Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Bloomington Minnesota.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Bloomington, Minnesota for 2024

Prohibition on Short-Term Rentals

• Short-term rentals, defined as rentals less than 30 consecutive days, are explicitly prohibited in Bloomington under the city's zoning code (§14.577(b)).

Classification as Transient Lodging

• Short-term rentals are classified as "transient lodging" and are not permitted in any residential area within the city limits.

No Licensing or Permits Available

• Since short-term rentals are prohibited, there is no specific license or permit available for this type of rental in Bloomington.

Enforcement and Penalties

• The city strictly enforces the ban on short-term rentals, and violating this prohibition can result in fines and legal consequences.

Housing Policies Priority

• The City Council has prioritized housing policies and ordinances that focus on housing production, affordability, availability, and attainability, rather than allowing short-term rentals.

Impact on Residential Neighborhoods

• The prohibition is intended to preserve the character of residential neighborhoods and mitigate issues such as noise, parking, and safety concerns associated with short-term rentals.

Long-Term Rental Requirements

• Property owners must ensure that any rentals are for a minimum of 30 consecutive days to comply with the city's regulations.

Top Neighborhoods for Airbnb Revenue in Bloomington, Minnesota

1. Uptown Minneapolis

• Appeal: Uptown Minneapolis is highly appealing due to its central location, proximity to Lake Bde Maka Ska, and a plethora of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options. Guests can walk to various amenities, and the area is rated as a "Walker's paradise" and "Biker's paradise" according to Walkscore.com.
• Amenities: Modern homes, gourmet kitchens, large dining and living rooms, private back patios, and easy access to downtown and the airport make Uptown a favorite among guests.

2. South Minneapolis (Nokomis)

• Appeal: This area is popular for its clean and modern homes, many of which are freshly remodeled. It offers quick access to Lake Nokomis, the airport, Mall of America, Minnehaha Falls, and the VA hospital. The neighborhood is also known for its brand-new furniture, fully equipped kitchens, and nearby restaurants and coffee shops.
• Amenities: Fully equipped kitchens, smart TVs, Keurig coffee makers, and quartz countertops are some of the amenities that attract guests to this area.

3. Whittier

• Appeal: Whittier is attractive due to its historic homes and trendy location. Guests can enjoy being close to everything, including culinary and entertainment options. The area features historic homes with modern amenities like gourmet kitchens and private back patios.
• Amenities: Brand new gourmet kitchens, large dining and living rooms, long front porches, and private back patios are key attractions.

4. Longfellow

• Appeal: Longfellow is appealing because of its cozy suites and convenient location on the light rail. Guests appreciate the easy access to downtown, the airport, and other key locations in the Twin Cities. The area is also known for its clean and light accommodations with private entrances.
• Amenities: Private entrances, full kitchenettes, Roku TVs, high-speed WiFi, and off-street parking make this area a guest favorite.

5. Hopkins

• Appeal: Hopkins is popular for its private, quiet, and convenient locations, such as the Creekside Hideaway. Guests enjoy the unique setting on Minnehaha Creek, along with amenities like premium coffee stations and in-house laundry services. The area is also close to shopping, restaurants, parks, and public transportation.
• Amenities: Private entrances, premium coffee stations, potential in-house laundry service, and free off-street parking are among the appealing features.

These neighborhoods are highly rated for their cleanliness, location, and the variety of amenities they offer, making them the most appealing and revenue-generating areas for Airbnb in Bloomington, Minnesota.

Tips for Furnishing and Designing an Inviting Airbnb in Bloomington, Minnesota

General Tips

• Neutral Color Palette: Use a neutral color scheme for walls and large furniture pieces to create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that appeals to a wide range of guests.

Functional Spaces

• Clear Purpose for Each Area: Ensure each area of the property has a clear purpose, such as a well-defined reading nook, dining area, or relaxation spot, to enhance the guest’s experience.

Local Touches

• Incorporate Local Culture: Reflect the local culture or history through artwork, decorative items, or a guidebook with local recommendations to give guests a sense of place.

Essential Amenities

• Guest Amenities: Stock up on essential items like toiletries, basic cooking ingredients, and a first aid kit. These small touches can significantly improve guest satisfaction.

Furniture and Decor

• Anchor Pieces First: Focus on essential furniture items like beds, sofas, tables, and chairs before adding unique or decorative pieces. This ensures the space is functional and comfortable from the start.

• Rugs: Use heavy-duty rugs that can withstand wear and tear. Rugs can either be the first piece to set the tone for the room or the last piece to complement existing furniture.

• Avoid Clutter: Keep the space clutter-free and avoid leaving personal items, old furniture, or unnecessary decorations. This helps guests feel like they are in a clean and welcoming environment rather than someone else’s personal space.

Lighting and Ambiance

• Appropriate Lighting: Use lighting fixtures that create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Avoid office-style lighting and opt for fixtures that enhance the home’s ambiance.

• Scent and Comfort: Use quality shampoo and soap, and consider perfuming the house before guests arrive. Leave scented candles for guests to use to enhance their stay.

Additional Touches

• Games and Entertainment: Leave some games, cards, and informative books to provide entertainment for guests, especially on days with bad weather.

• Smart Technology: Consider adding smart home features like keyless entry, smart thermostats, or streaming devices to provide modern conveniences that appeal to tech-savvy travelers.

Maintenance and Management

• Local Support: If you are managing the property remotely, consider having a local co-host to handle any immediate issues that may arise, such as late deliveries or other problems.

Cleaning and Organization

• Professional Cleaning: Ensure the property is professionally cleaned, following standards like those set by the CDC. Keep cleaning equipment stored away to avoid making the space feel intrusive.

• Organized Kitchen: Leave enough kitchenware and utensils for the maximum number of guests but avoid overpacking the drawers to make it easy for guests to find what they need.

Discover Bloomington, Minnesota: Top Attractions and Insider Tips

Local Attractions

Shopping and Entertainment

• Mall of America: The largest indoor retail and entertainment complex in the U.S., featuring over 520 stores, 50+ restaurants, Nickelodeon Universe amusement park, SEA LIFE Aquarium Minnesota, and Rick Bronson's House of Comedy.

Outdoor Activities

• Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge: A prime spot for birdwatching, hiking, and seasonal ice fishing, preserving spring-fed wetlands, floodplain forest, and tall-grass prairie habitats.
• Hyland Lake Park Reserve: Offers skiing in winter, an award-winning playground, and hiking trails around the lake and prairie landscapes in summer.
• Richardson Nature Center: Features hiking trails through diverse habitats, a Nature Exploration Area for kids, and opportunities to meet resident raptors, reptiles, and amphibians.

Cultural and Historical Sites

• Bloomington History Museum: Located in the 1892 Old Town Hall, showcasing the city's agricultural era and pioneer days, including a 17th-century dugout canoe.
• The Works Museum: A science, engineering, and technology museum designed for kids, with interactive exhibits like a sensor-activated maze and a marble rollercoaster.
• Bloomington Center for the Arts: Home to nine art organizations, two theaters, and two galleries.

Other Attractions

• Normandale Japanese Garden: A serene garden with koi ponds, arched bridges, and cherry blossom trees, open year-round and free of charge.
• Paisley Park Museum and Tour: Explore the former home and recording studio of Prince, offering a unique musical experience.

Insider Tips

Getting Around

• Blue Line Light Rail: Conveniently connects the Mall of America to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and downtown Minneapolis.
• Free Parking and Hotel Shuttles: Many hotels offer free parking and shuttle services to the airport and Mall of America.

Dining

• Wally's Roast Beef: A local favorite since 1969, known for its classic roast beef sandwiches and comfort food.
• Shantytown Bar and Grill: Famous for its burgers and creative toppings, along with crispy tater tots.

Special Offers

• Bloomington Play, Stay, and Save Pass: Sign up for special offers on attractions, hotels, and restaurants to make your stay more affordable and enjoyable.

Seasonal Activities

• Rhythms of the River Road Trip: While not exclusively in Bloomington, this musical road trip starts here and follows the Mississippi River, offering a rich cultural and musical experience.
• Ice Fishing and Skiing: Enjoy seasonal activities at Hyland Lake Park Reserve and Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge during winter months.

By sharing these attractions and tips, you can help your guests make the most of their visit to Bloomington, Minnesota.

Practical Tips for Running a Successful Short-Term Rental Business in Bloomington, Minnesota: Navigating Local Restrictions

While Bloomington, Minnesota, currently prohibits short-term rentals lasting less than 30 consecutive days, it is essential to be prepared for any future changes in regulations. Here are some practical tips to help you run a successful short-term rental business, should the city amend its laws:

Noise Regulations and Guest Communication

Inform your guests about quiet hours to maintain a respectful environment for neighbors. Include noise regulations in your digital and physical house manual to ensure guests are aware of the expectations.

Comprehensive House Manual

Create a detailed digital and physical house manual that includes essential instructions, Wi-Fi passwords, and other important information. This manual should be easily accessible and cover all aspects of the property to minimize guest inquiries.

Simplified Check-in Process

Utilize smart locks to streamline the check-in process, eliminating the need for physical key exchanges. Provide clear instructions on how to use the smart locks and ensure that guests can access the property effortlessly.

Parking Instructions with Photos

Include detailed parking instructions in your house manual, accompanied by photos to help guests understand where and how to park. This can significantly reduce confusion and potential issues with neighbors.

By implementing these strategies, you can enhance the guest experience, reduce potential conflicts, and ensure a smooth operation of your short-term rental business, should Bloomington's regulations change in the future.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning providers in Bloomington, Minnesota:

House Cleaning Services in Bloomington, MN

Merry Maids of Bloomington

• Offers expert home cleaning services with 40 years of experience.
• Provides customized cleaning plans to handle various cleaning needs.
• No contracts required.

Mexicleaning LLC

• Specializes in green cleaning services with customizable options.
• Offers same-day, one-time, or recurring cleaning services.
• Services include deep cleaning, move-in/move-out cleaning, post-construction cleaning, and more.

Molly Maid of North Dakota County

• Provides custom cleaning plans with no contracts.
• Offers one-time or recurring cleaning services, including move-out cleaning and special event cleaning.
• Services include floor cleaning, dusting, and sanitizing.

MaidPro

• Offers weekly, bi-weekly, or one-time house cleaning services.
• Customized maid services tailored to individual needs.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Bloomington, Minnesota: A Guide

Despite the strict prohibition on short-term rentals in Bloomington, Minnesota, for those considering long-term rentals or navigating the complexities of property management in general, understanding management fees is crucial. Typically, property management fees for rental properties in Bloomington can range from 10% to 30% of the rental revenue, depending on the level of service provided. Full-service management, which includes guest communication, marketing, and maintenance, tends to be on the higher end of this spectrum. Basic services, such as rent collection and tenant screening, may incur lower fees. Additionally, property owners may face extra charges for services like cleaning, repairs, or design enhancements. While short-term rentals are not permitted, these fee structures are relevant for long-term rental properties and highlight the importance of selecting a property management company that aligns with your needs and budget.