STR Trust Blog

 Buncombe STR Ban Update As of July 1st, we have heard no news on the proposed STR regulation for Buncombe County. At the April 22, 2024, Planning Board Public Hearing, the board voted to defer any action on STRs for 100 days or until July 31st. Since then, the board has canceled the May meeting, didn’t mention STRs at the June meeting, and canceled the July meeting. The next meeting...

By Ron Bekkerman, Maxime C. Cohen, Edward Hung, John Maiden and Davide Proserpio It’s well-know that one of the downsides of short-term rentals (STRs) is that they can reduce the availability of housing for long-term residents, this driving up both rents and house prices for locals. In a previous study, we found that home-sharing through Airbnb alone is responsible for about 20% of the average annual increase in U.S. rents,...

The travel industry is a powerful economic force, but where does the money land? Often, large hotel chains and resorts capture a significant chunk of tourist dollars, leaving local businesses struggling. Short-term rentals (STRs), however, offer a compelling alternative that can empower local communities and enhance the visitor experience. Headlines might paint a picture of short-term rentals as disruptive forces, but the reality is far more nuanced. Let’s explore how...

In recent years, short-term rentals (STRs) have emerged as a vibrant aspect of the Buncombe County tourism industry, bringing with them a host of benefits for both the county and travelers alike. From boosting local economies to providing unique lodging options, the positive impact of STRs reverberates across various facets of community life.   Economic Stimulus: One of the most significant contributions of short-term rentals to Buncombe County is their...