I know this topic has no value, but I am having a debate with a friend and I am hoping someone can settle it.

From an article posted today:New Orleans’ hotly contested short-term rental (STR) debate will lead to a vote Thursday, Aug. 8 as the New Orleans City Council is scheduled to consider two ordinances that would change how STRs can operate in the city.The ordinances up for final approval include one by Councilwoman Kristin Gisleson Palmer that would create two categories of STRs — residential and commercial — by making changes to the city’s zoning ordinance.The second, by Palmer, City Council President Helena Moreno and Councilman Jay Banks would set rules for owner and operator permits and fees, as well as fines and penalties for noncompliance.

My wife and I have been debating on buying an STR in Palm Springs, CA.

Still debating on making this a STR as it would double the income, just need to look into it more.

This question is debated a lot on biggerpockets. 

I’m debating the same thing on a flip, went about 4 weeks long on the Reno and listed the day before thanksgiving with 5 showings and feedback basically saying the location is not ideal but nothing about the price being high.

Friendly debate :) .

I’m not sure that would provide enough rent to come out even , so Im debating whether this is a buy to merely sell later with no income and possibly some funds coming out of pocket, or if I would be able to see some income. 

Glad I have mine, but I'm not going to debate anyone who feels they're better off w/o a license.

It does not fall nicely into the debated '50% rule' tho, but we feel it should generate some positive income for us.