In Dunwoody, Georgia, the short-term rental market is showing signs of stability and growth, with peak seasons offering higher occupancy rates and potential for higher pricing, and late fall seasons pacing ahead of previous years in terms of occupancy and revenue.
Strong Performance in Dunwoody, Georgia's Short-Term Rental Market
Despite national trends showing a decline in vacation rental performance, Dunwoody, Georgia, is experiencing a resilient and promising short-term rental market. As of late 2024, the area is seeing a stabilization in supply and demand, particularly as the late fall season approaches. Occupancy rates, while slightly lower in the summer months, are pacing ahead of last year's figures for October and November, with a 2% increase anticipated for November.
Average daily rates (ADR) in the broader U.S. context have been relatively stable, with rates in August 2024 being only a few dollars higher than the previous year. For Dunwoody specifically, the mix of luxury apartments, cozy condos, and spacious family homes continues to attract a diverse range of travelers, supporting higher occupancy rates and competitive pricing. With its unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities, Dunwoody remains an attractive destination, especially with its proximity to major corporations and easy access to downtown Atlanta.
Short-Term Rental Regulations in Dunwoody, Georgia for 2024
Key Regulations
Prohibition on Short-Term Rentals
- Short-term rentals of single-family and multi-family residences are forbidden. This includes rentals of less than 30 days.
Enforcement
- Enforcement is complaint-driven, relying on public complaints to identify violations. Code Enforcement inspectors investigate based on these complaints.
Party Houses
- The creation of "party houses" is prohibited. Only special events facilities can be used for commercial parties, and special event permits are required. Personal social engagements are exempt from these rules.
Reporting Violations
- Noise complaints, traffic complaints, or other infractions should be reported by calling 911.
No Registration or Monitoring System
- Unlike some other jurisdictions, Dunwoody does not have a registration or monitoring system for short-term rentals. Enforcement is solely based on public complaints.
Additional Considerations
Compliance with Ordinances
- Despite the prohibition, many properties are still listed on platforms like Airbnb. Property owners must comply with the city's ordinances to avoid fines and other penalties.
Fines and Penalties
- Violations can result in fines of up to $1,000 and/or up to six months in jail.
Community Impact
Quality of Life
- The regulations are focused on maintaining quality of life issues, such as preventing loud parties and other disruptions.
Top Airbnb Revenue-Generating Neighborhoods in Dunwoody, Georgia
Neighborhoods
Winters Chapel
- Appeal: Winters Chapel is one of the most frequently booked neighborhoods in Dunwoody. It offers a mix of residential and commercial areas, providing easy access to local amenities, shops, and dining options. Guests appreciate the proximity to urban facilities while enjoying a suburban setting.
Dunwoody Village
- Appeal: Dunwoody Village is another highly sought-after area, known for its central location and vibrant community. It is close to key attractions like the Dunwoody Country Club and Perimeter Mall, making it ideal for guests looking for both leisure and convenience.
Why They Are Appealing
Proximity to Amenities: Both Winters Chapel and Dunwoody Village offer close proximity to shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational facilities, making them highly attractive to guests who want to experience the best of Dunwoody without being too far from essential services.
Urban and Suburban Balance: These neighborhoods provide a balance between urban amenities and a serene suburban environment, which is particularly appealing to guests looking for a relaxed yet connected stay.
Highly Rated Rentals: Many of the vacation rentals in these areas are highly rated for their cleanliness, location, and overall guest experience, which contributes to their popularity and revenue generation.
Diverse Accommodations: These neighborhoods offer a variety of rental options, including family-friendly rentals, pet-friendly rentals, and properties with dedicated workspaces and pools, catering to a wide range of guest preferences.
Furnishing and Design Tips for an Inviting Airbnb in Dunwoody, Georgia
Understanding Dunwoody's Unique Style
- Dunwoody, known for its blend of suburban tranquility and vibrant community events, attracts a diverse group of guests. Reflect this by incorporating elements of contemporary design and traditional charm.
Measuring and Layout
- Measure your rooms to determine the best layout, ensuring ample space to move around and unobstructed natural light sources.
Furniture Selection
- Choose sturdy, easy-to-clean furniture. Opt for a solid bed with a minimum 8-inch thick mattress, preferably memory foam for durability.
- Select sofas with washable covers to maintain cleanliness and consider a sofa bed to increase guest capacity.
- Use high-quality, durable towels and linens in neutral colors that can be bleached.
Comfort and Style
- Provide plush sofas and comfortable, lightweight chairs that are easy to move around. Darker chairs can hide stains better.
- Incorporate farmhouse or modern dining tables that are resistant to wear and tear. Add a tablecloth, runner, and decorative items to enhance the look.
Kitchen Essentials
- Equip your kitchen with modern appliances such as a coffee maker, microwave, toaster, and kettle. Include basic cookware, utensils, and dinnerware.
- Add extras like a blender, sharp knives, cutting board, measuring cups, and a corkscrew.
Workspace and Technology
- Ensure a dedicated workspace with a sturdy desk, comfy chair, good lighting, and easy access to power outlets. High-speed internet is crucial, and consider a Wi-Fi booster for larger spaces.
Safety and Accessibility
- Install smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and a first aid kit. Consider making your Airbnb accessible to guests with disabilities by adding ramps, wide doorways, and grab bars in bathrooms.
Storage and Organization
- Use smart storage solutions like beds with drawers, wall hooks, pegboards in the kitchen, and stackable containers to keep the space tidy.
- Provide designated spots for guests' personal items, such as a luggage rack.
Decor and Ambiance
- Use mirrors to make the space feel bigger and brighter. Choose mirrors with cool frames for added style.
- Incorporate local artwork and decor that capture the essence of Georgia to create a unique experience for guests.
- Maintain a neutral color palette with bursts of color in decor pieces to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Outdoor and Additional Amenities
- If possible, provide spacious outdoor areas for relaxation and gatherings. Amenities like childcare equipment and games can be appealing to families.
- Consider adding a hairdryer, basic toiletries, and a first-aid kit to enhance guest comfort.
By following these tips, you can create an inviting Airbnb in Dunwoody that reflects the city's unique style and meets the needs of a diverse range of guests.
Discover Dunwoody, Georgia: Local Attractions and Insider Tips
Outdoor Adventures
- Dunwoody Nature Center:
- Explore two miles of walking trails, four distinct habitats, and a playground.
- Attend the popular butterfly festival or relax in the hammock garden.
Address: 5343 Roberts Dr, Dunwoody, GA 30338
Brook Run Park:
- A 100-plus acre park featuring a dog run, trails, a playground, a skate park, and a community garden.
Enjoy the Art in the Park series, which includes murals and public art installations.
Treetop Quest Dunwoody:
- An aerial adventure park with bridges, nets, ropes, and ziplines suitable for ages 4 and up.
- Offers four different levels of difficulty.
Cultural and Historical Sites
- Spruill Center for the Arts:
- Learn about the Spruill family’s contributions to the arts and explore the gallery.
Attend local cultural events and exhibitions.
Donaldson-Bannister Farm:
- A historic farm dating back to the end of the Civil War.
Hosts various events, including the Camp Flashback Thanksgiving Edition.
Ebenezer Primitive Baptist Church:
- A historic church with significant local heritage.
Parks and Recreation
- Lillian Webb Park (Norcross):
- A 5-acre park with a gazebo, fountains, an interactive splash pad, and volleyball courts.
Just a short drive from Dunwoody.
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park:
- A Civil War battlefield with 18 miles of interpretive hiking trails and a visitor center.
- About a 30-minute drive from Dunwoody.
Entertainment and Dining
- Dunwoody Tavern:
The oldest pub in Dunwoody, offering British and European beers, Scottish whiskies, and a cozy atmosphere.
Bar Peri:
- Dunwoody’s first rooftop bar, located atop the AC Hotel Atlanta Perimeter.
Enjoy strong cocktails and a great view of the local skyline, especially during sunset.
E. 48th Street Market:
- An Italian specialty food store with house-made pastries, meats, cheeses, and a vast wine selection.
- A great place to pick up ingredients for a picnic or dinner.
Shopping and Markets
- Perimeter Mall:
- One of the largest shopping destinations in the Southeast.
Perfect for a day of shopping and dining.
The Enchanted Forest:
- A boutique shop offering local gifts, body products, and seasonal items.
A great place to find unique souvenirs.
Dunwoody Farmer's Market:
- A market where you can find organic coffee, fresh-baked goods, and local produce.
- A great place to start your day or prepare for a picnic.
Insider Tips
Check the Event Calendar: Dunwoody hosts various events throughout the year, such as the Atlanta Chili Cook Off, Brook Run Skate Park Murals, and the Spruill Gallery 31st Annual Holiday Art Fair. Make sure to check the local event calendar to catch these exciting happenings.
Explore Local Art: Visit the Art in the Park series at Brook Run Park to see murals and public art installations. This is a great way to experience local culture and take some memorable photos.
Relax in Green Spaces: Dunwoody offers several inviting green spaces like Park Place and Ashford Lane. These are perfect spots to relax and unwind.
Community Engagement: Join activities like the Nature Lovers Book Club or attend free classes like HIIT on the Lawn to engage with the local community.
Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short-Term Rental Business in Dunwoody, Georgia
To operate a successful short-term rental business in Dunwoody, Georgia, several key practices must be implemented to ensure compliance with local regulations and to enhance the guest experience.
Noise Regulations and Guest Communication
Inform guests about quiet hours and noise regulations to avoid complaints and potential enforcement issues. Dunwoody's Code of Ordinances prohibits noise disturbances, especially during weekends and outside work hours, so it is crucial to communicate these rules clearly in your house manual and pre-arrival communications.
Creating a Comprehensive House Manual
Develop 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 outline the house rules, including quiet hours and any specific regulations or restrictions in the area.
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. This ensures a smooth and hassle-free arrival experience.
Parking Instructions
Include clear parking instructions with photos in your house manual to help guests understand where they can park and any specific parking regulations. This can prevent confusion and potential parking fines, enhancing the overall guest experience.
By adhering to these tips, you can maintain a positive reputation, comply with local regulations, and ensure a satisfying stay for your guests in Dunwoody, Georgia.
Here is a brief list of house cleaning providers in Dunwoody, Georgia:
House Cleaning Providers in Dunwoody, GA
My Cleaning Angel
- Offers one-time, move-in/move-out, post-construction, recurring, and vacation rental cleaning services.
- Uses eco-friendly cleaning products and provides customizable cleaning packages.
- No contracts for recurring services.
Molly Maid of Dunwoody, Sandy Springs and East Cobb
- Provides customized cleaning plans, including one-time, recurring, move-out, and special event cleanings.
- Services include floor cleaning, dusting, and washing/sanitizing surfaces.
- No contracts and a 24-hour warranty.
Maid Kept
- Offers online booking for house cleaning services, including dusting, mopping, bathroom cleaning, laundry, and organizing.
- Provides a 100% Happiness Guarantee with the option for re-cleaning if unsatisfied.
- Trusted and highly skilled cleaners for all home-related cleaning needs.
Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Dunwoody, Georgia: A Range of 10%-30% Depending on Service Level
In Dunwoody, Georgia, the fees for short-term rental management can vary significantly, typically ranging from 10% to 30% of the rental revenue, depending on the level of service provided. Full-service management companies, such as Summer, which handle all aspects including guest communication, marketing, pricing, and maintenance, tend to charge on the higher end of this spectrum, often around 20% of the rental income.
Basic services, which might include only essential management tasks like rent collection and tenant screening, may incur lower fees, potentially as low as 10%. Additionally, hosts may need to account for extra fees for services such as cleaning, repairs, or professional design and furnishing of the rental property. These additional costs can further impact the overall expense of managing a short-term rental in Dunwoody.