'Tax them' - Cape Town mayor's fix for digital nomad housing crisis
Briefly

Cape Town has emerged as a favorite destination for remote workers, driven by its beautiful surroundings and modern conveniences. However, this influx of digital nomads has led to a significant housing crisis, with long-term rentals becoming scarce and expensive. In response, Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis is advocating for appropriate taxation of short-term rentals to align them more closely with hotel tariffs, thereby easing rental pressures for local residents. The debate centers on the impact of international currencies on local affordability and the prioritization of short-term listings over sustainable housing options for residents.
Cape Town has become a hotspot for remote workers due to its stunning landscapes and modern amenities, but this influx has worsened the city’s housing crisis.
Mayor Hill-Lewis proposes appropriate taxation on short-term rentals to level the playing field, as locals struggle to compete with international prices.
Locals argue that the prioritization of short-term rentals over long-term leases is pushing rent prices higher, making affordable housing inaccessible.
Data indicates over 25,800 short-term rental listings, leading to concerns about tourism's impact on local housing availability.
Read at The South African
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