Airbnb’s Secret Weapon to Fight State Laws: Its Hosts

The rising political clout of host groups comes at a crucial time for the U.S. short-term rental industry

* Poconos VRO got a mention in the Wall Street Journal! Now let's continue to work and advocate for fair, reasonable, and enforceable regulations!!!

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In Pennsylvania, the Poconos Association of Vacation Rental Owners has biweekly calls with members of the two companies’ policy teams who help draft letters to homeowners associations and community boards, said the group’s executive director Ricky Cortez.

“The professionalization of host advocacy efforts is really leading to a turning of the tides in a lot of communities,” said Noah Stewart, head of U.S. advocacy at Expedia Group.

By Konrad Putzier and Allison Pohle, Photo: JUSTIN LANE/ZUMA PRESS

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We would like to extend our thanks to the WSJ for this insightful article. We appreciate the opportunity to discuss the significant role that short-term rentals (STRs) play in various communities. However, we feel it is important to clarify a few statements regarding financial support and the housing market.

The Poconos VRO is funded by our dedicated members, our partners, and a volunteer board. Our work in advocacy and community support would not be possible without their contributions. As we expand our advocacy reach, we need the continued support of our members more than ever.

While Poconos VRO is not directly funded by Rent Responsibly, we greatly appreciate their support in providing guidance, education, and community-building resources. Their innovative ideas and balanced approach in working with decision-makers have been invaluable to our efforts.

There is a distinct difference between STRs in highly residential areas versus those in predominantly vacation-oriented, tourist markets. The Poconos, much like the Jersey Shore, the Outer Banks, Hawaii, Vail, Colorado, and even the majority of NYC, is fundamentally a tourist market. Developed as vacation destinations, these areas continue to thrive as such. In these markets, STRs do not detract from the housing supply but are integral to the local economy and community fabric.

Housing shortages and affordability crises are influenced by a range of other factors, such as rising interest rates, stringent building regulations, and the post-COVID surge in materials and labor costs. It is essential to consider why vacation destinations should remain true to their purpose and not be overrun with full-time residents. Where is the protection for those who purchased second homes to escape suburban sprawl and enjoy their investment as a retreat?

We thank Mr. Putzier for bringing attention to the role of STRs and hope this adds a broader perspective to the ongoing conversation about housing markets and the diverse needs of different communities.

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https://www.wsj.com/real-estate/airbnb-expedia-hosts-local-law-1aeed43c?st=v8pn4vx7avnoi15&reflink=desktopwebshare_permalink&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR34ELilQHOpJTHVhHLuOhpAMhC8UwndYuOihXgh2xQnGkhu-bYCBC6sMtE_aem_ARX30B_V4tfTqj_bSt-tLp4aXskw5tqQAzxOHfvzhrt-NNpS4U7OOVp6q8HZs1CzpvspsIntEZuJcdAYHalWaiAZ