Vacation Rental StudiesFor the last ten years, B&B's (Bed and Breakfasts) and STRH's (Short Term Rental Homes) have been a hot topic in Maui County even though there is little public opposition. In December 2008, we saw a very positive step forward, as the Maui County Council approved new legislation for B&B's (properties with the owner living on grounds). In 2013 the Council approved the STRH ordinance. The following documents were commissioned by the Maui Real Estate Association to show support for and the benefit of vacation rentals in the Maui community. The Realtors Association of Maui (RAM) commissioned SMS Research to prepare a public opinion survey. This survey showed 60% in favor of this industry, 20% against and 20% undecided. In 2002 the County of Maui commissioned a public opinion survey by the same company, and the results were almost identical. The 2008 Economic Impact Study shows that this industry brings in up to $300 million per year, and employs around 3000 local residents. Money brought in by the vacation rental industry stays right here on the island, trickling through our island economy again and again. 3. Kauaian Institute TVR study Completed in 2005, the Kauaian Institute published an exhaustive 24 page report on Vacation Rentals in Maui showing that there were approximately 800 Vacation Rental houses (B&B's and TVR's) at that time. |