FACT SHEET: Protecting Short-Term Rentals & Private Property Rights
Why REALTORS® Should Oppose West Chester Township’s STR Restrictions
THE ISSUE
West Chester Township is considering new restrictions on short-term rentals (STRs) that would limit where STRs can operate, impose burdensome permitting requirements, and prohibit STRs in most zoning districts. If passed, these regulations could harm homeowners, stifle tourism, and reduce economic opportunities in the community.
The Realtor Alliance of Greater Cincinnati (RAGC) strongly opposes these restrictions and has formally expressed concerns to the West Chester Township Trustees through a letter advocating for property rights, economic growth, and responsible regulation.
CLICK HERE to see the letter from RAGC Board President, DaVan Gassett, to West Chester Trustees, opposing STR restriction.
WHY THIS MATTERS TO REALTORS®
As real estate professionals, we must protect property rights and economic opportunities for homeowners and investors. Here’s why fighting against STR restrictions is critical:
PROPERTY RIGHTS AT RISK
- STR restrictions limit how homeowners can use their properties, infringing on their fundamental rights.
- Courts have recognized leasing as a core right of property ownership, and similar zoning restrictions have been ruled unfair to property owners.
ECONOMIC & TOURISM IMPACT
- STRs generate millions for local businesses, supporting restaurants, shops, and attractions.
- Spooky Nook Sports Champion Mill and the Butler County Visitors Bureau rely on STRs to accommodate visitors, fueling over $1.3 billion in visitor spending and supporting 13,000+ local jobs.
- Studies show STR guests spend 2.1x more at local businesses than hotel guests.
PROPERTY VALUES & HOUSING MARKET IMPACT
- STR properties are better maintained than long-term rentals, leading to 8-10% higher property appreciation rates.
- Overregulation discourages investment, reducing home values and limiting real estate market growth.
- Similar restrictions in Cleveland led to a 15% decline in STR availability, reducing local tourism revenue and weakening the housing market.
UNNECESSARY REGULATORY BURDENS
- Conditional use permits create barriers for homeowners, requiring costly hearings and approval processes.
- Excessive regulations create an uncertain investment environment, discouraging new homeowners from purchasing in West Chester.
WHAT REALTORS® CAN DO
STAY INFORMED – Read the full RAGC letter to the Trustees and understand how these regulations impact your clients.
SPEAK OUT – Contact West Chester Township Trustees and express opposition to STR restrictions. Encourage homeowners and investors to voice their concerns at public hearings.
SHARE THE FACTS – Talk to your clients, investors, and property owners about the benefits of STRs and the risks of overregulation.
ATTEND LOCAL MEETINGS – Show up at West Chester Township meetings to advocate for balanced STR policies that protect both homeowners and the local economy.
OUR MESSAGE TO WEST CHESTER TRUSTEES
✅ Protect Property Rights – Homeowners should have the right to rent their property without excessive restrictions.
✅ Support Local Business & Tourism – STRs are essential to West Chester’s tourism-driven economy.
✅ Avoid Overregulation – Creating unnecessary barriers discourages real estate investment and limits economic growth.
REALTORS®—Your voice matters! Take action today to protect private property rights and the future of real estate in West Chester.