Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Denver Colorado.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Denver, Colorado for 2024

Licensing Requirements

• Obtain a Short-Term Rental License: All hosts must secure a license from the Denver Department of Excise and Licenses. The license is valid for 1 year and costs $100 annually.
• Display License Number: The license number must be prominently displayed on all rental listings.
• Required Documents: Proof of ownership or lease agreement, a valid government-issued ID, affidavit of primary residence, and a valid city lodger's tax account number are required for the application.

Primary Residence Requirement

• Primary Residence Only: Short-term rentals are only allowed in the host's primary residence, where the host must live for more than half the year.
• Single Primary Residence: A person can only have one primary residence, which must be the same address as shown on their ID or driver’s license.

Zoning and Property Usage

• Zoning Restrictions: Short-term rentals must comply with local zoning laws, which dictate where such rentals can operate. Properties must be in residential zones and adhere to specific zoning restrictions.
• Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): Attached and detached ADUs can be rented out on a short-term basis if the host resides in the primary dwelling unit.

Safety and Maintenance

• Safety Equipment: Properties must have functioning smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers.
• Maintenance and Upkeep: Properties must be maintained in a safe and habitable condition.

Tax Obligations

• Lodger's Tax: Hosts must collect and remit a 10.75% city lodger's tax.
• Sales Tax: Hosts must also collect and remit a 4.81% city sales tax.

Occupancy and Usage Limits

• Rental Period: Short-term rentals are limited to fewer than 30 consecutive days.
• Occupancy Limits: The total number of occupants is limited to 2 occupants per bedroom plus 2 additional occupants, for a total of up to 15 occupants per property.

Insurance Requirements

• Liability Insurance: Hosts must maintain liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 unless the hosting platform has equal or higher coverage.

Compliance and Enforcement

• Fines for Non-Compliance: Failure to comply can result in fines, including up to $1,000 per day, and potential legal actions against hosts and platforms.
• License Revocation: Non-compliance can lead to the revocation of the short-term rental license.

Additional Requirements

• Noise Ordinances: Hosts must comply with noise ordinances to preserve the tranquility of the local community.
• No Commercial Use: Properties cannot be used for commercial or large social events and gatherings.
• Local Contact: A local contact person must be available 24/7 to handle issues related to the rental.

Top Neighborhoods Generating Airbnb Revenue in Denver, Colorado

1. LoDo (Lower Downtown)

• Appeal: LoDo is the heart of Denver, offering a lively atmosphere, beautiful Victorian-style architecture, and easy access to Union Station. It is packed with fine dining, cultural attractions, and a vibrant nightlife, making it ideal for first-time visitors and those seeking to be in the midst of the city's action.

2. RiNo (River North District)

• Appeal: Known for its trendy, crafty, and cultural vibe, RiNo attracts guests with its live music, art scene, and cool nightlife. The neighborhood is filled with revamped industrial buildings, street art, nightclubs, dive bars, art galleries, and food courts, making it a hotspot for nightlife and creative enthusiasts.

3. LoHi (Lower Highlands)

• Appeal: LoHi offers a lively but more mature and stylish party scene. It is trendy, clean, and filled with restaurants, cafes, and rooftop patios. The neighborhood is perfect for beer enthusiasts and those looking for a chic, upscale experience.

4. Capitol Hill (Cap Hill)

• Appeal: Capitol Hill provides a more local and chilled-out vibe, making it great for families and budget travelers. It offers a mix of residential and commercial areas, with easy access to downtown and various local amenities.

5. Uptown

• Appeal: Uptown is known for its welcoming and diverse community, particularly its LGBTQ+ friendly environment. The neighborhood is hip and vibrant, with a variety of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options, making it appealing for a wide range of guests.

6. South Broadway (SoBo)

• Appeal: SoBo is a hip neighborhood filled with cool eateries, bars, and entertainment venues. It is a favorite among foodies and those looking for a lively evening with activities like bowling, darts, and karaoke.

7. Cherry Creek

• Appeal: Cherry Creek offers a luxurious experience with high-end shopping, chic restaurants, and a posh neighborhood atmosphere. It is ideal for guests seeking a sophisticated and upscale stay.

8. Washington Park (Wash Park)

• Appeal: Wash Park is a family-friendly neighborhood with plenty of outdoor activities and sunshine year-round. It provides a more residential feel while still being pedestrian-friendly and close to other popular neighborhoods.

Furnishing and Design Tips for an Inviting Airbnb in Denver, Colorado

Set Your Budget and Prioritize Essentials

• Determine your budget before starting to furnish your Airbnb.
• Focus on essential items such as a comfortable mattress, quality linens, and basic kitchenware to ensure guests feel at home.

Focus on Key Areas

• Concentrate on the bedroom, living room, and kitchen, as these areas have the most impact on guests.
• Ensure these spaces are well-equipped and welcoming.

Choose Timeless and Functional Furniture

• Opt for sturdy, timeless pieces that align with your chosen theme.
• Select furniture that is easy to clean and maintain, such as sofas with washable covers and beds with storage.

Utilize Smart Storage

• Incorporate smart storage solutions like beds with drawers, wall hooks, and stackable containers to keep the space tidy and organized.

Select Space-Saving Furniture

• Use multi-functional furniture like sofa beds, folding tables, and ottomans with hidden storage to maximize space and functionality.

Add Local Touches

• Incorporate local art and unique pieces from local markets or artisans to add character and support the local community.

Create a Cozy Atmosphere

• Add textured fabrics such as soft pillows, throw blankets, and a cozy rug to make the space feel welcoming.
• Style surfaces with decorative objects, coffee table books, and greenery to create a lived-in feel.

Consider the Color Palette

• Choose a color palette of 3-4 complementary colors that reflect the style and ambiance you want to create. For a modern look, use high contrast colors with metallic accents; for a rustic feel, use natural colors and textures.

Ensure Functionality and Comfort

• Make sure furniture is both inspiring and functional. Ensure the sofa is comfortable and the right size for the space.
• Add accent chairs or poufs for additional seating in living areas and bedrooms.

Use Mirrors to Enhance Space

• Use mirrors to make the space feel bigger and brighter. A full-length mirror is particularly useful for guests getting ready.

Equip the Kitchen with Essentials

• Provide a coffee maker, microwave, toaster, kettle, and other essential kitchen appliances.
• Include a range of cookware, utensils, and tableware to meet guests' daily needs.

Add Personal and Stylish Touches

• Include stylish yet functional pieces like board games, a record player, or a sleek essential oil diffuser to draw guests away from their phones and enhance their stay.
• Consider adding plants or low-maintenance greenery to bring life to the space.

Ensure Accessibility and Practicality

• If possible, make your Airbnb accessible to guests with disabilities by including features like ramps, wide doorways, and grab bars in bathrooms.
• Provide enough storage for guests' toiletries and personal items, and ensure high-quality, durable towels and linens are available.

Discover Denver: Top Attractions and Insider Tips for Your Visit

Outdoor and Nature Attractions

• Rocky Mountain National Park: While not in Denver itself, this park is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers stunning mountain scenery and a variety of hiking trails.
• Denver Botanic Gardens: One of the top five botanic gardens in the nation, featuring a 24-acre area with diverse plant species from around the world. Don't miss the Mordecai Children’s Garden and various year-round events.
• Denver Zoo: Known as one of the best zoos in the country, it is home to over 4,000 animals. Highlights include Bear Mountain, Predator Ridge, and Primate Panorama. Plan your visit around feeding times for an enhanced experience.

Museums and Educational Sites

• Denver Museum of Nature & Science: A great resource for learning about natural history, with exhibits on dinosaur bones, Egyptian mummies, and a wildlife exhibit. The Gates Planetarium and Phipps IMAX Theater are must-visits.
• Children's Museum of Denver: An excellent place for families, offering hands-on learning experiences, computer games, science labs, and StoryTime sessions. Note that all children must be accompanied by an adult.

Historic and Cultural Sites

• Larimer Square: Denver's first business district, now a vibrant area for shopping, dining, and live music. Enjoy the preserved 19th-century buildings and high-end boutiques.
• Molly Brown House Museum: Learn about the life of Margaret "Molly" Brown, a Titanic survivor and philanthropist. The museum is a rare example of Denver architecture from before the 1893 silver crash.

Unique Experiences

• Downtown Aquarium: Home to over 500 species of aquatic animals, including sharks and Sumatran tigers. Don't miss the opportunity to dive with sharks or explore the shipwreck exhibit.
• Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre: Known as America’s best amphitheater by Rolling Stone magazine, it offers stunning natural red rock formations and world-class music performances.

Insider Tips

• Public Transportation: Many attractions are accessible via public transportation. Use the RTD (Regional Transportation District) system to get around the city.
• Free Events: Denver hosts various free events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and sports contests. Check local listings to catch something during your visit.
• Seasonal Activities: Denver offers activities for all seasons. Enjoy skiing and snowboarding in winter, hiking and biking in summer, and festive events in autumn and spring.
• Local Cuisine: Denver is known for its award-winning restaurants. Be sure to try some of the local specialties and visit the 16th Street Mall for a variety of dining options.

Additional Recommendations

• Confluence Park: A great spot to relax and enjoy the confluence of the South Platte River and Cherry Creek. It's also close to the Denver Art Museum and LoDo (Lower Downtown) area.
• Union Station: A historic landmark that has been revitalized into a hub for dining, shopping, and entertainment. It's a great place to explore and enjoy the local vibe.

By providing these recommendations and tips, your Airbnb guests will be well-equipped to make the most of their visit to Denver, Colorado.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short Term Rental Business in Denver, Colorado

To ensure a smooth and compliant short-term rental business in Denver, Colorado, several practical tips can be implemented. First, it is crucial to adhere to noise regulations by informing guests about quiet hours and including this information in both digital and physical house manuals. These manuals should also contain essential instructions, Wi-Fi passwords, and other pertinent details to enhance the guest experience.

A simplified check-in process can be achieved by utilizing smart locks, which eliminate the need for physical key exchanges and provide guests with immediate access to the property. Additionally, providing detailed parking instructions accompanied by photos can help reduce confusion and ensure a hassle-free arrival.

By maintaining good relations with neighbors and the community, you can avoid potential issues related to noise and nuisance. Introducing yourself to neighbors and providing them with your contact information can also help in building a positive relationship. Overall, these measures not only help in complying with Denver’s regulations but also contribute to a positive and comfortable stay for your guests.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning providers in Denver, Colorado:

House Cleaning Providers in Denver, Colorado

Imagine Maids of Denver

• Offers home and business cleaning services, including one-time, weekly, biweekly, and monthly cleanings.
• Services include sweeping, mopping, dusting, organizing, sanitizing, and more.
• Also provides specialized services like window cleaning and deep cleaning.
• Contact: (720) 263-3469, [Website].

Alpine Maids

• Provides eco-friendly cleaning services using Green Seal® Certified products.
• Offers deep cleaning, move-in & move-out cleaning, and home disinfecting.
• Known for rigorous hiring and training processes to ensure high-quality service.
• Contact: [Website].

Merry Maids of South Denver

• Offers customized cleaning plans, including basic, deep, and specialized cleaning services.
• Provides services such as oven cleaning, refrigerator cleaning, and more.
• Backed by 40 years of experience, with bonded and insured staff.
• Contact: (720) 263-7041, [Website].

Denver Maids

• Offers detailed maid services, deep cleaning, and move-in/move-out cleaning.
• Provides recurring cleaning services with discounted rates.
• Uses high-quality cleaning supplies and equipment.
• Contact: [Website].

Dashing Maids

• Provides premier house cleaning services, including one-time, weekly, biweekly, and monthly cleanings.
• Offers an initial deluxe deep cleaning and recurring maintenance cleaning.
• Uses eco-friendly, organic, and hypoallergenic products.
• Contact: [Website].

These providers cater to various cleaning needs and offer different specialized services to residents and businesses in Denver.

Denver, Colorado Short-Term Rental Management Fees: A Comprehensive Guide

In Denver, Colorado, 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 guest communication, marketing, and maintenance, tends to be on the higher end of this spectrum. These comprehensive services ensure that all aspects of the rental are handled professionally, from attracting guests to managing day-to-day operations. On the other hand, basic services that may only include listing and booking management can cost less. Additionally, property owners may incur extra fees for services such as cleaning, repairs, or design enhancements, which can further impact the overall cost of managing a short-term rental property in Denver. Understanding these fee structures is crucial for property owners to make informed decisions and maximize their rental income.