Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Houma Louisiana.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Houma, Louisiana for 2024

General Requirements

• Definition of Short-Term Rental: Rentals must be for fewer than 30 consecutive days to be classified as short-term rentals.

Licensing and Registrations

• Business License: Hosts must obtain a business license if renting out property on a regular basis.
• State Sales Tax Registration Certificate: Hosts need to obtain a state sales tax registration certificate.
• Local Permits: While Houma does not have specific laws regulating short-term rentals, hosts must comply with local permits and licenses, which may vary by parish and city.

Safety and Operational Standards

• Insurance Requirements: Hosts must secure a minimum $1,000,000 commercial general liability insurance policy.
• Safety Equipment: Install operating smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, and exit signage. Ensure no tripping hazards and clear egress paths.

Compliance with Local Regulations

• Zoning Laws: Hosts must comply with zoning laws, as some areas may not allow commercial activities like short-term rentals.
• Dwelling and Occupancy Limits: Adhere to maximum occupancy limits based on bedroom size and window space.

Tax Compliance

• State Sales Tax: Hosts are responsible for collecting and remitting state sales tax on the rental of living accommodations.

Record Keeping

• Guest Registration Records: Maintain guest registration records, including dates of occupancy, guest numbers, and rates.

Seasonal Considerations

• Seasonality: Be aware of seasonal fluctuations in demand, with peak seasons typically from February to April and slower periods during hurricane season (September to November).

Future Regulatory Changes

• Potential for Stricter Regulations: Be prepared for the possibility of more stringent regulations in the future, as seen in other cities in Louisiana.

High-Revenue Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Houma, Louisiana

Neighborhoods Generating the Most Airbnb Revenue

1. Downtown Houma

• Appeal: Downtown Houma is highly attractive due to its proximity to local dining, entertainment options, and key attractions such as the Houma Civic Center and the Municipal Auditorium. Guests appreciate the convenience and accessibility to festivals, restaurants, and other local events.

2. Neighborhoods Near the Bayous and Waterfront

• Appeal: Areas close to the bayous and waterfront are in high demand because they offer stunning natural beauty, including scenic waterfront views and opportunities for outdoor activities like bayou excursions. These neighborhoods provide a unique blend of natural beauty and local charm.

3. Historic and Cultural Districts

• Appeal: Neighborhoods rich in Cajun culture and history, such as those near the Southern Oaks Plantation, draw guests interested in exploring the region's heritage. These areas often feature rustic and historic homes that have been restored or updated with modern amenities, offering a unique and authentic experience.

Key Factors Contributing to Appeal

• Proximity to Attractions: Neighborhoods close to local events, dining, and entertainment options are highly sought after.
• Natural Beauty: Areas with waterfront views and access to bayous are particularly appealing.
• Local Culture and History: Neighborhoods that reflect the region's Cajun heritage and historical significance attract guests looking for an authentic experience.
• Comfort and Amenities: Properties with modern kitchens, spacious living areas, outdoor spaces, and recreational features like pools or hot tubs enhance guest comfort and satisfaction.

Furnishing and Design Tips for an Inviting Airbnb in Houma, Louisiana

Understanding Your Audience and Market

• Define your goals and understand the diverse range of guests, including families, business professionals, and festival-goers, to tailor your furnishings accordingly.

Reflecting Local Culture and Aesthetics

• Incorporate local design elements and themes that celebrate Houma's Cajun heritage to create a unique and authentic experience for guests.

Choosing the Right Furniture and Decor

• Opt for rustic elements that evoke the charm of Louisiana's historical homes, complemented by modern accents for a contemporary feel. Coastal-themed decor, such as blue hues and nautical motifs, can enhance waterfront views.
• Select durable materials and high-quality linens to ensure guest satisfaction and longevity of the furnishings.

Enhancing Comfort and Functionality

• Ensure spacious living areas, modern kitchens, and access to recreational features like pools or hot tubs to enhance guest comfort.
• Use furniture that is easy to clean and maintain, such as solid beds with storage, and avoid materials like real and faux leather.

Utilizing Smart Storage and Space-Saving Furniture

• Incorporate beds with drawers, wall hooks, pegboards in the kitchen, and stackable containers to maximize storage and keep the space tidy.
• Consider space-saving furniture like sofa beds, folding tables, or ottomans with hidden storage compartments.

Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere

• Use mirrors to make the space feel bigger and brighter, and ensure plenty of natural light by avoiding blockages.
• Add plants to liven up the space and create a welcoming ambiance.

Focusing on Guest Amenities

• Provide essential amenities such as high-quality, durable towels, basic toiletries, a hairdryer, and a first-aid kit. Ensure there is ample storage for guests' personal items.
• Include a sturdy desk and comfy chair for guests who need to work, along with good lighting and easy access to power outlets. High-speed internet is crucial for business travelers and digital nomads.

Timing and Budget Considerations

• Plan furniture updates during the off-season or short gaps between bookings to minimize disruption to guests. Set a budget and stick to it, prioritizing key pieces that define the space.

Ensuring Accessibility

• Consider making your Airbnb accessible to guests with disabilities by including features like ramps, wide doorways, and grab bars in bathrooms.

Maintaining and Protecting Your Furniture

• Install smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and a first aid kit. Use mattress covers and durable materials to protect your furniture from wear and tear.

Discover Houma, Louisiana: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Local Attractions

Historic Sites and Museums

• Southdown Plantation & Terrebonne Museum: Explore a 19th-century sugarcane plantation with restored slave quarters and a worker’s cabin. Guided tours provide insights into Louisiana's history.
• Ardoyne Plantation: Another historic plantation offering a glimpse into the region's past.
• Bayou Terrebonne Waterlife Museum: Learn about the industries, traditions, and stories of Houma's unique culture. Enjoy Cajun music on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
• Terrebonne Folklife Culture Center: Experience Cajun culture through dance lessons, cooking classes, and crafts. Also features an extensive duck decoy carving exhibit.

Outdoor Adventures

• Swamp Tours:
• Annie Miller’s Son’s Swamp and Marsh Tours: Led by the son of local legend Annie Miller, offering a unique excursion through the bayous and waterways.
• A Cajun Man's Swamp Tours and Adventures: Explore the swamps and canals with Captain Billy.
• Greenwood Gator Farm and Tours: See live alligator shows, hold baby alligators, and learn about alligator hunting.
• Mandalay National Wildlife Refuge: Accessible by boat, ideal for viewing waterfowl, wading birds, and other wildlife.
• Pointe-Aux-Chenes Wildlife Management Area: A 35,000-acre wetland perfect for exploring and wildlife viewing.

Cultural and Artistic Experiences

• Chauvin Sculpture Garden + Art Studio: Admire over 100 concrete sculptures in a unique garden setting.
• Downtown Art Gallery 360: Features works from local artists in the heart of Houma’s historic district.
• Bayou Terrebonne Distillers: Enjoy weekend live music, comedy nights, and other events.

Festivals and Events

• Houma Mardi Gras Celebration: Experience two weeks of colorful parades, live music, and delicious Cajun food.
• Rougarou Fest: A festival celebrating local culture and folklore.
• Bayou Arts Fest: A celebration of local art and creativity.
• Bayou Terrebonne Boucherie: A traditional event showcasing local cuisine and culture.

Insider Tips

Dining

• Houma Crawfish Trail: Sample Louisiana crawfish at over 30 destinations, from seafood markets to local Cajun restaurants. Collect receipts to earn a Crawfish Trail T-shirt.
• Cajun Critters: A top-rated, family-friendly seafood restaurant serving a variety of Cajun dishes.

Exploring the Area

• Wetlands Cultural Byway: Take a scenic drive through the winding roadways of Terrebonne Parish to see historic towns and villages.
• PAC Kayak Rentals: Rent kayaks and explore the waterways of Pointe-aux-Chenes, a prominent Native American fishing community.

Local Activities

• Down the Bayou Shrimp Tours: Learn about the seafood industry from a multigenerational family business and enjoy a fresh seafood meal.
• Downtown Houma Makers Market at the Library: Visit the market every Tuesday for local crafts and goods.

Seasonal Tips

• Fishing: Houma is a year-round hotspot for anglers, with over 50 species of fish available. Book a tour with local charter fishing providers for the best experience.
• Birding: With over 400 species of birds, Houma is ideal for birding. Visit refuges and sanctuaries along the Terrebonne Loop.

By sharing these attractions and tips, you can help your Airbnb guests have a memorable and enriching experience in Houma, Louisiana.

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

To ensure the success of a short-term rental business in Houma, Louisiana, several practical tips can be implemented. First, it is crucial to address noise regulations by informing guests about quiet hours to maintain a respectful environment for both the guests and the local community. This can be done through clear communication in the rental listing and a welcome message upon arrival.

Creating a comprehensive digital and physical house manual is also essential. This manual should include detailed instructions on how to use appliances, Wi-Fi passwords, and other important information about the property. This helps in reducing the number of inquiries and issues that guests might encounter.

Streamlining the check-in process is another key aspect. Utilizing smart locks can eliminate the need for physical key exchanges, making the arrival process smoother and more convenient for guests. Additionally, providing parking instructions accompanied by photos can help guests navigate the property easily and avoid any potential confusion.

By implementing these strategies, hosts can enhance the guest experience, reduce potential issues, and maintain a positive reputation in the competitive Houma short-term rental market.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning, repair, and maintenance providers in Houma, Louisiana:

House Cleaning Services

• ServiceMaster Quality Services: Offers commercial and residential cleaning, including janitorial services, window washing, hardwood floor cleaning, tile and grout cleaning, carpet cleaning, and post-construction cleanup.
• Geaux Maids: Provides house cleaning services in Houma and surrounding areas, including eco-friendly cleaning, background-checked employees, and a 200% satisfaction guarantee.
• Various House Cleaners listed on Angi: A list of top-rated house cleaners in Houma, offering services such as standard cleaning, deep cleaning, and move-in/move-out cleaning.
• Various House Cleaners listed on Care.com: Affordable house cleaning options in Houma, with services starting at $19.75/hr.
• Various House Cleaners listed on Thumbtack: A definitive list of Houma's house cleaning services rated by the local community.

Note

While the sources primarily focus on house cleaning services, ServiceMaster Quality Services also offers some maintenance-related services such as floor maintenance and post-construction cleanup, but they do not provide repair services. For repair services, you may need to look into separate providers not listed here.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Houma, Louisiana: A Range of 10%-30% of Rental Revenue

In Houma, Louisiana, the fees for managing short-term rentals 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 comprehensive tasks such as guest communication, marketing, and maintenance, tends to be on the higher end of this spectrum, often starting at around 20% of the revenue.

Basic services, which may include fewer responsibilities, can cost less, with some companies starting their fees at around 15%. Additionally, property owners may incur extra fees for services like cleaning, repairs, or design, which can further impact the overall cost of management. Understanding these fee structures is crucial for property owners to make informed decisions about how to manage their short-term rental properties effectively.