Airbnb owners in Cancun can no longer hide from authorities since a tracking and surveillance system has been in place purchased to identify spaces offered on the platform.
The municipal president of Benito Juárez, Ana Paty Peralta, explained that the first step for operating the properties is to regularize them to provide security for tourists.
The regularization consists of a register in which the Benito Juárez City Council grants a special permit for this type of business. It’s estimated that in Cancun there are almost 14,000 units rented for tourism purposes.
If the landlords refuse to regularize, sanctions will be imposed.
“We already have a system to check who does and does not own a holiday home,” said the mayor.
“We have this system where we can track properties that are advertised on different digital platforms, because it’s not just Airbnb,” she added.
Although Ana Paty Peralta has not announced what sanctions will be imposed in case of refusal of regularization, her government is already considering what they could be.
It is currently estimated that $5,872,335 in taxes could be collected from the 14,000 units available for lease. This money could be invested in projects that benefit the residents of Cancun.
Why is Airbnb becoming more and more popular in Cancun?
Tourists are increasingly choosing Airbnb accommodations for their stay in Cancun.
This shift is attributed to several factors, including the desire for a more authentic, personalized experience and the flexibility and privacy such rentals offer.
Additionally, Airbnb often offers a more cost-effective alternative to traditional hotels, especially for longer stays or larger groups. The wide variety of options available, from luxury villas to cozy apartments, also caters to a wider range of preferences and budgets.