Why is HDB and URA making rental rules for private properties?

[Papsmearer]

When news broke yesterday about how two home owners had their Housing Development Board (HDB) flats seized for issuing short-term rentals, the Singapore social media scene went into a frenzy. Among the names floated around were Roomorama and Airbnb. Subletting websites such as Roomorama and AirBnb match tourists with local hosts of a country. They provide accommodation or lodging to visitors such as backpackers for a short time period. Airbnb’s Singapore website showed more than 1,000 rentals available while Roomorama has only 200 displayed on its page. Among those who are renting his apartment is Kelvin. He listed his 2-bedroom condominium for rental at $430 per night or $3010 per week on Airbnb. The private property is located at McCallum Street, Singapore. Kelvin has garnered 14 reviews by Airbnb users to date, with most commending him for his welcoming personality. Being hospitable to visitors of one’s country may improve its image, in turn boosting the tourism industry overall, but this is only one side of the coin. The HDB and Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has an eye on its flip-side, with rules banning anyone from renting out his HDB or private flat for less than 6 months. Moreover, according to HDB’s website, subtenants must not ... The post No More Room For Home-Rental Websites in Singapore? appeared first on Vulcan Post.