Housing Affordability and Short-Term Rental Regulations in Irmo: Balancing Tourism and Community
As the Chief Marketing Officer for a leading Digital Marketing Company in South Carolina, we understand the deep concern around housing affordability. In Irmo, a proposed June 2025 ordinance to cap short-term rentals (STRs) at 5% of residential properties has sparked debate. With median home prices at $275,000 and rents consuming 40% of income, the ordinance seeks to ease pressure on long-term housing availability. However, it also raises concerns about its effect on the town’s $50 million tourism economy. Our role is to ensure clear, inclusive communication that connects stakeholders and supports sustainable growth in Irmo.
Affordability Challenges and Proposed STR Regulations
Irmo faces growing housing demand and affordability issues. With just 35 affordable units per 100 low-income households and average rents of $1,300/month, many residents—particularly service workers—struggle to find stable housing. The town currently hosts 300 active STRs, making up 10% of housing stock. Inspired by similar action in Florence, Irmo’s proposed ordinance would cap STRs at 5% and tighten enforcement after 50 noise complaints in 2024. The policy aims to rebalance housing supply but may affect tourism-driven revenue.
Stakeholder Perspectives
Real Estate Agents
Agents acknowledge STRs offer 15% higher returns than long-term rentals but are concerned about their role in shrinking inventory for homebuyers, especially first-time and family buyers. With steady home sales in Q1 2025 and rising costs near STR zones like Lake Murray, agents advocate for fair STR caps and marketing of affordable housing options. They also emphasize collaboration with developers to bring more entry-level homes to market.
Developers
Developers see opportunities in Irmo’s growth, supporting zoning reforms and mixed-use projects along I-26. However, they argue that without subsidies, high costs—$180,000 per affordable unit—hinder affordable housing expansion. While tourism revenue from STRs helps fund development, developers support modest STR regulation and seek stronger public-private partnerships, including leveraging the $2 million in state housing grants issued in 2024.
Government and Policy Makers
The Town of Irmo projects a need for 100 new housing units annually to meet workforce demand. The STR cap proposal, while popular among residents, faces potential legal hurdles due to state preemption laws. The South Carolina Department of Commerce provides limited tax credits and grants, and local councils push for infrastructure expansion. However, a 4% rise in property taxes in 2025 has further strained residents’ affordability.
Local Community
Community opinions are split. Renters and service workers support STR caps, citing reduced rental availability and affordability. Groups like Irmo Future advocate for 15% affordable units in new projects. Meanwhile, homeowners and those benefiting from tourism fear the loss of supplemental STR income. Calls for greater transparency echo through community forums, as residents aim to preserve Irmo’s family-friendly character amid rapid growth.
Community Reactions on Social Media
Social media platforms like X show how divided Irmo’s residents are. On June 24, 2025, a community advocate praised the proposed STR cap for addressing rental shortages, while others warned of negative impacts on tourism. Conversations around affordability, displacement, and enforcement continue under trending hashtags like #IrmoHousing and #STRban, reflecting the growing urgency of the issue.
Path Forward
To address Irmo’s housing challenge, collaboration across all sectors is vital. Real estate agents, developers, local officials, and residents must find common ground. Balanced STR caps, combined with incentives and infrastructure upgrades, can enhance long-term rental availability. Transparent communication—something we advocate for every day—will help unite efforts and preserve Irmo’s livability for future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
| Question | Answer | Relevant Parties |
|---|---|---|
| Why is housing unaffordable in Irmo? | Rents consume 40% of income, with only 35 affordable units per 100 low-income households and a median home price of $275,000. | Community, Real Estate Agents |
| What does the proposed STR ordinance include? | It suggests capping STRs at 5% of residential properties and enforcing noise and parking regulations more strictly. | All Stakeholders |
| What concerns do developers have? | Developers cite construction costs and limited funding as barriers to affordable housing without compromising tourism revenue. | Developers, Policy Makers |
| Why do some residents support STR caps? | They believe STRs reduce rental availability and drive up housing costs, making long-term rentals harder to find. | Renters, Community Groups |
| How can agents contribute? | By advocating for balanced development and promoting affordable housing to both buyers and investors. | Real Estate Agents |
| What role does the town government play? | It proposes and enforces STR policies, allocates grants, and manages development amid legal and fiscal limitations. | Town Council, Regulatory Bodies |
Author: Todd Hunnicutt
About Todd Hunnicutt Todd Hunnicutt is a dynamic media personality, entrepreneur, coach, and Chief Marketing Officer at Real Internet Sales. Renowned for his technology expertise, he's been featured in the New York Times, National Geographic, and major news outlets. As a nationally syndicated technology writer, Todd is a sought-after voice in marketing, ai, entrepreneurship, and economics, frequently interviewed by industry publications. A proud South Carolina native, he cherishes outdoor adventures, BBQ, Tuesday family dinners, and Sunday church services. A passionate baseball fan, Todd enjoys games alongside his wife, Elizabeth, whose umpire-call critiques rival instant replay. With an extensive background, he's collaborated with Fortune 500 companies, nonprofit startups, and political campaigns. A serial entrepreneur, Todd thrives on innovative ideas and loves hearing a compelling pitch!
