Airbnb investing in Boston?

[Austin Sheppard]

I'm considering becoming an Airbnb host in Boston, and it seems to be extremely profitable. However, the city has several regulations restricting short term rentals, and I want to make sure I fully understand the laws before I invest anything.

My understanding is that you can't rent a property (that is not your primary residence) short term for more than 90 days/year, UNLESS:

- You get a lodging house license: https://www.cityofboston.gov/images_documents/Lodg...

- The property is inspected

- The property is registered as a short term rental

- Boston/MA short term rental and excise taxes are paid

My main questions are:

- Am I eligible to get a lodging house license even if I am only renting at 1 bed apartment to 1 person at a time? Or do I need 4+ units to be eligible?

- Is it easy to get the lodging house license? Is there any chance of being denied even if all the paperwork is filed correctly?

- Am I missing anything?

Also if any of you have experience with Airbnb and would like to connect, I'd love to meet for a coffee sometime!