Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Covington Louisiana.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Covington, Kentucky for 2024

Licensing and Fees

• Short-term rental landlords must apply for a general business license ($50) and a short-term rental license ($500).
• For rentals in limited-use zones, an additional change-of-use application fee of $80 is required.
• Annual license renewal costs $250.

Inspections and Compliance

• Rentals must undergo an inspection to ensure safety and adherence to building codes. A re-inspection due to failure costs $100.

Zoning and Use

• Non-host-occupied short-term rentals are now classified as “limited use” in six zoning districts: suburban residential, semi-urban, downtown core, traditional urban mixed use, traditional urban residential, and auto urban commercial.

Neighborhood Notifications and Caps

• Landlords must inform neighboring property owners of their intent to run a short-term rental.
• There are caps on the number of short-term rentals in each neighborhood, with a citywide total limit of 151 licenses.

Code Violations and Appeals

• A three-strike rule applies for code violations, which can lead to license revocation.
• Neighbors can appeal the granting of a license, and report nuisances such as noise and trash issues.

Operational Requirements

• Landlords who do not live in Covington must assign a local agent to handle any concerns during a guest’s stay.
• Operating without a license can incur increased application fees and denials of license applications for up to a year.

Citizen Appeals and Nuisance Reporting

• Neighbors have the ability to report nuisances, and properties causing problems can have their license revoked by the City’s Code Enforcement Division.

Additional Regulations

• Certain neighborhoods have specific density limits for short-term rentals, combining historic district and neighborhood boundaries to ensure equitable distribution.
• Events such as weddings, amplified outdoor music, and other similar events are not explicitly prohibited in the Covington regulations, but general noise and nuisance rules apply.

Top Neighborhoods for Airbnb Revenue in Covington, Louisiana

1. Downtown Covington and Surrounding Areas

• These areas are highly appealing due to their central location, proximity to local shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Guests praise the vibrant atmosphere and ease of access to various amenities.

2. Abita Springs

• Known for its natural beauty, Abita Springs attracts guests with its scenic landscapes, nearby parks, and the famous Abita Springs Water Park. The area offers a mix of relaxation and outdoor activities.

3. Mandeville

• Located near Covington, Mandeville is a favorite for its historic charm, beautiful lakefront views, and easy access to New Orleans. Guests enjoy the local cuisine, antique shops, and the tranquil lakefront environment.

4. Bay St. Louis (Adjacent Areas)

• Although technically in Mississippi, Bay St. Louis is often considered in the broader region due to its proximity and popularity. It offers beach access, waterfront homes, and a charming downtown area, making it a top choice for those seeking a beach vacation near Covington.

5. Central Covington

• This area is popular for its family-friendly environment, with many rentals offering amenities like pools, free parking, and fully equipped kitchens. Guests appreciate the central location and the availability of various family-friendly activities.

Why These Neighborhoods Are Appealing:

• Location and Accessibility: Central locations and proximity to key attractions make these neighborhoods highly desirable.
• Amenities and Activities: Availability of pools, kitchens, free parking, and outdoor spaces enhance the guest experience.
• Natural Beauty and Culture: Scenic landscapes, historic charm, and access to local culture and outdoor activities are significant draws.
• Family-Friendly: Many rentals in these areas are tailored for families, offering a comfortable and convenient stay.
• Highly Rated Properties: Properties in these neighborhoods often have high ratings for cleanliness, location, and overall guest satisfaction.

Creating an Inviting Airbnb in Covington, Louisiana: Design and Furnishing Tips

To craft an Airbnb in Covington, Louisiana, that is both inviting and reflective of the city's unique style, consider the following tips:

Living Room

• Lighting Control: Incorporate lamps and dimmer switches to provide flexible lighting options, enhancing the ambiance and guest experience.
• Comfortable Seating: Ensure there are ample seating areas, including poufs and swivel chairs, to facilitate conversation and relaxation.
• Occasional Tables: Provide tables for guests to place drinks and other items, promoting a sense of comfort and practicality.
• Cozy Textiles: Use nice, soft blankets and pillows with down or down-like inserts to add a touch of luxury.

Bedroom

• Layered Bedding: Offer high-quality bedding options, including extra layers stored in the closet for easy access. Use ribbons to mark used bedding for efficient turnover.
• Pillow Variety: Provide two sleeping pillows per guest with different fill options, such as foam-filled or down alternative.
• Temperature and Lighting Control: Install ceiling fans and offer bedside tables with lamps, including options with USB ports or wireless charging features.
• Blackout Shades: Ensure blackout shades are installed to cater to various sleep preferences.

General Design Elements

• Local Culture Integration: Incorporate elements that reflect Covington's unique culture, such as rustic and coastal themes, to create a authentic and inviting atmosphere. Consider Cajun-inspired artworks and decor that evoke the charm of Louisiana's historical homes.
• Vertical Interest: Add a vertical element to the space, such as painting the ceiling, using wallpaper, or installing a chandelier, to create visual interest and enhance the appeal of your Airbnb in photos.
• Seasonal Decor: Incorporate seasonal decorations using earthy colors and natural products to celebrate holidays and add a touch of warmth to the space.

Practical and Budget-Friendly Tips

• DIY Solutions: Consider DIY projects such as painting walls, installing your own wallpaper, or using plants and mirrors instead of expensive furniture to save costs.
• Vintage and Thrifted Items: Use vintage and thrifted items to add a unique, eclectic touch to your space, aligning with the maximalist trend.
• Functional Storage: Ensure there is sufficient storage in closets and other areas to keep the space clutter-free and functional, especially in smaller rooms.

Outdoor Spaces

• Utilize Outdoor Areas: If possible, highlight outdoor spaces where guests can enjoy the local weather and scenic views. This could include patios, balconies, or gardens that reflect the natural beauty of Covington.

By incorporating these tips, you can create an Airbnb in Covington, Louisiana, that is not only inviting but also reflective of the city's unique style and charm.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short Term Rental Business in Covington, Louisiana

To ensure a successful and compliant short-term rental business in Covington, Louisiana, several practical tips can be implemented:

Noise Regulations and Quiet Hours

Inform your guests about the quiet hours and noise regulations to avoid any potential issues with neighbors. Include this information in both your digital and physical house manual to set clear expectations.

Comprehensive House Manual

Create a detailed digital and physical house manual that includes essential instructions, Wi-Fi passwords, and other important details. This manual should be easily accessible to guests, either in the rental property or via a digital link provided upon check-in.

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 receive all necessary access codes in advance.

Parking Instructions

Include detailed parking instructions with photos in your house manual to help guests navigate any parking challenges. This can prevent confusion and ensure a smooth arrival experience.

By adhering to these tips, you can enhance the guest experience, reduce potential issues, and maintain compliance with local regulations, such as those related to licensing, zoning, and safety inspections as outlined in Covington's short-term rental ordinances.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning, repair, and maintenance providers in Covington, Louisiana:

House Cleaning Services

• Grimes Professional Dirt Busters: Offers residential and commercial cleaning, including COVID-19 sanitizing, maid services, janitorial services, office cleaning, and carpet cleaning. They also provide 24-hour cleaning services and additional services like construction and landscaping.
• The Happy Home: Provides residential and small business cleaning services in Covington, Mandeville, Madisonville, and Abita Springs.
• Geaux Maids: Specializes in house cleaning services in Mandeville and surrounding areas, including Covington. They offer instant price quotes and scheduling.

Additional Resources

• Care.com: Lists multiple affordable house cleaning services in Covington, with options starting at $17.94/hr. The platform allows you to search by rates, reviews, and experience.
• HomeAdvisor: Provides a list of the best maid services in Covington, along with their costs and reviews. This can help in comparing different services based on customer feedback and pricing.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Covington, Louisiana: A Range of Services and Costs

In Covington, Louisiana, managing short-term rentals can incur management fees that typically 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 Awning and GoSummer, handle comprehensive tasks including guest communication, marketing, and maintenance, and these services usually fall on the higher end of the fee spectrum, often starting at 15% to 25% of the rental income.

Basic or a la carte services, which might include only specific aspects like cleaning or guest communication, can be less expensive, sometimes starting as low as 10% of revenue. Additionally, property owners may incur extra fees for cleaning, repairs, or design services, which are often billed separately. These fees ensure that the property is well-maintained and guest-ready, but they add to the overall cost of managing a short-term rental in Covington.