Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Hammond Louisiana.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Hammond, Louisiana for 2024

General State Requirements

• Definition of Short-Term Rental: Rentals for fewer than 30 consecutive days.
• Insurance Requirement: A minimum $1,000,000 commercial general liability insurance policy.
• Guest Registration Records: Maintenance of guest registration records, including dates of occupancy, guest numbers, and rates.
• Compliance with Dwelling and Occupancy Limits: Adherence to local zoning ordinances and occupancy limits.

State and Local Registrations

• State Sales Tax Registration Certificate: Essential for operating a short-term rental at the state level.
• Local Permits: Required, varying by parish and city. In Tangipahoa Parish, where Hammond is located, building permits and compliance with local regulations are mandatory.

Safety and Operational Standards

• Smoke Alarms and Fire Extinguishers: Installation of operating smoke alarms and fire extinguishers.
• Exit Signage and Clear Egress Paths: Ensuring no tripping hazards and clear egress paths.
• Zoning and Building Permits: Necessary for any property modifications.

Specific Local Regulations in Tangipahoa Parish

• Building Permits: Required before any structure is built or modified in the parish.
• Subcontractor Permits: Electrical, mechanical, and plumbing subcontractors must obtain permits for new construction.
• Compliance with Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code: Adherence to the codes and standards set forth by the Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code Council (LSUCCC).

Additional Requirements

• Visible Display of Permits: In some jurisdictions, the visible display of the Owner's Permit is required to inform guests and neighbors.
• Homestead Exemption: While primarily relevant in New Orleans, understanding local homestead exemptions and their impact on short-term rentals is important. However, specific rules in Hammond may differ.

Compliance and Enforcement

• Regular Inspections: Compliance with inspection schedules and building codes enforced by the Tangipahoa Parish Permit Office.
• Penalties for Non-Compliance: Potential penalties or loss of rental ability for non-compliance with local and state regulations.

Top Neighborhoods for Airbnb Revenue in Hammond, Louisiana

1. Downtown Hammond

• Appeal: Downtown Hammond is highly appealing due to its vibrant and lively atmosphere. Guests praise the area for its proximity to fabulous dining, bars, and shopping. Rentals like the "Morrison Alley Loft" and "The Linden Letting - Downtown Hammond/SLU" are favorites, offering easy access to local attractions and a walkable downtown experience.

2. Historic Neighborhoods near Downtown

• Appeal: These neighborhoods, such as the area around Southeastern Louisiana University (SELU), are popular for their historic homes and charming atmosphere. Properties like the "Southern Charmer" and "Garden Home, Downtown Hammond" are highly rated for their cleanliness, historic charm, and convenient location.

3. Areas near Interstate Highways (I-12 and I-55)

• Appeal: Neighborhoods close to the interstates, such as those near the intersection of I-12 and I-55, are attractive due to their central location. Guests appreciate the easy commute to both New Orleans and Baton Rouge, as well as the proximity to local amenities and the university. Rentals like "Our Cozy Retreat" and "Townhome in Hammond" are well-liked for these reasons.

4. Ponchatoula and Surrounding Areas

• Appeal: While technically just outside Hammond, Ponchatoula's proximity and charm make it a significant contributor to the area's Airbnb revenue. Properties such as "Great weekend river getaway!" and "Ponchatoula Historic Home away from Home" are popular for their peaceful locations, easy access to river activities, and the small-town feel.

5. Areas along the Natalbany River

• Appeal: The tranquil settings along the Natalbany River, such as the "Hobbit House," attract guests seeking a unique and nature-filled experience. These properties offer a serene retreat with opportunities for walking trails and river access, making them highly appealing for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

These neighborhoods are favored by guests due to their combination of convenience, charm, and access to both local and regional attractions.

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

General Design Principles

• Reflect the Local Style: Ensure your design aligns with the unique character of Hammond, Louisiana. For example, incorporate elements that reflect the city's Southern charm, its proximity to New Orleans, or its natural surroundings.

Living Room

• Lighting Control: Install lamps and dimmer switches to provide adjustable lighting, enhancing the ambiance and guest experience.
• Comfortable Seating: Include accent chairs and poufs to create cozy nooks. Ensure there are enough surfaces for guests to place their drinks and belongings.
• Textural Variety: Mix different textures such as smooth metal trays, handmade vases, and soft rugs to add depth and warmth to the space.

Bedroom

• White Bedding: Use white sheets and comforters to create a clean and luxurious feel. Consider adding extra bedding layers in the closet for guest convenience.
• Quality Pillows: Provide pillows with different fill options, such as down or foam-filled, to cater to various guest preferences.
• Bedside Amenities: Ensure each bed has a bedside table and lamp, ideally with USB ports or wireless charging features. Add blackout shades for better sleep quality.

Additional Touches

• Accent Rugs and Chairs: Use modern accent rugs and chairs to add pops of color and create a welcoming atmosphere.
• Decorative Elements: Add decorative throws, feather down pillows, and wall decor to enhance the luxury feel. Consider fake plants and centerpieces for tables.
• Personal yet Neutral Touches: Incorporate local or quirky items that tell a story about the host and location, but avoid cluttering the space with too many personal items.

Lighting and Ambiance

• Multi-Source Lighting: Use a combination of overhead, task, and accent lights to create a stylish and well-lit space. Consider hanging lighting or mirrors to enhance natural light.

Guest-Centric Design

• Targeted Design: Tailor your design to the specific needs of your target guests. For example, digital nomads might appreciate a comfortable working desk, while families might value a well-organized outdoor area.
• Layout for Conversation: Design the space to facilitate conversation and guest interaction. Consider the placement of furniture to create cozy nooks and communal areas.

By following these tips, you can create an inviting and luxurious Airbnb space in Hammond, Louisiana, that reflects the city's unique style and enhances the guest experience.

Discover Hammond, Louisiana: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Local Attractions

Family Fun

• Louisiana Children’s Discovery Center: An interactive and educational space with over a dozen exhibits, including the Bubble Station, Waterfront, and Block Buster. Perfect for toddlers and children.
• Safari Quest Family Fun Center: Offers laser tag, arcade games, mini-golf, ropes courses, and coconut climbing trees. A great indoor facility for all ages.
• The Party Barn: Features classic arcade games, escape rooms, miniature golf, and batting cages. Ideal for family outings and parties.
• Skippy's Bounce Around LLC: Hammond's newest family fun center with indoor inflatables, 22' slides, and a café.

Outdoor Adventures

• Global Wildlife Center: Get up close and personal with animals like giraffes, zebras, red kangaroos, and more on an interactive wildlife adventure.
• Mitchell’s Swamp Adventures: Guided swamp tours with Bruce, exploring swamps, bayous, and passes around Lake Maurepas and Lake Pontchartrain.
• Kliebert & Sons Alligator Tours: Tours featuring over 300 alligators and 47,000 turtles in their natural habitats.

Sports and Recreation

• Hammond America Sportsplex: A top training facility for athletes, offering fields for baseball, soccer, cheerleading, and more.
• Chappapeela Sports Park: Hosts various sports including American football, baseball, basketball, and volleyball. Also features community events and recreational activities.
• Hammond Dreamland Skatepark: A skatepark with ample space and shade for skating, biking, and other recreational activities.

Shopping and Entertainment

• Hammond Square: A vibrant shopping and entertainment hub with shops, restaurants, and a movie theater at AMC Palace Theatre.
• Ponchatoula – America’s Antique City: Ideal for antique lovers, offering a wide range of collectibles and antiques.

Other Attractions

• Tangi Lanes: Hammond's premier bowling destination with state-of-the-art lanes, a golf simulator, and arcade games.
• RISE Haunted House: For those who enjoy a scare, this haunted house features three world-class attractions.
• Tangipahoa Parish Library: Offers free Wi-Fi, a wide selection of books, e-books, and educational resources, including a Genealogy center.

Insider Tips

Local Favorites

• Gnarly Barley Brewing: Not only a place to enjoy locally brewed beer, but also a venue for live events, tours, and shopping for brewery merchandise.

Seasonal Activities

• Blueberry Picking: Visit the blueberry farm in Amite for a fun and refreshing activity during the picking season.

Cultural Experiences

• Tangipahoa African American Heritage Museum: Part of the Louisiana African American Heritage Trail, offering insights into local history and culture.
• Columbia Theatre: A historic venue managed by Southeastern Louisiana University, hosting various cultural events.

Practical Information

• Weather: Hammond has a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters. Be prepared accordingly.
• Transportation: The city has an Amtrak station offering direct service to New Orleans and Chicago, and is conveniently located near major highways.

By sharing these attractions and tips, you can help your guests make the most of their visit to Hammond, Louisiana.

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

To ensure the success of a short term rental business in Hammond, Louisiana, several key practices can be implemented. First, it is crucial to address noise regulations by informing guests about quiet hours through clear communication in the rental agreement and a digital or physical house manual. This manual should also include essential instructions, Wi-Fi passwords, and other pertinent details to make the guest's stay seamless.

A simplified check-in process can significantly enhance the guest experience. Utilizing smart locks eliminates the need for physical key exchanges, allowing guests to check in at their convenience. Additionally, providing detailed parking instructions accompanied by photos can help avoid confusion and ensure a smooth arrival.

By adhering to these tips, you can maintain a positive reputation, ensure guest satisfaction, and streamline the management of your short term rental properties in Hammond, Louisiana. Effective communication, clear instructions, and the use of modern technology such as smart locks can make a substantial difference in the success of your business.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning services in Hammond, Louisiana:

House Cleaning Services

Geaux Maids

• Located at 1206 J W Davis Drive #106, Hammond, LA 70403
• Offers weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly cleaning services with discounts
• Highly rated on Yelp, Google, Angie List, and Facebook.

Touch of Class Pro Cleaning

• Provides regularly scheduled floor cleaning, window washing, dusting, and polishing of furniture and appliances
• Offers organizational tasks and uses environmentally friendly products
• OSHA Certified and experienced in the cleaning industry.

Merry Maids of Baton Rouge

• Serves Hammond, LA, and offers bi-weekly, weekly, monthly, and one-time cleaning services
• Provides free estimates for cleaning services.

Additional Resources

Care.com House Cleaning Services

• Lists multiple local house cleaning services in Hammond, LA, with options starting at $17.83/hr
• Allows comparison of rates, reviews, and experience.

Angi House Cleaning Services

• Provides a list of the top-rated house cleaners in Hammond, LA, with real reviews and ratings.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Hammond, Louisiana: A Guide

In Hammond, Louisiana, the fees for managing short-term rentals can vary significantly based on the level of service provided. On average, property management fees for short-term rentals typically range from 10% to 30% of the rental revenue. Full-service management, which includes comprehensive tasks such as guest communication, marketing, and maintenance, tends to be on the higher end of this spectrum, often ranging between 20% to 30% of the rental income.

For more basic services, the fees can be lower, usually around 10% to 15%. Additionally, property owners may incur extra fees for specific services like cleaning, repairs, or design enhancements. These additional costs can vary depending on the property manager and the specific needs of the rental property. Understanding these fee structures is crucial for property owners to make informed decisions about how to manage their short-term rentals effectively.