Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Cascade Idaho.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Valley County, Idaho (including Cascade) for 2024

General Requirements

• Administrative Permit: Short-term rentals must obtain an administrative permit and comply with the conditions and standards listed in the Valley County Code.

Health and Safety

• Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors: Each short-term rental must have working smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and other safety monitors as required for the occupancy type.
• Fire Department Approval: The fire department must approve the rental to ensure it meets fire codes, including the presence of fire extinguishers and compliant fire pits.

Occupancy Limits

• Maximum Occupancy: The number of occupants cannot exceed the allowable limits of the septic system as approved by Central District Health, with a maximum of 4 people per bedroom up to 12 people unless a conditional use permit is obtained.

Septic and Water Systems

• Septic System Approval: An Accessory Use Authorization or septic permit from Central District Health is required to identify the maximum occupancy based on the septic system size.
• Potable Water and Sewage: The rental must meet all requirements of Idaho Central District Health regarding individual potable water and sewage disposal facilities.

Parking and Lot Coverage

• Parking Areas: Parking must be clearly defined and not in road right-of-way or setback areas. Parking areas must comply with landscaped areas and setbacks.
• Lot Coverage: All structures, parking lots, fire pits, and impervious areas cannot cover more than 35% of the lot, unless in a multi-family complex.

Operations and Management

• Operation Plan: Submit an operation plan that includes compliance with tax requirements and proof of payment of sales tax.
• Local Contact Information: Provide a local contact phone number and email address.
• Rules and Emergency Plans: Post rules on-site, including a fire exit plan.

Environmental and Community Considerations

• Garbage Pickup: Contract for garbage pickup with the local provider unless other arrangements are approved.
• Outdoor Amplified Sound: Outdoor amplified sound, other than household speakers, is not allowed at any time.
• Camp Fire Management: Campfires must be in approved fire pits with accessible fire extinguishers or water hoses.

Application and Fees

• Application Form: Submit a completed Valley County application form along with a site plan, operation plan, and other required documents.
• Application Fee: While the specific fee is not mentioned, it is part of the application process.

Conditional Use Permits

• Large Properties: Properties with more than three bedrooms must apply for a conditional use permit to rent out the property.

Compliance and Enforcement

• Compliance with Zoning: Ensure that the short-term rental complies with all zoning regulations and residential use criteria.
• Regular Inspections: The fire department may conduct inspections to ensure compliance with the regulations.

Top Neighborhoods for Airbnb Revenue in Cascade, Idaho

1. Downtown Cascade

• Appeal: Proximity to local amenities, restaurants, shops, and the public beach at Lake Cascade. Guests appreciate the convenience of being within walking distance to all that the town has to offer.
• Examples: Rentals like "Best of both worlds Downtown & the lake!" are highly rated for their central location and access to both downtown and lake activities.

2. Cascade Woods and Surrounding Areas

• Appeal: Secluded cabins nestled in the heart of the woods, offering a blend of rustic charm and modern amenities. These areas are close to major attractions in Cascade, Donnelly, and McCall, making them ideal for outdoor activities.
• Examples: The "LogCabin Getaway: WIFI, GameRoom, Firepit, pets OK" and "Cozy Idaho Retro A-Frame Cabin" are favorites among guests for their secluded yet accessible locations.

3. Lake Cascade Area

• Appeal: Stunning lake views, access to water activities, and scenic beauty. Guests enjoy the serene environment and the opportunity to engage in various lake-related activities.
• Examples: Rentals such as those listed under "Lake Cascade House Vacation Rentals" are highly rated for their lake views and proximity to water activities.

4. Garden Valley and Nearby Areas

• Appeal: While technically adjacent to Cascade, Garden Valley offers additional attractions like hot springs and riverfront properties. Guests appreciate the unique amenities and the natural beauty of the area.
• Examples: The "Little Button Resort by the River" and "STUGÄ cabin, walk 2 hot springs's pool & food" are popular for their unique features and natural surroundings.

5. Donnelly Area

• Appeal: Close proximity to Cascade but with its own set of attractions, including hot tub-equipped cabins and easy access to outdoor activities. Guests like the balance between seclusion and accessibility to Cascade and McCall.
• Examples: The "Log Cabin in Donnelly Idaho" and "New, upgraded, cabin in Donnelly with hot tub!" are favored for their amenities and location.

These neighborhoods are appealing due to their combination of natural beauty, modern amenities, and convenient access to local attractions, making them highly sought after by Airbnb guests.

Tips for Furnishing and Designing an Inviting Airbnb in Cascade, Idaho

Reflecting the Local Charm and Outdoor Lifestyle

1. Incorporate Rustic and Mountain-Themed Decor

Use natural materials such as wood and stone to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that resonates with the outdoor lifestyle of Cascade, Idaho. Blend rustic elements with contemporary furnishings to offer both comfort and style.

2. Choose Earth Tones and Vibrant Color Palettes

Select color schemes inspired by the surrounding natural beauty, including earth tones and vibrant colors that reflect the local landscape. This helps create a relaxing and refreshing ambiance.

3. Provide Cozy and Comfortable Spaces

Ensure that your Airbnb has cozy spaces that embody the charming vibe of Cascade. This includes comfortable bedding, plenty of pillows, and well-appointed bathrooms.

4. Highlight Outdoor Amenities

Cascade is known for its outdoor activities, so provide amenities that cater to outdoor enthusiasts. This can include outdoor seating areas, BBQ grills, and access to recreational equipment such as hiking gear or fishing equipment.

5. Ensure Adequate Seating and Accommodation

Make sure there is enough seating for all guests in both the dining area and living room. This aligns with the principle of "sleep and seat" to ensure all guests have a comfortable place to sit and dine.

6. Add Practical yet Aesthetic Touches

Install hooks in various areas of the home to allow guests to hang their bags, purses, and heavy coats. Use heavy-duty anchors to ensure the hooks can support the weight of these items.

7. Include Essential Amenities

Provide amenities such as Wi-Fi, fireplaces, and hot tubs to enhance the guest experience. These amenities are highly sought after by guests visiting Cascade.

8. Preserve and Showcase Local Character

If your property has historic or unique features, preserve and showcase them. This could include exposed brick, timber frames, or vintage accents that reflect the local charm of Cascade.

9. Ensure Safety and Convenience

Install fire extinguishers that blend with the design of your kitchen, and ensure they are easily accessible but not near the oven. This adds a layer of safety without compromising on aesthetics.

10. Create a Welcoming Atmosphere

Use storytelling through captivating visuals and descriptions to entice guests. Emphasize the local flavors, hidden treasures, and the serenity found along scenic hiking trails in Cascade.

By following these tips, you can create an inviting Airbnb space in Cascade, Idaho, that reflects the city's unique style and caters to the needs and preferences of outdoor enthusiasts and travelers alike.

Discover Cascade, Idaho: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Local Attractions

Natural Attractions

• Lake Cascade State Park: Enjoy hiking, swimming, cross-country skiing, fishing, and picnicking. Rent kayaks or boats from the Van Wyck campground or Lake Cascade Sport and Marine.
• Payette River: Explore the river for whitewater rafting, kayaking, or a leisurely float. Visit Kelly’s Whitewater Park for man-made waves and other water activities.
• Warm Lake: A deep natural lake 25 miles from Cascade, popular for camping, fishing, and hiking. Known for wildlife viewing, especially moose.

Outdoor Activities

• Hiking and Mountain Biking: Use the Cascade River Walk or explore mountain trails for hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding.
• Golfing: Play at the scenic Lake Cascade Golf Course, a 9-hole facility with a pro shop, driving range, and putting green.
• ATV and 4x4 Trails: Rent a side-by-side and explore miles of Forest Service and 4x4 roads around Cascade.

Unique Spots

• Natural Hot Springs: Visit several hot springs in the area, such as Gold Fork Hot Springs. Obtain a brochure from the Idaho State Parks Visitors Center for directions.
• Totem Poles at Arrowhead RV Park: See over 50 carved totem poles, but call ahead to arrange a visit.
• Steelhead and Chinook Salmon Spawns: Witness the annual spawns in the South Fork of the Salmon River and Johnson Creek near Yellow Pine.

Community Facilities

• Cascade Aquatic and Recreation Center: Enjoy year-round heated pools, fitness classes, weight training equipment, and cardio machines.
• The Roxy Theatre: A restored art deco theatre and local historical landmark.

Insider Tips

Getting Around

• Highway 55: Use this highway to travel between Cascade and McCall, and enjoy the scenic views and potential wildlife sightings along the way.

Local Favorites

• Grandma’s Restaurant: A classic Cascade diner serving breakfast and other local favorites.
• Lakefront Bar and Grill: Enjoy lunch on the patio overlooking Lake Cascade.

Seasonal Activities

• Winter Fun: Explore snow-covered terrain via snowmobile or Nordic skis during winter and early spring.
• Summer Adventures: Take advantage of water activities, hiking, and ATV trails during the warmer months.

Respect the Environment

• Hot Springs Etiquette: Pack out all trash and be respectful of other users when visiting the natural hot springs.

By sharing these attractions and tips, you can help your guests make the most of their visit to Cascade, Idaho, and ensure they have a memorable and enjoyable stay.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short-Term Rental Business in Cascade, Idaho

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

Noise Regulations and Quiet Hours

Inform your guests about the local noise regulations and quiet hours to maintain a peaceful environment and avoid any potential issues with neighbors. Include this information in both your digital and physical house manual to ensure guests are well-informed.

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 cover everything from appliance usage to emergency contact details, helping guests navigate the property with ease.

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 include parking instructions with photos to help guests find and access the property effortlessly.

Additional Tips

• Ensure compliance with local regulations, such as obtaining a business license and LOT (Local Option Tax) collection permit, as required by the City of Cascade.
• Maintain high standards of property maintenance and cleaning to ensure positive guest experiences and repeat bookings.
• Highlight the unique amenities and proximity to outdoor activities in your marketing to attract more guests.

By following these tips, you can enhance the guest experience, reduce potential issues, and maximize the profitability of your short-term rental business in Cascade, Idaho.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning, repair, or maintenance providers in or around Cascade, Idaho:

House Cleaning Services

• Cascade Cleaning Services: Although primarily based in the Treasure Valley area, they offer a wide range of services including carpet, upholstery, tile, air duct cleaning, and more. They may serve broader areas including Cascade.
• McCall Cleaning: A locally owned and operated cleaning business serving Cascade, Donnelly, and McCall. They provide various cleaning services tailored to local needs.

Vacation Rental Cleaning

• Airbnb Cleaning Services through Turno: Offers vacation rental cleaning services in Cascade, Idaho, with features like auto-scheduling, digital checklists, and photo documentation.

General Cleaning and Maintenance

• Top-Rated Cleaning Services on HomeAdvisor: A list of top-rated cleaning services experts in Cascade, ID, with real reviews and ratings to help you pick the right professional.
• Top 10 Best Home Cleaning Services on Angi: A list of highly-rated home cleaning services in Cascade, ID, with average costs and service details.

Cascade, Idaho, Short-Term Rental Management Fees: A Comprehensive Guide

Managing a short-term rental property in Cascade, Idaho, involves various fees that can range from 10% to 30% of the rental revenue, depending on the level of service provided. Full-service management companies, such as Awning and DoneRight Management, typically charge higher fees, starting at around 15% of revenue, for comprehensive services including guest communication, marketing, booking management, cleaning, and maintenance.

On the other hand, basic or half-service management options, like those offered by Evolve, may charge lower rates, beginning at 10%, but these services often leave more of the day-to-day tasks to the property owner.

Additional fees can also apply for specific services such as cleaning, repairs, or design and furnishing, which can vary based on the property's needs and the manager's policies. Understanding these fee structures is crucial for property owners to ensure they are getting the best value for their investment while complying with local regulations and taxes in Cascade, Idaho.