We’re excited to welcome our newest NMSTRA members! Thank you for being a part of our community and supporting our mission. We’re so glad to have you with us!
- Diane Aprill
- Joseph Campbell
- Stacy Whisonant
Visit our exclusive NMSTRA member portal to give a warm welcome to all of our newcomers! Your support and camaraderie are what make our community truly special.
Not a member yet? Join today and unlock access to our private portal, packed with member-only benefits.
Legislative Updates
Legislative Update: HM 52 Passes Committee – Keep Up the Momentum!
We have great news! House Memorial 52 (HM 52) passed the House Commerce & Economic Development Committee with a unanimous 9-0 vote—a huge win for the Short-Term Rental (STR) community in New Mexico.
This means HM 52 now moves to the legislative floor for a full vote. If passed, it could pause County Assessors’ reclassification efforts until a study is conducted to assess the impact on STR owners and operators.
What’s Next? Your Voice Still Matters!
📢 Contact Your Legislators Today! Let them know you support HM 52 and why it matters. A strong show of support could help push this forward.
🔍 Find Your Representative: Linked here
Why This Matters
✅ Protects your investment from sudden tax hikes.
✅ Ensures a proper study before any reclassification occurs.
✅ Continues the fight for fair policies impacting STR owners.
Thank you to everyone who has already sent letters, attended hearings, and made your voices heard. Your advocacy is making a real difference—let’s keep the momentum going!
Association News
NMSTRA meets AZRT—A Cross-Border Exchange
It all started when AZRT Board Member John Hildebrand visited Santa Fe to connect with our association and share insights from Arizona’s success in building a strong statewide organization. During our conversation, John highlighted the importance of collaboration, persistence, and strategic engagement with policymakers—key elements that have helped AZRT make a lasting impact.
Hearing about their journey was both inspiring and motivating. Their experiences reinforced the potential for NMSTRA as we continue to grow and strengthen our advocacy efforts.
A heartfelt thank you to John for sharing their knowledge and experience with us. We’re excited to take these lessons and apply them here in New Mexico as we build our own path forward!
The Power of Pictures: How Great Photos Drive More Bookings
Did you know that hiring a photographer isn’t enough to get the best photos for your Airbnb? If you don’t direct them properly and set the right expectations, you might end up with photos that don’t truly showcase your space—or worse, don’t attract the guests you want!
That’s why you need to take control of the shoot and know exactly what to ask for! Join us for “The Power of Pictures: A Picture is Worth a Thousand Bookings” and learn how to capture high-quality images that bring in more bookings and higher revenue!
What You’ll Learn:
📸 How to hire and guide the right photographer to showcase your space
💡 Techniques for capturing eye-catching images that make your listing stand out
🏡 Staging tips to create an inviting and irresistible look
🎨 Editing strategies for a polished, professional finish
BONUS: The Stay Invincible Master Photo Shot List!
To make sure you and your photographer never miss a must-have shot, All NMSTRA Members will receive The Stay Invincible Master Photo Shot List —a step-by-step guide to getting the perfect Airbnb photos every time!
Event Details:
🗓 Date: Thursday, March 20, 2025
⏰ Time: 5:00 PM (MST)
📍 Location: Live Webinar on Zoom
Better photos lead to more bookings, higher rates, and happier guests. Join NMSTRA and fellow board member Vince Martin for this exclusive free session packed with practical tips you can start using right away.
Local Updates
Las Cruces Reminds Short-Term Rental Owners of Lodgers Tax Obligations
From Las Cruces
The City of Las Cruces emphasizes that owners of short-term rental properties, including those listed on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo, are mandated to pay a 5% lodgers tax on gross rental income. This tax funds city promotions and recreational facilities. Property owners must register online, pay a $50 fee, and submit monthly tax reports by March 25, even for months without rentals.
Industry Insider Insights
2025 Short-Term Rental Tax Guide
From Rent Responsibly
Navigating short-term rental taxes can be complex, but the right strategies can maximize savings and keep you compliant. This guide covers key tax tips, including the Augusta Rule, depreciation, deductions, and the Short-Term Rental Loophole. Learn how to optimize your tax return and avoid common pitfalls!