Sites like Airbnb, which allow homeowners to rent out their property for short periods of time, have become wildly popular in the D.C. region thanks to a constant stream of visiting tourists. In the city’s most popular neighborhoods, like Columbia Heights or Shaw, those rentals can run hundreds of dollars a night. Now, advocates and city officials say some building owners are taking advantage of the demand and turning properties into permanent de-facto hotels, turning neighborhoods into transitory tourist hubs and draining the city of affordable housing. Kojo explores how the sharing economy may be speeding up gentrification and regulations city officials are considering enacting to address concerns.

Guests

  • Brianne Nadeau Member, D.C. Council (D-Ward 1)
  • Valerie Ervin Senior Adviser, Working Families Party; Former Member, Montgomery County Council (D)
  • Christopher Nulty Public Affairs Lead, Airbnb

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