
Illegal Airbnb Detection
by Rohana Rezel
A project to identify and expose illegal short-term rental listings and regulatory violations in Vancouver.
Related Media Appearances
Airbnb Versus Everyone
The Walrus
This article delves into the contentious debate surrounding Airbnb’s impact on communities and local housing markets. It examines how the company’s business model has disrupted traditional rental markets, sparking conflicts with local residents, governments, and housing advocates. The piece discusses the various responses—from regulatory measures to grassroots opposition—highlighting the broader social and economic consequences of Airbnb's rapid expansion.
Read moreWill B.C.'s Short-Term Rental Laws Come Up Short?
Business in Vancouver
This analytical report discusses the new provincial short-term rental regulations and includes commentary from Rohana Rezel. He criticizes aspects of the proposed legislation and highlights ongoing enforcement challenges in Vancouver.
Read moreAirbnb wins Vancouver privacy ruling, as court quashes order to release host data
The Canadian Press
This report details a court ruling affecting the release of Airbnb host data in Vancouver. It includes remarks from housing activist Rohana Rezel, who argues that transparency is crucial to understanding the impact of short-term rentals on the local housing market.
Read moreAre Canadian Politicians Conflicted on Affordable Housing?
Squamish Chief
This article explores whether British Columbia’s new short-term rental regulations will effectively address the housing crisis. It critically examines the proposed measures, their enforcement challenges, and potential unintended impacts on local rental markets, drawing on expert opinions and insights from housing advocates.
Read moreAirbnb Challenges Ruling to Disclose Short-Term Rental Data to Vancouver Housing Activist
North Shore News
This piece reports on Airbnb’s legal challenge to a ruling that would have forced the disclosure of short-term rental host information to housing activist Rohana Rezel. The article discusses concerns over privacy and the potential for misuse of the data.
Read moreWhy This Vancouver Legal Battle Could Pull Back the Curtain on a Problem With The Housing Market
The Toronto Star
This article examines a pivotal legal battle in Vancouver that could expose systemic issues within the city’s housing market. It discusses how the litigation may force a closer look at opaque practices in real estate data disclosure and regulatory enforcement, shedding light on broader problems such as short-term rental abuses and the concentration of property ownership. Housing advocates argue that the outcome of this case could spur much-needed policy reform and increase transparency, ultimately benefiting residents affected by the housing affordability crisis.
Read moreBCIT Investigates: Airbnb’s Role in Vancouver’s Housing Crisis
BCIT News
This investigative report examines how short-term rentals are affecting rental prices and housing availability in Vancouver. Housing activist Rohana Rezel is cited as a local expert on the impact of platforms like Airbnb.
Read moreVancouver Short-Term Rentals
CBC News
This CBC article examines the rising impact of short-term rental platforms in Vancouver, discussing challenges related to housing affordability, neighborhood stability, and regulatory responses. The report highlights ongoing debates among policymakers, housing advocates, and industry stakeholders as they seek solutions to mitigate the unintended consequences of an expanding short-term rental market.
Read moreRichmond housing is a gold mine for big Airbnb players — some live abroad
Richmond News
This piece explores how Richmond’s housing market is attracting major Airbnb investors, including overseas buyers. It discusses the impact of this trend on local housing affordability and includes insights from housing experts such as Rohana Rezel on the broader implications for the community.
Read moreVancouver's unofficial Airbnb watchdog says he's found 100s of bylaw violations
CityNews
In this article, Vancouver's unofficial Airbnb watchdog, Rohana Rezel, discusses his findings of hundreds of bylaw violations related to short-term rentals in the city, shedding light on gaps in regulation and enforcement.
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