Airbnb & VRBO Performance in East Tawas Michigan.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in East Tawas, Michigan for 2024

Definition and Scope

• Short-Term Rental: Defined as the commercial use of renting a dwelling unit, or portion thereof, for a period of time less than thirty-one (31) consecutive days. This does not include approved bed and breakfast establishments, hotels/motels, tenant housing, or campgrounds.

Zoning Districts

• Permitted Use: Short-term rentals are permitted in the Highway Service Commercial District (HSC), Waterfront District (WF), and the Central Business District (CBD) without special permits.
• Special Use: In High-Density Residential District (HDR), Medium Density Residential District (MDR), Multifamily Residential District (MFR), Office Service Commercial District (OSC), and Tawas Lake Waterfront Residential District (TLWFR), short-term rentals are considered a special use and require a permit and annual certification.

Permitting and Certification

• Application and Review: Applications for short-term rental permits are accepted and reviewed as received. The City began accepting applications on January 9, 2023.
• Maximum Permits: A maximum of 30 short-term rental permits are allowed in the specified special use districts. As of August 12, 2024, no permits are available.

Requirements

• Ordinance Compliance: Compliance with Ordinance No. 359 and the amendments in Ordinance No. 360 is mandatory.
• Annual Certification: Annual certification is required for all permitted short-term rentals.

Application Process

• Application Form: A specific application form must be completed and submitted along with the required documentation.
• Checklist: A checklist is provided to ensure all necessary steps and documents are included in the application.

Availability of Permits

• Posting of Availability: The number of available permits is posted on the City's webpage and updated when openings become available.

High-Revenue Neighborhoods for Airbnb in East Tawas, Michigan

Neighborhoods and Their Appeal

1. Lakefront and Beach Areas

• These areas are highly appealing due to their proximity to Lake Huron and private beach access. Properties like the "East Tawas Lakeview House w/private beach access!" and the "Cabin on Lake Huron with beautiful views & Dock" are highly rated for their scenic views, direct beach access, and tranquil atmosphere.

2. Downtown and Central East Tawas

• Neighborhoods close to the downtown area are favored for their walkability to local restaurants, shops, and parks. Guests appreciate the convenience of being near places like the Boathouse Beer Company and having easy access to groceries and other amenities.

3. Areas with Proximity to Parks and Trails

• Neighborhoods that offer easy access to parks and trails are popular among guests who enjoy outdoor activities. Properties like "Perfect Access for Bike, Hike, Beach: 5-Star Haven" are highly rated for their organization and proximity to recreational areas.

Why These Neighborhoods Are Appealing

• Location and Accessibility: Guests prefer areas that are close to beaches, parks, and local amenities, making walks and outings convenient.
• Scenic Views: Properties with beautiful views of Lake Huron are highly sought after for their aesthetic and tranquil environment.
• Family-Friendly: Many of these neighborhoods offer family-friendly amenities such as games for children and spacious backyards, making them ideal for family vacations.
• Cleanliness and Comfort: High-rated properties in these areas are known for their cleanliness, comfort, and well-maintained facilities, which enhance the guest experience.

These factors contribute to the high revenue generated by Airbnb listings in these neighborhoods in East Tawas, Michigan.

Creating an Inviting Airbnb in East Tawas, Michigan: Tips for Furnishing and Design

Embrace Local Charm

• Incorporate elements that reflect East Tawas's small-town, lakeside charm. Use nautical themes, such as navy blues, whites, and natural woods, to evoke the feeling of Lake Huron.
• Add decorative items like vintage fishing nets, lighthouse models, or local artwork to enhance the coastal ambiance.

Utilize Natural Materials

• Choose furnishings made from natural materials like oak, pine, or cedar to align with the area's rustic and outdoorsy vibe.
• Incorporate stone or brick accents to add warmth and a sense of local heritage.

Highlight Local History

• Decorate with items that celebrate the area's historical significance, such as old photographs of the Tawas Point Lighthouse, lumbering era artifacts, or railroad memorabilia.
• Consider adding a small library or display case with books and items related to the local history and culture.

Comfortable and Cozy

• Ensure the space is cozy and inviting by using plush textiles, comfortable seating, and warm lighting.
• Add throw blankets, pillows, and rugs in colors that complement the natural beauty of the area.

Outdoor Integration

• Since East Tawas is known for its beautiful outdoors, create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.
• Use large windows, sliding glass doors, and outdoor seating areas to take advantage of the scenic views.

Support Local Style

• Shop local boutiques and antique stores for unique pieces that reflect the community's style and flair. Stores like Mooney’s Ben Franklin, O’Connor’s, and Serendipity can provide eclectic and charming items.
• Incorporate handmade or locally crafted items such as jewelry, artwork, and home decor to add a personal touch.

Seasonal Decor

• Reflect the changing seasons by adjusting your decor accordingly. For example, use autumn colors and themes in the fall, and winter decorations that highlight the area's snowy landscapes.
• Consider adding seasonal activities and amenities, such as kayaks in the summer or snowshoes in the winter, to enhance the guest experience.

Practical yet Stylish

• Balance style with practicality by ensuring that all furnishings and decor are both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
• Provide amenities like beach towels, picnic baskets, and outdoor games to make the stay enjoyable and convenient.

Personal Touches

• Add personal touches that make guests feel welcome, such as a welcome basket with local treats, a guide to local attractions, and personalized notes.
• Consider leaving a few local recommendations for dining, shopping, and activities to help guests experience the best of East Tawas.

Discover East Tawas, Michigan: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Local Attractions

Beaches and Parks

• Tawas Point State Park: A 200-acre peninsula with a 70-foot lighthouse, perfect for tours, bird watching, and scenic views.
• East Tawas Park and Campground: Offers playgrounds, picnic areas, 178 campsites, and approximately 2,000 feet of beach frontage along Lake Huron and Tawas Lake.
• Harbor Park, Shoreline Park, and Gateway Park: Various parks with access to Tawas Bay, ideal for sailing, paddling, and other water activities.

Historical and Cultural Sites

• Tawas Point Lighthouse: Open for tours from May through September, with special events like the Great Lakes Lighthouse Festival and the Haunted Lighthouse.
• Historical Museum: Showcases the area's heritage in lumbering, railroad, and fishing industries.

Outdoor Activities

• Corsair Trail and Iargo Springs: Nearby attractions offering hiking and natural scenery.
• Ausable River: Perfect for canoeing, kayaking, or paddleboarding.
• Huron Snowmobile Trail: 94 miles of groomed snowmobile trails with multiple trailheads near East Tawas.

Arts and Entertainment

• Family Theatre: Hosts theater and musical productions, including locally written plays and national productions.
• Weekly Music Performances and Festivals: Enjoy live music in the parks, downtown dances, and summer music festivals.

Insider Tips

Shopping and Dining

• Downtown East Tawas: Explore unique shops, art galleries, and antique stores along brick-paved sidewalks. Don’t miss the weekly farmers market and concerts in the park.
• Local Dining: Recommend popular spots like The Northwoods Steakhouse, Tawas Bay Big Boy, and Mangos Mexican Cuisine and Tequila Bar.

Events and Festivals

• Tuesday Night Live, Summerfest, and Car Show: Attend vibrant street festivals and events in downtown East Tawas.
• Perchville USA: Join the annual chili cook-off and other activities during this festive event.

Outdoor Adventures

• Tawas Bike Path: A paved path shadowing U.S. 23, offering a scenic route for bicyclists and walkers.
• Bird Watching: Tawas Point and Tuttle Marsh Wildlife Area are must-visits for birding enthusiasts, especially during peak migration times.

Seasonal Activities

• Snowmobiling and ATV Trails: Inform guests about the groomed trails and trailheads for winter and off-road adventures.
• Kiteboarding and Paddleboarding: Highlight Tawas Bay as a premier kiteboarding destination and offer instructional opportunities for paddleboarding.

By sharing these local attractions and insider tips, your Airbnb guests will have a comprehensive guide to enjoying the best of East Tawas, Michigan.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short-Term Rental Business in East Tawas, Michigan

To ensure the success of a short-term rental business in East Tawas, Michigan, several practical tips can be implemented to enhance guest satisfaction and compliance with local regulations.

Noise Regulations and Guest Communication

Inform guests about quiet hours and noise regulations to avoid any potential issues. East Tawas has noise and nuisance ordinances that hosts must adhere to, so it is crucial to communicate these rules clearly in the listing and through a welcome message upon arrival.

Comprehensive House Manual

Create both digital and physical house manuals that include essential instructions, Wi-Fi passwords, and other important details. This manual should cover everything from appliance usage to emergency contact information, ensuring guests have all the information they need for a comfortable stay.

Simplified Check-in Process

Utilize smart locks to streamline the check-in process, eliminating the need for physical key exchanges. Provide detailed parking instructions accompanied by photos to help guests navigate the property easily. This contactless and keyless check-in system not only enhances guest convenience but also reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings or delays.

By implementing these strategies, hosts can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for their guests, while also complying with local regulations and maintaining a well-managed property.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning services in East Tawas, Michigan:

House Cleaning Services in East Tawas, MI

Care.com

• Offers various house cleaning options starting at $20.00/hr, with listings searchable by rates, reviews, and experience.

Angie's List

• Lists top 10 home cleaning services, with average costs ranging from $100 to $180 for about four hours of work.

Homeaglow

• Provides professional, affordable, and background-checked house cleaners, with a 3-hour clean starting at $19.

Sparkling and Beyond

• A professional cleaning company using state-of-the-art equipment and with years of experience in the field.

Note that the list does not include repair or maintenance providers, as the sources primarily focus on cleaning services.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in East Tawas, Michigan

In East Tawas, Michigan, managing short-term rentals involves a range of fees that can vary significantly based on the level of service provided. Typically, management fees for short-term rentals range from 10% to 30% of the rental revenue. Full-service management, which includes comprehensive services such as guest communication, marketing, and maintenance, tends to be on the higher end of this spectrum, often starting at around 15% to 20% of revenue.

Basic services, which may only include booking management and minimal support, can be less expensive but still fall within this range. Additional fees may apply for services like cleaning, repairs, and design enhancements to ensure the property remains attractive and well-maintained for guests. For instance, some management companies charge a consumables fee, such as $25 per reservation, to cover items like linens, toiletries, and other essential supplies. Understanding these fees and services is crucial for hosts to optimize their rental income and comply with local regulations.