Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Boyne City Michigan.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Boyne City, Michigan for 2024

Key Regulations

Licensing and Fees

• An initial short-term rental license fee of $300 is required.

Caps on Short-Term Rentals

• The city has established a cap of 130 short-term rental units in the traditional residential district.

Violation Fines

• Fines for violating the short-term rental ordinance are as follows:
• $100 for the first offense
• $150 for the second offense
• $250 for the third offense.

Public Safety and Nuisances

• The ordinance aims to address issues such as nuisances and public safety concerns associated with short-term rentals.

Housing Impact

• The ordinance considers the impact of short-term rentals on year-round housing options, reflecting data showing an increase in short-term rentals affecting housing availability.

Compliance and Enforcement

• Regular monitoring and enforcement to ensure compliance with the ordinance, including data collection and public input mechanisms.

Principal Residence Exemption

• Renting a property on short-term rental platforms does not render the property ineligible for the Principal Residence Exemption (PRE) under Michigan law.

Public Meetings and Input

• The city has held several public meetings to gather input and discuss the impacts and issues related to short-term rentals.

Top Airbnb Revenue-Generating Neighborhoods in Boyne City, Michigan

1. Downtown Boyne City

• Appeal: Downtown Boyne City is highly appealing due to its proximity to the beach, local shops, restaurants, and various recreational activities. Guests praise the area for its walkability and the charm of the local town[4|.
• Revenue Potential: Properties in this area are highly rated and often fully booked, contributing significantly to the overall Airbnb revenue in Boyne City.

2. Lake Charlevoix Area

• Appeal: The Lake Charlevoix area is popular for its beautiful lakefront properties, offering stunning views and easy access to water activities. Guests enjoy the scenic beauty and the opportunity to relax in a picturesque setting[4|.
• Revenue Potential: Lakefront properties tend to command higher daily rates and attract more bookings, especially during peak seasons.

3. Boyne Mountain Area

• Appeal: This area is renowned for its ski resorts and outdoor recreational activities, making it a favorite among both winter and summer sports enthusiasts. Properties here are often equipped with multiple amenities, such as kitchens and game rooms, which enhance the guest experience[4|.
• Revenue Potential: The high demand for accommodations near Boyne Mountain, especially during ski seasons, drives up occupancy rates and revenue.

4. Neighborhoods Near Local Attractions

• Appeal: Neighborhoods close to popular attractions like the Boyne City Marina, Young State Park, and the Boyne River Walk are attractive to guests who want to be within walking distance of key amenities and activities.
• Revenue Potential: These locations benefit from consistent demand throughout the year, contributing to higher occupancy rates and revenue.

Why These Neighborhoods Are Appealing

• Natural Beauty: Boyne City's natural surroundings, including Lake Charlevoix and the nearby ski resorts, offer a unique blend of outdoor activities and scenic beauty.
• Walkability and Local Amenities: Downtown areas and neighborhoods near local attractions provide easy access to shops, restaurants, and recreational facilities.
• Highly Rated Properties: Properties in these neighborhoods are often well-maintained, clean, and equipped with amenities that enhance the guest experience, leading to higher ratings and repeat bookings.

These factors combine to make these neighborhoods in Boyne City highly profitable for Airbnb investors.

Tips for Furnishing and Designing an Inviting Airbnb in Boyne City, Michigan

Understanding the Local Style and Preferences

• Reflect the Natural Beauty: Boyne City's charm is deeply rooted in its natural surroundings. Incorporate elements that reflect the area's lakes, forests, and outdoor activities into your design and furnishings.

Essential Amenities and Features

• Outdoor Spaces: Ensure your property includes inviting outdoor areas such as decks, patios, or docks, especially if it has lakefront or riverfront access. These spaces should be equipped with comfortable seating, BBQ facilities, and other outdoor amenities.
• Well-Equipped Kitchens: Provide modern, fully-equipped kitchens with all necessary appliances and utensils. This is crucial for families and groups who prefer to cook their own meals.
• High-Speed Internet: Install high-speed internet to cater to guests who may need to work remotely or stay connected during their vacation.

Design and Furnishing Tips

• Rustic and Cozy Decor: Use rustic and cabin-inspired furnishings to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere that aligns with the natural beauty of Boyne City.
• Local Art and Memorabilia: Incorporate local art, memorabilia, or unique character pieces to personalize the space and enhance guest engagement with the local culture.
• Comfortable Furniture: Choose comfortable, durable furniture that reflects the local style. Consider using materials and designs that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Seasonal Considerations

• Winter Comforts: For winter rentals, include amenities like fireplaces, hot tubs, or heated outdoor spaces to enhance the comfort and appeal of your property.
• Summer Essentials: During the summer, ensure that your property is equipped with necessary items like beach chairs, life jackets, and other outdoor gear to make the most of the lake and outdoor activities.

Attention to Detail

• Cleanliness and Maintenance: Ensure the property is meticulously clean and well-maintained. Pay attention to details such as providing ample toiletries, dishwasher and laundry tabs, and other essentials that guests might need.
• Personal Touches: Add personal touches like welcome bags, local recommendations, and small amenities that make guests feel welcome and cared for.

Neighborhood and Location

• Proximity to Attractions: Opt for locations that are close to downtown Boyne City, outdoor activities, and local attractions. This convenience can significantly enhance the appeal of your rental property.
• Unique Character: Highlight the unique character of your property, whether it's a charming cottage or a modern home with a lake view. This can help your property stand out in the competitive rental market.

Discovering Boyne City, Michigan: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Local Attractions

Outdoor Activities

• Young State Park: A year-round delight for campers, hikers, snow lovers, swimmers, and nature enthusiasts. Offers various amenities and activities throughout the seasons.
• Boyne Mountain Resort: Known for skiing, snow tubing, and the Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark. Also features a zipline adventure and golf courses.
• Peninsula Beach: A scenic beach perfect for summer picnics and relaxation.
• Avalanche Preserve: Offers stunning natural beauty and hiking trails.

Parks and Recreation

• Old City Park: A central park in Boyne City with various amenities and events.
• Rotary Park: Another local park with recreational facilities.
• Ridge Run Dog Park: A great spot for dog owners to let their pets play.

Cultural and Historical Sites

• Boyne Heritage Center: Explore the rich history of Boyne City through its historic buildings and exhibits.
• Boyne Arts Center: Features local art and cultural events.

Shopping and Dining

• Downtown Boyne City: Offers a variety of shops, including souvenir stores, art galleries, and local boutiques. Enjoy dining at restaurants with fresh and local ingredients.
• Boyne City Farmers Market: A bustling market that draws vendors and shoppers from around Northern Michigan.

Events and Festivals

• Morel Mushroom Festival: A popular spring event where you can hunt for morel mushrooms and enjoy local culinary delights.
• Harvest Festival: Celebrate the fall season with local produce, crafts, and entertainment.
• Stroll the Streets: Enjoy live music and a lively atmosphere in downtown Boyne City during the summer months.

Insider Tips for Airbnb Hosts

Seasonal Activities

• Summer: Recommend picnics on the beach, sailing on Lake Charlevoix, and attending the Stroll the Streets event.
• Spring: Suggest mushroom hunting, wildflower hikes, and fishing or boating on the lakes and rivers.
• Fall: Encourage guests to enjoy the fall foliage, visit local orchards for apple picking and pumpkin patches, and attend the Harvest Festival.
• Winter: Point out the opportunities for skiing, snow tubing, and cross-country skiing in the nearby trails.

Local Favorites

• Restaurants: Recommend Cafe Santé, Water Street Cafe, and Boyne City Tap Room for a taste of local cuisine.
• Shopping: Direct guests to the downtown area for unique shopping experiences and local boutiques.

Outdoor Adventures

• Biking and Kayaking: Suggest renting bikes or kayaks to explore the scenic trails and waters around Boyne City.
• Zipline Adventure: Recommend the zipline course at Boyne Mountain Resort for an adrenaline-packed experience.

Community Events

• Boyne Thunder Poker Run: Inform guests about this exciting summer event if they are visiting in July.

By providing these tips and recommendations, your guests can fully immerse themselves in the charm and activities that Boyne City has to offer.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short Term Rental Business in Boyne City, Michigan

To ensure the success and smooth operation of a short-term rental business in Boyne City, Michigan, several practical tips can be implemented:

Noise Regulations and Guest Communication

Inform your guests about the local noise regulations and quiet hours to avoid any potential issues. Boyne City has specific noise ordinances, so it is crucial to communicate these rules clearly in your listing and welcome message to maintain a positive relationship with neighbors and comply with local laws.

Comprehensive House Manual

Create both digital and physical house manuals that include detailed instructions, Wi-Fi passwords, and other essential information. This manual should cover everything from appliance usage to emergency contact numbers, ensuring guests have a seamless and informed stay.

Simplified Check-in Process

Utilize smart locks to streamline the check-in process, eliminating the need for physical key exchanges. Provide clear instructions and photos of the property, including parking areas, to help guests navigate the premises easily. This not only enhances guest satisfaction but also reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings or issues during check-in.

By adhering to these tips, you can ensure a well-managed, guest-friendly, and compliant short-term rental business in Boyne City, Michigan.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning providers in Boyne City, Michigan:

House Cleaning Services in Boyne City, MI

Northern Girls Cleaning

• Offers recurring cleaning solutions at an affordable price, serving Boyne Falls and the surrounding areas.

MaidPro

• Provides weekly, bi-weekly, or one-time house cleaning services, tailored to client needs.

Sharrow Cleaning Services

• Specializes in year-round residential and commercial cleaning with over 6 years of professional experience.

Crystal Clean & Professional Services

• Offers non-toxic, natural, biodegradable cleaning products for residential and commercial cleaning, including recurring and one-time services.

Note: There are no specific repair or maintenance providers listed in the sources provided, but these services may offer additional maintenance-related cleaning tasks.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Boyne City, Michigan

In Boyne City, Michigan, managing short-term rentals involves a range of fees that can vary significantly based on the level of service provided. Typically, management fees for short-term rentals range from 10% to 30% of the rental revenue. Full-service management companies, which handle comprehensive tasks such as guest communication, marketing, and maintenance, tend to charge fees on the higher end of this spectrum, often starting at 15% to 20% of revenue.

Basic or half-service management, which may only cover essential tasks like booking management and guest screening, can be more affordable, starting at around 10%. Additionally, property owners may incur extra fees for services like cleaning, repairs, and design enhancements. For instance, some management companies charge a separate cleaning fee that is passed on to the guests, while others may include it in their overall management fee.

Understanding these fee structures is crucial for property owners to maximize their rental income and ensure their properties are well-maintained and compliant with local regulations.