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🚫 Navigating Local Bans: How to Adapt If Your Area Bans Short-Term Rentals

Facing a local ban on STRs? Keep reading to find out your next strategic move, hear about two trending markets, AND learn about 3 avoidable mistakes as a new investor.

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May 19th, 2025

Good afternoon STR Report Community!

In today’s issue, you will find:

📱Today’s Article: 🚫 Navigating Local Bans: How to Adapt If Your Area Bans Short-Term Rentals

📈 Trending Market Highlight: Amelia Island, Florida and San Francisco, California

🏡 Special Feature: The 3 Biggest Mistakes New Real Estate Investors Make

✉️ STR News: Airbnb Experiences Doesn’t Address Climate Change & more

💸 Mortgage Rate Watch

🎨 Unique Airbnb of the Week

🏫 Subscriber Perks: Go Live Playbook, including: Beginner’s Guide E-Book, Guest Communication Messaging Templates, Airbnb Welcome Guide Template, STR Buy Box Template, & Tax Savings E-Book

Community Perks: Personal Airbnb Investment Finder and STR Loans & More

📬 See our collection of newsletters here: Prior Newsletters

🚫 Navigating Local Bans: How to Adapt If Your Area Bans Short-Term Rentals

Short-term rentals have become a popular source of income for property owners, but what happens when your local government imposes a ban? Whether it’s due to rising community concerns, zoning changes, or new regulations, a ban on short-term rentals can throw a wrench into your business. If you find yourself in this situation, here are steps you can take to protect your investment, adapt to the new reality, and explore alternative options.

In Awe What GIF

When you realize your city banned your STR

1. Stay Informed: Understand the Details of the Ban

The first step is to fully understand the scope of the ban. Local regulations can vary widely-some areas may prohibit all short-term rentals, while others may only restrict certain types of properties, like those in residential zones or those operating without proper permits. Review the official documents, attend city council meetings, or consult a local attorney to get a clear picture of the ban’s specifics. Knowing the details will help you explore potential exemptions, appeal processes, or loopholes.

2. Explore the Appeal or Variance Process

In many cases, local governments will allow property owners to apply for a variance or exemption. This process can vary from city to city, but it’s worth exploring if your rental property qualifies for an exception. For example, some cities may allow short-term rentals in specific districts or on a case-by-case basis. If you believe that your property should be exempt, consult with a legal professional to understand the appeal process and craft a compelling case. It’s also worth noting that local governments may revise or reconsider bans based on public feedback or changes in political leadership, so staying proactive and engaged is key.

3. Consider Long-Term Rentals as an Alternative

If short-term rentals are no longer allowed in your area, consider converting your property to a long-term rental. While long-term leasing typically offers less flexibility and lower rental rates, it can still be a stable and reliable income source. Look at the current rental market in your area to determine whether it’s financially viable to transition your property to a traditional rental. You may need to make adjustments, like ensuring the property is suitable for long-term tenants (e.g., adding more storage or addressing maintenance concerns), but this could provide a way to keep the property profitable.

4. Investigate Other Income Streams

Even if you’re no longer able to operate a short-term rental, your property may still offer opportunities for generating income. Consider hosting events, such as weddings, corporate retreats, or local workshops, if your space and location allow. Some properties are ideal for filming, photography, or as a set for local productions. Alternatively, you could rent the space for longer-term corporate housing or short-term stays for specialized niches, such as medical professionals or traveling employees, depending on the location.

5. Appeal to Your Local Community

If the ban seems unfair or detrimental to your business, consider mobilizing your community to push for change. Start by gathering data that shows how short-term rentals benefit the local economy, whether through tourism, job creation, or property tax revenue. Engage with other local property owners, businesses, and even tenants who may be impacted by the ban. Organize petitions, attend city council meetings, and participate in public discussions to present your case. Engaging with the community may help build support for modifying or overturning the ban.

6. Adapt to New Regulations (If Applicable)

In some cases, short-term rental bans aren’t absolute but are accompanied by new regulations that can still allow you to operate legally. For instance, local governments may impose stricter licensing, zoning, or insurance requirements rather than an outright ban. It’s crucial to stay updated on the evolving regulations and determine whether your property can meet the new standards. By complying with the new rules, you may be able to continue renting your property in a different capacity, such as through a more regulated, legal short-term rental system.

7. Consider Expanding Your Investment Portfolio

If short-term rental bans are becoming a trend in your area, it may be time to consider diversifying your investment portfolio. This could involve looking into markets that are more favorable to short-term rentals or exploring other types of real estate investments, such as commercial properties, long-term rental properties, or even vacation homes in other areas. By expanding your investment horizons, you can protect your overall income stream while also minimizing the risks associated with local regulatory changes.

8. Seek Legal and Tax Advice

Navigating a short-term rental ban may require legal and tax considerations. In some cases, you may need to fight the ban in court or explore ways to minimize any financial loss associated with the transition. Consulting with a real estate attorney or tax professional who understands the nuances of local rental laws can help you make informed decisions. They can guide you through the legal implications of changing your rental strategy and help you avoid potential pitfalls.

Final Thoughts

While a short-term rental ban can feel like a major setback, it’s important to remember that it doesn’t have to spell the end of your rental property business. By staying informed, exploring alternatives, and potentially challenging the ban, you can continue to protect your investment and explore new revenue streams. Flexibility and adaptability will be key in the face of evolving regulations. With the right strategy, you can navigate these changes and keep your property profitable, no matter what the local government throws your way.

Amelia Island, Florida 🌞

Downloadable Amelia Island, Florida Short-Term Rental Market Report

Amelia Island STR Market Report.pdf1.28 MB • PDF File
  • Average Daily Rate (ADR): $394.10 per night

  • Occupancy Rate: 57.56%

  • Annual Revenue Potential: Around $82,797.42 per year

Read our full Amelia Island, Short-Term Rental Market Report attached above.

San Francisco, California 🌁

Downloadable San Francisco, California Short-Term Rental Market Report

San Francisco STR Market Report.pdf1.48 MB • PDF File
  • Average Daily Rate (ADR): $367.59 per night

  • Occupancy Rate: 62.84%

  • Annual Revenue Potential: Around $84,315.88 per year

Read our full San Francisco, California Short-Term Rental Market Report attached above.

📬 See our collection of 40+ market reports here: Prior Trending Market Reports


The 3 Biggest Mistakes New Real Estate Investors Make

Real estate investing is one of the most powerful wealth-building tools, yet many first-time investors get sidetracked by avoidable mistakes.

Jaren Sustar’s students have purchased over $1.5M in real estate this year alone. But this success doesn’t come without a solid plan- and understanding the most common mistakes new investors make is crucial.

Here are the top three reasons many aspiring investors struggle:

  1. Failure to Find Good Deals: Today’s market is competitive, but there are still hidden gems—if you know where to look.

  2. Misunderstanding the Funding Process: Many believe they need huge down payments or perfect credit. That’s simply not the case.

  3. Fear of Mistakes: The fear of making costly errors can hold back potential investors, but with the right guidance, these mistakes are easily avoided.

Jaren’s free training TOMORROW will walk attendees through overcoming each of these obstacles, teaching proven methods to confidently buy real estate with no experience and minimal risk.

Don’t miss the chance to access Jaren’s network of private lenders and learn how to fund deals that others miss. Tomorrow at 8pm EST.


🌎 Airbnb Experiences Doesn’t Address Climate Change
Airbnb's revamped Experiences platform is facing criticism for ignoring climate change concerns and lacking clear environmental accountability.

🏔️ StayTerra invests in Moving Mountains
StayTerra has made a strategic investment in Colorado-based hospitality company Moving Mountains, aiming to expand its national presence in the luxury vacation rental market.

🚫 Why flexible cancellation policies matter for Short-Term Rentals
Flexible cancellation policies have become crucial in the short-term rental industry as traveler expectations shift and adaptability becomes key to maintaining bookings.


💸Mortgage Rate Watch – May 19th, 2025

Current Mortgage Rates (as of May 19, 2025):

  • 30-Year Fixed: 6.92% (↓ 0.02%)

  • 15-Year Fixed: 6.26% (↓ 0.05%)

  • 30-Year Jumbo: 7.05% (↓ 0.03%)

  • 7/6 SOFR ARM: 6.45% (↓ 0.10%)

  • 30-Year FHA: 6.35% (↓ 0.05%)

  • 30-Year VA: 6.37% (↓ 0.04%)

Market Overview:

Mortgage rates have experienced a slight decline across various loan types. The 30-year fixed rate stands at 6.92%, down from 6.99% earlier in the week. This modest decrease follows a mid-week high, indicating a stabilization in rates after recent fluctuations. The bond market's performance, particularly in mortgage-backed securities, has influenced these changes. Despite some volatility, rates remain relatively steady, offering potential opportunities for borrowers.

Rate Trends & Forecast:

Short-Term Outlook:

  • Stable Rates: Mortgage rates are expected to remain within a narrow range, influenced by ongoing economic data and Federal Reserve signals.

  • Investor Sentiment: Market responses to inflation data and bond yields will continue to impact rate movements.

Long-Term Outlook:

  • Fed Policy Impact: The Federal Reserve's decisions on interest rates will be pivotal in shaping future mortgage rates.

  • Economic Indicators: Continued monitoring of inflation trends and economic growth will provide insights into potential rate adjustments.

For real-time mortgage rate updates and detailed analyses, visit Mortgage News Daily.

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Subscriber Perks:

📖🏡💰 Go Live Playbook

The "Go Live Playbook" is your all-in-one guide featuring a beginner’s guide e-book, messaging templates, Airbnb welcome book, STR buy box template, and tax savings tips to kickstart your short-term rental success.

Community Perks with The STR Report

🔎 Personal Airbnb Investment Finder – Connect with an expert to handpick profitable Airbnb properties that match your criteria. With 200+ successful deals, all cash-flowing, you’re in good hands. Take 15 seconds to fill out the form to see how all of these properties are experiencing at least a 15% Cash-on-Cash return.

🤑 STR Loans & More – Need funding for your next short-term rental? Expect expert guidance, personalized service, and the best possible rates.

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