Don't know if this has already been reported here, but just in case ...
The gist of the story is that the City of Paris is cracking down on "illegal" short-term apt. rentals (less than 1 year). They are supposedly going to fine the owners 25,000 euros, and other punishments. Scary if you happen to own a rental here, especially the bit about your insurance not being valid. Not sure this would affect the renter. Here's the link to the story: http://www.expatica.com/fr/essentials_moving_to/relocation/Crackdown-on-private-landlords-in-the-City-of-Light-_15124.html
Wow! Thanks for pointing that out!
Thanks for sharing this article. I just rented an apartment through VRBO this past Sept. in Paris. The second time I have done so. I love doing this and hope the crack-down doesn't affect the number and prices of apartments available for rent, though it probably will.
As usual, it all has to do with money.
Many apartments owners rent out to tourists....and don't pay taxes on it.
However, if they are classified as a commercial property, it becomes a business and taxes must be paid.
The renter is not affected.
Actually, the date of the article is 2 December (not Feb. 12). I have no insider knowledge about how this may affect short-term rentals. Just sharing this info.
It was my confusion seeing the date on the article being 02/12/09 and forgetting that the European convention is day/month/year.