A House Is a Home

When I worked in zoning administration 40 years ago, I noticed how what is not thought of before, and perceived as a loophole by some, could be used for financial advantage by others. An example was when developers found that building apartments above parking on small parcels created a 50 percent increase in density, to the detriment and surprise of nearby residents. This type of advantage is now being used to create so called vacation rentals, even if not allowed by ordinance.

Such uses are inconsistent with the common zoning concept that all uses not specifically permitted are prohibited. It is further inconsistent with the concept that residential zones, and especially single family, allow the least number of land uses. These are fundamental concepts.

What the developers of so called vacation rentals are doing is pimping out or turning out our single family homes to make a profit. The concept of home as opposed to house means certain things, and that difference makes “home” the word of choice by the real estate industry.

As a homeowner, I do not care at all if they have fresher paint, better linen service, or nicer landscaping, which is analogous to a prostitute. Having a house is an almost sacred prerogative, and the concept has been reiterated by the U.S. Supreme Court. Just because they found a way to turn out our houses does not justify what they have done.