisis and the growth of Airbnb. It likely explores how the influx of short-term rentals impacts housing availability and affordability for local residents. The article will probably analyze potential regulatory responses and their effect on the short-term rental market in the area.
A short-term rental company is suing the state of Michigan over an $18.7 million tax bill. This highlights the importance of understanding and complying with all local tax regulations to avoid significant financial penalties. Hosts should ensure they are properly accounting for and remitting all required taxes.
The city of Two Rivers is increasing its short-term rental fees. Hosts in Two Rivers should familiarize themselves with the new fee structure to ensure compliance.
This article from Politico discusses a 'sleeper' political issue for 2026, which could potentially impact short-term rentals. Hosts should be aware of this developing story and monitor for updates that might affect local regulations or the STR landscape.
This article discusses the legality of short-term rentals in Wisconsin, specifically whether a neighbor can operate an Airbnb. Hosts should be aware of local regulations and zoning laws to avoid potential issues. Action is needed to understand local regulations related to short-term rentals and neighbor's rights.
Lisbon has relaxed its short-term rental regulations. Hosts in Lisbon should review the new rules to ensure compliance and understand any changes to operating requirements.
Santa Fe County is increasing enforcement of short-term rental regulations, resulting in criminal charges for some owners. Hosts in Santa Fe County should ensure they are in compliance with all local regulations to avoid legal issues.
The town of Buellton is delaying the implementation of a short-term rental ordinance for motels, awaiting guidance from the state. This means potential changes to regulations are on hold. Hosts should monitor for updates from the state to understand potential impacts on their operations.
The city of Buellton is delaying the implementation of a short-term rental ordinance for motels, pending guidance from the state. Hosts in Buellton should stay informed of local regulations as they evolve.
Glasgow City Council is considering temporarily suspending short-term let licensing during the 2026 Commonwealth Games to address anticipated accommodation demand. Hosts in Glasgow should monitor the consultation process and be prepared to apply for a temporary exemption if it is approved, which would still require a fee.
The Yukon Progress has updated its short-term rental code. Hosts in the Yukon area should review the new regulations to ensure compliance.
Brussels fiscal authorities plan to audit 5,000 Airbnb listings to examine expat housing costs. Hosts in Brussels should be aware of potential audits and ensure they are compliant with local tax regulations.