News
Stay updated with the latest STR industry news and regulations

Accor's strategic shift toward an asset-light model signals a potential future direction for other hospitality groups. The company is selling its ownership stake in hotels, retaining branding, and focusing on franchise agreements for long-term fee income. This move could influence how hosts consider their own asset ownership versus management models, offering new insights for hosts looking to optimize their STR strategy.
Bernalillo County, the location of Albuquerque, NM, has reclassified short-term rentals, according to this news piece. Details about the exact nature of the reclassification are not specified within the available context. Hosts in the area should look out for further news concerning implications for property rentals.
European tourism, fueled by short-term rentals, is booming, with nearly one billion nights booked in 2025. Croatia joins France, Spain, Italy, Greece, and Portugal as leading destinations. Focus areas include the Adriatic, Andalucia, and the French Riviera, presenting opportunities for hosts.
The Tybee City Council is discussing the future of short-term rentals, indicating potential regulatory changes. This follows a trend of increasing scrutiny of STRs in popular destinations. Hosts should monitor the outcomes to understand possible new permit requirements or restrictions.

Amazon's Alexa Plus will soon integrate travel planning and booking, expanding its services beyond food delivery. This shift could make Amazon a key player in travel discovery and transactions, streamlining the process for consumers. Hosts should be aware of this potential disruption to existing booking channels, and consider direct booking to maintain control.
A Fayetteville, Arkansas judge dismissed a lawsuit challenging the city's short-term rental ordinance. This decision signifies the ordinance's continued enforcement and provides regulatory clarity for local hosts. It implies compliance with local regulations is crucial to avoid legal challenges.
This article from The Brussels Times discusses the EU's exploration of clarity regarding local and federal affordable housing measures. While the specific details are not provided, it highlights a potential shift in regulations. This could potentially impact short-term rental hosts. Hosts should stay informed on any new guidance.

Airbnb's Chief Business Officer hinted at adding flights to their platform to enhance the overall travel experience for guests. This expansion could involve integrating flights, activities, and other travel components. The aim is to create a more comprehensive and streamlined travel journey.
This article announces the official implementation of new short-term rental fees in Hilton Head. It prompts hosts to review and understand the updated costs associated with operating STRs. Action is necessary to remain compliant and avoid any potential penalties related to the new fee structure.
A recent shooting at a short-term rental in Lower Richland resulted in two arrests. While details are limited, this incident highlights the importance of host vigilance regarding guest safety and security. Hosts should review and enhance their safety protocols to mitigate risks.

Marriott launched its 39th brand, focusing on luxury wellness in Italy. It highlights the importance of hyper-segmentation and the potential for direct bookings via social media. Marriott's strategy focuses on unique experiences, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful brand development and distribution in the digital age.
A recent incident at a Richland County short-term rental resulted in two arrests following a shooting. This highlights the potential for safety and security concerns associated with STR properties. Hosts must prioritize guest screening and safety protocols to mitigate risks and protect their properties.
This Palm Beach Post article from April 1, 2026, explores the potential risks faced by short-term rental guests during hurricanes in Florida. It raises concerns about guest safety and preparedness. The article likely examines issues like evacuation plans and insurance coverage for guests, emphasizing the importance of host responsibility during severe weather events.
This article highlights a family-friendly villa in Sicily, offering insights into guest experience and amenities. It emphasizes the importance of catering to family needs within a short-term rental property, suggesting that well-designed listings can attract a specific demographic. This focus on niche marketing can lead to higher occupancy rates and positive guest reviews.
This article discusses the strategic implications of Airbnb's partnership with Welcome Pickups, as analyzed by PriceLabs. The collaboration likely reflects Airbnb's efforts to enhance guest experience and potentially streamline operational aspects for hosts. Understanding these partnerships is key for hosts aiming to adapt and optimize their offerings within the dynamic STR landscape.
Airbnb is expanding beyond accommodation with new services like airport transfers via Welcome Pickups in 125+ cities and social dinners with Timeleft in Paris. These moves, part of a long-term strategy, aim to increase user engagement and capture more trip spending within the platform. Property managers should focus on enhancing their properties' unique qualities.
Airbnb has launched a new airport transfer service, offering guests private transportation. This service is a new addition to Airbnb's offerings, potentially increasing guest satisfaction and providing an additional revenue stream for the platform. This expansion could impact how hosts manage guest experiences and recommend services.

Accor's annual report reveals strong performance from its lifestyle hospitality joint venture, Ennismore, generating €205 million in EBITDA in 2025. Ennismore managed a significant portion of Accor's luxury and lifestyle rooms, demonstrating its impact on profitability. This success raises questions about continued growth after a potential IPO.

Want to be recognized for your work in the short-term rental industry? Enter the Skift IDEA Awards by providing a campaign deck, performance metrics, and visuals. Choose your category, write a submission, add supporting material and submit. With clear sections and deadlines, you can save, refine, and improve your entry before the final deadline.
Recent short-term rental license approvals in the Highlands highlight emerging trends in the accommodation sector. The article addresses the shift away from traditional hotels towards unique accommodations and covers challenges like driveway concerns. Navigating new regulations effectively is key for hosts in this evolving market.