Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Fort Collins Colorado.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Fort Collins, Colorado for 2024

License Requirements

• Types of Licenses: Fort Collins defines two types of short-term rental licenses: Primary and Non-Primary. A Primary short-term rental license is required for properties where the owner resides for at least 9 months per year, while a Non-Primary license is for properties not used as the owner's primary residence.
• Application Fee: The initial application fee for a short-term rental license is $150, and the annual renewal fee is $100.

Zoning Restrictions

• Primary STRs: Allowed in zones that permit all hotels, motels, and bed and breakfast establishments. These areas are indicated in green on the Short-Term Rental Zoning Map.
• Non-Primary STRs: Allowed in zones that permit lodging establishments, indicated in yellow on the Short-Term Rental Zoning Map. Prohibited in multi-family R-2 buildings.

Eligible Properties

• Single-Family Dwellings: Including property line townhomes (single-family-attached homes) and R-1 hotel/motel occupancies.
• Exclusions: Multi-family R-2 buildings (apartment or condo buildings with 3 or more dwelling units) are not eligible.

Operational Requirements

• Local Contact: A local point of contact must be identified and registered for guests, neighbors, and city officials.
• Off-Street Parking: Required based on the number of bedrooms rented (e.g., 1-2 bedrooms require 1 parking space, 3-4 bedrooms require 2 parking spaces).
• Safety Equipment: Properties must be equipped with operational smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers.

Tax Requirements

• Sales and Lodging Tax: A 3% lodging tax must be remitted to the city on a monthly basis for occupancies lasting fewer than 30 consecutive days. If using third-party sites like Airbnb, the tax is collected and remitted by the platform. Otherwise, hosts must collect and remit the tax themselves.

Advertising Requirements

• License Number: A valid Fort Collins short-term rental license number must be listed on any rental platform, such as Airbnb.

Compliance and Enforcement

• Self-Certification: Hosts must complete a self-certification checklist as part of the licensing process.
• Enforcement: The city strictly enforces short-term rental regulations and has a hotline for neighbors to report violations. Non-compliance can result in fines and legal action.

Additional Regulations

• Occupancy Limits: There are limits on the total number of unrelated persons that can occupy the property, as defined by the City Code.
• Brochures: Hosts must provide brochures detailing relevant ordinances, rules, and regulations, as well as the local contact's information.
• Annual Filing: Sales and lodging tax returns must be filed annually, with a $25 assessment fee for late filings.

Top Neighborhoods for Airbnb Revenue in Fort Collins, Colorado

Why These Neighborhoods Are Appealing

Fort Collins, known for its vibrant cultural scene, outdoor attractions, and a growing economy, offers several neighborhoods that are particularly lucrative for Airbnb investments. Here are some of the top neighborhoods and the reasons they attract high revenue:

Old Town

• Historic Charm: Old Town Fort Collins is a historic district with charming shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Its central location and nostalgic appeal make it a favorite among tourists.
• Proximity to Amenities: Guests can easily access local breweries, museums, and other attractions, enhancing their stay experience.

Horsetooth Reservoir

• Natural Beauty: This area is surrounded by natural landscapes, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. The scenic views and recreational opportunities are major draws.
• Recreational Activities: The reservoir and nearby parks provide a range of activities, making it ideal for families and adventure seekers.

Downtown Fort Collins

• Urban Amenities: The downtown area is bustling with cultural attractions, including the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, art galleries, and a vibrant nightlife.
• Accessibility: Easy access to public transportation and walking distance to many amenities make it convenient for guests.

Poudre Canyon

• Outdoor Adventures: Located near the Cache La Poudre River, this area offers excellent opportunities for rafting, kayaking, and hiking. The natural beauty and adventure opportunities are highly appealing.
• Scenic Views: The canyon provides stunning scenery, making it a popular choice for those seeking a nature-filled getaway.

University Area

• College Town Vibe: The area around Colorado State University offers a lively atmosphere with various restaurants, cafes, and entertainment options.
• Events and Activities: The university hosts various events and festivals, attracting visitors throughout the year.

Key Statistics

• Occupancy Rate: Fort Collins has a median occupancy rate of 63%, indicating strong demand for short-term rentals.
• Average Daily Rate: The average daily rate in Fort Collins is $225, contributing to significant annual revenues for hosts.
• Annual Revenue: A typical host in Fort Collins can earn around $50,000 annually from Airbnb rentals.

These neighborhoods in Fort Collins combine urban amenities, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities, making them highly appealing to a diverse range of guests and thus generating substantial Airbnb revenue.

Tips for Furnishing and Designing an Inviting Airbnb in Fort Collins, Colorado

Understand Local Regulations

• Ensure compliance with Fort Collins' short-term rental regulations, including obtaining the necessary license and adhering to zoning restrictions, occupancy limits, and local taxes.

Reflect Local Style

• Incorporate elements that reflect Fort Collins' unique blend of outdoor adventure and urban charm. Use decor that highlights the city's connection to nature, such as rustic-rugged designs or modern cabin aesthetics.

Choose Comfortable and Functional Furniture

• Select comfortable beds with high-quality linens, such as 100% cotton and down comforters, to ensure great sleep for your guests.
• Consider the target guest group when choosing bed sizes and furniture layout. For example, families might appreciate additional beds or a more spacious layout.

Utilize Outdoor Spaces

• Take advantage of Fort Collins' beautiful outdoors by incorporating outdoor living spaces, such as patios, hot tubs, fire pits, and BBQ grills. These amenities enhance the guest experience and provide a relaxing atmosphere.

Attention to Detail in Design

• Follow a methodical design process to ensure the space is both comfortable and photogenic. This includes measuring rooms carefully to leave adequate space between furniture and walls.
• Add extra pieces of furniture judiciously, such as a chair with an accent table or luggage racks, to enhance the room's functionality and aesthetic.

Maintain Cleanliness and Organization

• Ensure the space is clean and well-maintained. Use keyless entry and fast WiFi to provide a hassle-free experience for guests.
• Keep linens organized to simplify the cleaning process for your team. Minimize variations in bed sizes to streamline cleaning tasks.

Highlight Local Amenities

• Emphasize the proximity to local attractions such as Old Town, breweries, CSU, and outdoor recreational areas like Horsetooth Reservoir and the Poudre River. This helps guests plan their stay and appreciate the location.

Incorporate Modern Amenities

• Include modern amenities like full kitchens, reliable high-speed WiFi, and smart TVs to cater to a variety of guest needs, whether for relaxation or work.

Create a Welcoming Atmosphere

• Use lighting and decor to create a welcoming atmosphere. Consider adding elements like twinkling café lights, fire pits, or a well-manicured backyard to enhance the ambiance.

Local Point of Contact

• Register a local point of contact for guests, neighbors, and city officials to ensure prompt resolution of any issues that may arise during the stay.

By following these tips, you can create an inviting Airbnb space in Fort Collins that reflects the city's unique style and meets the needs of your guests.

Discover Fort Collins: Local Attractions and Insider Tips for Your Visit

Outdoor Adventures

• Cache la Poudre River Canyon:
• Marvel at Colorado’s only nationally designated “Wild & Scenic” River.
• Enjoy activities like whitewater rafting, hiking, biking, camping, kayaking, and fishing.

• In winter, explore snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling.

• Horsetooth Reservoir:

• Engage in boating, swimming, fishing, and stand-up paddleboarding.

• Explore the trails at Horsetooth Mountain Open Space.

• Lory State Park:

• Experience backcountry camping, mountain biking, and miles of trails.
• Enjoy the scenic views and various outdoor activities.

Cultural and Artistic Experiences

• Old Town Historic District:
• Explore 1920s-inspired architecture, modern art, and local shops.

• Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and annual events.

• Washington's Music Venue:

• Catch live music performances in a renovated landmark with state-of-the-art sound and lighting.

• Mishawaka Amphitheater:

• Attend concerts and enjoy dining at this unique venue located in the Cache la Poudre Canyon.

• Global Village Museum:

• Discover a curated collection of fine arts, folk art, and artifacts from around the globe.

• Fort Collins Museum of Discovery:

• Engage in hands-on exhibits covering science, history, and culture.
• Explore the music and sound lab, science exhibits, and fossil wall.

Family-Friendly Attractions

• The Farm at Lee Martinez Park:
• Offer hands-on farm experiences for children and families.

• Learn about farm life in a unique and interactive way.

• Twin Silo Park:

• Enjoy a playground with a zipline and unique play structures, including a slide between two 50-foot silos.

• Splash Pad:

• Cool off and have fun at the splash pad, surrounded by local shops and the iconic Fort Collins bear.

Local Favorites

• Craft Breweries:
• Visit renowned breweries like New Belgium Brewing Company, Odell Brewing Company, and CooperSmith's Pub & Brewery.

• Taste award-winning beers and enjoy the brewery culture.

• Birney Car 21 Trolley:

• Take a ride on the only original restored city streetcar operating in the western U.S.

• Enjoy a 3-mile round trip from City Park to Old Town.

• Pinball Jones:

• Explore a pinball arcade and bar with over 38 pinball machines.

• A great spot for entertainment in Old Town.

• Old Town Putt:

• Enjoy mini golf paired with adult beverages and a unique clubhouse feel.
• Kids are welcome until 7 pm.

Insider Tips

• Explore the River District: Just north of Downtown Fort Collins, this area offers premium art, dining, shopping, and breweries along the Cache la Poudre River.

• Visit City Park: This 60-acre park features multiple playgrounds, a pool with a lazy river, and Sheldon Lake for fishing. It is also a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary.

• Take a Self-Guided Historic Walking Tour: Discover the historic side of downtown Fort Collins through a self-guided tour.

• Check Out Local Events: Fort Collins hosts various annual events and cultural activities, so be sure to check the local calendar during your visit.

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

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for both you and your guests, here are some practical tips for running a successful short-term rental business in Fort Collins, Colorado.

Noise Regulations and Guest Communication

Inform your guests about quiet hours and noise regulations to avoid complaints from neighbors. Include this information in your digital and physical house manual, and consider posting a reminder in the rental property.

Comprehensive House Manual

Create a detailed digital and physical house manual that includes essential instructions, Wi-Fi passwords, and other important information. This manual should cover everything from appliance usage to emergency contact details, ensuring guests have all the information they need at their fingertips.

Simplified Check-in Process

Utilize smart locks to streamline the check-in process, eliminating the need for physical key exchanges. Provide guests with clear instructions on how to use the smart locks and ensure they have all necessary access codes before their arrival.

Parking Instructions with Photos

To avoid confusion and potential issues, provide detailed parking instructions accompanied by photos. This will help guests understand where they can park and how many off-street parking spaces are available, as required by Fort Collins regulations (e.g., one parking space for 1-2 bedrooms, two spaces for 3-4 bedrooms, etc.).

By following these tips, you can enhance the guest experience, reduce potential issues, and maintain compliance with local regulations, ultimately contributing to the success of your short-term rental business in Fort Collins.

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

House Cleaning Providers in Fort Collins, CO

Clean Bees Housekeeping

• Offers home, office, and rental cleaning services with customized plans (Good, Better, or Best options).

All Star Cleaning Services

• Provides top-to-bottom house cleaning, fully insured and bonded cleaners, and customized cleaning plans. No contract required.

Andora Cleaning

• Offers house cleaning, deep cleaning, move out cleaning, and other maid services. Uses green cleaning products and donates to local non-profits.

Molly Maid of Fort Collins, Greeley & Loveland

• Delivers trusted house cleaning services with custom cleaning plans and a satisfaction guarantee through the Neighborly Done Right Promise®.

Mulberry Maids

• Provides regular house cleaning, deep house cleaning, move in/move out cleaning, and small office cleaning. Insured and bonded with a thorough vetting process for cleaners.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Fort Collins, Colorado

In Fort Collins, Colorado, the fees for managing short-term rentals, such as those listed on Airbnb or VRBO, typically range from 8% to 12% of the rental revenue, rather than 10%-30%. This range is influenced by 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. Basic services, such as resident placement and rent collection, may incur lower fees. Additionally, property managers may charge separate fees for leasing, lease renewals, onboarding, and routine inspections. Other potential costs include cleaning, repairs, or design services, which can vary depending on the specific needs of the property and the services offered by the management company.