On renting homes for short stays and scions buying bungalows

In some global cities, there has been a backlash against short-term rentals of homes to tourists as this deprives locals of access to rental housing. Perhaps, Singapore is wise to impose a minimum stay duration of three consecutive months for private homes and at least six months for Housing and Development Board (HDB) flats.

However, I argue in The Level Ground that it is worth considering giving homeowners the flexibility to lease out their private or HDB homes for much shorter durations.

Letting overseas visitors stay in residential properties for such durations increases accommodation choices for visitors. An international celebrity visiting Singapore may want to rent a detached house in a prime district. Some visitors seeking a local experience might like to stay in HDB flats. Also, staying in a room in a home may be more cost effective than putting up at a hotel.