All Forum Posts by: Will McClure

The city was making a major push with new monitoring software and 20+ codes staff assigned to the enforcement project in the months before COVID stopped that. I don't know if it was reinstated after mid-2021 or not.

No prediction time frame on enforcement changing. I will say the data frontline city staff have on exact addresses and locations being rented is far better than a lot of investors imagine it to be. More of a matter of when enforcement becomes a priority again.

Depending on the market you're investing in you may have permit/license application fees before you can start renting.

Most of the time these are marginal $25 - $150 (and slightly less for renewals), but some towns have gone to permit fees of $400+ per bedroom for 2022. There aren't many of those yet, but it is something to consider.

There isn't a single place (yet) to find regulation and zoning data for short-term rental markets. Right now, you're primarily stuck with googling to find them up on local government websites. 

Generally, 100k+ cities (Memphis & St. Louis are among the exceptions) will have a dedicated page that includes all permit requirements, zoning, application forms, FAQs, etc. The best like Fort Collins, CO are SUPER helpful and straightforward for doing a deep dive. 

When you get into smaller to medium-size towns and cities websites & info are a mixed bag. Some have no mention of short-term rentals anywhere on their website. Others have info across multiple pages (taxes on one + zoning in another spot + codes is outsourced entirely).

You'll also want to make sure to search the county taxing authority which is often (there are state exceptions) responsible for lodging tax collection. 

This is less likely, but some places like Bentonville, AR and Comal County, Texas give short-term rental regulation authority over to tourism agencies, recreational districts, or chambers of commerce. 

I'm no expert on the LLC or umbrella insurance, but I would strongly suggest verifying the STR regulations/taxes/zoning in your area. Depending on where you live that could be a roadblock.

You should research 
1) city's website for any notices of permits/licenses/certificates you need to complete as well as any tax responsibilities 
2) depending on local laws there may also be a lodging tax for the county (usually, but not always Airbnb/VRBO collect and remit these for you).

3) verify that the zoning of the property allows STRs

In what area is the property you're looking to change to an STR?