Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Lake George New York.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Lake George, New York for 2024

Permit Requirements

• Residential property owners must apply for and obtain a residential rental permit from the Planning and Zoning Office to use their dwellings for short-term rentals (30 days or less).

Permit Renewal and Fees

• The residential rental permit must be renewed annually with the Planning and Zoning Office by June 1. Late renewals will be charged double the renewal fee.

Prohibited Areas

• Short-term residential rentals are prohibited in the RS-1, RSH, RM-1, RM-2, RH, RR, and LC Districts.

Health, Safety, and Welfare

• Property owners are responsible for ensuring compliance with fire prevention and building codes, sanitary codes, and local zoning codes. They must also ensure the conduct of tenants does not harm the health, safety, and welfare of surrounding property owners and protect property values.

Septic Systems

• All on-site septic systems must be clearly identified to prevent damage. Short-term rentals with inadequate septic systems will have reduced occupancy limitations based on the septic system's capacity, calculated by bedroom count and a maximum of two persons per bedroom.

Occupancy Limitations

• Occupancy is limited based on the number of bedrooms and/or the square footage of livable space, as determined by Warren County Building Codes and Fire Prevention during property maintenance inspections.

Property Maintenance and Information

• Owners must maintain a signed residential rental permit at the premises, including information on emergency contacts, septic system details, trash disposal, and occupancy limitations.

Taxation

• Property owners must register with the Warren County Treasurer's Office and collect a 4% occupancy tax on short-term rentals. This tax must be remitted to the county, and penalties can be imposed for late or non-payment.

Statewide Regulations (Pending)

• If approved, a new state law would require property owners to register their short-term rentals with the NYS Department of State every two years. The law would also mandate the collection of sales and occupancy taxes on short-term rentals, similar to those collected for hotel stays.

Local Governance and Planning

• The Town Board has adopted strict regulations, including a moratorium on new short-term rentals, and is considering rezoning certain areas to limit short-term rental activities. Existing short-term rental businesses can continue if their permits are maintained.

Quality of Life and Community Impact

• Regulations aim to address quality of life issues, such as traffic circulation, housing availability, and community engagement. The town seeks to prevent the proliferation of houses purchased solely for commercial short-term rental purposes.

Top Neighborhoods for Airbnb Revenue in Lake George, New York

While specific neighborhood data is not provided in the sources, we can infer the most lucrative areas based on the overall appeal and amenities of various locations around Lake George.

1. Lake George Village

• Appeal: Central location, close proximity to shops, restaurants, and waterfront activities. Properties here are highly sought after due to their convenience and accessibility to key attractions.
• Revenue Potential: High occupancy rates and premium pricing due to the prime location, making it an attractive area for hosts to generate significant revenue.

2. Bolton Landing

• Appeal: Known for its scenic beauty, Bolton Landing offers easy access to boating, fishing, and other water sports. It is also close to hiking trails and ski resorts, making it a year-round destination.
• Revenue Potential: The area's diverse recreational opportunities and its proximity to Lake George Village contribute to high demand and revenue for Airbnb hosts.

3. Lake Luzerne and Surrounding Areas

• Appeal: These areas offer a mix of waterfront properties, hiking trails, and scenic views. They are popular for those seeking a more secluded yet still accessible experience.
• Revenue Potential: Properties here can command high rates due to their natural beauty and the variety of outdoor activities available, leading to substantial revenue for hosts.

4. Adirondack Park (including areas like Hadley and Chestertown)

• Appeal: Located within the Adirondack Park, these areas provide extensive opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and water sports. The natural beauty and recreational options make them highly appealing to guests.
• Revenue Potential: The consistent demand for accommodations in these areas, especially during peak seasons, ensures a high occupancy rate and significant revenue for Airbnb hosts.

Key Factors Contributing to Revenue

• High Occupancy Rates: Areas with high occupancy rates, such as Lake George Village and Bolton Landing, are more lucrative due to consistent guest demand.
• Premium Pricing: Locations with prime amenities and scenic views can command higher daily rates, increasing overall revenue.
• Year-Round Activities: Neighborhoods that offer a variety of activities across different seasons (e.g., skiing, hiking, water sports) attract guests throughout the year, ensuring steady income for hosts.

These neighborhoods are particularly appealing due to their combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and convenient access to local attractions, making them highly profitable for Airbnb hosts.

Furnishing and Design Tips for an Inviting Airbnb in Lake George, New York

Embrace Adirondack Style

• Incorporate traditional Adirondack decor, which often features natural materials like wood, stone, and earthy colors. This style is characterized by rustic yet elegant elements that blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment.

Use Local and Natural Materials

• Choose furnishings made from local woods, such as cedar or pine, to enhance the authentic Adirondack feel. Add natural textiles like wool, cotton, and linen to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Highlight the Outdoors

• Since Lake George is known for its beautiful lakes and mountains, design your space to maximize outdoor views. Use large windows, decks, and porches to bring the outdoors in and provide stunning vistas.

Cozy Fireplaces and Fire Pits

• Include a wood-burning fireplace or a fire pit to create a warm and welcoming ambiance, perfect for chilly evenings or seasonal gatherings.

Fully Equipped Kitchens

• Ensure the kitchen is well-equipped with all necessary appliances and utensils. This is particularly important in a vacation rental where guests may want to prepare meals. Incorporate local touches such as Adirondack-themed kitchenware.

Comfortable and Clean Accommodations

• Focus on cleanliness and comfort. Use high-quality bedding, fresh linens, and ensure that the space is well-maintained. Guests often appreciate the little details, such as fresh pillows and comforters.

Amenities for Outdoor Activities

• Provide amenities that cater to outdoor enthusiasts, such as kayaks, canoes, beach towels, and chairs. This will enhance the guest experience and make the most of Lake George's outdoor opportunities.

Seasonal Decor

• Adapt your decor to reflect the current season. For example, add fall foliage elements in autumn, winter decorations during the snowy months, and floral arrangements in spring and summer.

Responsive Hosting

• Ensure that you or your property manager are responsive to guest inquiries and needs. This can significantly enhance the guest experience and lead to positive reviews.

Pet-Friendly Considerations

• If your property is pet-friendly, make sure to include pet-friendly amenities such as pet beds, bowls, and a secure outdoor area. This will make your space more appealing to pet owners.

Technology and Connectivity

• Provide modern amenities like WiFi, smart TVs, and air conditioning to ensure guests have all the comforts of home while still enjoying the natural beauty of Lake George.

By following these tips, you can create an inviting and authentic Airbnb space in Lake George that reflects the unique charm and beauty of the area.

Discover the Charm of Lake George, NY: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Top Attractions

Outdoor Adventures

• Cruising Lake George: Experience the lake's beauty with historic cruises offered by the Lake George Steamboat Company. Enjoy brunch, lunch, dinner, or a fireworks show aboard a steamboat or shoreline cruiser.
• Island Camping: Explore the many islands of Lake George and enjoy a unique camping experience.
• Beaches and Water Activities: Visit Million Dollar Beach, a favorite among families, and rent boats, paddleboards, or try wakeboarding, water skiing, or fishing.
• Hiking and Waterfalls: Hike to Shelving Rock Falls, an excellent spot for birding and picnics, using the wide, former carriage road.

Amusement Parks

• Six Flags Great Escape and Hurricane Harbor: Enjoy over 135 rides, games, concerts, and events, including a 500,000-gallon wave pool and the Northeast’s first inverting virtual reality roller coaster.

Unique Experiences

• Lake George Expedition Park: Explore Dino Roar Valley with life-sized dinosaurs and visit the Magic Forest with kiddie amusement rides and magic shows.
• Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course: Challenge yourself with an adventure course featuring various obstacles and activities.
• Parasailing Adventures: Soar high above the lake with parasailing, suitable for ages six and up.

Cultural and Historical Sites

• Fort William Henry Museum: Visit this historic museum to learn about the region's rich history.
• Prospect Mountain: Drive up for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Insider Tips

Seasonal Activities

• Spring: Enjoy whitewater rafting, hiking, and visiting maple syrup producers. Beat the summer crowds at popular attractions.
• Summer: Experience weekly fireworks, lakeside music, and festive village streets. Make sure to book lodging early as it gets busy.
• Fall: Take in the beautiful fall foliage, go leaf peeping, and enjoy activities like hay rides, hot air ballooning, and horseback riding.
• Winter: Explore skiing, snowmobiling, and festive events like Winterfest, Ice Castle, and the Lake George Winter Carnival.

Local Favorites

• Dining and Shopping: Enjoy lakeside dining, visit local restaurants and bars, and shop at the Factory Outlets of Lake George or locally-owned boutiques.
• Fireworks and Cruises: Catch a fireworks cruise or a sunset dinner cruise for a magical experience.

Hidden Gems

• Railbiking: Experience railbiking through historic railways with Revolution Rail, suitable for all ages and abilities.
• Lazy River Tubing: Relax with Tubby Tubes River Co on the Lower Hudson River, just minutes from Lake George.

By sharing these attractions and insider tips with your guests, you can help them make the most of their visit to Lake George, NY.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short-Term Rental Business in Lake George, New York

To ensure a smooth and profitable short-term rental business in Lake George, New York, several key practices can make a significant difference. Here are some practical tips:

Noise Regulations and Guest Communication

Inform your guests about the strict noise regulations in Lake George, emphasizing quiet hours to avoid fines and maintain a positive relationship with the community. Include this information in both digital and physical welcome materials to ensure compliance.

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 helps guests navigate the property easily and reduces 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 clear instructions and photos of the property, including parking areas, to help guests find and access the property without hassle.

Attention to Detail

Ensure that your property is well-maintained and ready for quick turnovers, especially during peak seasons. Building relationships with local service providers, such as cleaners and maintenance personnel, can help address any issues promptly and maintain high guest satisfaction.

By implementing these strategies, you can enhance the guest experience, comply with local regulations, and maximize the profitability of your short-term rental business in Lake George.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning providers in Lake George, New York:

House Cleaning Providers

Dependable Cleaning Pros Inc.

• Offers comprehensive cleaning services for residential properties, including tile/grout cleaning, carpet cleaning, window cleaning, and more.
• Also provides services for commercial properties, rental properties, and vacation homes.

Sparkling and Beyond

• Specializes in high-quality move-in cleaning services for both houses and businesses in Lake George, NY.

Additional Resources

For individual cleaning services, you can also consider:- Local cleaning ladies listed on Care.com, with rates starting at $24.00/hr.- Top-rated house cleaners listed on Angie's List, with average costs between $30 and $50 per hour.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Lake George, New York

Managing short-term rentals in Lake George, New York, 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, which handle guest communication, marketing, and maintenance, tend to charge fees on the higher end of this spectrum, often around 20% to 25% of the rental income.

In contrast, basic services that offer fewer amenities may incur lower fees. Additional costs can include cleaning fees, which are often passed on to guests, as well as fees for repairs, design services, and other consumables. For instance, some management companies charge a consumables fee to cover items like linens, toiletries, and light bulbs.

Understanding these fee structures is crucial for property owners to maximize their revenue and ensure compliance with local regulations, which in Lake George include annual permit renewals and the collection of a 4% occupancy tax.