Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Cooperstown New York.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Cooperstown, New York for 2024

Licensing and Permits

• Short-term rental operators must obtain a special use permit from the Village Board of Trustees or the Zoning Board of Appeals.
• An approved Zoning Permit is required to ensure the property is in a zone that allows short-term rentals and complies with zoning regulations.

Inspections

• Short-term rental properties are subject to inspections upon application and annually, with reasonable notice. Unannounced inspections can be conducted when investigating a signed complaint.

Property Requirements

• The property must comply with the Residential Code of New York State, and inspections will be conducted to ensure this compliance.
• All necessary fire safety equipment, including smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, must be installed and certified by a licensed company.

Occupancy Limits

• Specific occupancy limits may be imposed based on the number of bedrooms and available parking spaces, though exact limits are not detailed in the available sources.

Parking

• Parking spaces must be on-site and comply with the village's parking regulations. No exterior display or signs indicating the property is a short-term rental are allowed.

Prohibitions

• Exterior displays, signs, and exterior storage of materials are prohibited.
• Activities that generate traffic, pedestrian or vehicular, which create a hazard or disturb the residential character of the neighborhood, are not allowed.

Additional Regulations

• No offensive, noxious, or injurious noise, vibration, smoke, dust, odors, heat, or glare may be produced by the short-term rental activity.
• The Village Zoning Enforcement Officer has the right of entry for inspections to determine compliance with the conditions of the permit.

State-Level Compliance

• Short-term rental operators must also comply with the new statewide regulations, including registration in a state registry and the collection of sales and occupancy taxes.

Top Neighborhoods for Airbnb Revenue in Cooperstown, New York

Why Cooperstown is Appealing for Guests

Cooperstown, New York, is a vibrant tourist destination primarily due to its rich cultural and sports heritage, particularly as the home of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. Here are the key neighborhoods and reasons why they generate significant Airbnb revenue:

Neighborhoods Generating High Airbnb Revenue

1. Downtown Cooperstown

• Proximity to Attractions: Properties in downtown Cooperstown are highly sought after due to their close proximity to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, the Fenimore Art Museum, and the Farmers' Museum.
• Local Amenities: Guests can easily access local shops, restaurants, and the Cooperstown Farmers' Market, enhancing their stay experience.

2. Otsego Lake Area

• Scenic Views and Outdoor Activities: Properties with lake views or access to water sports equipment are highly appealing. The picturesque setting on the southern tip of Otsego Lake offers guests opportunities to enjoy water activities and scenic views.
• Recreational Opportunities: The area attracts guests who enjoy outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking.

3. Fly Creek

• Natural Beauty and Local Charm: Located just a few miles from Cooperstown, Fly Creek offers a charming rural setting with properties like the "Oaks Creek Cottage" that include amenities such as a fire pit, outdoor games, and proximity to the Fly Creek General Store.
• Accessibility to Cooperstown Attractions: Despite being slightly outside the main town, Fly Creek is still within a short drive to major attractions like the Baseball Hall of Fame and the Glimmerglass Opera House.

4. Springfield Center

• Privacy and Countryside Charm: Properties like "Harriet’s Haven" offer privacy and a spacious setting on landscaped acres, appealing to guests looking for a peaceful retreat while still being conveniently located near Cooperstown’s main attractions.
• Nature and Wildlife: The area’s natural beauty, including opportunities for hiking and wildlife watching, adds to its appeal.

5. Cooperstown Village and Surrounding Areas

• Baseball-Themed Properties: Properties that incorporate baseball-themed decor or memorabilia are particularly popular, capitalizing on Cooperstown’s status as a baseball hub.
• Proximity to Events: The area experiences peak demand during the summer months, especially during the baseball season and the Glimmerglass Festival, making properties here highly sought after during these times.

These neighborhoods offer a combination of proximity to key attractions, scenic beauty, and unique amenities that make them highly appealing to guests and lucrative for Airbnb hosts.

Tips for Furnishing and Designing an Inviting Airbnb in Cooperstown, New York

Choosing a Theme and Color Scheme

• Consider a theme that reflects the local culture and natural beauty of Cooperstown. A cohesive theme can make the space feel more intentional and appealing.
• Opt for a light and bright color scheme with one or two accent hues. Blue bedrooms are particularly popular on Airbnb, but other colors that complement the local scenery can also work well.

Lighting and Window Treatments

• Use nightlights throughout the space to ensure guests can navigate safely after dark.
• Install blackout curtains in bedrooms to prevent early morning sunlight from disturbing guests. For other rooms, consider using sheers to allow natural light while maintaining privacy.

Furniture and Decor

• Select high-quality, durable furnishings that blend modern comforts with rustic charm, reflecting the Adirondack style prevalent in the region.
• Use natural materials such as wood and stone to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
• Limit decorative objects to 1-3 items per piece of furniture to avoid clutter and maintain a polished look.

Essential Amenities

• Provide well-equipped kitchens with necessary appliances and utensils.
• Include outdoor recreational gear such as kayaks, bicycles, or other equipment relevant to local activities.
• Consider adding amenities like fire pits, outdoor grills, and hot tubs to enhance the guest experience.

Storage and Organization

• Ensure each bedroom has ample storage space. If the bedroom is small, consider placing a dresser inside the closet to maximize space.
• Provide at least 5-10 high-quality hangers per bedroom.

Local Touches

• Incorporate local art and handcrafted furniture to reflect the unique culture of Cooperstown.
• Highlight the proximity to local attractions such as the Baseball Hall of Fame, Fenimore Art Museum, and Glimmerglass Festival in your decor and listing.

Outdoor Spaces

• If your Airbnb has outdoor spaces, ensure they are well-maintained and equipped with amenities like charcoal grills, fire pits, and outdoor games.
• Utilize the natural beauty of the area by providing scenic views or direct access to outdoor activities.

By following these tips, you can create an inviting and uniquely styled Airbnb in Cooperstown that appeals to a diverse range of guests.

Discover Cooperstown, New York: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Local Attractions

National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum

• A must-visit for baseball enthusiasts, featuring artifacts like Cy Young's uniform and Derek Jeter's batting helmet.

Fenimore Art Museum

• Located in a neo-Georgian mansion, showcasing folk art, Native American art, decorative arts, and Hudson River School paintings. Enjoy the gardens overlooking Otsego Lake.

The Farmers' Museum

• A living history museum with a recreated 1845 village and working farm. Witness craft demonstrations, horse-drawn wagon rides, and the Empire State Carousel.

Glimmerglass Festival

• Experience world-class opera and musical theater performances at the Alice Busch Opera Theater during the summer season.

Glimmerglass State Park/Otsego Lake

• Offers four-season activities including swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, camping, and winter sports like snow tubing and cross-country skiing.

Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad

• Take a scenic 16-mile ride on vintage passenger coaches or an open-air gondola, with themed rides available throughout the year.

Brewery Ommegang

• Enjoy guided brewery tours, craft beer tastings, and a colorful food menu. Don’t miss the outdoor patio and seasonal events.

Cooperstown Distillery

• Explore "field to flask" spirits, take a free tour, and enjoy the cocktail lounge with pub food and live music.

Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard

• A fun spot for duck and cider activities, perfect for families.

Rail Explorers

• Ride electric-assisted, pedal-powered rail bikes through a 12-mile journey of farmlands and forests alongside the Susquehanna River.

Historic Hyde Hall Museum

• Visit this neoclassic country mansion with guided tours, gardens, and nature trails. Enjoy lakeside picnics and scenic views.

Insider Tips

Dining

• Start your day with a classic breakfast at the Cooperstown Diner.
• Enjoy a meal at The Hawkeye Bar & Grill at the Otesaga Resort Hotel, overlooking Otsego Lake.
• Grab a bite at Brewery Ommegang’s café or enjoy dinner at Mel’s.

Activities

• Take a narrated cruise on the Glimmerglass Queen to see the scenery that inspired James Fenimore Cooper’s Leatherstocking Tales.
• Explore the charming Main Street of Cooperstown, filled with unique shops and restaurants.
• Visit the Barnyard Swing for mini-golf, gem mining, and family fun activities.

Seasonal Events

• Check out the Glimmerglass Festival for summer opera and musical theater performances.
• Participate in events like Sugaring Off Sundays, Tractor Fest, and the Harvest Festival at various attractions.

Outdoor Fun

• Use the trolley to visit The Farmers’ Museum and other attractions.
• Enjoy outdoor activities at Glimmerglass State Park, including hiking, boating, and winter sports.

By sharing these local attractions and insider tips, you can help your guests make the most of their visit to Cooperstown, New York.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short Term Rental Business in Cooperstown, New York

To ensure a smooth and successful short-term rental business in Cooperstown, New York, several key practices should be implemented. First, it is crucial to adhere to and inform guests about the local noise regulations. Cooperstown has specific noise and nuisance standards, so clearly communicating quiet hours in your rental agreement and house manual can help avoid potential issues.

Creating a comprehensive digital and physical house manual is essential. This manual should include detailed instructions on how to use appliances, Wi-Fi passwords, and other important information about the property. This will help reduce the number of inquiries and ensure guests have a comfortable stay.

Streamlining the check-in process is also vital. Utilizing smart locks can eliminate the need for physical key exchanges, making the arrival process more convenient for guests. Additionally, providing detailed parking instructions accompanied by photos can help guests navigate any parking challenges, reducing the likelihood of complaints or issues.

By focusing on these aspects, you can enhance the guest experience, minimize potential problems, and maintain compliance with local regulations, ultimately contributing to a successful and sustainable short-term rental business in Cooperstown.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning, and related services providers in Cooperstown, New York:

House Cleaning Services

• Top 10 Best House cleaners in Cooperstown, NY - Listed on Angie's List, featuring rated and reviewed house cleaners.
• TOP 20 Housekeepers in Cooperstown, NY - Available through Care.com, offering various housekeeping services.
• Top-Rated Cleaning Services Experts in Cooperstown, NY - Listed on HomeAdvisor, with reviews and ratings for local cleaners.
• Best 4 House Cleaning in Cooperstown, NY - Listed on Yellow Pages, including reviews and contact information.

Note

These sources primarily focus on cleaning services, but some may also offer additional maintenance or repair referrals through their networks or associated services. However, specific repair or maintenance providers are not explicitly listed in these sources.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Cooperstown, New York

In Cooperstown, New York, managing a short-term rental property 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 those offered by GoSummer and Awning, typically charge higher fees, usually between 15% to 25% of the rental income, for comprehensive services including guest communication, marketing, pricing optimization, and maintenance.

On the other hand, basic or half-service management options, like those from Evolve, may start at a lower rate of around 10%, but these services often leave more responsibilities, such as cleaning and guest communication, to the property owner.

Additionally, property owners may incur extra fees for cleaning, repairs, or design services, which can vary depending on the management company and the specific needs of the property. Understanding these fee structures is crucial for property owners to ensure they are maximizing their rental income while complying with local regulations in Cooperstown.