California Central Coast STR

[Brian Huh]

Hello  BP community, 

I'm looking into possible STR investment in the central coast of California. I know I'm late to the game hoping I can get some guidance.

I've looked into Paso Robles, Morro Bay, SLO, Los Osos, and Santa Maria. 

Most of these cities appear to have regulations. Some appear to be more stricter than others. 

For example, SLO only allows homestay/homeshare and Paso's non-hosted vacation rental permits are all taken and you have to go on a waitlist for someone to drop off to be eligible for STR.

For those of you who have STR investments in these areas, is there a place that I haven't looked into that is relatively easier to get STR permits?

Thanks 

Brian

[Jon Martin]

My personal residence is in Morro Bay. While there have been limitations since before Airbnb days, right now the law is in limbo and I'm tempted to turn it into an STR in the meantime because at worst it's a fine on par with a noise violation. However I wouldn't suggest buying a home anywhere with rules in place or even being discussed unless you have another play or exit plan, because the laws and enforcement are likely to get tougher.

Unincorporated areas of SLO County are still safe and I think will stay that way, but you never know. You are starting to see a lot of county wide regulations, which is not a good sign. Most of Santa Barbara County is not allowed even outside of city limits.