Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Jacksonville Beach Florida.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Jacksonville, Florida for 2024

Zoning and Permit Requirements

• Short-term rentals (defined as rentals under 30 nights) are only allowed in the Commercial Zone and Historic Core Zone.
• A land use permit for short-term rentals is required from the City of Jacksonville Planning and Development Department.

Licensing Requirements

• Obtain a Short-Term Vacation Rental Certificate from the City of Jacksonville Planning and Development Department. This includes submitting various documents such as a boundary survey, sample lease agreement, and property compliance inspection report. The initial and annual renewal fee is $150 per property.
• Acquire a vacation rental license from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
• Obtain a business tax receipt from both Duval County and the State of Florida. The county business tax receipt serves as a local business license.

Tax Obligations

• Collect and remit 6% state sales tax, 6% county tourist development tax, and any applicable city or county occupancy taxes.

Building and Safety Standards

• Comply with minimum construction, design, and maintenance standards for buildings as specified by the Jacksonville Municipal Code Compliance Division.
• Ensure properties conform to health and safety regulations, including hygiene, general safety, and periodic inspections.

Operational Requirements

• Provide guests with a local contact person available 24/7.
• Post the short-term rental permit number and local contact information in the unit.
• Adhere to maximum occupancy limits of two adults per bedroom plus two additional adults.
• Enforce a minimum stay of one night.
• Prohibit events or parties.

Compliance and Enforcement

• The city has a dedicated Short-Term Rental Enforcement Team that investigates complaints and issues citations for violations. Hosts found operating without proper permits and licenses can face fines of up to $500 per day and potential revocation of their rental certificate.

Additional Rules

• Comply with other contracts or rules such as leases, co-op rules, or HOA rules.
• Ensure the property owner or a licensed agent is responsible for maintaining compliance with the city's short-term vacation rental standards.

Insurance Requirements

• Maintain appropriate insurance coverage for the short-term rental property.

Responsible Agent Requirements

• The Responsible Party must be at least 18 years old and be available 24/7 to address issues, respond to notifications, receive legal notices, provide lease agreements, and regularly monitor the short-term rental unit for compliance.

Top Airbnb Revenue-Generating Neighborhoods in Jacksonville, Florida

Jacksonville Beach

Why It's Appealing:

• Beachfront Charm: Jacksonville Beach is renowned for its scenic coastline, offering direct access to the beach, which is a major draw for vacationers.
• High Demand: The area experiences high demand, particularly during peak tourist seasons, with an Average Daily Rate (ADR) of $308.2 and a maximum daily rate of $329 in July.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: The neighborhood is equipped with various family-friendly amenities, including restaurants, shops, and recreational activities, making it ideal for short-term beach vacationers.

Downtown Jacksonville

Why It's Appealing:

• Urban Setting: Downtown Jacksonville offers an urban experience with business and entertainment hubs, attracting both business and leisure travelers.
• Cultural Richness: The area is rich in cultural activities, including museums, nightlife, and dining options along the St. Johns River. This includes access to the river taxi, museums, and nearby dining.
• Holiday Season Demand: Downtown sees strong demand during the holiday season, with an ADR of $224.9, making it a competitive but lucrative market.

Southbank

Why It's Appealing:

• Proximity to Attractions: Southbank is home to the Museum of Science and History, the Friendship Fountain, and the riverwalk, making it convenient for vacation-goers to stay and explore these attractions.
• Diverse Properties: The neighborhood offers a range of properties from high-rise buildings to renovated bungalows, providing various options for investors and guests.

Riverside

Why It's Appealing:

• Art and Culture: Riverside is close to the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, art galleries, antique stores, and cafes, particularly along hip St Johns Avenue.
• Historic Charm: The neighborhood, especially the Five Points area, is full of character with tree-lined streets, trendy boutiques, and the Riverside Arts Market.

San Marco

Why It's Appealing:

• Charming Location: San Marco is known for its historic charm, great restaurants, and emerging bars and breweries. It is close to downtown but offers a distinct and charming atmosphere.
• Dining and Nightlife: The neighborhood's dining district and interesting boutiques make it a desirable location for guests looking for a mix of urban and charming experiences.

Springfield

Why It's Appealing:

• Historic Appeal: Springfield is Jacksonville's oldest neighborhood, offering unique, turn-of-the-century properties and a strong connection to the city's history.
• Revitalization: The area is undergoing revitalization, making it an up-and-coming spot for short-term rentals with a blend of historic charm and modern appeal.

Each of these neighborhoods offers distinct advantages that attract different types of guests, from beach lovers to those interested in urban, cultural, and historic experiences.

Crafting an Inviting Jacksonville Beach Airbnb: Design and Furnishing Tips

To create an Airbnb in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, that reflects the city's unique style and allure, consider the following tips:

Embrace the Coastal Vibe

• Incorporate a color palette that mirrors the ocean and beach, such as blues, whites, and sandy neutrals.
• Use natural materials like wicker, rattan, and driftwood to add a coastal touch.
• Hang nautical-themed decor, such as anchors, ropes, and seashells, to enhance the beachy atmosphere.

Local Inspiration

• Draw inspiration from Jacksonville Beach's history and culture. For example, incorporate elements that reflect the city's musical heritage, such as Lynyrd Skynyrd memorabilia.
• Add local artwork or prints that depict the area's unique landscapes, like Boneyard Beach or the Jacksonville Beach Pier.

Casual yet Elegant

• Reflect the city's super-casual atmosphere by using comfortable, laid-back furniture. Think plush sofas, hammocks, and beachy chairs.
• Balance casual elements with elegant touches, such as polished wood accents or stylish lighting fixtures, to create a welcoming and refined space.

Outdoor Living

• Since Jacksonville Beach is known for its beautiful outdoors, ensure your Airbnb has a well-furnished outdoor space. This could include a patio, deck, or even a small garden.
• Add outdoor furniture that is weather-resistant and comfortable, such as wicker sets or hammocks.

Nature-Inspired Accents

• Bring the outdoors in by incorporating natural elements like live oak or pine tree branches, and potted plants native to the area.
• Use textiles and rugs with natural fibers and earthy tones to maintain the organic feel.

Functional and Family-Friendly

• Ensure the space is family-friendly by including amenities like a playground or a game room if possible.
• Provide functional items such as beach gear (surfboards, boogie boards, beach chairs), bicycles, and picnic sets to encourage guests to explore the local area.

Local Craft Beer and Dining Culture

• Celebrate the local craft beer scene by offering a selection of beers from local breweries like Engine 15 Brewing or Southern Swells.
• Include a dining area that reflects the local culinary culture, with recommendations for nearby restaurants and cafes.

Historical and Cultural Touches

• Visit local historical sites like the Kingsley Plantation or the Timucuan Ecological & Historical Preserve for inspiration on historical decor.
• Add books, maps, or other educational materials about the area's history and ecology to enrich the guest experience.

Lighting and Textiles

• Use soft, warm lighting to mimic the sunsets and beachy ambiance of Jacksonville Beach.
• Choose textiles with coastal patterns such as stripes, anchors, or tropical prints to add a touch of the beach to every room.

By incorporating these elements, you can create an Airbnb that not only feels welcoming but also authentically reflects the unique charm and character of Jacksonville Beach.

Discovering Jacksonville Beach: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Local Attractions

Beaches and Water Activities

• Jacksonville Beach Pier: A quarter-mile pier jutting into the Atlantic Ocean, perfect for fishing, sunrise watching, and scenic views.
• Hanna Park: A 1.5-mile public beach and city park with 447 acres of mature coastal hammock, offering hiking, fishing, biking, boating, swimming, and surfing.
• Little Talbot Island State Park: A stunning barrier island with trails, shells, and crashing waves, just a short drive away.

Museums and History

• Beaches Museum: A free museum focusing on the history of Jacksonville Beach and its surrounding communities, including music and Native American history.
• Visitor Center at the Beaches Museum: Local experts available to answer questions about the area.

Nature and Parks

• Cradle Creek Preserve: A nature spot with a 30-minute loop trail, featuring birds, turtles, and Spanish moss-laden trees.
• Castaway Island Preserve: A calming wetland area with well-maintained trails.

Entertainment and Leisure

• Adventure Landing: An amusement park offering mini golf, go-kart rides, laser tag, and more.
• Jacksonville Beach Golf Club: A renovated golf course known for its great landscaping and challenging setup.
• TPC Sawgrass: A championship golf course, home to the THE PLAYERS Championship Tournament.

Food and Drink

• Local Breweries: Visit Engine 15 Brewing, Southern Swells, and Ink Factory Brewing for a variety of beers and beer-making classes.
• Freebird Cafe: Although closed, it was a historic music venue; consider other local eateries and bars along the boardwalk.

Insider Tips

Accessibility

• Wheelchair Accessible Locations: Check the city's maps for wheelchair-accessible locations and restrooms.

Events and Activities

• Sunrise Stroll on the Boardwalk: Enjoy a romantic walk along the boardwalk between the Atlantic Ocean and 1st Street, filled with shops, restaurants, and hotels.
• Fishing and Water Sports: Engage in surfing, boogie boarding, and fishing off the beaches and pier.

Historical Landmarks

• Casa Marina Hotel: A Mission-style hotel added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1993.
• American Red Cross Volunteer Life Saving Corps Station: An Art Moderne style lifeguard station added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2014.

Community Engagement

• Community Center and Exhibition Hall: Discover local events and exhibitions at the Community Center.

By providing these recommendations, your guests can fully immerse themselves in the rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture of Jacksonville Beach.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short Term Rental Business in Jacksonville Beach, Florida

To ensure a smooth and successful short-term rental business in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, several practical tips can be implemented:

Noise Regulations and Guest Communication

Inform your guests about quiet hours and noise regulations to maintain a peaceful environment for both the guests and the neighbors. Include this information in your digital and physical house manual to set clear expectations from the outset.

Comprehensive House Manual

Create a detailed digital and physical house manual that includes essential instructions, such as Wi-Fi passwords, appliance usage, and emergency contact information. This manual should also cover house rules, waste management, and safety procedures to ensure guests are well-informed and compliant with local regulations.

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 access the property, and consider sending a welcome message with all the necessary details before their arrival.

Parking Instructions

Include detailed parking instructions in your house manual, accompanied by photos to help guests identify the designated parking areas. This can prevent confusion and potential issues with neighbors or local authorities.

By implementing these strategies, you can enhance the guest experience, reduce potential issues, and ensure your short-term rental business in Jacksonville Beach operates smoothly and successfully.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning providers in and around Jacksonville Beach, Florida:

House Cleaning Services

The Cleaning Authority

• Provides detailed house cleaning using the Detail-Clean Rotation System.
• Serves Jacksonville, St. Johns, Ponte Vedra Beach, Jacksonville Beach, and surrounding areas.
• Fully bonded and insured, with a focus on environmentally responsible products.

Merry Maids

• Offers home cleaning services with a free estimate.
• Guarantees their cleaning services for customer satisfaction.
• Serves the Jacksonville area, including Jacksonville Beach.

First Coast Home Pros

• Provides professional housekeeping and maid services.
• Offers various cleaning schedules, including weekly, biweekly, and monthly appointments.
• Services include deep cleaning, move-out and move-in cleaning, and construction cleanup.
• Serves Jacksonville and surrounding areas, including Jacksonville Beach.

As You Like It Housekeeping Referral Agency, Inc.

• Refers independent housekeepers for various tasks including laundry, errands, organizational projects, and light yard work.
• Serves Jacksonville, Orange Park, and the Beaches, including Jacksonville Beach.

These services cater to different needs and preferences, ensuring a range of options for residents in Jacksonville Beach.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Jacksonville Beach, Florida: A Comprehensive Guide

Managing short-term rentals in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, involves a range of fees that can vary significantly based on the level of service provided. Typically, management fees for short-term rentals in this area range from 10% to 30% of the rental revenue. Full-service management companies, such as Awning and Summer, which handle all aspects including guest communication, marketing, booking management, and maintenance, tend to charge on the higher end of this spectrum, often starting at 15% to 20% of revenue.

Basic services, which may include only the essential management tasks like listing creation and booking management, can be more affordable, with fees starting as low as 10%. Additionally, property owners may incur extra fees for cleaning services, repairs, and design or interior consulting, which are often charged separately or included in the overall management fee structure. Understanding these fees is crucial for property owners to maximize their rental income while ensuring compliance with local regulations and maintaining high guest satisfaction.