News
Stay updated with the latest STR industry news and regulations
This article from WOWT reports city-wide concerns regarding short-term rentals in Omaha. While specific details are currently unavailable, the article signals a potential shift in the local regulatory landscape, prompting hosts to stay informed about potential impacts on their operations. Local regulation updates can significantly influence STR profitability.

India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) is gaining traction in international travel. Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in Sri Lanka and the Maldives are adopting UPI, responding to Indian travelers' preference for digital payment methods. This aligns with longer stays and family trips, illustrating a digital-first expectation. The push indicates a broader shift toward digital payments in tourism.
This article discusses the ongoing housing crisis in Cape Town, South Africa, and suggests that there is no immediate solution in sight. The housing shortage is a significant issue, potentially impacting the short-term rental market as well as the lives of local residents. This situation could create challenges for hosts in the region.
Coldstream council's financial plan confirms the ongoing allowance of short-term rental accommodations. This indicates the local government's continued support for the STR market in the area. The article highlights the importance of staying informed on local regulations. Hosts should be aware of this confirmation for continued operation.
Jeff Hurst, CEO of Furnished Finder, explains the rise of midterm rentals (30+ day stays) in mature STR markets. He highlights differences between midterm and short-term rentals, the guest profile, operational aspects, and the investment logic. This shift provides stability, fewer turnovers, and caters to guests undergoing transitions.
Pittsburgh City Council is currently discussing proposed zoning bills related to short-term rentals, indicating potential changes to regulations affecting hosts in the city. The discussion may lead to new requirements or restrictions for STR operators. It is vital for Pittsburgh hosts to stay informed to comply with any changes.
Pittsburgh residents are expressing concerns over proposed short-term rental regulations. The article focuses on local residents' voices regarding potential changes. Further details regarding the specific regulations and the nature of the residents' concerns are expected.
New Pittsburgh regulations concerning Airbnbs and other short-term rentals are advancing in City Council. This development will likely impact how hosts operate, potentially affecting permit requirements, occupancy limits, and operational costs. Hosts should stay informed about these potential changes to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.

Marriott and Hilton are concerned that AI platforms like ChatGPT could divert bookings away from their direct channels and increase distribution costs. This signals a potential shift in how guests book accommodations, favoring online travel agencies (OTAs). Hosts who rely on direct bookings should consider how AI might impact their distribution strategy.
Scarborough, Maine is reviewing its short-term rental policies, potentially impacting local hosts. The changes are currently under consideration, with no specific details released yet. Hosts should monitor the local news for updates on permit requirements, occupancy limits, or other potential regulations.
Pittsburgh's push to regulate short-term rentals, including Airbnb, is drawing mixed reactions. The potential regulations aim to manage the growing STR market, likely addressing issues such as neighborhood impact and housing affordability. Hosts should prepare for potential changes to permitting and operational requirements.
Pittsburgh's proposed regulations for short-term rentals, including Airbnb, are sparking debate. The push to regulate is drawing mixed reactions from various stakeholders, and the impact on hosts remains uncertain. This article highlights the complexities of local policy and the varied responses within the community.
David Letterman's childhood home in Indiana is now available for overnight stays on Airbnb, offering a unique opportunity for guests. This represents a novel approach to short-term rentals and highlights the evolving nature of the platform and the types of properties available. This could inspire other hosts to list unique properties.

U.S. travel from Canada has continued its downward trend, with substantial drops in both car and air travel in January 2026. Canadian residents returning by car fell by 26.8%, and air travel decreased by 17.8%, marking 12 consecutive months of decline. This indicates potential shifts in travel patterns.
A government challenge to an Emilia-Romagna law concerning short-term rentals is the subject of a new article. This legal development highlights the evolving regulatory landscape for STRs. Hosts in Italy should stay informed about the changes in legislation regarding their rental properties.
OwnerWebs, a vacation rental website builder, is building an advanced platform. This empowers independent vacation rental owners to create their own websites. The announcement signals a move toward direct booking strategies, giving hosts more control. Creating a direct booking website is a key way to reduce reliance on OTAs.
This article explores a rent and home share program in Bellingham, Washington, and its potential applicability in British Columbia (B.C.). The discussion likely covers the program's structure, benefits, and challenges, followed by an analysis of how similar initiatives could address B.C.'s housing market dynamics. The article aims to inform hosts and stakeholders about innovative strategies that could alleviate housing shortages and enhance rental options.

Hilton's 2025 results show sluggish RevPAR growth, with only a 0.4% increase, significantly below forecasts due to economic uncertainty and specific events. Luxury brands performed well, while limited-service brands saw declines. CEO Chris Nassetta suggests that the current 'K-shaped' economy impacts the middle class's ability to travel.
This article highlights a unique Scandinavian-style Airbnb listing in South Carolina. The piece showcases a trend in property design and may inspire hosts looking to differentiate their listings. It also provides a glimpse into the diverse aesthetic possibilities within the STR market and could prompt hosts to consider unique design choices for a competitive advantage.
This USA Today article discusses Positive Stays, a short-term rental management company, aiming to set a new standard in the industry. The company emphasizes clarity and market insight to provide effective STR management services. Details about their specific strategies are highlighted for hosts seeking better solutions.