Is the beautiful game coming to your backyard? Before you turn your home (or rental) into a short-term win, there are rules to know and play by. The Agency’s experts in Boston, New Jersey, Seattle, L.A., Miami, and Dallas share their guidance.
As the World Cup drives high short-term rental demand in your market, what do you think property owners should consider before renting out their space?
Boston
Eric Rollo, The Agency Boston
Property owners first need to consider any legal implications of renting out their space. Certain municipalities have strict regulations regarding short-term rentals, including registration policies, inspections, and fees. There may also be local or state tax implications. Furthermore, if the unit is in a condo building (or a rental), the person renting out the space should be mindful of anything in their condominium documents, rules and regulations, or lease in regards to renting the property short-term. If there are no restrictions, they should also be mindful of any building rules that may be violated by their short-term guests that could have financial consequences for them.
The individual considering renting out a space should also consider their own personal belongings, as well as potentially acquiring an insurance policy to protect their property and its contents.
New Jersey
Jennifer Darby Metzger, The Agency Rutherford
In Northern New Jersey markets, demand is expected to surge dramatically due to proximity to MetLife Stadium, where several major World Cup matches including the Final will take place. Before listing, we are advising owners in the local areas that they should first take into consideration if the town, building or HOA permits short-term rentals. From there they can then look into insurance coverage and liability, pricing strategy and operational logistics such as cleaning, guest communication and security.
Seattle
Jen Cameron, The Agency Seattle & The Agency Seattle | Eastside
Property owners absolutely see the opportunity to capitalize on the influx of visitors during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, especially in a market like Seattle, where hotel inventory will be stretched and rates will surge. But before jumping in, I think owners need to look at the full picture — not just the short-term upside.
First, if you already have a strong long-term tenant, there is real value in stability. Giving that up for a few lucrative weeks can backfire if the market softens later or the property sits vacant afterward. A reliable tenant who cares for the home and renews consistently can be worth far more over time than a temporary spike in revenue.
Ultimately, I tell clients the World Cup is a tremendous opportunity, but the owners who will benefit most are the ones making strategic decisions that protect the long-term value and usability of their asset, not just chasing a short-term spike in revenue.
Los Angeles
Zach Goldsmith, The Agency Beverly Hills
Property owners should consider risk vs. reward, first and foremost. How much do they stand to make versus what it will cost them to live/stay somewhere else temporarily, and any effects wear and tear may have on their home
Miami
Ana Uribe, The Agency Miami
Property owners should first understand that demand during the World Cup will be extraordinary, especially in luxury destinations like Miami Beach, Miami, and surrounding waterfront communities. However, before listing a property, owners must verify whether short-term rentals are legally permitted in their specific zoning district or condominium/community association.
Many international visitors traveling for the World Cup will be high-net-worth individuals expecting hotel-level service, privacy, technology, and premium amenities. Properties that are professionally managed and properly prepared will perform best.
Dallas
Damon Williamson, The Agency Dallas
Property owners should be careful not to overprice their rentals during the World Cup. If rates are pushed too high, travelers will simply look at other options. Stay competitive and realistic — don’t let greed price you out of bookings.
What are the most common questions you’re hearing from property owners in your market — and what’s your go-to advice when they come to you?
Boston
Eric Rollo, The Agency Boston
Clients who have spoken to me about renting their space for the World Cup have inquired about the laws surrounding short-term rentals. Ultimately, because of the implications and consequences they may incur, many have decided to only rent to friends, family, or people that they somehow have a connection to, not a “random stranger” from a STR platform like AirBnB or VRBO. My go-to advice would be to consider all of the legal or financial implications that could arise from a rental, and weigh the potential profits versus what could end up being costly fees and fines.
New Jersey
Jennifer Darby Metzger, The Agency Rutherford
The biggest questions we’re hearing are: “Can I do a short-term rental?” “How much can I realistically charge?” and “Is it worth furnishing my property for short-term use?”
Our advice is always to check if the town they reside in even allows for short-term rentals and if they do we are encouraging owners to prepare early. Professional photography, updated furnishings and clear house rules make a huge difference. In our market specifically, access to transit into Manhattan and MetLife Stadium will heavily influence demand and pricing.
Seattle
Jen Cameron, The Agency Seattle & The Agency Seattle | Eastside
The most common question I’m hearing right now from property owners is whether they should convert their current residence into a short-term rental to take advantage of the surge in demand surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Seattle.
My advice is usually to slow down and evaluate the opportunity like a business decision, not just an emotional reaction to headlines about massive rental rates.
I’m also reminding owners that Seattle is already facing limited housing inventory and tight rental conditions. We’re seeing some landlords capitalize on World Cup demand differently by increasing premiums on longer-term leases rather than fully transitioning into short-term rentals. That approach can sometimes create a more balanced risk-reward scenario while still benefiting from increased market demand.
Los Angeles
Zach Goldsmith, The Agency Beverly Hills
Property owners think they can charge more than 10 times the normal rental rate, which has yet to be seen. We have to be aware of the short-term rental pricing moratoriums still in effect from last year’s fires.
Miami
Ana Uribe, The Agency Miami
The most common questions are: “Can I legally rent my home short-term?”, “How much could my property generate during the World Cup?”, and “How do I protect my property while maximizing income?”
My advice is always to begin with compliance first. Miami Beach and surrounding municipalities have very specific rules regarding short-term rentals, and many owners are surprised to learn that certain single-family homes or residential buildings prohibit rentals under six months.
Once legality is confirmed, I encourage owners to focus on professional marketing, proper guest screening, high-quality photography, and experienced local management. The World Cup will bring global exposure, and the presentation will directly impact pricing power.
Short-term rental regulations vary widely by city and state. What do property owners in your market need to know before listing their home? And what are the biggest compliance pitfalls to avoid?
Boston
Eric Rollo, The Agency Boston
Many areas in and around Foxborough (where “Boston Stadium” will be located) as well as in the Boston Proper and Greater Boston areas have strict policies in regards to short-term rentals, including but not limited to registrations, fees, inspections, etc. The fines for violations can be costly.
The biggest issues, however, come from those individuals who must comply with condo rules and regulations, especially in owner-occupied properties or those neighborhoods with high owner or long-time renter demographics.
Those property owners in these areas need to be mindful of the relationships they have with their neighbors, and the fact that a rowdy rental, or unfamiliar people streaming in and out, will likely be noticed relatively quickly and reported.
New Jersey
Jennifer Darby Metzger, The Agency Rutherford
This is one of the most important conversations happening right now in the Northern New Jersey area because regulations are strict and heavily enforced.
In Rutherford, New Jersey, short-term rental laws have tightened significantly. In most cases, rentals under 30 days are prohibited unless the rental period is more than 30 days. Surrounding towns and Rutherford are currently discussing a temporary exception program only for the time period during the World Cup. This also varies by town so owners need to reach out directly regarding any further information.
The biggest compliance pitfalls we see are listing properties illegally without proper registration, Ignoring condo, co-op or HOA bylaws, and assuming Airbnb platforms, etc. approval means the listing is legally compliant.
Our advice is simple: property owners should consult both local regulations and a knowledgeable real estate professional before listing. A profitable booking is never worth risking major fines or legal complications.
Seattle
Jen Cameron, The Agency Seattle & The Agency Seattle | Eastside
Yes, there will absolutely be opportunities for some homeowners to generate significant income during that window. But not every property is a fit, and not every owner is prepared for what comes with operating a short-term rental at that level. I encourage clients to look carefully at city regulations, HOA restrictions, insurance coverage, tax implications, security concerns, furnishing costs, and the overall guest experience they would realistically be providing.
Los Angeles
Zach Goldsmith, The Agency Beverly Hills
L.A. has some of the strictest Airbnb regulations in the nation, make sure you brush up on the latest rules and regulations. Make sure you register with the city and have the proper permits for listing your “primary” residence. Non-primary residences are up against even more stringent restrictions and guidelines.
Miami
Ana Uribe, The Agency Miami
In Miami Beach, property owners must understand that short-term rentals are heavily regulated and, in many residential areas, prohibited altogether. Owners should confirm zoning approvals, licensing requirements, Business Tax Receipts, and Resort Tax registration before advertising any property.
One major compliance issue is that Miami Beach requires approved vacation rentals to display their Business Tax Receipt number and Resort Tax certificate number on all advertisements and listings. Failing to comply can result in substantial fines and enforcement actions.
Another common pitfall is assuming that because a property is listed online, it is automatically legal to rent short-term. Owners should work closely with experienced local professionals and attorneys to ensure full compliance before accepting reservations. That’s why I partnered with The Miami Insider — a white label VIP Concierge, and Villapads which specifically specializes in vacation villas and they hold the corresponding licenses.
Dallas
Damon Williamson, The Agency Dallas
One of the biggest things property owners need to check before listing is HOA restrictions. In Dallas, most HOAs don’t allow short-term rentals. If rentals are permitted, owners should properly screen guests and avoid renters planning large parties that could lead to costly damages.
What should someone looking to rent in your city during the World Cup look for in a rental property? What should they confirm before signing anything or handing over a deposit?
Boston
Eric Rollo, The Agency Boston
Renters should be wary of those listings that may not give a specific address, as those owners may be trying to circumvent the area’s short-term rental policies. Locations near Boston’s South Station and Boston Stadium will be in high demand and will demand high prices.
Renters should confirm aspects of the rental, including how many beds there actually are (not just how many it sleeps), as well as location – even if there is a specific address, renters should confirm access to other amenities, the stadium, or transit location.
New Jersey
Jennifer Darby Metzger, The Agency Rutherford
For renters visiting the Northern New Jersey area during the World Cup, location and transportation access will be critical. Properties near direct train paths, PATH stations, or shuttle routes to MetLife Stadium will likely offer the best experience.
Renters should prioritize the following:
- Verified listings with strong review history
- Clear communication from hosts
- Flexible cancellation policies
- Reliable transportation access
- Amenities like air conditioning, Wi-Fi and secure entry systems
Before sending payment or signing anything, renters should confirm:
- The property is legally permitted for short-term rental use
- The host identity matches the listing
- All fees and deposits are clearly outlined
- Check-in procedures and support contacts are documented in writing
If something feels rushed or vague, that’s usually a warning sign.
Seattle
Jen Cameron, The Agency Seattle & The Agency Seattle | Eastside
Anyone looking to rent in Seattle during the 2026 FIFA World Cup should approach the process carefully and do their homework before handing over money or signing an agreement. Demand is expected to be extremely high, which unfortunately also creates opportunities for scams, inflated pricing, and misleading listings.
First and foremost, renters should confirm that the property is legally allowed to operate as a short-term rental. Seattle has regulations surrounding short-term rentals, and some buildings and HOAs prohibit them entirely. If someone is renting a condo or apartment, it’s important to verify that the owner actually has the right to lease the property on a short-term basis.
Location will also matter tremendously. Properties near public transit, light rail access, downtown Seattle, Lumen Field, Bellevue, and major hospitality corridors will likely offer the best overall experience. During an event of this scale, transportation and accessibility can become just as important as the property itself.
Los Angeles
Zach Goldsmith, The Agency Beverly Hills
L.A. is probably the most important of the almost dozen World Cup destinations, with SoFi Stadium being a big part. 70% of Inglewood short-term rentals were already booked for June. Some properties within a few miles of SoFi Stadium have listed at up to 10x their normal nightly rate on peak match days.
Miami
Ana Uribe, The Agency Miami
Renters should first verify that the property is legally approved for short-term rental use and professionally managed. They should confirm licensing information, ownership verification, and ideally work with established real estate professionals or reputable management companies.
Location will also be extremely important during the World Cup. Many visitors will prioritize waterfront properties, proximity to stadium access routes, walkability, luxury amenities, privacy, and access to restaurants, beaches, and nightlife.
Before sending funds, renters should request a formal agreement, verify the property through video calls or live walkthroughs when possible, and confirm exactly what is included in the rental — such as housekeeping, parking, security, pool access, and concierge services.
Dallas
Damon Williamson, The Agency Dallas
For renters coming into Dallas during the World Cup, proximity matters. Traffic around major events can be intense, so a property that’s normally 30 minutes away could easily turn into a 90-minute drive. The closer you stay to the action, the more expensive it will likely be.
With demand this high, scams tend to surface. What red flags should renters watch for? And how can property owners screen guests to better protect their homes?
Boston
Eric Rollo, The Agency Boston
When working with an agent or rental firm, it can be important to contact the office to legitimize the business, their point of contact, and the property itself. Anytime someone is asked to give a deposit without a signed agreement, especially via Zelle, Venmo, cash or money order, they should be wary. Using a credit card or marking the transaction a “service” in the money transfer apps offer some protection, but using a verified service will be very important during this time.
For owners, screening will be incredibly difficult as most will refuse to go through a traditional vetting process. If available, using services like AirBnB and VROB offer some protections. Screening should and could include a quick social media or internet search to verify the person they are renting to. They should also request copies of photo identification for all guests to ensure the person they are renting to are actually the person they expect.
New Jersey
Jennifer Darby Metzger, The Agency Rutherford
Major global events unfortunately create opportunities for fraud, and we expect to see an increase in fake listings and off-platform payment scams during the World Cup.
For renters, major red flags include:
- Prices that seem dramatically below market value
- Hosts refusing to use verified booking platforms
- Requests for wire transfers or cash payments
- Listings with very few photos or no reviews
- Pressure to “book immediately” outside the platform
For property owners, guest screening will be equally important. We recommend:
- Using verified booking platforms with identity checks
- Requiring signed rental agreements
- Setting clear occupancy limits and house rules
At the end of the day, preparation and professionalism are what protect both owners and renters during high-demand events like this. The World Cup presents an incredible opportunity for the market, but success comes from understanding the local landscape and planning ahead.
Seattle
Jen Cameron, The Agency Seattle & The Agency Seattle | Eastside
With demand expected to surge during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scams will absolutely increase — and both renters and property owners need to be cautious.
For renters, major red flags include listings that seem underpriced for the market, pressure to send money quickly, wire transfer requests, lack of a formal agreement, or owners unwilling to provide additional photos or video walkthroughs. Renters should verify the property is legitimate, confirm who actually owns or manages it, and book through reputable platforms whenever possible.
For property owners, guest screening will be critical. I recommend using verified booking platforms, reviewing guest histories and ratings, requiring written agreements, and clearly outlining occupancy limits, house rules, and security expectations upfront.
Owners should also confirm their insurance covers short-term rental activity and take steps to protect the home itself, including securing valuables and using smart access systems where appropriate.
The biggest mistake people will make during the World Cup is rushing because of urgency. Whether renting or hosting, slowing down and properly verifying everything will be key.
Los Angeles
Zach Goldsmith, The Agency Beverly Hills
Renters have to be heavily vetted to avoid scams, which will run rampant during the games. Full background checks, multiple sources of verification are a good start.
Miami
Ana Uribe, The Agency Miami
For renters, major red flags include listings with prices that seem unusually low for the market, requests for wire transfers without documentation, refusal to provide live property verification, or listings that lack proper licensing information. Working with trusted real estate professionals significantly reduces risk.
For property owners, guest screening will be critical during major international events like the World Cup. Owners should verify identification, require signed agreements, confirm occupancy limits, and ideally work with professional management companies that conduct background checks and security deposits.
Luxury homeowners especially should prioritize privacy, security systems, and clear house rules to protect their properties during high-demand periods.
Dallas
Damon Williamson, The Agency Dallas
Renters should look for recent reviews and verify they’re not overpaying for a property just because demand is high.
Scams become much more common during high-demand events. If someone asks for deposits through secondary websites instead of trusted rental platforms, that’s a major red flag. Fake listings on Facebook Marketplace are especially prevalent in the Dallas area.
Beyond the World Cup, what does this kind of global spotlight mean for your local real estate market long-term? Is now a smart time to buy or invest in property in your city?
Boston
Eric Rollo, The Agency Boston
Boston is still a good investment for long-term investment, buoyed by the medical and higher education foundation that exists in the Greater Boston area, as well as pharma and biotech companies expanding their footprint in the area. I do think we will see investors seek those transit-focused areas outside of Boston Proper in the near future, as there is uncertainty regarding the potential for legislative policies on rent control within the Boston community now.
The fact that there is such limited inventory and a lack of space to continue building in the city keeps values sustainable. Long-term investors may seek “mid-term” rentals, veering away from the traditional year-long leases while not pivoting completely to short-term rentals – focusing mainly on medical and education for 3 to 9-month rentals for the premiums that these could provide from a cash-flow standpoint.
New Jersey
Jennifer Darby Metzger, The Agency Rutherford
Absolutely, in the Northern New Jersey market, we expect the World Cup to have an impact that extends well beyond the tournament itself.
Major global events like the World Cup place an international spotlight on a region, and for the Northern New Jersey area, particularly communities surrounding MetLife Stadium and that exposure can accelerate long-term interest from both domestic and international buyers, investors and developers. We often see improvements tied to infrastructure, hospitality, transportation and overall neighborhood visibility that continue benefiting the market long after the final match is played.
For Northern New Jersey specifically, this moment reinforces what many buyers are already discovering: you can have proximity to Manhattan, strong transit access, and vibrant communities.
From an investment standpoint, well-located properties near major transit hubs and entertainment corridors will likely remain highly desirable even after the World Cup ends. Buyers today are not just investing in a temporary event, they’re investing in markets that continue to attract tourism, corporate relocation and international interest year-round.
For buyers who have been considering entering the market, this can absolutely be an opportune time, especially before global attention and demand potentially push values even higher in certain submarkets. The key is working with a local expert who understands not just the excitement surrounding the event, but the long-term sustainability of the investment.
Seattle
Jen Cameron, The Agency Seattle & The Agency Seattle | Eastside
I think the 2026 FIFA World Cup is much bigger than just a few weeks of tourism for Seattle. It puts the city on a global stage and reinforces what many investors already recognize — Seattle is an international market driven by technology, innovation, lifestyle, and global connectivity.
Events like this create worldwide exposure that can influence tourism, corporate relocation, international investment, and infrastructure improvements long after the matches are over. For many visitors, this will be their first experience with Seattle, Bellevue, and the broader Pacific Northwest, and I think that visibility matters.
Los Angeles
Zach Goldsmith, The Agency Beverly Hills
If the city runs this correctly, it will be a great prelude to what’s to come for the Olympic Games of 2028, which presents a great chance to put L.A. back in the public spotlight in a positive way that we haven’t seen in years. So it’s a good time to make a smart investment in the future of Los Angeles.
Miami
Ana Uribe, The Agency Miami
Events like the World Cup place Miami on a truly global stage and reinforce its position as one of the world’s premier luxury and lifestyle destinations. Historically, international events create long-term visibility that extends far beyond tourism — For example last month we had the Miami F1 GP, and we had racers buying in luxury branded condominiums like Pagani, Aston Martin, and Bentley. These events help attract foreign capital, second-home buyers, entrepreneurs, and global investors.
We are already seeing strong international interest in Miami real estate, particularly in waterfront and luxury new construction condos, especially from Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Argentina have strong buyer pools . The World Cup will likely accelerate that trend by introducing new buyers to Miami’s lifestyle, infrastructure, tax advantages, and global connectivity.
From a long-term perspective, I believe well-located Miami properties — especially waterfront, luxury, and lifestyle-driven assets — continue to represent attractive investment opportunities. The combination of limited supply, international demand, and Miami’s growing global relevance supports long-term value appreciation.
Dallas
Damon Williamson, The Agency Dallas
The global spotlight from events like the World Cup can positively impact the local real estate market long-term, especially with major developments like Universal coming to Frisco. But investors still need to be smart — run the numbers carefully. Short-term rentals are not always as profitable as people assume.
