Debate Title Property Rights vs. Right to Housing: Where do we draw the line?

The Core Conflict
Our proposal to restrict Short-Term Rentals (STRs) has sparked a fierce conversation. On one side, property owners argue they rely on STR income to pay their own mortgages and cope with inflation. They believe the Municipality should not dictate how they use their private property. On the other side, tenants and families argue that housing is a human right, and the unchecked spread of STRs is forcing locals out of their own city, damaging the social fabric of Limassol.

The Argument for Regulation (Yes)

• Housing is for living: Homes should prioritize residents, not profit margins.

• Neighborhood safety: Constant strangers in residential buildings create security and noise issues.

• Market correction: We need to artificially force supply back into the long-term market to stop the rent spiral.

The Argument for Deregulation (No)

• Economic Freedom: Owners should be free to rent to whomever they want.

• Tourism Income: STRs bring tourists to neighborhoods that don't usually see spending, helping local mini-markets and cafes.

• Supply isn't the issue: The problem is a lack of new construction, not Airbnb. The municipality should fast-track new permits instead of banning rentals.