Airbnb tests property managers for short-term rentals; a new app helps New Yorkers find the right neighborhood for them; parking lots drop in popularity and significance; Vancouver taxes empty rentals to improve the vacancies rate and decrease bidding wars; and a record number of renters renew their leases in 2016.
Airbnb Tests “Superhosts”
TechCrunch reports that the short-term rental giant, Airbnb, is testing a new service: Experienced Hosts, which act as property managers for would-be hosts.
Not Sure Where to Live? There’s an App for That
Finding a place to live online can be overwhelming, especially if it’s unclear which neighborhoods are the safest, most convenient, or most comfortable for the money. The New York Times reports there’s a new app to help tenants find their dream apartments.
City Developers Kick Parking Lots to the Curb
The Wall Street Journal reports that developers in New York and California are voting against the parking lot or parking structure. Instead, they’re encouraging residents to walk, bike, and use public transportation.
Vancouver Levies Tax Against Empty Rentals
Bloomberg reports that Vancouver’s near-zero rental supply has resulted in new legislation that targets the nearly 20,000 empty and/or under-utilized homes on the market to improve the vacancy rate and the stressful rental market.
Record Number of Renters Renew Their Leases
Business Insider reports a record-breaking lease renewal rate in 2016, due in part to the stress and difficulty of buying a home.
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