The Greek government has recently announced a pause in approvals for new short-term holiday rentals in an effort to tackle the ongoing housing crisis in the country. This decision comes amid growing concerns over the impact of short-term rentals on the availability and affordability of long-term housing for locals.
With the rise of platforms like Airbnb, short-term rentals have become increasingly popular in Greece, particularly in tourist hotspots like Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini. While these rentals can bring in much-needed income for property owners, they have also been blamed for driving up rental prices and making it difficult for residents to find affordable housing.
The government’s decision to halt approvals for new short-term rentals is part of a larger strategy to address the housing crisis and ensure that affordable housing options are available for all residents. While this move may be unpopular with property owners who rely on short-term rentals for income, it is seen as a necessary step to restore balance in the housing market.
It remains to be seen how this temporary pause will impact the rental market in Greece and whether it will be effective in addressing the housing crisis. In the meantime, many people are hopeful that the government’s actions will lead to positive change and improve the overall affordability and availability of housing in the country.
Watch the video by Al Jazeera English
Video “Greece housing crisis: Government pauses approvals for short-term rentals” was uploaded on 09/17/2024 to Youtube Channel Al Jazeera English