The boom in short-term home rentals in Argentina is raising concerns, especially in tourist-centric cities.
The issue has reached the national congress. Both ruling and opposing parties aim to make new laws.
Long-term rentals are declining as short-term ones rise. Most prices are in dollars. In Buenos Aires, a recent study found 90% of 26,204 listings were entire homes.
New laws could set a 90-day limit for these rentals. They also want payments in Argentine pesos. A National Registry for such rentals is also planned.
In 2022, rental home availability dropped by one-third from the previous year. Prices shot up by as much as 103.9%. Lawmakers agree that new rules are needed.
Experts say the trend makes the housing issue worse. Inflation rates are sky-high.
The impact on society could be harmful, with higher living costs and more stress on public services.
Many see homes more as investments than places to live. This is due to high inflation.
Yet, the main issue isn’t small owners but the shift toward viewing homes as financial assets.
Background
Argentina’s housing market has always been volatile. Many remember the economic crisis of 2001.
After that, trust in the local currency dropped. Many preferred to hold their wealth in real estate. But the rise of platforms like Airbnb changed the landscape.
Owners found they could earn more with short-term rentals.
This shift affects local renters. As more homes go to tourists, fewer are available for long-term rental.
And those that are, have soaring prices. Cities like Buenos Aires are feeling the pinch. Residents find it hard to find affordable homes.
For decades, the government tried to control the housing market. Rent control laws existed but had little impact.
Short-term rentals now challenge these old policies. Both government and public agree that fresh regulations are urgent.
Given the tourism boom, lawmakers are under pressure to act fast. This situation isn’t unique to Argentina.
Cities worldwide are grappling with similar issues. How Argentina deals with it could serve as a case study for others.