Article
For their Action Project, Fellows Varisa Tanti and Maja Bogojevic addressed the impact of short-term rentals, such as Airbnb, on housing availability, affordability, and community stability in urban areas, particularly within and outside the Berlin Ringbahn. From their research, they found the proliferation of short-term rentals can drive up rental prices, displace long-term residents, and contribute to gentrification, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities.
Therefore, the project provides a comprehensive analysis of Airbnb listings’ vacancy rates and availability within these areas. By visualizing and comparing data on short-term rentals inside and outside the Ringbahn, the project highlights the extent of market saturation, demand fluctuations, and their implications on housing stability.
“We chose this topic because of its critical relevance to current urban housing challenges,” Varisa and Maja explain. “Our inspiration came from observing these dynamics in our own cities (NYC and Berlin) and recognizing the urgent need for balanced policies that protect long-term residents while accommodating tourism.”
Project Development
To develop this project, the two Fellows conducted research on Airbnb’s impact on Berlin’s housing market, focusing on metrics like vacancy rates and availability. Regular bi-weekly calls with each other, as well as a call with HIA staff ensured alignment and allowed for feedback. Additionally, Maja and Varisa explored perspectives from marginalized communities.
Visualizations, including maps and charts, were created to present the findings clearly. The fellows then created a story map which integrated these visualizations, making the data accessible and engaging. “Regular feedback from the Humanity in Action staff refined the project for accuracy and relevance,” the two add.
We were inspired to approach the project with empathy and dedication, understanding the real human impact behind the data and statistics.
What touched the Fellows most during their time building this Action Project was the interviewees’ resilience and determination to advocate for their community’s well-being. “We had the opportunity to interview an activist in a neighborhood heavily impacted by short-term rentals and gentrification,” Maja and Varisa reveal. “Her passion and resilience inspired us to approach the project with renewed empathy and dedication, understanding the real human impact behind the data and statistics.”
Finally, Varisa and Maja presented their analysis and insights to their Fellowship, offering key takeaways and recommendations for Humanity in Action Fellows.
Final Outcome
Today, anyone can read the Storymap and answer the reflection questions:
- How have you observed the growth of short-term accommodation rentals, such as Airbnb, impacting the availability of long-term housing options in your city or neighborhood? What anecdotal evidence or personal experiences can you share?
- Considering the diverse demographics within your city, which groups do you think are most vulnerable to the effects of short-term rental expansion on long-term housing stability? How might these impacts vary across different neighborhoods or communities?
