Short Term Rental Trends

Alabama Airbnbs & STRs

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RedAwning offers vacation rental property management for busy vacation rental owners and Airbnb hosts. Starts at 10% of revenue.
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Current Vacation Rental Performance in Alabama

Market Trends

The vacation rental market in Alabama is experiencing some fluctuations in 2024, influenced by several factors:

  • Post-Pandemic Shifts: With the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, international travel has reopened, leading some vacationers to opt for destinations outside the Gulf Coast, which had seen a surge in demand during the pandemic. This shift has contributed to a slight decline in rental income for some properties.

  • Seasonal Factors: The timing of holidays, such as Easter, has also impacted rental income. An earlier Easter in 2024 shortened the spring rental season and reduced income opportunities.

Regional Performance

  • Gulf Shores and Orange Beach: These areas, known for their idyllic scenery and high demand, have seen mixed results. While some luxury properties like Phoenix Gulf Shores and Turquoise Place have maintained relatively stable rental incomes, other properties have experienced declines due to factors like property sales, remodeling, and increased competition.

  • Occupancy and Rates: Overall, calendar occupancy rates in Alabama's vacation rental market have been slightly lower than in previous years, reflecting a national trend of softening demand and increasing supply. However, average daily rates have remained relatively stable.

Key Destinations

  • Gulf Shores and Huntsville: These destinations continue to attract visitors. Gulf Shores is popular for its beachfront properties, while Huntsville draws visitors with its technological and educational attractions. Despite some declines, these areas remain key spots for short-term rental investments.

Future Outlook

  • Late Fall Season: There is a positive outlook for the late fall season, with occupancy rates pacing ahead of last year in October and November. This suggests a potential return to pre-pandemic trends as supply and demand become more balanced.

Regulatory Environment

  • Local Regulations: The absence of uniform statewide laws means that investors and property managers must navigate complex city-level regulations to ensure compliance. Understanding and adhering to these regulations, including tax implications and business licenses, is crucial for operating legally in Alabama's vacation rental market.

FAQ

What does your pricing structure look like?
Our prices start at 10% of revenue. You can check out our pricing page for more information.
What types of vacation rental properties do you manage?
We manage a wide range of vacation rental properties, including single-family homes, condos, apartments, and luxury villas. Our services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each property type.
How do you handle guest support?
Our team provides 24/7 guest support, handling all inquiries, booking assistance, and any issues that may arise during a guest's stay. This ensures a seamless experience for your guests.
What is included in your damage waiver?
Our damage waiver provides $3,000 in coverage per booking, protecting you from accidental damages without the need for security deposits. This coverage is automatically included with every booking.
How does the payment process work?
We handle all aspects of the payment process, including processing payments, managing declined cards, and providing chargeback protection. Funds are deposited directly into your account, ensuring a smooth and secure transaction.
Can I still use my own booking website?
Absolutely! We offer a direct booking website service that allows you to showcase your property and accept bookings directly, bypassing the fees charged by major booking sites.
How do I get started with RedAwning?
Getting started is easy! Simply contact us for a free consultation, and our team will guide you through the onboarding process to ensure a smooth transition to our platform.
Why is RedAwning better than other property management companies?
RedAwning sets itself apart from other property management companies with a technology-driven, cost-effective approach that offers both full-service and partial management options, catering to vacation rental owners who value flexibility and control. Unlike competitors like Vacasa or AvantStay, which focus solely on full-service management with fees ranging from 25-50% of income, RedAwning provides a choice: comprehensive oversight including marketing, reservations, guest support, and maintenance, or a partial-service model emphasizing marketing and bookings across 50+ platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com, potentially increasing bookings compared to narrower-channel options like Evolve. RedAwning's fees start at 10%. Having served the industry for 15 years, RedAwning combines experience with lower fees and rapid onboarding—listing properties in an afternoon—appealing to hosts who want efficiency without losing decision-making power, though it may not suit those needing extensive local support like Vacasa provides. Its scale (20,000+ properties across 10,000 destinations) and data-driven pricing give it an edge over Evolve’s simpler approach, making it a versatile choice for tech-savvy hosts seeking tailored management solutions.