Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Lake Lure North Carolina.

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Lake Lure, North Carolina: Airbnb & VRBO Vacation Rental Market Overview

Lake Lure, North Carolina, is experiencing robust short-term rental performance, with a 50% average occupancy rate, a $312 daily rate, and significant revenue growth, making it an attractive destination for investors and travelers alike.

Market overview

Thriving Short-Term Rentals in Lake Lure, North Carolina

Lake Lure, North Carolina, is experiencing a robust performance in the short-term rental market. With an average occupancy rate of 50% to 53% depending on the source, and an average daily rate ranging from $241 to $312, the area is attracting a steady stream of visitors. This growth is reflected in the increasing number of active listings, which have seen an 8% rise over the past year. The high demand and favorable occupancy rates make Lake Lure an attractive destination for both travelers and investors, highlighting its potential for strong revenue generation and continued market growth.

Short Term Regulations

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Lake Lure, North Carolina for 2024

General Definitions and Requirements

  • A short-term rental in Lake Lure is defined as the rental of any portion of a single-family home, or in certain zoning districts, the rental of any portion of a duplex, for occupancy, dwelling, lodging, or sleeping for less than 30 days.

Zoning and Permits

  • Short-term rentals are allowed in most zoning districts, subject to special requirements. Owners must obtain a vacation rental operating permit, which can be applied for in person from Town Hall or online.

Occupancy and Capacity

  • Overnight occupancy cannot exceed 2 persons per bedroom plus 4 additional persons, for a total of no more than 12 persons.

Safety and Health Regulations

  • Properties must be equipped with operable smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. There must be one smoke detector per bedroom and one carbon monoxide detector per floor.

Parking

  • Parking is permitted only in designated parking areas. The number of parking spaces must comply with local regulations, typically one parking space per bedroom.

Maintenance and Cleanliness

  • Owners are responsible for removing all trash appropriately and ensuring proper trash disposal procedures.

Additional Requirements

  • Cooking facilities are not permitted in bedrooms.
  • Bedrooms and other habitable rooms must meet size, ceiling height, egress, and minimum light and ventilation requirements established in the Lake Lure Municipal Code, the North Carolina State Building Code, and the North Carolina Vacation Rental Act.

Noise and Other Ordinances

  • Properties must comply with noise ordinance hours.
  • House rules and the owner's or manager's contact information must be posted at the main entrance of the property.

Taxes

  • A North Carolina sales and occupancy tax of 13% is required in addition to the gross rent.
Neighborhood Performance

High-Revenue Airbnb Neighborhoods in Lake Lure, North Carolina

Top Areas for Airbnb Investments in Lake Lure

Here are the neighborhoods and areas in Lake Lure, North Carolina, that generate significant Airbnb revenue, along with reasons why they are appealing to guests:

Lake Lure Beach and Water Park

  • Appeal: Direct access to the lake, water park amenities, and scenic views make this area highly attractive for families and those seeking water activities.
  • Revenue Potential: High demand due to its central location and recreational facilities.

Chimney Rock State Park

  • Appeal: Proximity to the iconic Chimney Rock, hiking trails, and stunning mountain views. This area is ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Revenue Potential: Consistent demand from tourists and hikers throughout the year.

Lake Lure Flowering Bridge

  • Appeal: A picturesque and romantic spot with beautiful gardens and a historic bridge. It is a favorite among couples and those looking for a serene getaway.
  • Revenue Potential: High occupancy rates due to its unique charm and scenic beauty.

Rumbling Bald Resort on Lake Lure

  • Appeal: Offers a range of amenities including golf courses, a spa, and various recreational activities. It is a comprehensive resort experience that attracts families and groups.
  • Revenue Potential: High revenue due to the resort's extensive amenities and services.

Chimney Rock Village Riverwalk

  • Appeal: A charming village with shops, restaurants, and easy access to Chimney Rock State Park. It provides a blend of relaxation and activity.
  • Revenue Potential: Steady demand from tourists looking for a convenient and enjoyable stay.

Cedar Creek Stables

  • Appeal: For those interested in horseback riding and outdoor adventures, this area offers stables and trails, making it appealing to a niche market.
  • Revenue Potential: Consistent demand from horseback riding enthusiasts and families.

The 1927 Lake Lure Inn and Spa

  • Appeal: A historic inn with a spa, offering a luxurious and relaxing experience. It is ideal for couples and those seeking a high-end getaway.
  • Revenue Potential: High revenue due to its luxury amenities and historical charm.

Lake Lure Adventure Company

  • Appeal: Provides various adventure activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and zip-lining. This area is perfect for adventure seekers.
  • Revenue Potential: High demand from guests looking for active vacations.

Dittmer-Watts Nature Trail Park

  • Appeal: A nature trail park that offers hiking and scenic views, appealing to nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
  • Revenue Potential: Steady demand from hikers and nature enthusiasts.

These areas are highly appealing due to their unique attractions, amenities, and scenic beauty, making them prime locations for generating significant Airbnb revenue in Lake Lure, North Carolina.

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Design Tips

Crafting an Inviting Airbnb in Lake Lure, North Carolina: Design and Furnishing Tips

Emphasize Outdoor Living

  • Incorporate multiple outdoor living areas, such as decks, patios, and fire pits, to take advantage of Lake Lure's scenic views and natural beauty.
  • Include outdoor furniture that is durable, comfortable, and stylish, ensuring guests can enjoy the outdoors in all seasons.

Highlight Waterfront and Mountain Views

  • Optimize the layout to maximize views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Use large windows, sliding glass doors, and strategically placed seating areas to enhance the visual appeal.

Cozy and Inviting Interiors

  • Use rustic, natural materials such as wood and stone to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that reflects the area's rustic charm.
  • Incorporate cozy elements like fireplaces, hot tubs, and plush bedding to make the space feel comfortable and relaxing.

Family-Friendly Amenities

  • Include amenities such as game rooms, pool tables, foosball, and outdoor games to cater to families and larger groups.
  • Ensure there are ample spaces for socializing and family activities.

Modern yet Rustic Decor

  • Balance modern furnishings with rustic decor to create a unique and inviting space. This can include contemporary furniture with natural textures and local artwork.
  • Update bathrooms, kitchens, and flooring to modern standards while maintaining the rustic charm of the area.

Proximity to Amenities

  • Choose locations that are close to local attractions such as Rumbling Bald Resort, Chimney Rock, and the lake itself. This enhances the convenience and appeal of the property.

Pet-Friendly Considerations

  • For pet-friendly rentals, ensure there are suitable areas for pets, such as large yards or pet-friendly decks. Also, provide pet amenities like bowls and towels.

Technology and Connectivity

  • Include modern amenities like WiFi, smart TVs, and streaming services to keep guests connected and entertained.

Seasonal and Local Touches

  • Add seasonal decorations and local touches to make the space feel more personalized and connected to the community. For example, decorate for Christmas in December or incorporate local artwork and crafts.

By following these tips, you can create an Airbnb in Lake Lure that is not only inviting but also reflective of the area's unique style and natural beauty.

Insider Tips

Discovering Lake Lure, North Carolina: Local Attractions and Insider Tips for Airbnb Hosts

Local Attractions

Outdoor Adventures

  • Hiking Trails: Explore the Buffalo Creek Trail, a 3.5-mile pet-friendly loop, or the Youngs Mountain Trail, a 4.5-mile loop with stunning views.
  • Mountain Biking and Rock Climbing: Enjoy thrilling mountain bike rides or rock climbing at Rumbling Bald Trail, part of Chimney Rock State Park.
  • Water Activities: Engage in kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing, or rent boats from Lake Lure Tours or Lake Lure Adventure Company.

Scenic Spots

  • Chimney Rock State Park: Witness breathtaking views from the top of Chimney Rock and explore natural formations like Devil’s Head Rock.
  • Lake Lure Flowering Bridge: Although recently damaged by flooding, this unique bridge is a must-see for its gardens and scenic views (check current status before visiting).
  • Town Center Walkway: Walk along the lake and enjoy spectacular mountain views extending 3/4 of a mile by Morse Park, the Marina, and the beach.

Family-Friendly Activities

  • Lake Lure Beach and Water Park: Enjoy a wide sandy beach, waterslide, and water park amenities during the summer months.
  • The Right Track Toy Train Museum: An interactive museum with a large display of toy train memorabilia, perfect for children and adults alike.

Cultural and Historical Sites

  • Dirty Dancing Festival: Attend the annual festival honoring the movie "Dirty Dancing," which was partially filmed here.
  • Lake Lure Tours: Take a guided boat tour to see filming locations and local landmarks.

Insider Tips

Getting Around

  • Directions: Lake Lure is 27 miles from Asheville. Follow I-240 East to Exit #9, then Highway 74A East to Bat Cave and continue on Highway 74A (and Highway 64) to Lake Lure.

Seasonal Activities

  • Spring and Fall: Enjoy nature coming to life in the greenways, parks, and trails, or experience the brilliant colors of fall.
  • Summer: Spend hot summer days by the lake or at the water park.
  • Winter: Explore the custom-designed fairy village on the Flowering Bridge during the holidays and enjoy over a million Christmas lights and downtown carriage rides.

Local Events

  • Rutherford County Farmers Market: Visit the market on Tuesday afternoons or Saturday mornings for local produce and goods.
  • Whisky Tasting & Distillery Tour: Check out the Blue Ridge Distilling Co. for a unique whisky tasting experience.

Dining and Shopping

  • Local Restaurants and Shopping: Recommend dining and shopping options in the village of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, known for their genuine hospitality.

Safety and Updates

  • Check Current Conditions: Inform guests about any recent damage or closures, such as the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge, due to weather events.

By providing these local attractions and insider tips, your Airbnb guests will have a comprehensive guide to making the most of their visit to Lake Lure, North Carolina.

Practical Tips

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short-Term Rental Business in Lake Lure, North Carolina

To ensure a smooth and profitable short-term rental business in Lake Lure, North Carolina, several practical tips can make a significant difference.

Noise Regulations and Quiet Hours

Inform your guests about noise regulations and quiet hours to maintain a peaceful environment for both the guests and the local community. Clearly outline these rules in your rental agreement and provide a reminder in the digital and physical house manual.

Comprehensive House Manual

Create a detailed digital and physical house manual that includes essential instructions, Wi-Fi passwords, and other important information. This manual should cover everything from appliance usage to emergency contact details, ensuring guests have all the information they need at their fingertips.

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, along with photos of the parking area and any specific parking instructions. This not only enhances guest convenience but also reduces the likelihood of check-in issues.

By implementing these strategies, you can enhance the guest experience, reduce potential issues, and maintain a positive reputation for your short-term rental business in Lake Lure.

Local Vendors

Here is a brief list of house cleaning, and related service providers in Lake Lure, North Carolina:

House Cleaning Services

  • MaidPro Lake Lure: Offers weekly, bi-weekly, or one-time house cleaning services tailored to client needs.
  • Trish's Cleaning: Known for timely and thorough cleaning, with a reputation for going above and beyond client requests.
  • Shiny Homes Co: Provides residential, commercial, Airbnb, and post-construction cleaning services.

Additional Resources

  • Angie's List: A list of top-rated house cleaners in Lake Lure, NC, with real reviews and ratings.

Note that the list does not include specific repair or maintenance providers, as the sources primarily focus on cleaning services.

Management fees

Lake Lure, North Carolina: Understanding Short-Term Rental Management Fees

Lake Lure, nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina, is a popular destination for vacationers seeking serene lakefront retreats, cozy cabins, and luxurious homes. For property owners in this area, managing short-term rentals can be a lucrative venture, but it often comes with associated management fees. These fees typically range from 10% to 30% of the rental revenue, depending on the level of service provided. Full-service management, which includes guest communication, marketing, and maintenance, tends to be on the higher end of this spectrum. In contrast, basic services that may only include listing and booking management might be less expensive. Additionally, property owners may incur extra fees for cleaning services, repairs, and design or renovation work. Understanding these fees is crucial for maximizing the profitability of your Lake Lure vacation rental property.

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Why choose RedAwning

RedAwning is a tech leader in full-service short-term rental management, powered by our exclusive, unmatched tools.
Other property managers
Cost
Starting at 10%
25-40%
Guest communications
5-15 mins / 24 hours a day
1 hour+
Host communications
Dedicated phone and text line with no time on hold
Chat bots, hold lines and email threads
Insurance
Robust liability and dwelling coverage for every reservation
Spotty coverage with low claim approval rates
Contract
No cancellation fees
No contract lock-in
Just 90 days notice to cancel
Cancellation penalties
Number of Channels Your Listing is On
50+
2-4

Experience in numbers

Rest well knowing your property is managed by an experienced team powered by world-class technology.
+10-30%
in gross revenue
4.8 stars
guest rating
14+ years
managing STRs

Short Term Rental Calculator

Find out how much your property in Lake Lure should generate as a short term rental and look at the performance of properties around yours.

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Furnishing checklist

This comprehensive checklist ensures that your rental is guest-ready with all the essentials to create a comfortable and memorable experience in Lake Lure.

Living Room
Seating: Sofa, armchairs, and ottomans
Coffee Table
Entertainment: Smart TV (with streaming apps) and remote control
Decor: Area rug, wall art, plants, and throw pillows
Lighting: Floor lamp or table lamps
Charging Stations: Power strips or outlets with USB ports
Bedrooms
Beds: High-quality mattress with mattress protector
Linens: At least two sets of sheets per bed
Pillows: Hypoallergenic pillows (2-4 per bed)
Blankets: Extra throw blankets or quilts
Nightstands: With lamps or charging docks
Closet or Storage: Hangers, dresser, or luggage rack
Blackout Curtains or Shades
Bathrooms
Towels: Bath towels, hand towels, washcloths (2 sets per guest)
Shower Curtain & Liner
Toiletries: Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, hand soap
Bathroom Essentials: Toilet paper, tissues, trash bin
Hairdryer
Mirror: Full-length or wall mirror
Dining Area
Dining Table: Seating for the maximum number of guests
Place Settings: Placemats or tablecloths
Centerpiece: Vase with flowers or decorative piece
Kitchen
Appliances: Refrigerator, microwave, toaster, coffee maker, kettle
Cookware: Pots, pans, baking trays
Utensils: Forks, knives, spoons, spatulas, tongs
Dinnerware: Plates, bowls, glasses, mugs (2 sets per guest)
Cutting Board & Knives
Basic Spices & Condiments: Salt, pepper, oil
Cleaning Supplies: Sponge, dish soap, paper towels, trash bags
Outdoor Space (if applicable)
Seating: Outdoor chairs, benches, or lounges
Table: For outdoor dining or drinks
Lighting: String lights or outdoor lanterns
Grill: With necessary utensils and instructions
Outdoor Trash Bin
Extras to Elevate Guest Experience
Welcome Basket: Snacks, water bottles, or wine
Guidebook: Local recommendations and house rules
Board Games or Books: Entertainment for guests
Umbrella & Flashlight
Iron & Ironing Board
Laundry: Washer, dryer, and detergent (if available)
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⇤ Airbnb Statistics for North Carolina