Airbnb’simpactinSanFranciscoSFChronicle.docx

Airbnb’s impact in San Francisco
SF Chronicle
Carolyn Said
July 12, 2015
Said,C. (2015, July 12, 2015). The Airbnb effect.
San Francisco
Chronicle. Retrieved from
https://www.sfchronicle.com/airbnb-
impact-san-francisco-2015/#1
Part 1 - The Airbnb effect

At least 350 entire homes listed on Airbnb
appear to be full-time vacation rentals,
bolstering
claims by activists that the service removes scarce
housing from the city’s limited inventory.
July 12, 2015
https://www.sfchronicle.com/airbnb-impact-san-francisco-
2015/#1
Stories by Carolyn Said | Design by Michael
Grant | Development and graphics by Aaron
Williams, Maegan Clawges and John Blanchard |
Photography by Paul Chinn, Liz Hafalia, Jason
Henry, Leah Millis, Amy Osborne, Lea Suzuki
and Sam Wolson | Edited by Ben Muessig |
Copyedited by Caroline Grannan
Both Airbnb and its San Francisco critics are correct.
Mostof the booming vacation-rental
company’s local listings are only occasionally rented
to travelers, as Airbnb says. However,
at least 350 entire properties listed on Airbnb —
and hundreds more listed on competing
sites HomeAway/VRBO and FlipKey — appear to be
full-time vacation rentals, bolstering
claims by activists that the services remove scarce
housing from the city’s limited
inventory.Those are among the findings from a
data dive into the threecompanies’
websites.

It’s not the thousands of illegal hotels that critics
allege have sprung up thanks to Airbnb
and its rivals. But in a city wracked by a
housing crisis, where a typical year sees
just 2,000
new units added, a few hundred units off the market
makes a significant dent.
Using houses as hotels ranks among San
Francisco’s most-contentious issues, debated
fiercely by lawmakers, residents, advocates and
corporations, and now likely headed for a
ballot-boxshowdown.
Opponents say short-term rentals are so
lucrative that greedy landlords and tenants
illegally divert precious housing stock to the
practice. Proponents say services like Airbnb
help regular people afford to stay in San
Francisco, while forging international
friendships.
For decades, a seldom-enforced law banned
vacation rentals in San Francisco. A new
law
enacted on Feb. 1 legalized such rentals, with
conditions: hostsmust be full-time residents,
whole-property rentals are capped at 90 days a
year, and all hostsmust register with the
city. But so far only a fraction of hosts— about
700 — have registered, while the city itself
admits it struggles to catch scofflaws.Mayor Ed
Lee this month created a new office to
streamline registration and pursue violations.
At the core of this dispute is a simple

question that is devilishly difficult to answer:
How do
the impromptu inns affect the city’s housing
market?
To investigate, The Chronicle commissioned data-
extraction companies Connotate Inc. and
Import.io to harvest San Francisco information from
the Airbnb, HomeAway and FlipKey
websites on May 19. Connotate also extracted Airbnb
listing data for The Chronicle on the
same date in 2014, allowing for insights about
year-over-year changes. Here’s a summary
of the findings:
Total listings and cost
Amid all the controversy, the number of Airbnb
listings in San Francisco grew 13.8 percent
in the year, hitting 5,459, despite a significant
portion of properties dropping out. The $202
average nightly cost among all property types —
entire homes, private rooms and shared
rooms — was up $19 (10.9 percent) from a
year ago.
Entire homes accounted for 3,264 of the 2015
listings, or 59.8 percent; private rooms
numbered 1,969 or 36 percent and shared rooms
tallied 226 or 4.1 percent. Prices for
entire homes rose 13.3 percent to $255; private
rooms edged up 6 percent to $123 and

shared rooms ballooned 55 percent to $124.
That increase was propelled by somenew
hacker hostels — shared houses that pack young
workers into bunk beds.
Length and frequency of rentals
Almost two-thirds— 64 percent — of all listings
had 10 or fewer reviews over the past
year, supporting the idea that they were rented only
infrequently.
However, the remaining listings racked up a
significant chunk of guest reviews — a
telling,
albeit conservative indicator of usage as not all
guests leave reviews.
Properties listed on Airbnb both last year and this
year averaged 22 reviews each. Among
entire homes, 352 showed 26 or more reviews in
the 52-week period. That means new
guests checked in at least every otherweekand
likely more often.
An additional 349 new or returning listings for entire
homes also had 26 or more reviews,
attained during an indeterminate time period.
Where are they?
Vacation rentals are spread throughout San
Francisco, in contrast to the city’s 34,000

hotel
rooms, which are heavily clustered near Moscone
Center, Union Square and Fisherman’s
Wharf.
The Mission District, with 789 listings (up from 681
last year), remains the city’s most
popular Airbnb location, followed by SoMa (388
listings) and the Western Addition/NoPa
(369). Bernal Heights added 58 properties to
become fourth-most-popular, with 264
spaces for rent. The Bayview added eightlistings
(for a total of 58), and racked up 757 new
guest comments in a year, pointing to rise in
usage in one of the city’s lower-cost
neighborhoods.
Who hosts?
While most Airbnb hostscontrol a single
property, 205 hostshave threeor more listings.
These super hostsaccount for 4.8 percent of all
hosts, but control 993 properties — 18.2
percent of Airbnb’s local listings. Some are
property managers, someare hacker hostels,
someare legal hotels and someare people who may
have siphoned off housing stock to
make more money hosting visitors.
Wrede Petersmeyer, who oversees Airbnb analytics,
flew out from New York, to discuss the
company’s data and defend its model. Most entire
units in San Francisco are rented out
fewer than 30 days a year, he said, while only 10
percent of hostsrent out a space where
they do not live. Entire units were booked an average
of 65 nights over the 12 months

ended July 5, with a median stay of 29 nights,
Airbnb said.
“Data scrapes are unfairly used to draw specific —
oftennegative — conclusions about a
small subset of our host community,” he said,
“when the reality is the vast majority are
middle-class families sharing the home in which
they live.”
Since 60 percent of Airbnb’s local listings are
entire homes, does that undercut the
company’s assertion that guests and hostsare
“sharing” spaces and forging friendships?
“Local, authentic hospitality doesn’t always mean
the host has to be thereto give you the
keys,” Petersmeyer said.
Part 2 - Living with Airbnb
A family in the Castro welcomes guests to
raise funds and make friends, while a
landlord in
Nob Hill stands accused of turning a Victorian
home into a full-time hotel. July 12, 2015

2015/#2
Geoff Benjamin and his husband, Craig Persiko,
oftenlist rooms in their four-bedroom
Castro condo on Airbnb to raise spare cash.
Another host identified on the site as Yumi
has
allegedly turned two entire flats on Nob Hill into
Airbnb hotels, hosting a frequent stream
of temporary renters, while also listing another
roomfor rent in the Richmond District. The
tales of thesehostsillustrate both sidesof the vacation-
rental debate.
Persiko chairs the computer science department at
City College of San Francisco, while
Benjamin recently launched the SoMa cabaret theatre
and nightclub Oasis — a laborof love
financed by Airbnb guests.
Renting to travelers “in many ways became like a
small-business loan that we didn’t have
to repay,” Benjamin said. “In essence, it paid my
salary for the two years it took to open
Oasis.”
The couple rent two to four rooms to travelers at
different times. They paid for sleep-away
camp for their children, Tobias, 10, and Serafina,
12, by renting out their bedrooms while
they were away, for instance.
They love meeting people, and the feeling seems
mutual. Airbnb guests read to their kids
and eat meals with the family. Benjamin said the

rooms wouldn’t work as permanent
housing, because most people prefer not to stay
long with a family with children.
“I’vealways wanted my children to identify as
citizens of the world,” Benjamin said. “A
really excited energy comes from people when
they travel. We get to see the city through
their eyes.”
Over on Nob Hill, Katieanne Moran and her flatmates
say they are surrounded by Airbnb
renters. Long-term tenants in the middle flat of
a Victorian triplex, they discovered that the
top floor and basement flats had been converted to full-
time Airbnb use, with six individual
rooms going for $100 to $130 a night.
“Rooms were being rented below us, above us
and in the building all around us,” she said.
“It was very disconcerting; we felt trapped.”
Their landlady, Yumi, does not live in the
building, the tenants said. When they voiced
concerns about noise and security, the landlady
said “she could do whatever she wanted
and if it caused problems, we would be
evicted.”
Now they’re suing Yumi, whose legal name is
Mingjing Li, for violating city ordinances,
negligence and creating a private nuisance. Li

and her attorney declined to comment.
“This is one of the more egregious cases, but
we oftensee landlords try to forcetenants out
... (to use) Airbnb and otherhosting platforms,”
said Mark Hooshmand, the tenants’ lawyer.
“Money motivates people to not follow regulations.”
Part 3 - Hosts or hoteliers?
The Chronicle compiled a conservative estimate of
Airbnb listings functioning as full-time
vacation rentals. July 12, 2015
2015/#3
How many San Franciscans use Airbnb to turn
their places into year-round hotels? Airbnb
knows the answer: Its transaction system
captures exactly how many nights each
property
is rented. The company could remove listings
after they exceed the legal limit of 90 days —
but it doesn’t want to do so. It says those
bad players would simply migrate to other
platforms such as Craigslist that don’t police
listings.
Nor does it want to open the kimono on exactly
how many days each place is rented out.
And even though it now collects San Francisco’s 14

percent hoteltax — remitting more
than $1 million a month — it resists
requests to tell the tax collector which homes
are
rented and how often.
For someone looking in, guest reviews provide
the best insight into how oftena unit is
rented. The more reviews, the more frequentlya
property hoststravelers. By counting how
many reviews each property generated in the 365
days between our two data dives, we
compiled a conservative estimate of places
functioning as full-time vacation rentals.
Among whole properties — houses, condos and
apartments — listed on the site on May 19
in 2014 and 2015, 352 racked up 26 or more
reviews over the year. That includes 104 with
a stunning 51 or more reviews.
For entire units that weren’t on the site last year,
349 had a total of 26 or more reviews.
Some were new listings and somewere returning
properties, so we can’tsay conclusively
that all reviews were accumulated in a single
year.
Reviews underestimate usage. Airbnb says only two-
thirds of guests leave reviews —
meaning a property with 30 reviews in a year

may have hosted 45 unique visitors, nearly
one a week. San Francisco guests stay an average
of 5.5 nights, Airbnb says, so 30 reviews
translates into an average of 165 nights of
occupancy — and likely more, accounting
for
guests who don’t leave reviews.
Overall, the number of reviews for all San
Francisco listings surged over the 12 months,
rising by 44,842 to 105,192. Yet the majority of
listings had only a handful of reviews,
buttressing Airbnb’s assertion of infrequentusage.
Looking at all categories of properties and including
both repeats and the new or returned
listings, 3,242 or 59.3 percent, have 10 or fewer
reviews over their entire time on Airbnb.
Another 958 had 11 to 25 reviews, while 639
had 26 to 50 reviews, implying usage
between casual and frequent. But 620 homes and
rooms, or 11.4 percent of listings,
amassed 51 or more reviews, implying very heavy
usage.
The power of super hosts
MostAirbnb hostscontrol just a single listing —
but 206 hostscontrol threeor more
listings. These “superhosts” account for 4.8 percent
of all hosts, but run 18.2 percent
of Airbnb’s San Francisco listings.

Annette Fajardo says it’s no mystery why landlords
prefer to rent to short-term visitors.
“The dirty little secret is that owners do this to
avoid rent control,” she said. At the same
time,“rent-controlled tenants do it to make
money on the units that the owners should be
making money on.”
She’s in a position to know. Her SF
Holiday Rentals, in business since2002, is
the city’s
oldest short-term rental management site, she
said. She handles 20 to 30 San Francisco
listings and another seven to 10 in Pacifica,
listing them on multiple websites, including
Airbnb, HomeAway and its subsidiaryVRBO.
Her listings focus on entire homes, many
available year-round. About a third are in-law
units; someare second homes; someare small
buildings owned by a landlord, including her
own Bernal Heights duplex (she lives elsewhere and
rents both units to travelers).
She does this all legally. Her property owners now
request a 30-day minimum stay, she
said, exempting them from the new short-term rental
law. “They didn’t want the headaches
of working with the government or (officials)
snooping into their business practices,” she
said.
The change made her business easier, sinceshe

doesn’t have to handle turnover every few
days.
Fajardo is a “super host” on both Airbnb
and HomeAway, among the top 10 on both
sites
based on number of listings.
MostAirbnb hosts(3,599 people, or 85 percent of
hosts) control just a single listing,
accounting for 66 percent of all properties.
Another 434 list two properties. Many have a
legitimate reason: Either they rent out two rooms in
their home, or they rent out a room
and also offer their entire home when they travel.
However, 205 hostscontrol threeor more listings. These
super hostsaccount for 4.8
percent of all hosts, but control 993 properties —
18.2 percent of Airbnb’s San Francisco
listings.
Many hostswith multiple listings are either
property managers like Fajardo or people
running hacker hostels, packing young techies
into bunk beds for cheap crash space and
camaraderie.
Properties handled by managers can include ones skirting
regulations, as well as those like
Fajardo’s that adapted to become legal. Pillow

(22 listings) and Guesthop (15 listings) are
otherleading concierge services.
Hacker hostels are problematic, as they may flout a
variety of city rules on overcrowding,
according to ScottSanchez, San Francisco zoning
administrator. If they require a 30-day
minimum stay, however, they may be allowed in most
districts as group houses, he said.
Airbnb’s top two super hostsboth run hacker hostels.
Rob, No. 1 with 30 listings, rents
rooms in Tech House SF but does not live there,
residents said. Gatz, No. 2, runs Looky
Home with 25 listings.
Another group of people who control multiple
listings seems to have turned entire homes
or apartments into year-round pads for travelers.
Often they have just a handful of listings
in different parts of the city.
Eighty Airbnb hostshave four to six listings,
controlling 374 rentals among them.
Generally
that’s too few for them to be property management
services — and too many for them to
be legitimately living at those locations. It’s a
rare San Franciscan who could rent six
bedrooms at his or her home.
As part of a renewed effort on enforcing

vacation-rental laws, San Francisco sent violation
letters this month to hostsin this category,
targeting 15 hostswith 72 short-term rentals
around the city. More than half are blocks of
multiple units in brand-new high-rises in
SoMa and Mid-Market, while others are two- to
four-units buildings entirely devoted to
short-term rentals, the City Planning Department
said. The units were listed on various
services, while somehad their own rental websites.
“We want to crack down on people taking
housing off the market and hurting San
Francisco,” said TonyWinnicker, a senior adviser
to Mayor Ed Lee. “But we also want law-
abiding people to be able to do occasional
(short-term rentals) because it helps many
people afford to live in our city.”
Part 4 - Airbnb hostscome and go
In the year sinceThe Chronicle’s last data dive, 2,773
listings dropped off of Airbnb —
although they were replaced by 3,492 new listings.
July 12, 2015
2015/#4
Bootstrapping a business was eating up her cash,so
the San Francisco woman listed her

Marina apartment on Airbnb in 2013. She rented
it out about 70 nights a year for $260 a
night. “I would coordinate trips for work and
family, camp out with friends or do ‘Airbnb
arbitrage,’ where I’d stay at a less-expensive
Airbnb place,” she said. The cute one-bedroom
with views of the Golden Gate Bridge was always
snapped up.
“It was a self-perpetuating, ka-ching ka-ching money
machine,” she said. “It was such a
relief to know I could always rent it on
Airbnb to subsidize my rent.” She made
almost a
year’s rent over two years.
But when San Francisco implemented its vacation-
rental rules in February, registering her
unit seemed like a hassle. She feared that the
city might compel Airbnb to identify hosts
and prosecute those who failed to register.
But her biggest worry — and the reason she
declined to be named for this story— is
that
short-term renting violates her lease. She took
down her listing.
“I felt like I made my hay when the sun
was shining, but now it’s over,” she said.
In the year sinceThe Chronicle’s last data dive, 2,773
listings, or 57.8 percent, dropped out
of the site, although they were replaced by a larger

number: 3,492 new listings for a net
growth of 719 listings, or 15 percent.
Airbnb says listings oftencycle in and out. For
instance, people list their house before they
go on vacation and take it down when they
return. Indeed, many of the new listings
appear
to have had longer tenure than a year.
Tom Slee, an independent researcherand author of
the forthcoming book “What’s Yours Is
Mine” about on-demand companies, examined
Airbnb churn worldwide, finding an exit
rate
of between 50 and 60 percent of listings in
cities such as New York, Los Angeles,
Amsterdam, Parisand Barcelona over about a year. At
the same time,the entryrate of new
listings always resulted in net growth, he found.
The listings that left generally had only a handful of
reviews, implying infrequentusage,
while those that stayed averaged reviews in
the double digits, he said.
“My feeling was that it was largely people who
tried it, found it wasn’t for them and left,”
he
said.
Looking at the Bay Area, including San Francisco,

the East Bay and the Peninsula, he found
a 51 percent exit rate, lower than that for the
city alone. That props up the idea that San
Francisco is losing more listings due to users’
fears about new regulations and landlord
prohibitions on subleasing.
Part 5 - Flouting the law
While Airbnb cultivates a folksy image of
hostsas middle-class locals making ends meet,
HomeAway proclaims its hostsare affluent out-of-
towners renting their pied-a-terres. July 12,
2015
2015/#5
While Airbnb cultivates a folksy image of its
hostsas middle-class locals making ends meet,
HomeAway proclaims that its hostsare affluent out-of-
towners renting out their pieds-a-
terre. “The vast majority of our listings fall into
the category that the city is trying to stop:
this ‘evil’ second-home owner, who we don’t
believe is evil,” said Carl Shepherd, co-founder
and chiefdevelopment officer of the Texas
company.

Prices for its 1,001 local listings, all private
homes, reflect that more upscale image,
averaging $302 in San Francisco compared with Airbnb’s
entire-home average of $255.
HomeAway, which ownsVRBO and otherbrands, is
up front about the fact that its business
model flouts San Francisco’s new vacation-rental
law. In fact, it sued the city, saying the law
was tailored for Airbnb. Most HomeAway properties in
San Francisco are second homes
whose owners do not reside here and thus are
barred by the new law from renting to
tourists for periods of less than 30 days,
HomeAway said in its suit claiming
discrimination.
A judge tossed the case on procedural
grounds.
Its hostsincreasingly request 30-day minimums in
San Francisco, Shepherd said, although
only 156 listings specified monthly rates.
People who control multiple properties — oftencalled
super hosts— are more dominant
on HomeAway than on Airbnb. Almost half of
the HomeAway properties — 461, or 46
percent — are in the hands of someone with
multiple listings. They are controlled by 87
hosts, or 14.8 percent of the total.
Hosts with dozens of listings are clearly
vacation-management companies like Pillow

and
RedAwning Vacation Rentals. That doesn’t prove
that their listings are legal or illegal, just
that they belong to otherpeople.
HomeAway functions like a classified listing service,
rather than a middleman like Airbnb.
That also means that far fewer reviews appear on
its website.
HomeAway said thereis about a 10 to 15
percent overlap between its listings and those
on
Airbnb worldwide; it didn’t have a breakdown
for San Francisco. It has even more overlap
with FlipKey because many largeproperty managers
list on both sites, but didn’t have a
specific number.
FlipKey, owned by TripAdvisor Inc., has 359 local
properties with an average priceof $269.
Super hostsalso dominate its site, with 220 properties,
or 61.3 percent, in the hands of 35
hosts, or 25.7 percent of hosts.
FlipKey declined to comment.
HomeAway has a big chunk of homes —
148 — controlled by people with just two or
three
listings, oftenin different parts of the city.

Shepherd is frank about the explanation. Most,
he presumes, are tenants gaming the
system.
“When someone has several different listings in a
city like San Francisco, those are
probably all rented apartments being arbitraged by
the renter,” he said. “Arbitrage means I
pay $4,000 a month and rent it (short term)
for $300 a night, with or without the
landlord’s
permission, but most likely without.”
San Francisco actually abetted such people by
regulating vacation rentals, Shepherd said.
“The new law tells you exactly how to skirt it,” he
said. “All you have to do is say you live
there270 days a year. You do have to lie and you do
have to obfuscate.But the city is at a
distinct disadvantage because they can’tcatch this.”
2/11/2019 How S.F.'s Airbnb listings skirt law, affect housing,
yet win fans - SFChronicle.com

https://www.sfchronicle.com/realestate/article/How-S-F-s-
Airbnb-listings-skirt-law-affect-5553235.php?cmpid=gsa-
sfgate-result 1/6
B I Z & T E C H B I Z & T E C H B I Z & T E C H // //
// R E A L E S TAT ER E A L E S TAT ER E A L E S TAT E
How S.F.'s Airbnb listings skirt law, affectHow S.F.'s Airbnb lis
tings skirt law, affectHow S.F.'s Airbnb listings skirt law, affect
housing, yet win fanshousing, yet win fanshousing, yet win fans
housing supply -
listings skirt the law, affect housing supply - yet find favorHow
omptu listings skirt the law, affect housing
supply - yet find favor
with travelers, hostswith travelers, hostswith travelers, hosts
Carolyn SaidCarolyn SaidCarolyn Said
p.m.Updated: J
p.m.
https://www.sfchronicle.com/author/carolyn-said/
sfgate-result 2/6
Thousands of San Franciscans have transformed their homes int
o impromptuThousands of San Franciscans have transformed the
ir homes into impromptuThousands of San Franciscans have tra
nsformed their homes into impromptu

inns using Airbnb, the website that lets people rent rooms or ho
uses to travelers.inns using Airbnb, the website that lets people
rent rooms or houses to travelers.inns using Airbnb, the website
that lets people rent rooms or houses to travelers.
These short-
term rentals haven't been an easy sell to landlords, housing acti
vistsThese short-
vistsThese short-
vists
and others who say they flout the law, violate leases, remove sc
arce housingand others who say they flout the law, violate lease
s, remove scarce housingand others who say they flout the law,
violate leases, remove scarce housing
stock, drive up rents and annoy neighbors. But the scale of Airb
nb's impact onstock, drive up rents and annoy neighbors. But th
e scale of Airbnb's impact onstock, drive up rents and annoy nei
ghbors. But the scale of Airbnb's impact on
San Francisco has been hard to measure -
until now.San Francisco has been hard to measure -
until now.San Francisco has been hard to measure - until now.
Although the company refuses to release numbers, a data analys
isAlthough the company refuses to release numbers, a data anal
ysisAlthough the company refuses to release numbers, a data an
alysis
commissioned by The Chronicle found almost 5,000 San Francis
co homes,commissioned by The Chronicle found almost 5,000 S
an Francisco homes,commissioned by The Chronicle found almo

st 5,000 San Francisco homes,
apartments, and private or shared rooms for rent via Airbnb. Tw
o-
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rom its couch-
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surfer origins, and contradicting its portrayal as a service for pe
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a spare room and interact with guests.a spare room and interact
with guests.a spare room and interact with guests.
And 160 entire homes or apartments seem to be rented full time,
giving weight toAnd 160 entire homes or apartments seem to be
rented full time, giving weight toAnd 160 entire homes or apart
ments seem to be rented full time, giving weight to
arguments that the service is allowing landlords to flout strict re
ntal laws.arguments that the service is allowing landlords to flo
ut strict rental laws.arguments that the service is allowing landl
ords to flout strict rental laws.
Connotate Inc., a Web data harvesting firm, compiled the data fr
om Airbnb'sConnotate Inc., a Web data harvesting firm, compile

d the data from Airbnb'sConnotate Inc., a Web data harvesting f
irm, compiled the data from Airbnb's
website on May 19.website on May 19.website on May 19.
"In a city that has chronic housing shortages, the number of Air
bnb homes that"In a city that has chronic housing shortages, the
number of Airbnb homes that"In a city that has chronic housing
shortages, the number of Airbnb homes that
appear to not be available on the rental market is significant," s
aid Laura Teller,appear to not be available on the rental market
is significant," said Laura Teller,appear to not be available on t
he rental market is significant," said Laura Teller,
Connotate chief strategy officer.Connotate chief strategy officer
.Connotate chief strategy officer.
Here is a breakdown of findings:Here is a breakdown of finding
s:Here is a breakdown of findings:
Airbnb -
Heights mansion is the priciest listing on Airbnb - a graceful
the priciest listing on Airbnb - a graceful chateau in one of the
city's most opulent neighborhoods. Two-thirds of San Francisco
listings are for entire houses orcity's most opulent
neighborhoods. Two-thirds of San Francisco listings are for
entire houses orcity's most opulent neighborhoods. Two-thirds
of San Francisco listings are for entire houses or
apartments.apartments.apartments.
Photo: Leah Millis, The ChroniclePhoto: Leah Millis, The
ChroniclePhoto: Leah Millis, The Chronicle

sfgate-result 3/6
-- How many rentals? -- How many rentals? --
How many rentals? Airbnb had 4,798 properties listed in the cit
y. Almost two-
Airbnb had 4,798 properties listed in the city. Almost two-
Airbnb had 4,798 properties listed in the city. Almost two-
thirds - 2,984 - were entire houses or apartments.thirds - 2,984 -
were entire houses or apartments.thirds - 2,984 -
were entire houses or apartments.
Of the remainder, 1,651 were private rooms and 163 were share
d rooms. Dozens ofOf the remainder, 1,651 were private rooms
and 163 were shared rooms. Dozens ofOf the remainder, 1,651
were private rooms and 163 were shared rooms. Dozens of
shared spaces were in communal "hacker hostels" that offer cras
h space and ashared spaces were in communal "hacker hostels" t
hat offer crash space and ashared spaces were in communal "hac
ker hostels" that offer crash space and a
place to make tech-industry connections.place to make tech-
industry connections.place to make tech-industry connections.
-- How often?-- How often?--
How often? Critics fear that some Airbnb hosts run full-
time hotels, thus Critics fear that some Airbnb hosts run full-
time hotels, thus Critics fear that some Airbnb hosts run full-

time hotels, thus
reducing the city's housing supply and changing the character of
residentialreducing the city's housing supply and changing the
character of residentialreducing the city's housing supply and ch
anging the character of residential
neighborhoods.neighborhoods.neighborhoods.
Connotate could not determine how often properties were rented
out, nor if theyConnotate could not determine how often proper
ties were rented out, nor if theyConnotate could not determine h
ow often properties were rented out, nor if they
were available on the date it harvested the data. But, like a brea
d-
crumb trail,were available on the date it harvested the data. But,
like a bread-
crumb trail,were available on the date it harvested the data. But,
like a bread-crumb trail,
reviews left by visitors offer some insights on frequency of use.
(Not all visitorsreviews left by visitors offer some insights on f
requency of use. (Not all visitorsreviews left by visitors offer so
me insights on frequency of use. (Not all visitors
write reviews, so this underestimates usage.)write reviews, so th
is underestimates usage.)write reviews, so this underestimates u
sage.)
About two-
thirds of listings had fewer than 10 reviews, fitting Airbnb's por
trayalAbout two-
trayalAbout two-

trayal
of occasional use.of occasional use.of occasional use.
A quarter had 11 to 50 reviews. Most properties have been on th
e site for only aA quarter had 11 to 50 reviews. Most properties
have been on the site for only aA quarter had 11 to 50 reviews.
Most properties have been on the site for only a
couple of years, meaning that this group hosted up to twice a m
onth.couple of years, meaning that this group hosted up to twice
a month.couple of years, meaning that this group hosted up to t
wice a month.
However 6.4 percent - 307 listings -
had more than 50 reviews, implying heavy orHowever 6.4 perce
nt - 307 listings -
had more than 50 reviews, implying heavy orHowever 6.4 perce
nt - 307 listings - had more than 50 reviews, implying heavy or
constant visitor traffic.constant visitor traffic.constant visitor tr
affic.
These popular properties included 160 entire homes or apartmen
ts, 140 privateThese popular properties included 160 entire hom
es or apartments, 140 privateThese popular properties included
160 entire homes or apartments, 140 private
rooms and seven shared rooms.rooms and seven shared rooms.ro
oms and seven shared rooms.
-- -- --
Who hosts? Who hosts? Who hosts? The bulk of San Francisco'
s 3,785 hosts - 3,272, or 86.4 percent -
hadThe bulk of San Francisco's 3,785 hosts -
3,272, or 86.4 percent -

hadThe bulk of San Francisco's 3,785 hosts -
3,272, or 86.4 percent - had
a single listing, buttressing Airbnb's claim that most rent out the
ir own places.a single listing, buttressing Airbnb's claim that m
ost rent out their own places.a single listing, buttressing Airbnb'
s claim that most rent out their own places.
But the remaining 513 hosts control multiple properties.But the
remaining 513 hosts control multiple properties.But the remaini
ng 513 hosts control multiple properties.
sfgate-result 4/6
When broken down by properties, the presence of these multiple
hosts is moreWhen broken down by properties, the presence of
these multiple hosts is moreWhen broken down by properties, th
e presence of these multiple hosts is more
prominent.prominent.prominent.
A total of 1,526 properties - almost a third -
are controlled by people with two orA total of 1,526 properties
- almost a third -
are controlled by people with two orA total of 1,526 properties
- almost a third - are controlled by people with two or
more listings. The top 10 hosts collectively controlled 248 listin
gs.more listings. The top 10 hosts collectively controlled 248 lis

tings.more listings. The top 10 hosts collectively controlled 248
listings.
Some of these multiple-
listers were property managers handling Airbnb rentalsSome of
these multiple-
listers were property managers handling Airbnb rentalsSome of
these multiple-
listers were property managers handling Airbnb rentals
on behalf of hosts who want to avoid the hassle; some were peo
ple offering twoon behalf of hosts who want to avoid the hassle;
some were people offering twoon behalf of hosts who want to a
void the hassle; some were people offering two
different rooms in their homes.different rooms in their homes.di
fferent rooms in their homes.
In New York City, a Connotate study found evidence of large-
scale illegal hotels.In New York City, a Connotate study found
evidence of large-
scale illegal hotels.In New York City, a Connotate study found
evidence of large-scale illegal hotels.
The Chronicle didn't find that. However, some hosts with multip
le listings couldThe Chronicle didn't find that. However, some h
osts with multiple listings couldThe Chronicle didn't find that.
However, some hosts with multiple listings could
be treating a handful of units as more-
lucrative vacation rentals.be treating a handful of units as more-
lucrative vacation rentals.be treating a handful of units as more-
lucrative vacation rentals.
-- What does it cost?-- What does it cost?--
What does it cost? Citywide, entire homes or apartments averag

ed $226 a night, Citywide, entire homes or apartments averaged
$226 a night, Citywide, entire homes or apartments averaged $2
26 a night,
private rooms $116 and shared rooms $80. Whole houses ranged
from $337 aprivate rooms $116 and shared rooms $80. Whole h
ouses ranged from $337 aprivate rooms $116 and shared rooms
$80. Whole houses ranged from $337 a
night in Cow Hollow to $125 in Visitacion Valley.night in Cow
Hollow to $125 in Visitacion Valley.night in Cow Hollow to $1
25 in Visitacion Valley.
The priciest listing: a Pacific Heights mansion for $6,000 a nigh
t.The priciest listing: a Pacific Heights mansion for $6,000 a nig
ht.The priciest listing: a Pacific Heights mansion for $6,000 a ni
ght.
The cheapest: a shared downtown living room for $18.The chea
pest: a shared downtown living room for $18.The cheapest: a sh
ared downtown living room for $18.
-- Where are the listings?-- Where are the listings?--
Where are the listings? Airbnb's footprint spreads throughout S
an Francisco, Airbnb's footprint spreads throughout San Francis
co, Airbnb's footprint spreads throughout San Francisco,
ranging from the Great Highway to South Beach.ranging from th
e Great Highway to South Beach.ranging from the Great Highwa
y to South Beach.
The Mission had 681 listings, the equivalent of two Marriott Un
ion Squares.The Mission had 681 listings, the equivalent of two
Marriott Union Squares.The Mission had 681 listings, the equiv
alent of two Marriott Union Squares.

Western Addition/NoPa, SoMa and the Castro were also popular
locations.Western Addition/NoPa, SoMa and the Castro were al
so popular locations.Western Addition/NoPa, SoMa and the Cas
tro were also popular locations.
By contrast, the city's 34,000 hotel rooms are heavily clustered;
about 20,000 areBy contrast, the city's 34,000 hotel rooms are h
eavily clustered; about 20,000 areBy contrast, the city's 34,000
hotel rooms are heavily clustered; about 20,000 are
within a short walk of Moscone Center.within a short walk of M
oscone Center.within a short walk of Moscone Center.
Airbnb, valued at $10 billion -
more than Hyatt Hotels or Wyndham Worldwide -
says its business model, which helps regular people become "mi
cro-
cro-
cro-
sfgate-result 5/6

entrepreneurs," should not be regulated in the same way as hotel
s.entrepreneurs," should not be regulated in the same way as hot
els.entrepreneurs," should not be regulated in the same way as h
otels.
The company has grown rapidly since its mid-
2008 founding. Two years ago, itThe company has grown rapidl
y since its mid-
2008 founding. Two years ago, itThe company has grown rapidl
y since its mid-2008 founding. Two years ago, it
had 1,800 San Francisco listings, a number that has almost tripl
ed.had 1,800 San Francisco listings, a number that has almost tr
ipled.had 1,800 San Francisco listings, a number that has almost
tripled.
In fact, the number may have been higher just a few months ago
. Many localIn fact, the number may have been higher just a few
months ago. Many localIn fact, the number may have been high
er just a few months ago. Many local
hosts reportedly have removed listings after news of evictions a
nd codehosts reportedly have removed listings after news of evi
ctions and codehosts reportedly have removed listings after new
s of evictions and code
violations.violations.violations.
San Francisco lawmakers now are tackling how to regulate Airb
nb, VRBO,San Francisco lawmakers now are tackling how to re
gulate Airbnb, VRBO,San Francisco lawmakers now are tacklin
g how to regulate Airbnb, VRBO,
FlipKey and similar services, which violate the city's ban on ren
tals of less thanFlipKey and similar services, which violate the
city's ban on rentals of less thanFlipKey and similar services, w

hich violate the city's ban on rentals of less than
30 days.30 days.30 days.
Supervisor David Chiu has introduced legislation to legalize the
services whileSupervisor David Chiu has introduced legislation
to legalize the services whileSupervisor David Chiu has introdu
ced legislation to legalize the services while
creating a stricter framework for their operations, including pay
ing the city's 14creating a stricter framework for their operation
s, including paying the city's 14creating a stricter framework for
their operations, including paying the city's 14
percent hotel tax, something Airbnb says it will start this summ
er.percent hotel tax, something Airbnb says it will start this sum
mer.percent hotel tax, something Airbnb says it will start this su
mmer.
"From a policy perspective, the real issue is whether there are a
lot of units that"From a policy perspective, the real issue is whe
ther there are a lot of units that"From a policy perspective, the r
eal issue is whether there are a lot of units that
have been removed from the housing market because of short-
term rentals," saidhave been removed from the housing market b
ecause of short-
term rentals," saidhave been removed from the housing market b
ecause of short-term rentals," said
Gabriel Metcalf, executive director of SPUR, an urban design th
ink tank. "It looksGabriel Metcalf, executive director of SPUR,
an urban design think tank. "It looksGabriel Metcalf, executive
director of SPUR, an urban design think tank. "It looks
like that's not a big number yet, but that's what we need regulati

on to control solike that's not a big number yet, but that's what
we need regulation to control solike that's not a big number yet,
but that's what we need regulation to control so
it doesn't become big."it doesn't become big."it doesn't become
big."
MethodologyMethodologyMethodology
Web data extraction firm Connotate Inc. of New Brunswick, N.J
., createdWeb data extraction firm Connotate Inc. of New Bruns
wick, N.J., createdWeb data extraction firm Connotate Inc. of N
ew Brunswick, N.J., created
automated scripts that harvested information on San Francisco li
stings from theautomated scripts that harvested information on
San Francisco listings from theautomated scripts that harvested
information on San Francisco listings from the
Airbnb website over the course of several hours on May 19. Dat
a included hosts,Airbnb website over the course of several hour
s on May 19. Data included hosts,Airbnb website over the cours
e of several hours on May 19. Data included hosts,
properties, neighborhoods, rates and ratings. Connotate then re
movedproperties, neighborhoods, rates and ratings. Connotate th
en removedproperties, neighborhoods, rates and ratings. Connot
ate then removed
duplicates and performed other quality-
assurance measures. Connotate was notduplicates and performed
other quality-
assurance measures. Connotate was notduplicates and performed
other quality-assurance measures. Connotate was not
able to determine which listings were available for rent that nig

ht. Some mayable to determine which listings were available for
rent that night. Some mayable to determine which listings were
available for rent that night. Some may
have been available; some may have been already rented via Air
bnb and somehave been available; some may have been already
rented via Airbnb and somehave been available; some may have
been already rented via Airbnb and some
may have not been offered at that time.may have not been offere
d at that time.may have not been offered at that time.
sfgate-result 6/6
https://www.sfchronicle.com/
2/11/2019 Lake Tahoe houses sit vacant while locals struggle to
find affordable housing - SFChronicle.com
https://www.sfchronicle.com/travel/article/Lake-Tahoe-houses-
sit-vacant-while-locals-13601651.php 1/7
L I F E S T Y L E L I F E S T Y L E L I F E S T Y L E // //
// T R AV E LT R AV E LT R AV E L

Lake Tahoe houses sit vacant while localsLake Tahoe houses sit
vacant while localsLake Tahoe houses sit vacant while locals
struggle to find affordable housingstruggle to find affordable ho
usingstruggle to find affordable housing
By Dave ZookBy Dave ZookBy Dave Zook
a.m.
Some Tahoe-area destinations are changing their rules around
vacation rentals.Some Tahoe-area destinations are changing
their rules around vacation rentals.Some Tahoe-area
destinations are changing their rules around vacation rentals.
Photo: iStockphoto / Getty ImagesPhoto: iStockphoto / Getty
ImagesPhoto: iStockphoto / Getty Images
For more stories like this, check out The Chronicle’s weekly Tr
avel newsletter!For more stories like this, check out The Chroni
cle’s weekly Travel newsletter!For more stories like this, check
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Sign up Sign up Sign up hereherehere...
At a standing-room-
only town hall meeting in January at Sierra Nevada CollegeAt a
standing-room-
only town hall meeting in January at Sierra Nevada CollegeAt a

standing-room-
only town hall meeting in January at Sierra Nevada College
in Incline Village, Nev., residents voiced passionate opinions on
a question thatin Incline Village, Nev., residents voiced passio
nate opinions on a question thatin Incline Village, Nev., residen
ts voiced passionate opinions on a question that
has chafed the Lake Tahoe area for decades: What’s the best wa
y to house thehas chafed the Lake Tahoe area for decades: What
’s the best way to house thehas chafed the Lake Tahoe area for
decades: What’s the best way to house the
hordes of vacationers who descend on the lake year-
round?hordes of vacationers who descend on the lake year-
round?hordes of vacationers who descend on the lake year-
round?
“They come and party and leave trash in the streets, and take ho
using away from“They come and party and leave trash in the str
eets, and take housing away from“They come and party and leav
e trash in the streets, and take housing away from
the locals,” a longtime resident said. “But I and many others co
uldn’t afford tothe locals,” a longtime resident said. “But I and
many others couldn’t afford tothe locals,” a longtime resident sa
id. “But I and many others couldn’t afford to
live here unless I rented out my spare bedroom.”live here unless
I rented out my spare bedroom.”live here unless I rented out m
y spare bedroom.”
“Plus, they bring in millions in tax dollars,” a woman added.“Pl
us, they bring in millions in tax dollars,” a woman added.“Plus,
they bring in millions in tax dollars,” a woman added.

Such is life for Tahoe locals: The crush of tourists can often fee
l overwhelming,Such is life for Tahoe locals: The crush of touri
sts can often feel overwhelming,Such is life for Tahoe locals: T
he crush of tourists can often feel overwhelming,
but it is also the lifeblood of the economy. The region, which en
compasses fivebut it is also the lifeblood of the economy. The r
egion, which encompasses fivebut it is also the lifeblood of the
economy. The region, which encompasses five
counties in two states, sees around 3 million visitors a year.cou
nties in two states, sees around 3 million visitors a year.countie
s in two states, sees around 3 million visitors a year.
At issue that evening was the management of short-
term rentals —
units leasedAt issue that evening was the management of short-
term rentals —
units leasedAt issue that evening was the management of short-
term rentals — units leased
for 30 days or less at a time. Think ski cabins, lakeside lodges,
vacation condosfor 30 days or less at a time. Think ski cabins, l
akeside lodges, vacation condosfor 30 days or less at a time. Thi
nk ski cabins, lakeside lodges, vacation condos
and the plethora of other housing options available on sites such
as Airbnb andand the plethora of other housing options availabl
e on sites such as Airbnb andand the plethora of other housing o
ptions available on sites such as Airbnb and
VRBO. STRs, as they’re known, are a crucial source of income
for residents andVRBO. STRs, as they’re known, are a crucial s
ource of income for residents andVRBO. STRs, as they’re know
n, are a crucial source of income for residents and

municipal governments in an area where tourism is the dominan
t industry, butmunicipal governments in an area where tourism i
s the dominant industry, butmunicipal governments in an area w
here tourism is the dominant industry, but
they’ve saddled communities with all sorts of nuisances: illegal
parking,they’ve saddled communities with all sorts of nuisances
: illegal parking,they’ve saddled communities with all sorts of n
uisances: illegal parking,
excessive noise, wild partying, trash.excessive noise, wild party
ing, trash.excessive noise, wild partying, trash.
“Opinions of STRs vary dramatically,” says Jeff Loux, town ma
nager of Truckee.“Opinions of STRs vary dramatically,” says Je
ff Loux, town manager of Truckee.“Opinions of STRs vary dram
atically,” says Jeff Loux, town manager of Truckee.
“We hear the spectrum from ‘STRs are the problem’ to ‘You can
’t possibly ban“We hear the spectrum from ‘STRs are the proble
m’ to ‘You can’t possibly ban“We hear the spectrum from ‘STR
s are the problem’ to ‘You can’t possibly ban
these, they are the lifeblood of the economy.’”these, they are th
e lifeblood of the economy.’”these, they are the lifeblood of the
economy.’”
Perhaps more consequential to a region where the median annua
l income hoversPerhaps more consequential to a region where th
e median annual income hoversPerhaps more consequential to a
region where the median annual income hovers
around $45,000, STRs stress the already limited housing supply
of Lake Tahoe —
of Lake Tahoe —

of Lake Tahoe —
http://www.sfchronicle.com/newsletters/travel/
where 65 percent of homes sit vacant most of the year and local
s are increasinglywhere 65 percent of homes sit vacant most of t
he year and locals are increasinglywhere 65 percent of homes si
t vacant most of the year and locals are increasingly
struggling to find affordable housing.struggling to find affordab
le housing.struggling to find affordable housing.
The discord over STRs in Tahoe has been swirling for a decade,
since the rise ofThe discord over STRs in Tahoe has been swirl
ing for a decade, since the rise ofThe discord over STRs in Taho
e has been swirling for a decade, since the rise of
rental services. But the issue was reignited last fall when voters
in South Lakerental services. But the issue was reignited last fal
l when voters in South Lakerental services. But the issue was re
ignited last fall when voters in South Lake
Tahoe passed Measure T, an ordinance designed to phase out ST
Rs by 2021. TheTahoe passed Measure T, an ordinance designed
to phase out STRs by 2021. TheTahoe passed Measure T, an or
dinance designed to phase out STRs by 2021. The
measure passed by a mere 58 votes —

less than 1 percent of votes cast —
but themeasure passed by a mere 58 votes —
less than 1 percent of votes cast —
but themeasure passed by a mere 58 votes —
less than 1 percent of votes cast — but the
message became clear: South Lake’s citizenry is fed up with the
lack ofmessage became clear: South Lake’s citizenry is fed up
with the lack ofmessage became clear: South Lake’s citizenry is
fed up with the lack of
regulations on STRs.regulations on STRs.regulations on STRs.
While Measure T represents the most extreme example of action
on STRs, similarWhile Measure T represents the most extreme
example of action on STRs, similarWhile Measure T represents
the most extreme example of action on STRs, similar
debates are happening all around Lake Tahoe, exemplifying the
tightrope walkdebates are happening all around Lake Tahoe, exe
mplifying the tightrope walkdebates are happening all around L
ake Tahoe, exemplifying the tightrope walk
of attracting tourism and maintaining a town’s unique character.
“It is a balancing act,” Loux says. “On the one hand, this is a re
sort community“It is a balancing act,” Loux says. “On the one h
and, this is a resort community“It is a balancing act,” Loux says
. “On the one hand, this is a resort community
where people have rented their properties on a short-
term basis for decades. …where people have rented their propert
ies on a short-
term basis for decades. …where people have rented their propert

ies on a short-term basis for decades. …
On the other hand, we are a community, not just a resort.”On th
e other hand, we are a community, not just a resort.”On the othe
r hand, we are a community, not just a resort.”
To help ground future decisions in data, a report on the impact o
f STRs is soon toTo help ground future decisions in data, a repo
rt on the impact of STRs is soon toTo help ground future decisi
ons in data, a report on the impact of STRs is soon to
be released by the Mountain Housing Council of Tahoe-
Truckee, a coalition of 28be released by the Mountain Housing
Council of Tahoe-
Truckee, a coalition of 28be released by the Mountain Housing
Council of Tahoe-Truckee, a coalition of 28
business and community groups including ski resorts, governme
nts and realtybusiness and community groups including ski reso
rts, governments and realtybusiness and community groups incl
uding ski resorts, governments and realty
boards. Due out this month, the report focuses on the Truckee/N
orth Tahoeboards. Due out this month, the report focuses on the
Truckee/North Tahoeboards. Due out this month, the report focu
ses on the Truckee/North Tahoe
region, which includes the majority of Tahoe’s west shore, the n
orth shore goingregion, which includes the majority of Tahoe’s
west shore, the north shore goingregion, which includes the maj
ority of Tahoe’s west shore, the north shore going
east to where it borders Nevada, and up to Truckee, 15 miles no
rth of the lake.east to where it borders Nevada, and up to Truck
ee, 15 miles north of the lake.east to where it borders Nevada, a
nd up to Truckee, 15 miles north of the lake.

Seana Doherty, project manager for the council, hopes the study
will serve as aSeana Doherty, project manager for the council,
hopes the study will serve as aSeana Doherty, project manager f
or the council, hopes the study will serve as a
turning point for policymakers, as it will sharpen the focus on t
he scope of theturning point for policymakers, as it will sharpen
the focus on the scope of theturning point for policymakers, as
it will sharpen the focus on the scope of the
issue. For example, the council found that 13 percent of the esti
mated 38,801issue. For example, the council found that 13 perce
nt of the estimated 38,801issue. For example, the council found
that 13 percent of the estimated 38,801
housing units in Truckee and North Tahoe are being rented on a
short-
termhousing units in Truckee and North Tahoe are being rented
on a short-
termhousing units in Truckee and North Tahoe are being rented
on a short-term
basis. Doherty believes this number is significantly lower than p
eople wouldbasis. Doherty believes this number is significantly
lower than people wouldbasis. Doherty believes this number is s
ignificantly lower than people would
have assumed, indicating that the impact of STRs may not be as
large a part ofhave assumed, indicating that the impact of STRs
may not be as large a part ofhave assumed, indicating that the i
mpact of STRs may not be as large a part of
the housing problem as people imagined.the housing problem as
people imagined.the housing problem as people imagined.

For now, the debate remains hotly contested, as different areas
of the lake takeFor now, the debate remains hotly contested, as
different areas of the lake takeFor now, the debate remains hotl
y contested, as different areas of the lake take
different approaches to management. Here is how the issue is sh
aping up arounddifferent approaches to management. Here is ho
w the issue is shaping up arounddifferent approaches to manage
ment. Here is how the issue is shaping up around
the lake.the lake.the lake.
South Lake TahoeSouth Lake TahoeSouth Lake TahoeSouth Lak
e Tahoe
Situated adjacent to a handful of tourist-
friendly casinos just over the stateSituated adjacent to a handful
of tourist-
friendly casinos just over the stateSituated adjacent to a handful
of tourist-friendly casinos just over the state
border in Nevada, South Lake Tahoe is the largest city on the la
ke, with 22,000border in Nevada, South Lake Tahoe is the large
st city on the lake, with 22,000border in Nevada, South Lake Ta
hoe is the largest city on the lake, with 22,000
residents.residents.residents.

It’s also a hotbed of STR controversy; Measure T is the most ag
gressive attemptIt’s also a hotbed of STR controversy; Measure
T is the most aggressive attemptIt’s also a hotbed of STR contro
versy; Measure T is the most aggressive attempt
to rein in short-
term rentals in the region. Supporters believe the measure could
to rein in short-
to rein in short-
add to the supply of long-
term rental options. Detractors worry about stymieingadd to the
supply of long-
term rental options. Detractors worry about stymieingadd to the
supply of long-
term rental options. Detractors worry about stymieing
cash flow to the city, including an estimated $4 million in annua
l tax revenue.cash flow to the city, including an estimated $4 mi
llion in annual tax revenue.cash flow to the city, including an es
timated $4 million in annual tax revenue.
The measure seeks to reduce occupancy limits for STR units and
eliminate themThe measure seeks to reduce occupancy limits fo
r STR units and eliminate themThe measure seeks to reduce occ
upancy limits for STR units and eliminate them
completely by the end of 2021 outside the tourist core, which ru
ns alongcompletely by the end of 2021 outside the tourist core,
which runs alongcompletely by the end of 2021 outside the touri
st core, which runs along
Highway 50 from Ski Run Boulevard to the Nevada border. Ther
e are about 1,400Highway 50 from Ski Run Boulevard to the Ne

vada border. There are about 1,400Highway 50 from Ski Run Bo
ulevard to the Nevada border. There are about 1,400
units outside the tourist core and 400 within it. Measure T grant
s full-
time Southunits outside the tourist core and 400 within it. Meas
ure T grants full-
time Southunits outside the tourist core and 400 within it. Meas
ure T grants full-time South
Lake Tahoe residents an exemption to the new rules.Lake Tahoe
residents an exemption to the new rules.Lake Tahoe residents a
n exemption to the new rules.
Before Measure T, the city had taken other measures to curb unc
hecked STRBefore Measure T, the city had taken other measure
s to curb unchecked STRBefore Measure T, the city had taken ot
her measures to curb unchecked STR
growth. In October 2017, for example, the city put a moratorium
on vacationgrowth. In October 2017, for example, the city put a
moratorium on vacationgrowth. In October 2017, for example, t
he city put a moratorium on vacation
rental permits, and at the end of that year enacted heavy fines fo
r partying,rental permits, and at the end of that year enacted hea
vy fines for partying,rental permits, and at the end of that year e
nacted heavy fines for partying,
illegal parking and other nuisance issues.illegal parking and oth
er nuisance issues.illegal parking and other nuisance issues.
Still, some residents felt that wasn’t enough. In late 2017, two S
outh Lake TahoeStill, some residents felt that wasn’t enough. In
late 2017, two South Lake TahoeStill, some residents felt that
wasn’t enough. In late 2017, two South Lake Tahoe

citizens started to circulate a petition to get Measure T on the b
allot. The Tahoecitizens started to circulate a petition to get Me
asure T on the ballot. The Tahoecitizens started to circulate a pe
tition to get Measure T on the ballot. The Tahoe
Neighborhoods Group formed to back it, and in April 2018 it su
bmitted theNeighborhoods Group formed to back it, and in April
2018 it submitted theNeighborhoods Group formed to back it, a
nd in April 2018 it submitted the
necessary signatures to get it on that year’s ballot.necessary sig
natures to get it on that year’s ballot.necessary signatures to get
it on that year’s ballot.
But it appears the fight is just beginning. In December, the Sout
h Lake TahoeBut it appears the fight is just beginning. In Dece
mber, the South Lake TahoeBut it appears the fight is just begin
ning. In December, the South Lake Tahoe
Property Owners Group filed suit against the city, saying the me
asure isProperty Owners Group filed suit against the city, sayin
g the measure isProperty Owners Group filed suit against the cit
y, saying the measure is
unconstitutional and unenforceable and infringes on property o
wners’ rights.unconstitutional and unenforceable and infringes o
n property owners’ rights.unconstitutional and unenforceable an

d infringes on property owners’ rights.
The measure also took a blow when, on Dec. 24, an El Dorado C
ounty judge put aThe measure also took a blow when, on Dec. 2
4, an El Dorado County judge put aThe measure also took a blo
w when, on Dec. 24, an El Dorado County judge put a
temporary stay on the new occupancy limits that were set to tak
e immediatetemporary stay on the new occupancy limits that we
re set to take immediatetemporary stay on the new occupancy li
mits that were set to take immediate
effect, citing concerns over how it would affect the busy holida
y season.effect, citing concerns over how it would affect the bus
y holiday season.effect, citing concerns over how it would affec
t the busy holiday season.
As a result, it’s too early to tell whether the city will see a signi
ficant downturn inAs a result, it’s too early to tell whether the c
ity will see a significant downturn inAs a result, it’s too early to
tell whether the city will see a significant downturn in
STRs this year.STRs this year.STRs this year.
Placer CountyPlacer CountyPlacer CountyPlacer County
Stretching from Tahoma on the West Shore of Lake Tahoe to Ki
ngs Beach on theStretching from Tahoma on the West Shore of
Lake Tahoe to Kings Beach on theStretching from Tahoma on th
e West Shore of Lake Tahoe to Kings Beach on the
border of Nevada, eastern Placer County encompasses a diverse
range ofborder of Nevada, eastern Placer County encompasses a
diverse range ofborder of Nevada, eastern Placer County encom
passes a diverse range of

neighborhoods as well as the ski-
area communities of Squaw Valley andneighborhoods as well as
the ski-
area communities of Squaw Valley andneighborhoods as well as
the ski-area communities of Squaw Valley and
Northstar. It has about 2,500 STRs, according to the council’s st
udy, whichNorthstar. It has about 2,500 STRs, according to the
council’s study, whichNorthstar. It has about 2,500 STRs, accor
ding to the council’s study, which
brought in an estimated $10.6 million through transient occupan
cy taxes in 2018.brought in an estimated $10.6 million through t
ransient occupancy taxes in 2018.brought in an estimated $10.6
million through transient occupancy taxes in 2018.
To manage the yearly uptick in STR usage, the county is workin
g on reducingTo manage the yearly uptick in STR usage, the co
unty is working on reducingTo manage the yearly uptick in STR
usage, the county is working on reducing
nuisance issues and increasing enforcement. In December, Place
r updated itsnuisance issues and increasing enforcement. In Dec
ember, Placer updated itsnuisance issues and increasing enforce
ment. In December, Placer updated its
STR ordinances, including requiring a designated local contact
within 50 milesSTR ordinances, including requiring a designate
d local contact within 50 milesSTR ordinances, including requir
ing a designated local contact within 50 miles
for renters to respond to complaints; a good neighbor “fact shee
t” to be posted onfor renters to respond to complaints; a good ne
ighbor “fact sheet” to be posted onfor renters to respond to com
plaints; a good neighbor “fact sheet” to be posted on

the property about issues including parking, trash and noise; saf
ety information;the property about issues including parking, tras
h and noise; safety information;the property about issues includi
ng parking, trash and noise; safety information;
and more.and more.and more.
However, policymakers there appear less interested in limiting l
andowners’However, policymakers there appear less interested i
n limiting landowners’However, policymakers there appear less
interested in limiting landowners’
ability to rent, citing the wide range of services that the occupa
ncy taxes fund,ability to rent, citing the wide range of services t
hat the occupancy taxes fund,ability to rent, citing the wide ran
ge of services that the occupancy taxes fund,
which include the Sheriff’s Department, public transportation, t
ourismwhich include the Sheriff’s Department, public transporta
tion, tourismwhich include the Sheriff’s Department, public tran
sportation, tourism
marketing and more.marketing and more.marketing and more.
Jennifer Merchant, Placer County’s deputy CEO for Lake Tahoe
, says she isJennifer Merchant, Placer County’s deputy CEO for
Lake Tahoe, says she isJennifer Merchant, Placer County’s depu
ty CEO for Lake Tahoe, says she is
working to address the housing situation but doesn’t believe so
mething akin toworking to address the housing situation but doe
sn’t believe something akin toworking to address the housing sit
uation but doesn’t believe something akin to
Measure T is the solution. “Prohibiting STRs outright would not
necessarily yieldMeasure T is the solution. “Prohibiting STRs o

utright would not necessarily yieldMeasure T is the solution. “P
rohibiting STRs outright would not necessarily yield
the deserved result in improving our housing shortage, but it wo
uld have athe deserved result in improving our housing shortage
, but it would have athe deserved result in improving our housin
g shortage, but it would have a
negative impact on the local economy,” Merchant says.negative
impact on the local economy,” Merchant says.negative impact o
n the local economy,” Merchant says.
Placer County has carried out surveys with second-
home owners and looked atPlacer County has carried out survey
s with second-
home owners and looked atPlacer County has carried out survey
s with second-home owners and looked at
similar mountain towns outside of Tahoe. The results haven’t co
nvincedsimilar mountain towns outside of Tahoe. The results ha
ven’t convincedsimilar mountain towns outside of Tahoe. The re
sults haven’t convinced
Merchant that limiting STRs would open up more long-
term housing. “I haven’tMerchant that limiting STRs would ope
n up more long-
term housing. “I haven’tMerchant that limiting STRs would ope
n up more long-term housing. “I haven’t

seen any empirical data that demonstrates a significant impact o
n long-
termseen any empirical data that demonstrates a significant imp
act on long-
termseen any empirical data that demonstrates a significant imp
act on long-term
rentals that directly correlates from regulating STRs,” she says.r
entals that directly correlates from regulating STRs,” she says.r
entals that directly correlates from regulating STRs,” she says.
TruckeeTruckeeTruckeeTruckee
The Nevada County town, with 17,000 residents and an estimate
d 1,700 STRs, isThe Nevada County town, with 17,000 resident
s and an estimated 1,700 STRs, isThe Nevada County town, wit
h 17,000 residents and an estimated 1,700 STRs, is
juggling a plethora of housing and commercial developments an
d upcomingjuggling a plethora of housing and commercial devel
opments and upcomingjuggling a plethora of housing and comm
ercial developments and upcoming
changes to the size and fabric of the town.changes to the size an
d fabric of the town.changes to the size and fabric of the town.
For example, a development is essentially doubling the size of T
ruckee’sFor example, a development is essentially doubling the
size of Truckee’sFor example, a development is essentially dou
bling the size of Truckee’s
downtown, including affordable housing units. A project is also
in the works todowntown, including affordable housing units. A
project is also in the works todowntown, including affordable h
ousing units. A project is also in the works to

build 137 deed-
restricted, prefabricated housing units near Truckee’s downtown
.build 137 deed-
.build 137 deed-
.
A long-
standing STR issue here: Some renters don’t register their prope
rties.A long-
rties.A long-
rties.
That means not only that the city doesn’t collect taxes on those
units but alsoThat means not only that the city doesn’t collect ta
xes on those units but alsoThat means not only that the city doe
sn’t collect taxes on those units but also
that the scope of the STR presence in Truckee is unknown to cit
y leaders.that the scope of the STR presence in Truckee is unkn
own to city leaders.that the scope of the STR presence in Truck
ee is unknown to city leaders.
To address that issue, in June 2016, Truckee was one of the first
five cities in theTo address that issue, in June 2016, Truckee w
as one of the first five cities in theTo address that issue, in June
2016, Truckee was one of the first five cities in the
nation to hire a company called Host Compliance to identify ST
Rs and help localnation to hire a company called Host Complian
ce to identify STRs and help localnation to hire a company calle
d Host Compliance to identify STRs and help local

officials register and track them. The company now has more th
an 150 clientsofficials register and track them. The company no
w has more than 150 clientsofficials register and track them. Th
e company now has more than 150 clients
around the country, including Napa, Carlsbad (San Diego Count
y) and Jacksonaround the country, including Napa, Carlsbad (Sa
n Diego County) and Jacksonaround the country, including Nap
a, Carlsbad (San Diego County) and Jackson
Hole, Wyo. Truckee and Placer County are both now estimated t
o have a 90Hole, Wyo. Truckee and Placer County are both now
estimated to have a 90Hole, Wyo. Truckee and Placer County a
re both now estimated to have a 90
percent registration rate.percent registration rate.percent registr
ation rate.
Gathering feedback from the community is also a priority. Town
Manager LouxGathering feedback from the community is also a
priority. Town Manager LouxGathering feedback from the com
munity is also a priority. Town Manager Loux
says Truckee leaders are planning a series of community worksh
ops to hearsays Truckee leaders are planning a series of commu
nity workshops to hearsays Truckee leaders are planning a serie
s of community workshops to hear
residents’ concerns and discuss affordable housing.residents’ co
ncerns and discuss affordable housing.residents’ concerns and d
iscuss affordable housing.
“The issue is a multifaceted one that I believe will need to find
a balance between“The issue is a multifaceted one that I believe
will need to find a balance between“The issue is a multifaceted

one that I believe will need to find a balance between
market forces and free enterprise and policy (and ultimately reg
ulation) aimed atmarket forces and free enterprise and policy (a
nd ultimately regulation) aimed atmarket forces and free enterpr
ise and policy (and ultimately regulation) aimed at
helping to mitigate potential negative impacts to our local long-
term housinghelping to mitigate potential negative impacts to o
ur local long-
term housinghelping to mitigate potential negative impacts to o
ur local long-term housing
stock,” Truckee Mayor David Tirman wrote in an email.stock,”
Truckee Mayor David Tirman wrote in an email.stock,” Truckee
Mayor David Tirman wrote in an email.
Looking aheadLooking aheadLooking aheadLooking ahead
How the short-term-
rental issue develops is tough to predict. What’s clear is thatHo
w the short-term-
rental issue develops is tough to predict. What’s clear is thatHo
w the short-term-
rental issue develops is tough to predict. What’s clear is that
civic leaders and planners around Lake Tahoe are paying closer
attention thancivic leaders and planners around Lake Tahoe are

paying closer attention thancivic leaders and planners around La
ke Tahoe are paying closer attention than
ever to the issues associated with STRs and gathering data to m
ake moreever to the issues associated with STRs and gathering d
ata to make moreever to the issues associated with STRs and gat
hering data to make more
informed policy decisions.informed policy decisions.informed p
olicy decisions.
“The best step for STRs is to ground ourselves in facts,” says St
acy Caldwell, the“The best step for STRs is to ground ourselves
in facts,” says Stacy Caldwell, the“The best step for STRs is to
ground ourselves in facts,” says Stacy Caldwell, the
CEO of the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation, one of the p
artners of theCEO of the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation
, one of the partners of theCEO of the Tahoe Truckee Communit
y Foundation, one of the partners of the
Mountain Housing Council. “We know STRs are controversial,
and across all theMountain Housing Council. “We know STRs a
re controversial, and across all theMountain Housing Council. “
We know STRs are controversial, and across all the
questions related to STRs, I think it’s a ‘yes and’ type of answe
r. As a communityquestions related to STRs, I think it’s a ‘yes a
nd’ type of answer. As a communityquestions related to STRs, I
think it’s a ‘yes and’ type of answer. As a community
we have to decide where to put our energy.”we have to decide w
here to put our energy.”we have to decide where to put our ener
gy.”

Dave Zook is a freelance writer in Tahoe City. Email: Dave Zoo
k is a freelance writer in Tahoe City. Email: Dave Zook is a free
lance writer in Tahoe City. Email: [email protected]@[email pro
tected]
mailto:[email protected]
https://www.sfchronicle.com/
2/11/2019 Airbnb loses thousands of hosts in SF as registration
rules kick in - SFChronicle.com
https://www.sfchronicle.com/business/article/Airbnb-loses-
thousands-of-hosts-in-SF-as-12496624.php 1/7
B I Z & T E C H B I Z & T E C H B I Z & T E C H // //
// B U S I N E S SB U S I N E S SB U S I N E S S
Airbnb loses thousands of hosts in SF asAirbnb loses thousands
of hosts in SF asAirbnb loses thousands of hosts in SF as
registration rules kick inregistration rules kick inregistration rul
es kick in
Carolyn SaidCarolyn SaidCarolyn Said
a.m.
Gustav Choto (left) talks with Omar Masry, senior analyst at the
short-
with Omar Masry, senior analyst at the short-
Hosts in SanGustav Choto (left) talks with Omar Masry, senior
analyst at the short-
Francisco for Airbnb and other services must register properties
by Tuesday.Francisco for Airbnb and other services must

register properties by Tuesday.Francisco for Airbnb and other
services must register properties by Tuesday.
Photo: Carlos Avila Gonzalez, The ChroniclePhoto: Carlos
Avila Gonzalez, The ChroniclePhoto: Carlos Avila Gonzalez,
The Chronicle
https://www.sfchronicle.com/author/carolyn-said/
Thousands of San Francisco hosts on Airbnb and rival home-
stay sites haveThousands of San Francisco hosts on Airbnb and
rival home-
stay sites haveThousands of San Francisco hosts on Airbnb and
rival home-stay sites have
stopped renting their homes and rooms to tourists. Many others
are scramblingstopped renting their homes and rooms to tourists
. Many others are scramblingstopped renting their homes and ro
oms to tourists. Many others are scrambling
to register their vacation rentals with the city as a Tuesday dead
line looms forto register their vacation rentals with the city as a
Tuesday deadline looms forto register their vacation rentals wit
h the city as a Tuesday deadline looms for
Airbnb and HomeAway to kick off unregistered hosts.Airbnb an
d HomeAway to kick off unregistered hosts.Airbnb and HomeA
way to kick off unregistered hosts.

“If you look at the sites, you’ll notice a substantial reduction in
the number of“If you look at the sites, you’ll notice a substantia
l reduction in the number of“If you look at the sites, you’ll noti
ce a substantial reduction in the number of
listings,” said Kevin Guy, director of the San Francisco Office o
f Short-
Termlistings,” said Kevin Guy, director of the San Francisco Of
fice of Short-
Termlistings,” said Kevin Guy, director of the San Francisco Of
fice of Short-Term
Rental Administration and Enforcement.Rental Administration a
nd Enforcement.Rental Administration and Enforcement.
The rush to register is the result of an agreement between the cit
y and the sites,The rush to register is the result of an agreement
between the city and the sites,The rush to register is the result o
f an agreement between the city and the sites,
which had fought San Francisco’s efforts to strengthen registrati
on requirementswhich had fought San Francisco’s efforts to stre
ngthen registration requirementswhich had fought San Francisco
’s efforts to strengthen registration requirements
and rental limitations imposed in 2015. After a court battle, San
Francisco,and rental limitations imposed in 2015. After a court
battle, San Francisco,and rental limitations imposed in 2015. Af
ter a court battle, San Francisco,
Airbnb and HomeAway reached a settlement in May that require
d the sites toAirbnb and HomeAway reached a settlement in Ma
y that required the sites toAirbnb and HomeAway reached a sett
lement in May that required the sites to
register all hosts in phases starting in September.register all hos

ts in phases starting in September.register all hosts in phases sta
rting in September.
By Tuesday, all hosts must be registered. Airbnb and HomeAwa
y won’t allowBy Tuesday, all hosts must be registered. Airbnb a
nd HomeAway won’t allowBy Tuesday, all hosts must be registe
red. Airbnb and HomeAway won’t allow
unregistered hosts on their sites, and other services, like FlipKe
y, which weren’tunregistered hosts on their sites, and other serv
ices, like FlipKey, which weren’tunregistered hosts on their site
s, and other services, like FlipKey, which weren’t
a party to the settlement, will face fines of up to $1,000 a day p
er listing anda party to the settlement, will face fines of up to $
1,000 a day per listing anda party to the settlement, will face fin
es of up to $1,000 a day per listing and
criminal penalties if they help arrange bookings of unregistered
listings.criminal penalties if they help arrange bookings of unre
gistered listings.criminal penalties if they help arrange bookings
of unregistered listings.
The city said 2,168 hosts had met its requirements to offer temp
orary rentals asThe city said 2,168 hosts had met its requiremen
ts to offer temporary rentals asThe city said 2,168 hosts had met
its requirements to offer temporary rentals as
of Thursday —
representing a fraction of the 8,453 Airbnb listings the cityof T
hursday —
representing a fraction of the 8,453 Airbnb listings the cityof T
hursday —
representing a fraction of the 8,453 Airbnb listings the city
observed in early August. (That count excludes more than 2,500

listings exemptobserved in early August. (That count excludes
more than 2,500 listings exemptobserved in early August. (That
count excludes more than 2,500 listings exempt
from the rules.) An additional 737 have submitted applications a
nd can hostfrom the rules.) An additional 737 have submitted ap
plications and can hostfrom the rules.) An additional 737 have s
ubmitted applications and can host
while those are pending. About 15 percent of them have more th
an one listing,while those are pending. About 15 percent of the
m have more than one listing,while those are pending. About 15
percent of them have more than one listing,
such as two rooms in their home.such as two rooms in their hom
e.such as two rooms in their home.
The number is in flux: Some pending applications may be reject
ed, while aboutThe number is in flux: Some pending application
s may be rejected, while aboutThe number is in flux: Some pend
ing applications may be rejected, while about
two dozen applications a day are still arriving. Hosts can still ap
ply aftertwo dozen applications a day are still arriving. Hosts ca
n still apply aftertwo dozen applications a day are still arriving.
Hosts can still apply after
Tuesday, but any bookings will be canceled until they are regist
ered.Tuesday, but any bookings will be canceled until they are r
egistered.Tuesday, but any bookings will be canceled until they
are registered.

Airbnb, which got its start in San Francisco just under a decade
ago and is stillAirbnb, which got its start in San Francisco just
under a decade ago and is stillAirbnb, which got its start in San
Francisco just under a decade ago and is still
headquartered here, is by far the city’s biggest vacation-
rental site. It says thatheadquartered here, is by far the city’s bi
ggest vacation-
rental site. It says thatheadquartered here, is by far the city’s bi
ggest vacation-rental site. It says that
most hosts are residents who rent out spare rooms, or their entir
e home whenmost hosts are residents who rent out spare rooms,
or their entire home whenmost hosts are residents who rent out s
pare rooms, or their entire home when
they are away, making them compliant with city laws.they are a
way, making them compliant with city laws.they are away, maki
ng them compliant with city laws.
In addition, the company has about 2,650 listings in San Francis
co that areIn addition, the company has about 2,650 listings in S
an Francisco that areIn addition, the company has about 2,650 li
stings in San Francisco that are
exempt from the registration requirement, including rentals of 3
0 or more days,exempt from the registration requirement, includ
ing rentals of 30 or more days,exempt from the registration requ
irement, including rentals of 30 or more days,
bed and breakfasts, and hotels.bed and breakfasts, and hotels.be
d and breakfasts, and hotels.

“Over the last few months, we’ve focused on educating our host
community“Over the last few months, we’ve focused on educati
ng our host community“Over the last few months, we’ve focuse
d on educating our host community
about the registration process, and will continue our outreach ef
forts in the finalabout the registration process, and will continue
our outreach efforts in the finalabout the registration process, a
nd will continue our outreach efforts in the final
days to ensure hosts have all the information they need to regist
er,” saiddays to ensure hosts have all the information they need
to register,” saiddays to ensure hosts have all the information th
ey need to register,” said
spokeswoman Mattie Zazueta.spokeswoman Mattie Zazueta.spo
keswoman Mattie Zazueta.
Airbnb has removed more than 2,600 listings since September. I
t doesn’t yetAirbnb has removed more than 2,600 listings since
September. It doesn’t yetAirbnb has removed more than 2,600 li
stings since September. It doesn’t yet
know how many more it must ax Tuesday. Many listings had litt
le activity, soknow how many more it must ax Tuesday. Many li
stings had little activity, soknow how many more it must ax Tue
sday. Many listings had little activity, so
their removal won’t hurt its local business, she said.their remov
al won’t hurt its local business, she said.their removal won’t hur
t its local business, she said.
Airbnb said it booked the same number of nights in San Francis
co in the 30 daysAirbnb said it booked the same number of nigh
ts in San Francisco in the 30 daysAirbnb said it booked the sam

e number of nights in San Francisco in the 30 days
after Dec. 5 as during the same period a year earlier. Worldwide
, its businessafter Dec. 5 as during the same period a year earlie
r. Worldwide, its businessafter Dec. 5 as during the same period
a year earlier. Worldwide, its business
soared during the same time frame. It booked 3 million guests g
lobally for Newsoared during the same time frame. It booked 3
million guests globally for Newsoared during the same time fra
me. It booked 3 million guests globally for New
Year’s Eve —
up 50 percent from the last night of 2016.Year’s Eve —
up 50 percent from the last night of 2016.Year’s Eve —
up 50 percent from the last night of 2016.
HomeAway and VRBO, both owned by Expedia, and FlipKey, o
wned byHomeAway and VRBO, both owned by Expedia, and Fli
pKey, owned byHomeAway and VRBO, both owned by Expedia,
and FlipKey, owned by
TripAdvisor, showcase many second homes, which San Francisc
o does not allowTripAdvisor, showcase many second homes, wh
ich San Francisco does not allowTripAdvisor, showcase many s
econd homes, which San Francisco does not allow
to be offered as vacation rentals.to be offered as vacation rental
s.to be offered as vacation rentals.
“FlipKey looks like a massacre happened, there are so few listin
gs now,” said“FlipKey looks like a massacre happened, there ar
e so few listings now,” said“FlipKey looks like a massacre happ
ened, there are so few listings now,” said
Omar Masry, senior analyst at the Office of Short-

Term Rentals. “On VRBO, youOmar Masry, senior analyst at th
e Office of Short-
Term Rentals. “On VRBO, youOmar Masry, senior analyst at th
e Office of Short-Term Rentals. “On VRBO, you
A sign points to the desk where Senior Analyst Omar Masry
helps Marcy Lipton with her paperwork forA sign points to the
desk where Senior Analyst Omar Masry helps Marcy Lipton
with her paperwork forA sign points to the desk where Senior
Analyst Omar Masry helps Marcy Lipton with her paperwork for
in San Francisco, Calif., on Wednesday,hosting guests in her
Calif., on Wednesday,hosting guests in her home
Short Term Rentals in San Francisco, Calif., on Wednesday,
Francisco residents who wish to host guests host guests through
Airbnb, VRBOthrough Airbnb, VRBOthrough Airbnb, VRBO
can see that the map of San Francisco is no longer covered in pi
ns (of availablecan see that the map of San Francisco is no long
er covered in pins (of availablecan see that the map of San Fran
cisco is no longer covered in pins (of available
properties). A shakeout is happening.”properties). A shakeout is
happening.”properties). A shakeout is happening.”

FlipKey has removed 498 San Francisco listings and has only 57
remaining,FlipKey has removed 498 San Francisco listings and
has only 57 remaining,FlipKey has removed 498 San Francisco l
istings and has only 57 remaining,
excluding those exempt from the registration requirement such a
s hotels,excluding those exempt from the registration requireme
nt such as hotels,excluding those exempt from the registration r
equirement such as hotels,
timeshares and B&Bs, the city said.timeshares and B&Bs, the ci
ty said.timeshares and B&Bs, the city said.
TripAdvisor spokeswoman Laurel Greatrix said FlipKey worked
closely with theTripAdvisor spokeswoman Laurel Greatrix said
FlipKey worked closely with theTripAdvisor spokeswoman Lau
rel Greatrix said FlipKey worked closely with the
city to comply with the regulations, and noted that it offers a va
riety ofcity to comply with the regulations, and noted that it off
ers a variety ofcity to comply with the regulations, and noted th
at it offers a variety of
accommodations in San Francisco, such as hotels, hostels and B
&Bs.accommodations in San Francisco, such as hotels, hostels a
nd B&Bs.accommodations in San Francisco, such as hotels, host
els and B&Bs.
Data for HomeAway and VRBO were not immediately available.
Data for HomeAway and VRBO were not immediately available
. Data for HomeAway and VRBO were not immediately availabl
e. In May 2016,In May 2016,In May 2016,
they had about 1,300 local listings, a they had about 1,300 local
listings, a they had about 1,300 local listings, a Chronicle inves

tigationChronicle investigationChronicle investigation found. fo
und. found.
“HomeAway remains committed to working through the law’s i
mplementation“HomeAway remains committed to working throu
gh the law’s implementation“HomeAway remains committed to
working through the law’s implementation
plan with the city and hope to continue our partnership on reaso
nable publicplan with the city and hope to continue our partners
hip on reasonable publicplan with the city and hope to continue
our partnership on reasonable public
policy and enforcement in the new year.” said spokesman Philip
Minardi.policy and enforcement in the new year.” said spokesm
an Philip Minardi.policy and enforcement in the new year.” said
spokesman Philip Minardi.
Airbnb and HomeAway sued San Francisco in 2016 over a strict
new law passedAirbnb and HomeAway sued San Francisco in 2
016 over a strict new law passedAirbnb and HomeAway sued Sa
n Francisco in 2016 over a strict new law passed
in June of that year. A U.S. district judge rejected the companie
s’ arguments thatin June of that year. A U.S. district judge rejec
ted the companies’ arguments thatin June of that year. A U.S. di
strict judge rejected the companies’ arguments that
their rights were being violated and ordered them to work with
San Francisco ontheir rights were being violated and ordered th
em to work with San Francisco ontheir rights were being violate
d and ordered them to work with San Francisco on
a registration system. Such registrations were part of the “Airbn
b law” enacted ina registration system. Such registrations were
part of the “Airbnb law” enacted ina registration system. Such r

egistrations were part of the “Airbnb law” enacted in
early 2015, but the requirement was widely ignored. Only about
1,800 hostsearly 2015, but the requirement was widely ignored.
Only about 1,800 hostsearly 2015, but the requirement was wide
ly ignored. Only about 1,800 hosts
registered.registered.registered.
San Francisco wants hosts to register to ensure compliance with
suchSan Francisco wants hosts to register to ensure compliance
with suchSan Francisco wants hosts to register to ensure compl
iance with such
requirements as hosts being permanent residents who do not ren
t entire homesrequirements as hosts being permanent residents
who do not rent entire homesrequirements as hosts being perma
nent residents who do not rent entire homes
for more than 90 days a year. The law seeks to prevent landlord
s from removingfor more than 90 days a year. The law seeks to
prevent landlords from removingfor more than 90 days a year. T
he law seeks to prevent landlords from removing
housing stock by turning homes into full-
time hotels.housing stock by turning homes into full-
time hotels.housing stock by turning homes into full-
time hotels.
Listings dropped off for several reasons:Listings dropped off fo
r several reasons:Listings dropped off for several reasons:
http://projects.sfchronicle.com/2016/airbnb/

Dormant properties:Dormant properties:Dormant properties:Dor
mant properties: About 2,000 people listed their homes but neve
r rented to About 2,000 people listed their homes but never rent
ed to About 2,000 people listed their homes but never rented to
tourists. Many were lured by the hope of quick riches from Supe
r Bowl 50 andtourists. Many were lured by the hope of quick ric
hes from Super Bowl 50 andtourists. Many were lured by the ho
pe of quick riches from Super Bowl 50 and
America’s Cup guests who didn’t materialize.America’s Cup gu
ests who didn’t materialize.America’s Cup guests who didn’t m
aterialize.
Tenants and condo owners who can’t sublet:Tenants and condo
owners who can’t sublet:Tenants and condo owners who can’t s
ublet:Tenants and condo owners who can’t sublet: When renters
register as hosts, the When renters register as hosts, the When r
enters register as hosts, the
city notifies their building owner. “We think a good number of f
olks might meetcity notifies their building owner. “We think a g
ood number of folks might meetcity notifies their building owne
r. “We think a good number of folks might meet
city eligibility requirements, but may be renters with ‘no sublett
ing clauses’ incity eligibility requirements, but may be renters
with ‘no subletting clauses’ incity eligibility requirements, but
may be renters with ‘no subletting clauses’ in
their leases,” Guy said. Similarly, some condo associations bar

subletting.their leases,” Guy said. Similarly, some condo associ
ations bar subletting.their leases,” Guy said. Similarly, some co
ndo associations bar subletting.
Ineligible properties:Ineligible properties:Ineligible properties:I
neligible properties: San Francisco permanently bars some prop
erties from San Francisco permanently bars some properties fro
m San Francisco permanently bars some properties from
vacation rentals, including below-market-
rate units and public housing,vacation rentals, including below-
market-
rate units and public housing,vacation rentals, including below-
market-rate units and public housing,
buildings subject to Ellis Act evictions after Nov. 1, 2014, and a
kind of in-
lawbuildings subject to Ellis Act evictions after Nov. 1, 2014, a
nd a kind of in-
lawbuildings subject to Ellis Act evictions after Nov. 1, 2014, a
nd a kind of in-law
residence called an accessory dwelling unit. Funkier places, suc
h as recreationalresidence called an accessory dwelling unit. Fu
nkier places, such as recreationalresidence called an accessory d
welling unit. Funkier places, such as recreational
vehicles, tree houses, tents, shipping containers and boats, are a
lso verboten forvehicles, tree houses, tents, shipping containers
and boats, are also verboten forvehicles, tree houses, tents, ship
ping containers and boats, are also verboten for
tourists here. Properties with building-
code violations can’t register until theytourists here. Properties
with building-
code violations can’t register until theytourists here. Properties

with building-code violations can’t register until they
clear those up.clear those up.clear those up.
Ineligible hosts:Ineligible hosts:Ineligible hosts:Ineligible hosts
: Only people who live in their homes at least nine months a yea
r Only people who live in their homes at least nine months a yea
r Only people who live in their homes at least nine months a yea
r
can rent to tourists. That excludes those who have a pied-à-
terre in Sancan rent to tourists. That excludes those who have a
pied-à-
terre in Sancan rent to tourists. That excludes those who have a
pied-à-terre in San
Francisco, or who travel more than three months a year. Some h
osts who listedFrancisco, or who travel more than three months
a year. Some hosts who listedFrancisco, or who travel more than
three months a year. Some hosts who listed
more than one property or who had guests stay almost year-
round were rejectedmore than one property or who had guests st
ay almost year-
round were rejectedmore than one property or who had guests st
ay almost year-round were rejected
by the city because they appeared to be operating illegal hotels.
Infrequent hosts:Infrequent hosts:Infrequent hosts:Infrequent ho
sts: San Francisco charges a $250 registration fee plus a $90 Sa
n Francisco charges a $250 registration fee plus a $90 San Franc
isco charges a $250 registration fee plus a $90

Airbnb’simpactinSanFranciscoSFChronicle.docx

Airbnb’simpactinSanFranciscoSFChronicle.docx

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