The Importance of Short-Term Rental Advocacy with Julie Marks

Meet the Experts

Industry Leaders Shaping Short-Term Rental Advocacy in 2025

Jamie Lane serves as Chief Economist at AirDNA, where he leads research on market trends and regulatory impacts in the short-term rental industry. Julie Marks, founder and Executive Director of VTSTRA (Vermont Short-Term Rental Alliance), has transformed from a property manager to a leading voice in STR advocacy, helping shape responsible regulations at both state and national levels.

The Evolution of Short-Term Rental Advocacy in 2025

How Advocacy Begins: From Local Threats to Statewide Action

The path to short-term rental advocacy often starts with local challenges. "The biggest risk to short-term rental performance, investors, and hosts today is regulation," explains Jamie Lane, highlighting why proactive involvement has become crucial in 2025.

Julie Marks' journey began when her town considered shutting down vacation rentals. "Decisions that will affect you are made in rooms you might not even be aware of," she notes, describing her eye-opening experience at city council meetings where officials discussed regulating an industry they didn't fully understand.

Building a Short-Term Rental Association: Steps and Strategies

Starting a short-term rental association requires strategic planning and community building. Marks launched VTSTRA by first publishing opinion pieces in local papers and creating a website to rally support. Within three weeks, over 600 local stakeholders had joined the cause, demonstrating the urgent need for organized advocacy.

Defining the Vacation Rental Community in 2025

Expanding Membership and Stakeholder Inclusion

The definition of the vacation rental community has evolved significantly by 2025. "Our community isn't just vacation rental managers or homeowners—it's everyone who feeds into this economy," explains Marks. This inclusive approach encompasses:

Navigating Competing Interests Within the Community

While managing diverse stakeholder interests presents challenges, successful advocacy groups approach it with a unity mindset. "We approach advocacy as a rising tide that lifts all boats—this is not a zero-sum game," Marks emphasizes, highlighting how collaboration strengthens the industry's voice.

Partnering with Local and State Organizations

Building Relationships with DMOs, Chambers, and Agencies

The evolution of industry partnerships has been remarkable. Initially met with skepticism, vacation rental associations have become trusted advisors to state agencies and tourism boards. By 2025, many state tourism departments are actively tracking and presenting vacation rental data, recognizing the sector's significant economic impact.

The Economic and Policy Impact of Advocacy

Effective advocacy has helped clarify the economic role of vacation rentals, leading to more informed policy decisions. State agencies now consider short-term rentals distinctly in both tourism and housing discussions, marking a significant shift in understanding and approach.

Good vs. Bad Regulation: Advocating for Responsible Standards

Principles of Effective Short-Term Rental Regulation in 2025

"We lead with responsible and reasonable regulation solutions," Marks explains, outlining key priorities:

  • Safety standards matching traditional rental housing
  • Noise and nuisance prevention measures
  • Environmental protection and waste management
  • Parking and neighborhood impact considerations

Defining Community Standards and Accountability

The industry has established clear boundaries for responsible operation. "We're not afraid to say who's not part of our community," states Marks, referring to operators who disregard safety and community standards.

Scaling Advocacy: Statewide and National Initiatives

The Right to Rent Collaborative and National Advocacy Trends

The Right to Rent Collaborative represents the next evolution in short-term rental advocacy, aiming to establish sustainable associations in all 50 states by 2026. This initiative focuses on providing resources and funding for local advocacy groups, ensuring long-term sustainability.

Steps for Getting Involved and Building Local Advocacy Groups

For those interested in starting local advocacy efforts, Marks recommends:

  1. Connecting with Rent Responsibly for guidance and resources
  2. Building a local network through social media or community events
  3. Establishing relationships with existing community leaders
  4. Starting small and focusing on relationship-building

Sustaining Advocacy: Avoiding Burnout and Building Resilience

Personal Strategies for Long-Term Engagement

Advocacy work requires sustainable practices to avoid burnout. Marks emphasizes the importance of:

  • Building strong support networks
  • Investing in personal development
  • Taking time for rest and recharging
  • Finding energy in community connections

The Call to Action for 2025

"Get involved in any small, medium, or big way you can," urges Marks. Whether through financial support, volunteer time, or active participation, every contribution helps build a stronger advocacy network for the future of short-term rentals.

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