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Ready to Out‐Book the Competition?

In 92% of our markets, Vacasa homeowners out‐book the competition, with places like Rehoboth Beach, DE earning 136% more per night*. Find out your potential—it’s free!

The short-term rental market is shifting—are you prepared? This week, legal battles over STR regulations are heating up, with Hollywood Park, TX, settling a federal lawsuit and Austin considering an overhaul of its short-term rental laws. Meanwhile, home prices continue to drop as sellers adjust to hesitant buyers, mortgage rates remain above 7%, and builder confidence is slipping due to rising costs and tariffs.

This week’s STR Scout newsletter unpacks the key developments shaping STR investing:

🔹 The STR Scoop – Your new weekly market pulse is here! Our new section to deliver you fast, no-fluff, bite sized insights on STR regulations, pricing trends, and housing shifts—so you can stay ahead of the market.

🔹 STR Classifieds – This week’s Top 20 hottest STR deals, featuring high-yield ski cabins, waterfront escapes, and turnkey investments in sought-after locations.

🔹 STR Trending News Nuggets – Airbnb’s AI-powered anti-party tech, Florida’s fight against corporate homebuyers, and European cities cracking down on STRs.

Big moves are happening—make sure you're on the right side of them.

Let’s dive in.

— The STR Scout Team

Full‐Service Homeowner Success: Earn Up to 136% More per Night* 

Full‐Service Homeowner Success: Earn Up to 136% More per Night*

Your Vacation Home, Booked More
In 92% of our markets, Vacasa homeowners enjoy more bookings, higher earnings, and a stress‐free hosting experience.

Here are just a few real‐life results*:

• Rehoboth Beach, DE homeowners earned 136% more per night

• Fort Myers, FL homeowners earned 126% more per night

• South San Diego, CA homeowners earned 109% more per night

Why Vacation Homeowners Choose Vacasa

1. Earn More – Expert pricing and marketing mean higher nightly rates in top destinations.

2. Stress‐Free Management – 24/7 guest support, local teams, and professional cleaning.

3. Optimized Listings – HD photography, dynamic pricing, and marketing to millions of travelers.

The market is competitive—don’t miss your chance to maximize bookings in 2025!

Discover Your Home’s Potential

Get your free earnings estimate today, and see how much more you can earn.

*Data provided by Key Data and based on homeowner performance. Actual results may vary.

🏡 The STR Scoop | Your Weekly STR Market Pulse

US Short-Term Rental Regulations

San Antonio-Area Town Settles Federal Suit Challenging Short-Term Rental Ban

🧐 The Scoop: Hollywood Park, near San Antonio, has settled a federal lawsuit over its 2023 short-term rental ban. The settlement allows the plaintiffs to continue their rentals under a "non-conforming use" status, subject to specific fees and regulations. expressnews.com

🎯 Relevance: This case highlights the ongoing legal battles surrounding short-term rental regulations. As an investor, it's crucial to stay informed about local ordinances and potential legal challenges that could impact your properties.

US Mortgage Market

Home Builders Face Declining Confidence Amid Tariff Concerns

🧐 The Scoop: In February, homebuilder confidence dropped to its lowest level in five months, influenced by proposed tariffs on imported goods and rising construction costs. The National Association of Home Builders reported a five-point decline to 42 in its confidence index. marketwatch.com

🎯 Relevance: For short-term rental investors, this decline in builder confidence may signal a slowdown in new housing supply, potentially affecting property availability and pricing. Staying abreast of these developments can inform investment strategies.

US Housing Market Shifts

Homeowners Reducing Prices as Buyers Hesitate

🧐 The Scoop: In January, over 20% of U.S. homeowners lowered their listing prices due to high mortgage rates deterring buyers. This trend has provided buyers with increased negotiating power not seen in five years. investopedia.com

🎯 Relevance: For investors, this shift suggests potential opportunities to acquire properties at more favorable prices. Monitoring local market dynamics can help in identifying optimal purchasing moments.

US Airbnb Policy Updates

Austin Proposes Overhaul of Short-Term Rental Regulations

🧐 The Scoop: The Austin City Council is considering new regulations for short-term rentals, with potential changes to licensing and operational rules. Public input is being collected ahead of a possible vote on February 27. kut.org

🎯 Relevance: If you're operating in Austin, these proposed changes could impact your rental business. Engaging in the public input process and adjusting your operations to comply with new regulations will be essential.

US Economic Trends Affecting STRs

Potential Elimination of Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Raises Concerns

🧐 The Scoop: The Trump administration's proposal to dismantle the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has raised concerns about the future of consumer protections in the housing market. The CFPB has been instrumental in monitoring mortgage and rental industries. marketwatch.com

🎯 Relevance: The potential elimination of the CFPB could lead to less oversight in mortgage lending and rental practices, possibly affecting financing options and consumer trust. Staying informed on this development is advisable.

US Travel & Tourism Trends

Traveler Demand Shifts Amid High Costs

🧐 The Scoop: With rising travel costs and inflation squeezing consumer budgets, travelers are seeking more value-driven options. Vacationers are increasingly opting for off-season stays, mid-tier accommodations, and alternative lodging models like home-swapping to offset expenses. Meanwhile, hotel pricing remains high, making well-positioned short-term rentals an attractive alternative. [apnews.com]

🎯 Relevance: STR investors should pay attention to shifting traveler preferences—targeting off-peak seasons, optimizing pricing strategies, and offering flexible stays to attract budget-conscious travelers looking for better value. This trend could drive demand for STRs that offer a unique experience at a competitive rate.

US Real Estate Trends

Mortgage Rates Remain Above 7%

🧐 The Scoop: Mortgage rates have risen slightly this week, with the 30-year fixed rate averaging 7.03%, up from 7.02% the previous week. finance.yahoo.com

🎯 Relevance: High mortgage rates can impact both purchasing decisions and rental demand. Investors should consider these rates when evaluating financing options and setting rental prices.

US Builder Trends

Homebuilders' Sentiment Declines Due to Tariff Concerns

🧐 The Scoop: In February, homebuilder optimism declined due to concerns about proposed tariffs, affecting a housing market already struggling with affordability. investopedia.com

🎯 Relevance: For investors, this decline in builder sentiment may signal potential slowdowns in new housing developments, affecting future supply and investment opportunities.

International Vacation Home & Travel Trends

European Cities Implement Stricter Short-Term Rental Regulations

🧐 The Scoop: Cities across Europe, including Athens and various locales in Spain, are enforcing stricter regulations on short-term rentals to combat housing shortages and preserve local communities. Measures include banning new short-term rental registrations and imposing higher taxes on non-resident property owners.

🎯 Relevance: For investors eyeing international markets, these regulatory changes underscore the importance of thorough market research and understanding local laws to ensure compliance and assess investment viability.

Other Buzz

• 🛎️ FTC to Require Upfront Disclosure of Extra Fees – The Federal Trade Commission will soon require short-term rental platforms, hotels, and event promoters to disclose all additional fees upfront.

• 🎉 Airbnb Implements Anti-Party Technology – To curb unauthorized parties, Airbnb is rolling out AI-powered technology to block high-risk bookings during holiday weekends.

• 🕵️ Airbnb’s Stealth Lobbying in NYC – Airbnb has reportedly been funding advocacy groups that appear independent but are working to influence short-term rental regulations in favor of short-term rental operators.

Key Takeaways & Ideas

• Regulatory Climate – Short-term rental regulations are evolving rapidly in various regions. Staying informed about local and international policy changes is essential for compliance and strategic planning.

• Market Trends – The implementation of stricter regulations in key markets may lead to reduced competition in certain areas. This could present opportunities for compliant operators to capture increased demand.

• Investment Considerations – Investors should conduct comprehensive due diligence, considering both current regulations and potential legislative changes, to make informed decisions about property acquisitions and operations.

🏡 $109K | St. Louis, MO: Fully renovated 1BD, 1BA home in Carondelet, just blocks from the park. Turnkey charm with all-new updates. View Post

🚤 $195K | Montgomery, TX: 1BD, 1BA lakefront STR on Lake Conroe. Dock your boat right off the patio. Near Margaritaville. Turnkey investment. View Post

🎿 $259K | Lake Harmony, PA: Turnkey 1BD, 1BA STR in Snow Ridge Village near Jack Frost Mountain. $38K annual income (weekends only). Fully booked winters. View Post

🌵 $305K | Phoenix, AZ: 1BD, 1BA mid-century modern condo in Biltmore District. Fully renovated, turnkey STR. Walk to dining, shopping, and entertainment. View Post

🏘️ $319K | Temple, TX: Furnished duplex near golf course and hospitals. Two 2BD, 1BA units with laundry and carports. Strong mid-term and STR potential. View Post

🏔️ $329K | Lake Harmony, PA: Turnkey 2BD, 2BA STR near Jack Frost Mountain. Projected $50K+ annual income (weekends only). Private lake club access. View Post

🌲 $379K | Sautee Nacoochee, GA: 3BD, 2BA mountain chalet near Helen. Hot tub, fire pit, vaulted ceilings. Strong rental history with repeat guests. Turnkey STR. View Post

🏖️ $432K | Dauphin Island, AL: 3BD, 3BA condo in Sandcastle Condos. Largest unit in the complex. Strong rental income. Motivated seller. View Post

🏡 $640K | Shelbyville, KY: Fully furnished 4BD, 4BA duplex in downtown. Two 2BD, 2BA units with kitchens, private garages, and deck. $80K+ 2024 income. Turnkey STR. View Post

🔥 $675K | Broken Bow, OK: 2BD, 3BA luxury cabin on 1.3 acres. Game room, hot tub, fire pit, and gas fireplace. Fully furnished turnkey STR in Eagle Mountain. View Post

🏡 $684K | Wolf Creek, MT: Two homes on separate parcels near Missouri River. 2BD, 1BA vacation rental + historic duplex. Outbuildings, heated shop. Strong STR potential. View Post

🌲 $800K | Sevierville, TN: 2BD, 2BA modern cabin on 0.7 acres. Sleeps 8. Game room, hot tub, fire pit, and mountain views. $100K+ projected 2025 income. Turnkey STR. View Post

⛳ $1.025M | Broken Bow, OK: 4BD, 3BA cabin on 1.18 acres. Heated pool, mini-golf, and mountain views. $200K projected revenue. Sleeps 14. Turnkey STR. View Post

🌿 $1.195M | Tulum, MX: 4BD, 5BA luxury eco-home by CO-LAB architects. Private pool, rooftop retreat, solar panels. Featured in Vogue & AD Italia. Turnkey STR. View Post

🏡 $1.200M | Lake of the Ozarks, MO: Two 3BD, 2BA lakefront homes with docks. Sleep 16 each. STR income: $106K (2023), $99K (2024). Prime cove location. View Post

🏔️ $1.250M | Sevierville, TN: 4BD, 6BA luxury pool cabin in Mountain Shangrila. Private indoor pool, hot tub, and game room. Stunning Smoky Mountain views. Turnkey STR. View Post

🏜️ $1.300M | La Verkin, UT: 6BD, 4BA STR near Zion National Park. Sleeps 26. Private heated pool. $120K+ annual revenue. Fully furnished turnkey investment. View Post

🌴 $1.495M | Fort Myers Beach, FL: 2BD, 1BA coastal cottage with pool, spa, and tiki hut. Boater’s dream with dock, boat house, and 10K lb lift. Prime STR location. View Post

🌵 $1.700M | Scottsdale, AZ: 6BD, 4BA STR on half-acre lot. Strong rental history. Turnkey with new hot tub and amazing pool. Prime location. View Post

🌊 $2.388M | Miramar Beach, FL: 7BD, 8BA luxury home in Frangista Beach. Pool, hot tub, fire pit, outdoor kitchen. Steps from private beach access. Turnkey STR. View Post

🏨 Airbnb crushed Q4 estimates as traditional hotel users increasingly embrace short-term rentals. The platform reported exceptional performance with nights booked and experiences surging beyond expectations. This shift in traveler preferences represents a significant opportunity for property owners who can deliver authentic, local experiences that differentiate from cookie-cutter hotel stays.

💻 Airbnb's latest earnings report reveals particularly robust growth in urban and international markets. The company's record-breaking quarter showed significant rebounds in city destinations that had previously lagged during the pandemic. Savvy STR operators are taking note of this trend, with many now reconsidering urban properties that offer proximity to business districts and cultural attractions.

🏡 Airbnb’s trust in AI and travel tech is paying off. Investors are bullish on Airbnb, sending its stock soaring 14% as consumers embrace AI-driven travel recommendations. With personalized search results and smart booking tools, the platform is betting big on technology to boost trust and efficiency. airbnb stock

💼 Joe Gebbia makes a surprising move after Airbnb. The co-founder of Airbnb is shaking things up, quietly teaming up with Elon Musk’s Doge team. While his exact role remains unclear, the collaboration has sparked speculation about his next big venture. Joe Gebbia

🏠 New Orleans cracks down on short-term rentals. Stricter rules are reshaping the city’s rental market, limiting Airbnb hosts to one property per owner. Supporters say it preserves neighborhoods, while critics argue it stifles tourism income. short-term rental

🌊 Ocean City rethinks its vacation rental rules. Officials are reviewing short-term rental regulations after complaints from locals about noise and overcrowding. The city is weighing tighter restrictions to balance tourism with resident concerns. rental regulations

🔄 Home swapping is back as travelers look for alternatives. With rising hotel and Airbnb costs, more vacationers are turning to home-swapping platforms. The trend is gaining traction among digital nomads and retirees looking for budget-friendly stays. home swap

🏘️ Luxury travelers are embracing purpose-built rentals. High-end vacationers are opting for rentals designed from the ground up for short-term stays, rather than repurposed homes. This shift is driving a new wave of investment in luxury travel properties. purpose-built housing

🔧 Former Airbnb properties are getting major makeovers. With stricter regulations in some areas, owners are converting short-term rentals into long-term housing or redesigned luxury stays. Some are adding personal touches to attract a different kind of tenant. upgrade a former Airbnb

💰 Is renting your home in retirement worth it? Many retirees are debating whether to list their homes on Airbnb or VRBO for extra income. While it can be lucrative, it also comes with management challenges and unexpected expenses. vacation rental in retirement

🏡 The housing market sends mixed signals. Some cities are seeing price drops, while others remain resilient, making it a tough market to predict. In major metro areas, affordability remains a challenge as mortgage rates stay high. housing bubbles

📉 Are we headed for a housing crash? Experts warn that rising mortgage rates and economic uncertainty could lead to a market correction. Buyers and sellers alike are waiting for clarity before making big moves. housing bubble crash

💳 Americans’ credit card debt hits a record $1.21 trillion. Households are feeling the strain as high interest rates push balances higher than ever. Financial experts caution that reliance on credit to cover everyday expenses could lead to long-term financial stress. credit card debt

📊 Household debt reaches an all-time high. With inflation and cost-of-living increases, more Americans are taking on debt to stay afloat. Economists warn that the combination of rising credit card balances and higher loan payments could slow economic growth. household debt

🏡 Short-term rental trends are shifting in 2025. As regulations tighten and traveler preferences evolve, hosts are adapting with new strategies. From niche-themed rentals to AI-powered pricing tools, the industry is finding ways to stay competitive in an unpredictable market. five trends

📉 Home prices are finally dropping in some markets. After years of skyrocketing values, certain areas are seeing price corrections as high mortgage rates cool demand. Buyers who’ve been waiting on the sidelines may start to see more opportunities, but affordability remains a challenge. home prices drop

💰 Million-dollar home sales are on the rise. Despite affordability concerns, luxury homes are moving quickly, especially in high-demand areas. Wealthy buyers are taking advantage of price adjustments and market uncertainty to secure prime properties. million-dollar home sales

🌿 Cozy homes are the new spring real estate trend. As buyers and renters look for warmth and charm, properties with inviting interiors and intimate layouts are gaining popularity. The shift reflects a desire for comfort in an era of economic uncertainty. spring real estate trend

🏙️ A fake real estate post stirs fears in D.C. Misinformation about federal job cuts and its impact on the housing market spread quickly, causing confusion among buyers and sellers. While experts say the market remains stable, uncertainty lingers in the region. fake real estate post

⛰️ Park City’s real estate market stays strong despite low inventory. Prices remain steady as demand holds firm, but buyers are struggling to find available properties. With limited listings, sellers continue to have the upper hand in negotiations. Park City real estate

🏠 Home delistings hit their highest level in a decade. More sellers are pulling their listings rather than settling for lower offers, adding to the market’s supply challenges. High mortgage rates and economic uncertainty are keeping both buyers and sellers cautious. home delistings

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