All Forum Posts by: Wes M.

@Cheydelle McKinzie I will reach out. I can help you with this.

 Understood -- however in Asheville for example, STRs are prohibited in most commercial and mixed use zoning districts, including the CBD. Article: https://mountainx.com/news/ash...

"In November, City Council voted not to allow short-term rentals in commercial and mixed-use areas covered by the River Arts District and Haywood Road form-based codes."

I would imagine you are appropriately entitling your projects and not subject to similar prohibitions. 

@Mike Dymski That’s a great solution, but just be aware, some local governments have taken steps to also prohibit STRs in commercial districts. Certainly, you are seeking an official zoning determination prior to such a substantial investment, but others may not.

@Bob D. We've got an STR in Oak Island, has been a successful venture thus far. Happy to share contacts, etc. just shoot me a PM.

Great information and resource! I do think it is important to understand the regional population growth as the City of Wilmington proper is largely influenced by development occurring in neighboring Brunswick and Pender Counties. Wilmington itself is largely built out and is now reliant on redevelopment and infill for population growth. Population growth in the region is almost all in-migration, meaning people are moving here from some place else due to the desirability of the area. 

We are set to close on a property in downtown Wilmington later this week. This particular property was on the MLS and had 13 offers, some as much as $50k over asking. In the regional market, it is vital to have a true understanding of the local geography. Not only are there crime related issues in some areas, there are also areas subject to flood inundation and the high cost to insure a property through the National Flood Insurance Program. Make sure you have a knowledgeable agent before purchasing anything.

Interesting side note -- there was a tremendous asset bubble in Japan in the early 90s. Their real estate prices have yet to recover from the bubble bursting in 1991. While certainly not an apples to apples comparison, there are some similarities to current conditions here in the US. In Japan, this era was termed the lost decade. See link to chart below for Japan's residential property prices. Several cities in their market still remain the most expensive in the world:

https://fred.stlouisfed.org/se...

We use a wired Ring floodlight camera. It works great and provides a sense of ease. Not only can you ensure guests are appropriate, but it also helps us to know if/when the cleaners come and go, when contractors arrive, and if the lawn crew has showed up. I consider it to be necessary. Oh, and the floodlight is a nice feature. You can set the light timing and brightness levels as well.

You've got an uphill battle. The most effective way to stave off change is to contact the elected officials and board members individually prior to any meetings. You should attempt to set up in-person meetings to discuss your points. Providing input at the hearing stage is typically fruitless as the decision has already been made.

@Jacob Stevenson Talk with staff in the planning and zoning department - not council members as they won’t know how to direct you. There should be an application form to substantiate your compliance with the requirements of the ordinance. Speak with other hosts on your community as well - they will know the important permitting details.