STR MYTHS
| Myth 1:STRs are causing the housing crisis.Fact: STRs make up a small portion of total housing inventory. Most are vacation, lakefront, seasonal, or second homes that wouldn’t be affordable or available as workforce housing. The housing crisis is more complex & includes issues like high building costs, elderly owners staying in their homes longer & living longer and lack of “entry-homes” like mobile homes, to name a few. Myth 2:STRs are unregulated.Fact: Every township with STRs regulates them—and many have inspections, permits, fines, hearings, and enforcement. We support regulation that is clear, fair, and consistent, not absent. |
Myth 3:STR guests are all disruptive.Fact: The vast majority of stays are quiet and uneventful. Problem properties are the exception—not the rule—and should be addressed through enforcement, not broad restrictions. Myth 4:STRs don’t support the local economy.Fact: STRs fuel year-round business for cleaners, contractors, landscapers, restaurants, realtors, attractions, and retailers. They keep visitor dollars local. |
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| Myth 5:STRs threaten neighborhood character.Fact: Responsible hosting standards protect neighborhood peace. We support clear guest conduct rules and noise expectations that apply equally to hotels, resorts, and STRs. Myth 6:Townships have no control.Fact: Municipalities can—and do—set fees, inspection schedules, occupancy limits, and enforcement mechanisms. We advocate for balanced oversight, not zero oversight. |
Myth 7:STRs only benefit owners.Fact: Local trades, tourism partners, service providers, and tax revenues benefit directly. STRs are a pillar of the region’s travel economy, not a side note. |
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