Real Estate
Written By Craig Carmean
AirBnB and VRBO in Athens Georgia
Hey, did you hear about the new rules on short-term rentals (you know, those places you can rent for a few days, like on Airbnb or VRBO)? Athens-Clarke County has seen a surge in these rentals, and they've noticed a lot of folks aren't happy. Residents have been complaining about a bunch of issues like loud noise, too many cars on the streets, parking headaches, and even how these rentals are messing with the local housing market.
The county took action back on September 19, 2023, by putting a temporary stop – or a 'moratorium' as they call it – on any new short-term rentals in areas meant for single-family homes. They thought of it as a sort of 'time-out' to think things through. Now, they're saying they need even more time to iron out the kinks and are looking to extend this pause.
But here's the thing – if someone was already renting out their place before all this moratorium stuff started and got a pass, they can keep doing their thing. No changes for them.
This whole 'time-out' thing is set to last till February 6, 2024, just before midnight. But if they come up with some new rules or changes before that, it might wrap up earlier. And for those who started their short-term rental gig legally before the moratorium, they won't have to worry about this; they're good to go. But if anyone challenges their right to rent, they'd better have their paperwork ready to prove they were in the clear.
The Document:
Understanding The Document:
Navigating legal documents can feel like deciphering a foreign language, especially if you're new to them. If you've taken a stab at reading the document and come away scratching your head, you're not alone. To help clear things up, I'm going to break it down for you in two stages:
A simplified summary of each section.
Afterward, I'll tackle some of the most common questions you might have, along with their answers. Let's dive in!
Summary of the Athens-Clarke County Short-Term Rentals (STRs) Ordinance:
The Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County:
Background:
Acknowledges their authority under the Georgia Constitution for home rule powers, police powers, and land development.
Recognizes the rise in short-term rentals (STRs), often advertised on platforms like Airbnb and VRBO, and lasting no longer than 30 consecutive days.
Highlights concerns from residents about non-compliance issues with STRs in single-family residential zones. Complaints include noise disturbances, traffic problems, parking, and impact on the housing market.
Main Actions:
Initially established a temporary emergency moratorium on new STRs in RS-zoned parcels (single-family residential zones) on September 19, 2023.
Wishes to continue and extend this moratorium to give more time to relevant authorities to review and propose changes to the zoning ordinance concerning STRs.
Moratorium Details:
The moratorium will continue to temporarily halt the establishment of new STRs in RS-zoned parcels.
Properties that were used as STRs before the date the moratorium came into effect and were declared exempt will remain so.
This temporary measure will remain in place until February 6, 2024, 11:59 PM but can end earlier under specific conditions, such as the adoption of new amendments addressing the STR issues.
Penalties & Exemptions:
Existing penalties for violations of the Athens-Clarke County Code will apply to this Ordinance.
STR operations that legally began before the moratorium won't be affected. Property owners must prove their entitlement to operate the STR.
The Commission could decide to phase out STR operations over time.
Implementation & Validity:
The Manager (and designated staff) is entrusted with the authority to enforce this Ordinance.
If any part of this Ordinance is found invalid, the rest will remain effective.
The Ordinance will take effect as stipulated in the Charter of the Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County.
This ordinance primarily aims to protect the public interest by temporarily halting the growth of short-term rentals in specific zones until a comprehensive solution can be found.
Why Real Estate Photos, Videos, and 3D Virtual Tours Are No Longer a Luxury—They're a Necessity
Adapt or Perish: The New Landscape
Let's cut straight to the chase. The Athens real estate landscape is undergoing seismic shifts. The temporary moratorium on new short-term rentals in RS-zoned areas may only be the tip of the iceberg, indicating more regulatory changes to come. This isn't the time to be complacent or cling to old marketing tactics. Instead, it's a clarion call for adaptation.
Standing Out in a Competitive Market
Imagine this: As the moratorium squeezes the availability of new short-term rentals, the market will increasingly favor those already in operation. However, with the surge in scrutiny and community concerns, it's essential not only to exist but to excel. And how do you excel? By differentiating your property so dramatically that it not only captures attention but demands it.
The Visual Advantage
When was the last time you booked a hotel without glancing through the photos? Exactly.
In a marketplace where consumers are bombarded with choices, professional real estate photos and videos don't just enhance your listing; they elevate it into an experience. This isn't just about showing off your property; it's about immersing potential renters or buyers in a lifestyle—a narrative that text alone can't deliver.
Virtual Tours: The Closest Thing to Reality
Let's be real. In an age where convenience is king, 3D virtual tours are your golden ticket to immediate customer engagement. Virtual tours offer a 'try-before-you-buy' experience, enabling potential renters to visualize themselves in the space. In a post-moratorium environment where every advantage counts, this interactive edge could mean the difference between 'vacant' and 'booked.'
Survival of the Fittest: Why You Need Our Services
Sure, your smartphone has a decent camera, but unless you're a pro, your DIY photos will likely end up looking amateurish and uninspiring. That's where we come in.
Our services aren't just a cherry on top; they're the whole dessert. With our cutting-edge technology and creative expertise, we'll help you craft a compelling visual narrative that not only entices but captivates. We're talking high-res photos that pop, videos that tell a story, and 3D virtual tours that offer a lifelike walkthrough experience.
The Bottom Line
The temporary moratorium is a wake-up call, signaling that the marketplace is becoming more complicated and competitive. Those who invest in elevating their real estate marketing game are not just preparing to survive; they're positioning themselves to thrive.
So, make the call. It's not just about adapting to new regulations; it's about outshining the competition and winning in this ever-evolving market. And that, dear friends, starts with a single, game-changing decision: Investing in professional real estate photography, videography, and 3D virtual tours.
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FAQS
Short-Term Rental Owner
Q1: Will my existing short-term rental be affected by this new moratorium?
A: No, properties that were being used as short-term rentals before the moratorium came into effect and were declared exempt will remain so. As long as you can prove your entitlement to operate the STR, your business won't be impacted.
Q2: How can I prove that I was operating my property as an STR before the moratorium was established?
A: You'll need to provide documentation or evidence that shows your property was listed on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO, and had bookings or was available for bookings, before September 19, 2023.
Q3: When can I expect the moratorium to end?
A: The temporary measure is set to remain in place until February 6, 2024, 11:59 PM. However, it might end earlier under certain conditions, like the adoption of new amendments addressing the STR issues.
Real Estate Agent
Q1: How does the moratorium impact properties for sale in RS-zoned parcels?
A: While the property itself can be sold as usual, potential buyers should be informed that they won't be able to start new STR operations in RS-zoned parcels until after the moratorium ends.
Q2: Are there any zones where STRs are still permitted without restrictions?
A: The document specifically mentions a moratorium on STRs in RS-zoned parcels (single-family residential zones). This implies that other zones might still permit STRs, but it's essential to check local zoning ordinances for specifics.
Q3: Can buyers apply for exemptions to the moratorium?
A: The document states that properties used as STRs before the moratorium and were declared exempt will remain so. However, it doesn't indicate a process for new exemptions. Potential buyers should consult with local authorities to get a clear answer.
Living Next to a Short-Term Rental in Athens, GA: A Personal Tale
When you live in Athens, GA, there's a unique charm to the city's intimate neighborhoods, where homes are more like close-knit friends rather than distant acquaintances. The proximity of homes in Athens isn't just about space; it's about the shared experiences, sounds, and sights that make the community.
For me, this closeness has been both a blessing and a curse.
My property is nestled between three rentals. On either side of me, there are long-term rentals occupied by UGA students. If you're imagining loud parties and disruptive behavior, think again. These students are the epitome of respect and quietude. In fact, their low-profile lifestyle might stem from their non-compliance with the Athens Clarke ordinance, which mandates that no more than two unrelated people can live in a single-family dwelling. Sure, I occasionally spot a car parked on the street, but it barely makes a blip on my radar. They've been great neighbors.
But then there's the third rental—the short-term one.
Why I think that short term rentals will eventually be banned completely in Athens GA
Just imagine: You're tucked into bed, and a mere 30 feet away is a revolving door of vacationing guests. Their driveway, where they frequently pull in and out, is 30 feet from where I sleep. 50 feet from my house, they've set up a lively patio. A little further away, at 75 feet, there's a fire pit that seems to always be the hub of nighttime gatherings.
The guests at this short-term rental aren't here for a quiet retreat. No, they're here to revel in UGA games, celebrate weddings, and take in Athens' holiday festivities. The nights, especially weekends, are dotted with laughter, loud conversations, music, and the intermittent blare of car alarms. Their floodlights, which could give the midday sun a run for its money, remain glaring all night.
Would it be the same if a family lived there permanently? I highly doubt it. The frequency of such disturbances would likely be limited to special occasions, perhaps a handful of times a year. Not every weekend.
Now, I love my city, and I believe in progress and adaptability. But there's a line between advancement and deterioration of the quality of life. As a homeowner in Athens, where homes are cheek by jowl, my personal experience nudges me to believe that short-term rentals have crossed this line.
The recent move by ACC to halt new short-term rentals is commendable but insufficient. It merely stops the problem from expanding, without rectifying existing issues. In neighborhoods like mine, there might eventually be an outright ban on short-term rentals, especially if they can cause noise disturbances of 60db or above for neighbors. I mean, if investors are so keen on short-term rentals, perhaps they should consider places like Oconee County, where properties aren't elbowing each other for space.
It's time ACC not only thought about the growth of the city but also the peace and well-being of its residents.
AirBnBVRBOshort term rentalsAthens GA
Craig Carmean
