In an effort to address the housing challenges in Flagstaff, city officials have unveiled an interactive map detailing registered short-term rentals across the area. This tool offers residents valuable insights into the rental landscape of their neighborhoods.
Released online this week, the map identifies 990 short-term rental properties, providing details such as owner and property manager contact information. This can be particularly useful for those facing disturbances like noise issues.
Beyond its practical use, the map visually underscores the significant role of platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo in shaping Flagstaff’s housing dynamics.
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City of Flagstaff
Presently, short-term rentals account for an estimated 3.7% of Flagstaff’s housing, significantly surpassing the national average. This figure might even be an underestimate, as some properties are suspected to be unregistered, according to city housing officials.
The proliferation of these rentals was a contributing factor to the city council’s decision to declare a housing emergency in 2020, highlighting the ongoing struggle residents face in securing affordable housing amid escalating rent and property prices.
Despite consistent efforts by Arizona cities to regulate these rentals, state legislation largely precludes local government intervention. Nonetheless, municipalities retain the ability to tax these properties akin to hotels and mandate registration with the city.
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