Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Keystone Colorado.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Keystone, Colorado for 2024

Key Regulations and Changes

Administrative Oversight

• As of October 1, 2024, the Town of Keystone will officially take over the enforcement and regulation of short-term rentals from Summit County.

Licensing

• Renewal applications for short-term rental licenses were accepted starting August 1, 2024, and must be submitted by September 30, 2024, to ensure compliance.
• New licenses can be applied for through the Town of Keystone directly between August 1 and September 30, 2024.
• The license fee for both renewals and new licenses is set at $285, aligning with Summit County's fees for the resort overlay zone.

Regulatory Framework

• The regulations adopted by the Town of Keystone on June 25, 2024, are largely similar to those of Summit County.
• Keystone is designated as a "resort overlay zone," meaning there are no caps on the number of short-term rental licenses available.

Compliance and Enforcement

• Property owners must keep physical copies of the required materials in their properties and update any postings accordingly.
• The Town of Keystone has established a complaint hotline and an online complaint form for reporting issues related to short-term rentals.

Public Outreach and Future Changes

• The Town Council plans to conduct extensive public outreach to review and potentially amend the short-term rental regulations in the future.

Operational Requirements

• Short-term rental operators must address any code violations within one hour of being notified by the enforcement agent.
• A 24/7 hotline will be available for reporting issues such as trash, parking, or noise violations.

Taxes

• The Town of Keystone does not have a lodging tax, unlike some other areas in Summit County.

General Guidelines

• All short-term rental properties must receive a license prior to advertising or operation.
• Owners must comply with the Good Neighbor Guidelines to ensure the community remains safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Title: Top Neighborhoods for Airbnb Revenue in Keystone, Colorado, and Their Appeal to Guests

Neighborhoods Generating the Most Airbnb Revenue in Keystone

1. Keystone Resort Area

• Appeal: This area is highly sought after due to its proximity to the ski slopes, allowing guests to enjoy ski-in/ski-out convenience. The resort offers a range of amenities, including dining, shopping, and entertainment options, making it an ideal location for both winter and summer activities.

2. River Run Village

• Appeal: Located at the base of the Keystone Resort, River Run Village offers easy access to the gondola and other resort amenities. Guests appreciate the vibrant atmosphere, complete with shops, restaurants, and bars, all within walking distance.

3. Mountain House Base Area

• Appeal: This area is another popular spot due to its close proximity to the Mountain House ski lifts and the variety of family-friendly activities available. It offers a more laid-back atmosphere while still being conveniently located near the resort's main amenities.

4. East Keystone and Settlers Creek

• Appeal: These neighborhoods are appealing for guests looking for a slightly more secluded experience while still being within a short drive to the resort. They offer a mix of condominiums and single-family homes, often with amenities like hot tubs and scenic views.

Why These Neighborhoods Are Appealing

• High Occupancy Rates: Neighborhoods like the Keystone Resort Area and River Run Village have high occupancy rates, often above 58%, indicating strong demand and appeal to guests.
• Proximity to Amenities: The close proximity to ski lifts, dining, shopping, and entertainment options makes these areas highly desirable for guests seeking convenience and an immersive resort experience.
• Variety of Accommodations: From entire homes to condominiums, these neighborhoods offer a range of accommodation types, catering to different group sizes and preferences.
• Scenic Views and Activities: The scenic views, access to outdoor activities, and the overall mountain resort experience are key factors that attract guests to these neighborhoods in Keystone, Colorado.

Furnishing and Design Tips for an Inviting Airbnb in Keystone, Colorado

Understanding the Local Style and Market

• Keystone, Colorado, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, so focus on amenities and designs that enhance the outdoor and relaxing experiences.

Choosing the Right Furniture

• Opt for high-quality, comfortable, and stylish furniture. Statement pieces like couches, coffee tables, and dining room tables are crucial for defining the space.
• Avoid overly generic items from places like IKEA and Target; instead, choose unique pieces that reflect the local aesthetic.

Design Elements

• Incorporate rustic mountain decor, natural wood finishes, stone elements, and cozy textiles to create a mountain lodge atmosphere.
• Use neutral color palettes with bright accents to reflect the natural surroundings and foster a warm atmosphere.

Essential Amenities

• Include modern amenities such as air conditioning, high-speed internet, and well-equipped kitchens to enhance guest satisfaction.
• Features like fireplaces, hot tubs, and outdoor spaces with scenic views are highly desirable.

Local and Cultural Touches

• Incorporate local art and design elements to provide a unique and culturally rich experience for guests.

Practical Considerations

• Ensure you have ample supplies of towels, sheets, tableware, and cutlery. These are essential for short-term rentals.
• Consider the need for duplicate items to ensure guest comfort and convenience.

Seasonal and Activity-Oriented Furnishings

• Include amenities like ski storage and game rooms to cater to guests' outdoor and recreational activities.
• Ensure the space is adaptable for both winter and summer activities, reflecting the seasonal changes in Keystone.

Compliance with Local Regulations

• Be aware of and comply with Keystone's short-term rental regulations, including registration requirements and guest limits.

Maintenance and Upkeep

• Regularly update and maintain the furnishings to keep the space fresh and inviting. This can include periodic renovations and updates to furniture and decor.

By following these tips, you can create an inviting Airbnb space in Keystone, Colorado, that reflects the city's unique style and meets the expectations of outdoor enthusiasts and vacationers.

Discover Keystone, Colorado: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Local Attractions

Winter Activities

• Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding: Enjoy the vast ski area at Keystone Resort, spanning 2,870 acres with 131 trails and 20 lifts, including night skiing.
• Snow Tubing: Experience mountaintop snow tubing at Adventure Point Tubing Hill, with six lanes and nighttime tubing options.
• Ice Skating: Skate at one of the two outdoor rinks located at Dercum Square in River Run Village and Lakeside Village.
• Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing: Explore the Keystone Nordic Center with over 10 miles of groomed trails and 24 miles of backcountry slopes.
• Sleigh Rides: Take a scenic horse-drawn sleigh ride through the town, ending with a dinner at a designated location.

Summer Activities

• Hiking: Hike various trails such as Loveland Pass, Hoosier Pass, the Colorado Trail, Mohawk Lakes, and Sapphire Point at Swan Mountain.
• Mountain Biking: Enjoy downhill and cross-country mountain biking with trails suitable for all skill levels.
• Golfing: Play at the Keystone Ranch or Keystone River Courses, or visit the nearby Raven Golf Course in Silverthorne.
• Paddle Boating and Kayaking: Rent paddleboats, stand-up paddleboards, or kayaks at Keystone Lake or Lake Dillon.
• Gondola Rides: Take a gondola ride up Dercum Mountain for spectacular views and enjoy the Friday Afternoon Club with free gondola rides, yard games, and live music.

Year-Round Attractions

• Keystone River Run Village: Explore the heart of Keystone with dining options, boutique shops, and lakeside activities. Don’t miss the large outdoor fire pit for roasting s’mores.
• Keystone Lake: Enjoy paddleboating, kayaking, or simply take in the beautiful mountain views.
• Keystone Stables: Go on horseback trail rides or let the kids enjoy a pony ride.

Insider Tips

Getting Around

• Use the shuttle service from the airport to River Run Village for convenient transportation.

Dining and Shopping

• Take advantage of the various dining options in River Run Village and Lakeside Village.
• Shop for gear and souvenirs at stores like The North Face, Keystone Sports River Run, and The Kids Cabin.

Family-Friendly Activities

• Participate in Kidtopia events, which include face painting, stargazing, and learning about plants.
• Visit the snow forts at Dercum Mountain, perfect for family fun.

Special Events

• Check out the summer festivals and events, including the Friday Afternoon Club and farmer’s markets in Dillon and Breckenridge.

Outdoor Adventures

• Go white water rafting on one of the six nearby rivers, offering trips from kid-friendly float trips to action-packed whitewater adventures.
• Take a scenic drive up Loveland Pass for stunning views of the Continental Divide.

Relaxation

• Warm up and relax at the Keystone Spa with full body massages, customized facials, and other treatments.

By providing these local attractions and insider tips, your Airbnb guests will have a comprehensive guide to make the most of their visit to Keystone, Colorado.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short Term Rental Business in Keystone, 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 Keystone, Colorado.

Noise Regulations and Guest Communication

Inform your guests about quiet hours and noise regulations to maintain a harmonious environment. Include this information in your digital and physical house manual, and consider posting reminders 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 details. This manual should cover everything from appliance usage to emergency contact information.

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 them a welcome message with all the necessary details.

Parking Instructions

Include detailed parking instructions in your house manual, accompanied by photos to help guests navigate the parking area easily. This can help prevent parking issues and ensure a smooth arrival experience.

By implementing these strategies, you can enhance guest satisfaction, reduce potential issues, and maintain a positive reputation for your short-term rental business in Keystone, Colorado.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning, repair, and maintenance providers in Keystone, Colorado:

Team Clean

• Provides residential and commercial cleaning services
• Specializes in move out cleaning, vacation home cleaning, and laundry services
• Offers handyman services for tasks like changing lightbulbs and replacing door knobs.

Cleaning Management

• Full-service cleaning company specializing in owner-managed vacation rental properties
• Services include housekeeping, full service cleaning, 24-hour emergency service, linens and towels, and handyman services
• Also provides guest services such as check-in/check-out inspections and key control.

Sparkling and Beyond

• Professional cleaning company offering deep cleaning and regular maintenance services
• Uses state-of-the-art equipment and focuses on tasks like scrubbing bathrooms, dusting shelves, and vacuuming floors.

Exclusive Cleaning and Restoration

• Provides cleaning services for residential, commercial, and vacation rental properties
• Specializes in custom cleaning, carpet cleaning, tile cleaning, granite cleaning, upholstery cleaning, and mattress cleaning
• Offers services such as move in/out cleans, spring cleaning, deep cleans, and construction clean-ups.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Keystone, Colorado: A Breakdown of Costs and Services

In Keystone, Colorado, short-term rental management fees can vary significantly, typically ranging from 10% to 30% of the rental revenue, depending on the level of service chosen. Full-service management companies, such as those offered by SC Mountain Retreats and SummitCove Property Management, provide comprehensive services including guest communication, marketing, and maintenance, and these tend to be on the higher end of the fee spectrum, often between 15% to 30%.

Basic service packages, which may include only essential services like property listing and guest check-in, are generally less expensive. Additionally, property owners may incur extra fees for services such as cleaning, repairs, and design upgrades. For instance, cleaning services can start at $79 per reservation, and maintenance or emergency services may be charged at an hourly rate. The annual short-term rental license fee in Keystone, which remains at $285, is also a consideration for property owners.