Honolulu v. Airbnb: Short-term rental rules change
Honolulu City Council turns the tables on short term rentals in the territory. A real [...]
The Honolulu City Council is turning the tables on short term rentals in the territory. A real war on services such as that offered by Airbnb, but not only that.
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The policy for tourist stays outside resort areas will be quite different, given the passage of a special bill. If signed and made effective, as expected, it will require an incredible increase in the minimum stay in certain areas.
Short-term rental in Honolulu
Are you planning a "short term" stay in Honolulu? Were you thinking of spending two weeks in paradise at a resort? Don't worry, because nothing will change for you. Different story, however, for those who were looking with interest at nonresort areas. Turning to the short-term rental market in private apartments, houses or villas will be reserved only for those who may be able to extend their relaxation for at least three months. In fact, the Honolulu City Council has decided to increase the minimum stay from 30 to 90 days.
The harms of short rentals
Honolulu is facing a somewhat common problem in the 2000s. Those who own one or different properties in highly touristy areas are increasingly considering renting them out to tourists. Short stays and very high earnings. A fluid economy that avoids the possible problems of managing tenants.
However, this results in a scarcity of rentable properties for residents, as well as a general increase in prices. A reality that also affects many Italian cities. In the bill it is possible to read, as reported by Honolulu Civil Beat, how short rentals are inconsistent with planned land uses in residential areas. A practice that Housing prices increase for Oahu's resident population, removing lots from the market for sale and long-term rental.
The Council has openly spoken out against the practice, arguing how any benefits (for a few) are neutralized by the negative impact on certain neighborhoods. However, there has been no shortage of criticism. Impossible not to expect a pronouncement on the matter from Airbnb, for example. Specifically, it is pointed out that the law intends to hit everyone indiscriminately, ignoring, for example, the needs of transient occupants, such as health care workers. Arriving on site after natural disasters, they plan to stay well under 90 days and certainly do not want to pay exorbitant amounts of money to stay in resorts.
Another issue is that of surfers. Sportsmen do not aim to stay in place for three months. They would be forced to opt for the far more expensive tourist facilities, even if only for the duration of a competition. This has drawn criticism from the World Surf League of Hawaii, which fears devastating effects.
Lots of controversy, but despite everything, it seems that the mayor Rick Blangiardi is ready for signature, which would officially turn the bill into law. After such action, the new regulations regarding the minimum stay of tourists and others outside resort areas will go into effect During the following 180 days.
