Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Bristol Wisconsin.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Bristol, Wisconsin for 2024

While the specific regulations for Bristol, Wisconsin, may not be as detailed as those for other areas, the following regulations are applicable based on Wisconsin state laws and local ordinances that could be relevant to Bristol:

Licensing and Permits

• Tourist Rooming House License: Property owners engaging in short-term rental services for over ten nights per year must procure a tourist rooming house license to ensure compliance with health and safety standards.

Rental Caps

• Annual Rental Days: Owners can rent out their properties for up to 180 days or more annually, as per Wisconsin law.

Property Requirements

• Property Maintenance: Short-term rental units must comply with standards to ensure adequate property maintenance and cohesion with other zoning rules.
• Occupancy Limits: The total number of occupants must not exceed the design capacity of the property's Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (POWTS) or other state and local regulations.

Community and Safety Regulations

• Noise Ordinances: No excessive noise or disturbance is allowed. Three or more justified and validated calls to law enforcement for excessive noise within a 12-month period can constitute a public nuisance.
• Fireworks Prohibition: Fireworks are not permitted on short-term rental properties.

Application and Documentation

• Application Procedure: Applications for short-term rental permits must include the identity and contact information of the owner, a State of Wisconsin license under ATCP 72, and a Wisconsin business tax registration certificate.
• Insurance Requirements: Property owners must have and maintain homeowner’s liability or business liability insurance for the premises and provide written evidence of such insurance with the license application.

Local Oversight

• Local Health Department: A Wisconsin license established under ATCP 72, issued by the local health department, is required for short-term rentals.
• Planning and Zoning Department: Short-term rental permits must be issued by the local Planning and Zoning Department.

Top Neighborhoods for Airbnb Revenue in Bristol, Wisconsin

1. George Lake Area

• This neighborhood is highly appealing due to its scenic lakeside locations, such as the "Cozy Lakeside Getaway!" on George Lake. Guests are drawn to the area's natural beauty, direct lake access, and the convenience of being only 1 hour from Chicago and 45 minutes from Milwaukee.

2. Lakefront Properties along Local Lakes

• Neighborhoods with lakefront properties, like the "Lakefront Oasis w/ Boat Dock, Fire Pit, Grill," are highly sought after. These properties offer luxurious amenities such as boat docks, fire pits, and grills, making them ideal for family gatherings and leisure activities.

3. Blue Moon Lake Area

• The Blue Moon Lake area is popular for its idyllic lakefront views and well-equipped homes like the "Blue Moon Lake House." Guests appreciate the combination of natural beauty and the comfort of home amenities, making this area an attractive getaway spot.

4. Neighborhoods with Proximity to Lake Access

• Areas that are just steps from the lake, such as the "Steps to the Lake- Cozy 2 Bedroom Retreat," are highly appealing. These locations offer easy access to lake activities and a cozy, retreat-like atmosphere, which is a major draw for guests seeking a relaxing vacation.

Why These Neighborhoods Are Appealing

• Natural Beauty and Lake Access: The proximity to lakes and scenic views is a significant attraction.
• Luxurious Amenities: Properties with amenities like boat docks, fire pits, and fully equipped kitchens enhance the guest experience.
• Convenience: Locations that are close to major cities like Chicago and Milwaukee but still offer a tranquil getaway are highly desirable.
• Comfort and Cozy Atmosphere: Well-equipped homes with cozy living rooms and fully equipped kitchens make guests feel at home while on vacation.

Furnishing and Design Tips for an Inviting Airbnb in Bristol, Wisconsin

Understand Your Audience

• Tailor your furnishings to the type of guests you are targeting. For families and large groups, include ample beds and spacious living areas. For solo travelers or couples, a cozy sofa bed and intimate bedroom setup may be more suitable.

Set a Budget

• Establish a budget to avoid unnecessary debt. Create two checklists: one for must-have items and one for nice-to-have items. This will help you prioritize essential furniture first and then add additional items if budget allows.

Choose a Theme or Color Palette

• Define your property's aesthetic based on Bristol's unique style. Use local inspiration, social media platforms like Pinterest and Instagram, and other Airbnb listings to guide your theme and color scheme.

Optimize Your Space

• Measure your rooms and plan the layout carefully to ensure there is plenty of space to move around. Avoid overcrowding and make the most of natural light sources.

Essential Room Furnishings

Living Area

• Sofa or sofa bed with washable covers
• Armchairs
• Coffee table
• Television
• Rugs
• Wi-Fi
• Decor and indoor plants

Dining Room

• Durable dining table and chairs
• Adequate lighting
• Artwork

Bedroom

• Solid, easy-to-clean beds (consider storage beds)
• High-quality mattresses (memory foam recommended)
• Mattress cover
• Duvet, pillows, and matching pillowcases
• Extra blanket
• Wardrobe with hangers
• Curtains
• Bedside table and lamps
• Ironing board and full-length mirror

Kitchen

• Well-equipped with essentials like a coffee maker, microwave, toaster, and kettle

Focus on Cleanliness and Maintenance

• Choose furniture that is easy to clean and maintain. This includes sofas with washable covers, durable dining tables, and high-quality, easy-to-clean towels.

Provide Ample Storage

• Ensure guests have enough storage space. Include a wardrobe, bedside tables with drawers, hooks for coats, and a bathroom cabinet for toiletries.

Incorporate Local Touches

• Reflect Bristol's unique style by incorporating local elements into your decor. This could include artwork, furniture pieces, or accessories that highlight the city's character.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

• Consider making your Airbnb accessible to guests with disabilities by adding features like ramps, wide doorways, and grab bars in bathrooms.

Use Mirrors and Smart Storage

• Use mirrors to make your space feel bigger and brighter. Opt for space-saving furniture like sofa beds, folding tables, and ottomans with hidden storage compartments.

By following these tips, you can create an inviting and functional Airbnb space that reflects the unique style of Bristol, Wisconsin, and ensures a comfortable stay for your guests.

Discover Bristol, Wisconsin: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Local Attractions

Nature and Outdoor Activities

• Bristol Woods Park: Explore over four miles of scenic hiking trails and visit the Pringle Nature Center. Don't miss the Boundless Adventures aerial adventure park with ziplines, bridges, and more.
• Thompson Adventure Farm: Enjoy a variety of activities including bounce pillows, a large wooden playground, a jungle maze, giant tube slide, and a low ropes course. Seasonal attractions include a petting zoo and pony rides.

Equestrian Experiences

• Horse Farms and Competition Facilities: Bristol is renowned for its stunning horse farms and equestrian events. Guests can participate in or watch various horse competitions and activities.

Cultural and Historical Experiences

• Bristol Renaissance Faire: Step back in time to 1574 and experience the era when Queen Elizabeth visited Bristol, England. This 30-acre living history attraction offers food, music, comedy, art, and dance.

Community Neighborhoods

• Bissell, Cypress, Pikeville, and Woodworth: Explore these historic neighborhoods, each with its own unique history and attractions. Visit the Red School Cafe in Pikeville, a former one-room schoolhouse.

Insider Tips

Seasonal Events

• Check the local event calendar: Bristol and the surrounding Kenosha County area host various seasonal events, including the Bristol Renaissance Faire, Kenosha Restaurant Week, and the HarborPark Jazz, Rhythm & Blues Festival.

Local Favorites

• Visit Local Farms and Markets: Bristol is surrounded by farms and local markets. Encourage guests to explore these for fresh produce and unique shopping experiences.

Outdoor Activities

• Biking and Hiking Trails: Inform guests about the extensive bike trails and hiking paths in the area, including the Kenosha County Bike Trail and mountain bike trails at Silver Lake Park.

Dining and Shopping

• Recommend Local Eateries: Suggest visiting local eateries like The Red School Cafe in Pikeville and other unique dining spots in the area.
• Explore Local Shops: Guide guests to the charming shops and art galleries in Downtown Kenosha and the surrounding villages.

Community Engagement

• Participate in Local Events: Encourage guests to participate in local events such as the Run with the Turkeys 5K or other community activities to get a true feel of the local culture.

By sharing these attractions and insider tips, you can help your guests have a memorable and enriching experience in Bristol, Wisconsin.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short Term Rental Business in Bristol, Wisconsin

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for both you and your guests, several practical tips can significantly enhance your short term rental business in Bristol, Wisconsin.

Noise Regulations and Quiet Hours

Inform your guests about noise regulations and quiet hours to maintain a peaceful environment, especially in residential areas. Clearly outline these rules in your house manual and communicate them through pre-arrival messages to avoid any misunderstandings.

Comprehensive House Manual

Create both digital and physical house manuals that include essential instructions, such as Wi-Fi passwords, appliance usage, and emergency contact information. This manual should also cover local attractions, nearby amenities, and any specific rules or regulations of the property.

Simplified Check-in Process

Utilize smart locks to streamline the check-in process, eliminating the need for physical key exchanges. Provide guests with detailed instructions on how to access the property, along with photos of the entrance and any other relevant areas. Additionally, include parking instructions with photos to help guests navigate the property easily.

By implementing these strategies, you can enhance guest satisfaction, reduce potential issues, and maintain a positive reputation for your short term rental business in Bristol, Wisconsin.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning, repair, and maintenance providers in Bristol, Wisconsin:

House Cleaning Services

• MaidPro: Offers weekly, bi-weekly, or one-time house cleaning services with a 49-Point Checklist™.
• All Pro Cleaning Systems: A full-service professional janitorial cleaning firm known for their experience, expertise, and quality.

Repair and Maintenance Services

• SERVPRO: Provides services including water damage cleanup, fire damage restoration, and mold remediation for homes and businesses.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Bristol, Wisconsin: A Guide to Costs and Services

In Bristol, Wisconsin, short-term rental management fees can vary significantly, typically ranging from 10% to 30% of the rental revenue, depending on the level of service provided. Full-service management, which includes comprehensive tasks such as guest communication, marketing, and maintenance, tends to fall on the higher end of this spectrum, often between 25% to 30% of the monthly revenue. In contrast, basic or half-service management, which may only cover essential tasks, can cost between 10% to 15%. Additionally, property owners may incur extra fees for services like cleaning, repairs, or property design, which are usually calculated separately from the management fee. Understanding these fee structures is crucial for property owners to ensure they are getting the best value for their investment.