Short-term rentals for houses, condos or apartments are becoming popular alternatives to hotels and motels. Regulations for short-term rentals have increased due to concerns about the quality of housing, the credibility of the owners and the safety of the tenants. Regulating short-term living arrangements is a growing part of real estate law in Florida.
Airbnb
Airbnb is a trend that is familiar with many travelers. Concerns over the rental prices and housing safety have resulted in widespread regulations in U.S. cities and other major travel destinations across the world. In Florida, property owners who provide Airbnb services should be licensed at the minimum. Certain cities have specific local regulations that owners should follow.
Building permits
Under real estate law, some buildings will not risk permitting the entry of short-term renters. The owners may fear that vacationers will disrupt the lives of the long-term residents. If you plan to rent out of a building, check with the manager to know if this type of rental is allowed. Otherwise, you risk paying a fine when your tenants are discovered.
Long-term rentals
Often, there are fewer local, state and national regulations for long-term rental arrangements. The government tends to favor long-term rentals with leases that are one year or longer. In Florida, owners may require licenses and need to create specific terms in the lease. Otherwise, they could face fines and legal disputes with community associations.
Why real estate law matters
Every country, state and residential area has different rules in regards to short-term rental agreements. Real estate law matters because it protects property owners from irresponsible tenants, and it protects renters from unreliable owners. Having rules in place is helpful for any individual or company to avoid legal disputes as much as possible.
