Loophole for short term rentals

[Carrie335]

I am a local Central Florida homeowner who is interested in Airbnb for our home while my husband and I travel for several months at a time.

I was actually wondering if you could share some info about hosting your whole entire apartment or house in a city like Orlando where there are restrictions on Airbnb. I know Orlando technically requires Airbnb hosts to be staying at the property too but there are so many properties on Airbnb that are clearly breaking the rule....have you had any bad experiences with the city? Any fines or penalties for renting out the entire apartment? Did you pay the short term rental yearly fee the city requires?

We’re just trying to figure out how to live part of the year overseas and the only missing piece of the puzzle is sorting out how to Airbnb our home out while we’re gone (without getting into trouble).

Thank you!!!

[Rowena29]

@Carrie335 

I live in australia so I know absolutely nothing about any laws and ways around them for Orlando.

However I do know that these boards are global  - worldwide.

You might get a few hosts from Orlando stumble across your question and respond and you also might not. 

As well as hoping for a response from here, have you had a look to see if there is a hosting group in your local vicinity on Facebook? there usually is.  A specialised local group is better equipped to help and advice re this I would think.

Good luck!

[Maia29]

@Carrie335  I suggest joining a FB group for Airnbnb hosts. I've seen lots of people from Florida posting so I'm sure you can find the information you are looking for there, or you could make a post. They usually approve requests to join right away.

[Sierra11]

Unfortunately, there is no one answer. Definitely check with the city to see what their rules are. Seemingly each municipality in FL has their own rules and regulations. That said, many are not being enforced. 

*If you are in a condo or HOA community, those rules tend to be more strictly followed. 

So, secondly I'd reach out to some Airbnb hosts in your area. Ask what their experience has been like and if they've ever received any violation notices. 

Sierra [Surname hidden]