Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Beaufort South Carolina.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Beaufort, South Carolina for 2024

General Requirements

• Definition of Short-Term Rental: Rental of a whole house, a room within a house, a carriage house, or an accessory dwelling unit for less than 30 days.

Neighborhood Caps

• 6% Cap: Neighborhoods within the City’s jurisdiction (excluding The Point) are capped at 6% of residentially zoned parcels that can operate as short-term rentals.

Application and Licensing

• Short-Term Rental Conditional Use Application: Complete the application and pay a $100 fee (or $1,000 for post-facto STRs operating without approval).
• Business License: Obtain a City of Beaufort business license.

Required Documents

• Rental Agreement: Must specify a 2-night minimum stay, maximum number of guests based on the number of beds, maximum number of vehicles based on bedrooms and driveway design, parking instructions, quiet hours (9pm-8am), prohibition of large gatherings without city approval, and any pet policies.
• Property Management Plan: Provide a copy of the property management plan and contact information for the property manager.
• Fire Alarm Monitoring Contract: Documentation of a monitored fire alarm system installation and monitoring contract is required after the conditional use permit is approved.

Safety Inspections

• Safety Inspection: Pass a safety inspection with a $50 fee. STRs must have a monitored fire alarm system installed on each floor.

Other Regulations

• Parking and Vehicle Limitations: Maximum number of vehicles based on bedrooms and driveway design, with specified parking areas (must be side or rear, not front yard).
• Noise Ordinance: Quiet hours apply from 9pm to 8am.
• Large Gatherings: No large gatherings like weddings without city approval.

Compliance and Enforcement

• Compliance with Neighborhood Covenants: For units in neighborhoods with covenants, a written statement from the HOA president permitting STRs is required.
• Annual Compliance: Ensure ongoing compliance with all regulations and payment of local accommodations fees.

Top Neighborhoods for Airbnb Revenue in Beaufort, South Carolina

1. Downtown Beaufort

• Average Revenue: $63.6K per year
• Average Daily Rate: $305.5 per night
• Average Occupancy Rate: 57%
• Average RevPAR: $170.6
• Appeal: Downtown Beaufort is a historic gem with charming antebellum architecture, a vibrant cultural scene, and easy access to essential amenities like grocery stores, restaurants, and shops. Its proximity to major transportation hubs, including the Beaufort County Airport and the Intracoastal Waterway, enhances its appeal for travelers.

2. Pigeon Point

• Average Revenue: $63.6K per year
• Average Daily Rate: $305.5 per night
• Average Occupancy Rate: 57%
• Average RevPAR: $170.6
• Appeal: Pigeon Point offers a rich history, picturesque streets, and exceptional convenience with amenities either within the neighborhood or a short walk from downtown Beaufort. Its central location provides easy access to major transportation hubs and local attractions.

3. Habersham

• Average Revenue: $57.9K per year
• Average Daily Rate: $283.3 per night
• Average Occupancy Rate: 56%
• Average RevPAR: $158.4
• Appeal: Habersham is known for its charming Southern architecture, lush landscapes, and tranquil atmosphere. It is close to downtown Beaufort, offering a blend of tranquility and accessibility that appeals to guests seeking an authentic Lowcountry experience.

4. Laurel Bay

• Average Revenue: $57.9K per year
• Average Daily Rate: $283.3 per night
• Average Occupancy Rate: 56%
• Average RevPAR: $158.4
• Appeal: Laurel Bay is a vibrant military housing community with a family-friendly atmosphere and convenient location. It is close to popular attractions, offers easy access to transportation hubs, and provides a mix of small-town charm and modern amenities.

These neighborhoods are highly appealing due to their unique blend of historical charm, modern convenience, and proximity to various attractions and amenities, making them ideal for both short-term and long-term stays.

Furnishing and Design Tips for an Inviting Airbnb in Beaufort, South Carolina

Understanding Local Preferences

• Beaufort, like its neighboring areas, attracts guests with its historic charm, waterfront views, and vibrant local culture. Reflect this in your design by incorporating coastal themes, natural materials, and local artwork.

Key Features and Amenities

• Outdoor Spaces: Include amenities like private pools, fire pits, and outdoor dining setups to enhance the desirability of your listing. These features are particularly appealing in Beaufort’s pleasant climate.
• Comfortable Indoor Spaces: Add cozy elements such as fireplaces for comfort during cooler evenings. Modern and stylish decor, including high-quality bedding and smart TVs, can set your property apart.

Furniture and Decor Styles

• Coastal Themes: Use light colors, comfortable fabrics, and natural materials to blend seamlessly with the coastal environment.
• Rustic and Modern Elements: Combine rustic furniture with modern, minimalistic designs to reflect Beaufort’s historic and contemporary aesthetics.

Neighborhood Considerations

• Historic Districts: Properties in historic areas, such as the Old Town in nearby Bluffton or waterfront areas in Port Royal, are highly sought after for their quaint charm and walkable streets filled with local shops and eateries.
• Proximity to Attractions: Choose neighborhoods close to local attractions, beaches, and outdoor activities to attract families and groups looking for memorable experiences.

Practical Design Tips

• Bedroom Setup: Opt for king or queen beds depending on the room size. Ensure there is adequate space for nightstands and consider adding extra furniture if the room feels empty. Avoid clutter by minimizing the number of different bed sizes in a multi-bedroom house.
• Organized Linens: Keep linens organized to make cleaning easier for your team. Use consistent bed sizes across rooms to simplify the cleaning process.

Local Art and Historical Elements

• Incorporate local art and historical elements to deepen the connection to the community, making guests feel more immersed during their stay.

Budget-Friendly Design

• Plan meticulously to save time and money. Reuse existing furniture where possible, and shop ahead of time to ensure you have all necessary items. Use vision boards to visualize the balance of your design before making purchases.

Guest-Centric Design

• Provide extras such as makeup wipes, extra towels, blankets, and basic household supplies to make the space feel like home. Ensure high-quality internet service and easy-to-use TVs for a comfortable stay.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short-Term Rental Business in Beaufort, South Carolina

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for both you and your guests, several practical tips can be implemented when running a short-term rental business in Beaufort, South Carolina.

Noise Regulations and Guest Communication

Inform your guests about the quiet hours, which are typically from 9pm to 8am, as mandated by the City of Beaufort's regulations. Clearly outline these rules in your rental agreement and provide a reminder in your digital and physical house manual to avoid any potential issues.

Comprehensive House Manual

Create a detailed digital and physical house manual that includes essential instructions, such as Wi-Fi passwords, appliance usage, and emergency contact information. This manual should be easily accessible to guests, either in a physical booklet at the property or through a digital link provided in the pre-arrival information.

Simplified Check-in Process

Utilize smart locks to streamline the check-in process, eliminating the need for physical key exchanges. Provide guests with clear instructions on how to access the property, along with photos of the lock and any other relevant entry points. This ensures a hassle-free arrival and reduces the likelihood of guest confusion.

Parking Instructions

Include detailed parking instructions in your house manual, accompanied by photos to help guests identify the designated parking areas. This is particularly important given the parking requirements specified in the City of Beaufort's regulations, ensuring that guests are aware of and comply with local rules.

By implementing these tips, you can enhance the guest experience, reduce potential issues, and maintain a positive reputation for your short-term rental business in Beaufort, South Carolina.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning providers in Beaufort, South Carolina:

House Cleaning Services in Beaufort, SC

Merry Maids of Beaufort

• Offers comprehensive cleaning services for homes with 40 years of experience.
• Contact for a free estimate.

Copeland Cleaning Services

• Provides residential, commercial, and janitorial cleaning services.
• Offers free quotes.

Walmart House Cleaning Services

• Covers cleaning for bathrooms, kitchens, bedrooms, and more.
• Contact at 833-600-0406 or visit in person.

Various Services Listed on HomeAdvisor and Angi

• HomeAdvisor lists 12 top maid services in Beaufort, SC, with homeowner reviews and cost comparisons.
• Angi provides reviews and ratings for the top 10 house cleaners in Beaufort, SC.

Managing Short-Term Rentals in Beaufort, South Carolina: Fees and Services

In Beaufort, South Carolina, managing a short-term rental property can involve a range of fees, typically varying from 10% to 30% of the rental revenue, depending on the level of service provided. Full-service management companies, which handle guest communication, marketing, and maintenance, usually charge higher fees, often starting at around 20% of the rental revenue.

Basic services, such as listing and booking management, may be less expensive but still incur additional costs for cleaning, repairs, and design. For instance, some management companies charge a consumables fee to cover items like linens, toiletries, and other essentials, and there may be separate fees for safety inspections and compliance with local regulations.

Property owners must also comply with Beaufort's specific regulations, including obtaining a business license, paying accommodations taxes, and adhering to a 6% cap on short-term rentals in residential neighborhoods. Understanding these fees and services is crucial for effectively managing a short-term rental property in Beaufort.