Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Kennebuck Maine.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Kennebunk, Maine for 2025

Effective January 1, 2025

Registration Requirements

• Any person seeking to operate a short-term rental unit must register the unit with the Town Clerk’s office.
• Registration must include the street address, unit number (if applicable), tax map and lot number, and the owner’s name, address, telephone number, and email address.

Inspection and Safety

• Short-term rental units must undergo an inspection by the Kennebunk Fire Department to ensure compliance with applicable fire prevention and life safety requirements.
• If the unit fails to meet these requirements, no registration will be issued until the issues are resolved to the satisfaction of the Fire Chief or designee.

Fees

• A $250 registration fee is required for each short-term rental unit.

Licensing and Advertising

• Upon successful inspection, the Town Clerk will issue a numbered registration that must be displayed in the short-term rental unit and used in all advertising for the unit.
• The registration number remains the same during each renewal.

Good Neighbor Policy

• The Town will develop a Good Neighbor Policy, which must be given to operators of short-term rental units and provided to renters.

Enforcement and Penalties

• Violations of applicable fire prevention and life safety requirements will be enforced, with penalties for non-compliance.

Renewal and Transfer

• Annual registration renewal is required by January 1 of each year, with a new inspection necessary for each renewal.
• Any change in ownership or management requires a new registration, but not a new fire inspection until the next renewal.

General Provisions

• Short-term rentals are defined as any dwelling unit or accessory dwelling unit rented for less than 15 consecutive days.
• There are currently no limits on the number of renters allowed at a property.

Top Neighborhoods for Airbnb Revenue in Kennebunk, Maine

1. Kennebunk (near Dock Square)

• This area is highly appealing due to its proximity to Dock Square, which offers fantastic food, shopping, and entertainment options. The Gatehouse, a Cape-style home and one of the best rentable Airbnb beach houses in America according to Conde Nast Traveler, is located here. It features a private sylvan oasis, a fire pit, and a deck perfect for gatherings.

2. Kennebunkport (near Goose Rocks Beach)

• This neighborhood is popular for its close proximity to Goose Rocks Beach and other local beaches. Properties like the Unique Home with a Pizza Oven and the Sandpiper Cottage at Goose Rocks Beach are favorites among guests due to their quiet, private locations and amenities such as fire pits, hot tubs, and easy access to the beach.

3. Kennebunkport (near Mother's Beach and Middle Beach)

• This area attracts guests with its family-friendly beaches and scenic trails. Homes like the Kennebunk Cottage, which is close to Mother's Beach and the Mousam River, offer ideal locations for activities like stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing.

4. Kennebunkport (near Gooch’s Beach)

• Properties in this neighborhood are highly rated for their location, with some being just a short walk to Gooch’s Beach. The 350 Steps to Gooch’s Beach listing is a prime example, offering a sunny and cheerful space with a large back deck and beach chairs/towels provided.

5. Arundel (near Cape Arundel Golf Course)

• This area is appealing for its panoramic views of the Cape Arundel Golf Course and its secluded, private settings. The Cape Arundel Cottage, with its fully equipped kitchen and cozy furnishings, is a favorite among guests seeking a peaceful and scenic stay.

These neighborhoods are highly sought after due to their excellent locations, cleanliness, and a range of amenities that cater to different types of guests, whether they are families, couples, or solo travelers.

Creating an Inviting Airbnb in Kennebunk, Maine: Design and Furnishing Tips

Neighborhood and Location Considerations

• Invest in properties located in the historic district, near Kennebunk Beach, or in the vicinity of Dock Square to capitalize on the town's charm and tourist attractions.

Design and Furnishing Styles

• Incorporate coastal themes featuring shades of blue, white, and natural textures to connect guests with the seaside ambiance.
• Use farmhouse styles with rustic elements such as reclaimed wood and distressed finishes to create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
• Incorporate vintage or antique furnishings to add historical significance and character to the space.

Outdoor Spaces

• Include outdoor spaces like decks, gardens, and patios to take advantage of the area's natural beauty and outdoor activities.
• Consider rooftop views that showcase the coastal scenery for an added appeal.

Amenities and Modern Conveniences

• Provide amenities such as cozy fireplaces, access to bicycles, and beach gear to enhance the local lifestyle experience.
• Combine modern conveniences like updated kitchens and smart home technology with rustic charm to elevate guest satisfaction.

Attention to Detail

• Ensure the entryway makes a positive first impression by providing welcoming elements such as thoughtful decor and amenities.
• Focus on lighting control in the living room with lamps and dimmer switches to create a comfortable atmosphere.
• Use high-quality bedding, pillows with different fill options, and blackout shades to ensure a luxurious bedroom experience.

Living Room Layout

• Design the living room to evoke conversation and accommodate various activities, such as reading nooks and swivel chairs.
• Include occasional tables and comfortable seating options like poufs to enhance guest comfort.

Luxury Touches

• Offer luxurious touches such as high-thread-count linens and stylish living room setups to differentiate your Airbnb and attract repeat bookings.
• Provide extra layers of bedding and ensure temperature control options like ceiling fans to cater to different guest preferences.

Integration with Local Lifestyle

• Equip the property with amenities that allow guests to fully experience the local lifestyle, such as bicycles, beach gear, and access to local attractions.
• Ensure the property is well-maintained and reflects the town's heritage and coastal appeal through its design and furnishings.

Discovering Kennebunk, Maine: Local Attractions and Insider Tips for Airbnb Hosts

Local Attractions

Beaches

• Gooch's Beach, Middle Beach, and Mother's Beach: Enjoy long, wide sandy beaches perfect for walking, sunbathing, and playing in the surf. These beaches are connected by sidewalks and are dog-friendly.
• Colony, Parson’s, and Mother’s Beaches: Popular spots in the Kennebunk area for beach activities and water sports.

Outdoor Activities

• Kennebunk River and Mousam River: Engage in kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and scenic boat tours. Fishing and shellfishing are also available with the necessary licenses.
• Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge: Explore the natural habitats and wildlife of the area.
• Kennebunk Plains (Blueberry Plains): Hike through 1,500 acres of nature trails and blueberry fields.

Historical Sites

• Museum in the Streets: A self-guided walking tour with 25 historical panels showcasing the history and architecture of Kennebunk.
• Brick Store Museum: A community staple since 1936, featuring exhibits on shipbuilding, shipwrecks, and local history.
• Wedding Cake House: A Federal-style dwelling with unique scroll saw Gothic trim, a must-see historical landmark.

Other Points of Interest

• Lower Village: Walk through fine art galleries, shops, and cafes, and explore tour vendors for scenic boat tours and fishing charters.
• Main Street Historical District: Stroll down York/Main Street and see modern businesses in historic buildings.
• Hope Cemetery & Woods: A 75-acre nature trail and cemetery with historical significance.

Insider Tips

Getting Around

• Intown Trolley: Use the trolley to travel between Kennebunk and Kennebunkport, leaving your car behind.
• Parking: Inform guests that parking permits are required for beach parking and can be obtained at the Town Hall.

Dining

• Local Seafood: Recommend restaurants like Alisson’s Restaurant in Kennebunkport and HB Provisions in Kennebunk for delicious seafood and lobster rolls.
• Farm-to-Fork: Suggest Earth at Hidden Pond for a unique farm-to-fork dining experience.

Seasonal Activities

• Summer Events: Inform guests about fireworks on July 4th at the beach and the availability of lifeguards from Memorial Day through Columbus Day.
• Winter Activities: Mention the free covered ice skating at the Waterhouse Center and the Kennebunk Artisans Marketplace from May to October.

Local Culture

• Kennebunkport Christmas Prelude: If visiting in December, highlight this two-week event voted the 2nd Best Christmas Town in America by HGTV.

Additional Tips

• Pronunciation: Let guests know the correct pronunciation of Kennebunkport is “Ken-KNEE-bunk-port” to help them blend in with locals.
• Dog-Friendly: Inform guests that Kennebunk's beaches are dog-friendly, but to check the Dog Advisory Committee's guidelines.

By providing these local attractions and insider tips, you can enhance your guests' experience and make their stay in Kennebunk, Maine, truly memorable.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short-Term Rental Business in Kennebunk, Maine

To ensure a smooth and successful short-term rental business in Kennebunk, Maine, several key practices should be implemented, especially given the new ordinance effective January 1, 2025.

Noise Regulations and Guest Communication

Inform your guests about the town's noise regulations and quiet hours through a clear "Good Neighbor Policy" as required by the ordinance. This policy should be provided to guests upon check-in to prevent disturbances and ensure compliance with local rules.

Comprehensive House Manual

Create both digital and physical house manuals that include essential instructions, such as Wi-Fi passwords, appliance usage, and emergency contact information. This manual will help guests navigate the property easily and reduce the need for frequent owner intervention.

Simplified Check-in Process

Utilize smart locks to streamline the check-in process, eliminating the need for physical key exchanges. Provide guests with detailed instructions on how to access the property, along with photos of the lock and any other relevant entry points.

Parking Instructions

Include detailed parking instructions with photos in your house manual to avoid confusion. This is particularly important if parking spaces are limited or have specific regulations.

By following these tips, you can enhance the guest experience, ensure compliance with local regulations, and maintain a positive reputation for your short-term rental business in Kennebunk, Maine.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning providers in Kennebunk, Maine:

House Cleaning Providers in Kennebunk, Maine

Ace of Maids

• A green cleaning company using Norwex products exclusively.
• Offers residential, commercial, restaurant, and office cleaning services, including move-in/move-out, rental, Airbnb, and post-construction cleaning.
• Known for professionalism, efficiency, and exceptional results.

East Coast Property Services LLC

• Provides high-quality residential and commercial cleaning services in York County, including Kennebunk.
• Offers recurring maid services, deep home cleaning, and move-in/move-out cleaning.
• Fully licensed, bonded, and insured with background-checked staff.

Marina Cleaning Services, Inc.

• Offers personalized and quality cleaning services for homes, offices, seasonal cottages, and retail facilities.
• Provides initial deep cleaning and regular scheduled cleanings, with a focus on clear communication and meticulous attention to detail.
• Fully equipped, insured, and staffed with employees who undergo pre-employment screening and background checks.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Kennebunk, Maine

In Kennebunk, Maine, the management fees for short-term rentals can vary significantly based on the level of service provided. Full-service management, which includes comprehensive tasks such as guest communication, marketing, and maintenance, typically ranges from 15% to 30% of the rental revenue. This higher end of the spectrum is justified by the extensive range of services offered, ensuring that the property is well-maintained, fully furnished, and optimally marketed to attract guests. On the other hand, basic services may incur lower fees. Additionally, property owners may need to account for extra fees related to cleaning, repairs, or design enhancements, which can further impact the overall cost of managing a short-term rental property.