Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Largo Florida.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Largo, Florida for 2024

General Requirements

• Compliance with City Ordinance: Short-term rentals must comply with Largo's Ordinance No. 2019-28, which aims to protect the character of residential neighborhoods while allowing for responsible rental operations.

Licensing and Registration

• City of Largo Short-Term Rental Permit: Obtain a permit from the city's Community Standards Division, which involves submitting an application, paying required fees, and passing compliance and Life Safety inspections.
• Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) License: If the STR qualifies as a "transient public lodging establishment," obtain a license from the DBPR to ensure compliance with state regulations.
• Florida Department of Revenue Registration: Register with the Florida Department of Revenue to collect and remit applicable taxes, including sales tax, tourist development tax, and transient rental tax.

Safety and Inspections

• Compliance Inspection: Pass a compliance inspection conducted by the Community Standards Division.
• Life Safety Inspection: Pass a Life Safety inspection conducted by the Fire Department.
• Fire Extinguisher and Safety Equipment: Install, inspect, and maintain a portable, multi-purpose dry chemical 2A:10B fire extinguisher on each floor, and ensure compliance with the Florida Building Code and the Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act.

Occupancy and Parking

• Maximum Occupancy: The maximum occupancy is one person per 150 gross square feet of permitted, conditioned living space.
• Parking Requirements: Provide one off-street parking space per three transient occupants.

Responsible Party and Emergency Contact

• Designated Responsible Party: Designate a responsible party who is available 24/7 to resolve any issues or concerns with the rental. This individual must be willing and able to come to the rental unit within two hours following notification.

Posting Requirements

• Interior Posting: Post required safety information for guests inside the rental unit, including emergency contact information, evacuation instructions, and maximum occupancy limits.
• Exterior Posting: If not using the City of Largo Police Department's Emergency Decal Registration system, provide a photo or sketch of the exterior posting with the responsible party's contact information.

Compliance and Enforcement

• Adherence to Local and State Laws: Comply with all applicable local and state laws, including those related to safety, sanitation, and operational standards.
• Fines for Non-Compliance: Face fines starting at $150 for the first offense and escalating to $500 for repeat offenses. The city may also pursue more serious penalties through the court system.

Additional Considerations

• HOA/POA Rules: Comply with any additional rules set by homeowners associations (HOA) or property owners associations (POA).
• Community Standards: Ensure that the short-term rental operations do not disrupt the neighborhood and comply with rules governing parking, noise, nuisances, litter, and abandoned property.

Top Neighborhoods for Airbnb Revenue in Largo, Florida

While specific neighborhood data for Largo, Florida, is not extensively detailed in the sources, we can infer some key points about the city's overall appeal and potential high-performing areas based on general real estate and rental market trends.

Why Largo is Appealing for Guests

• Proximity to Popular Destinations: Largo is strategically located near popular beaches, theme parks, and other tourist attractions, making it an attractive option for vacationers.
• Diverse Range of Properties: Largo offers a variety of property types, including single-family homes, condos, and apartments, catering to different budgets and preferences.
• Stable and Growing Market: The city has a strong rental market with stable monthly income from long-term rentals and potential for long-term appreciation.

Potential High-Performing Neighborhoods

While the sources do not specify exact neighborhoods in Largo, here are some general insights on what might make certain areas appealing:

Neighborhoods Near Beaches

• Areas close to the Gulf Coast beaches are likely to attract tourists and vacationers, offering easy access to waterfront activities and scenic views.

Neighborhoods Close to Family-Friendly Attractions

• Proximity to family-friendly attractions, such as parks and recreational facilities, can make neighborhoods more appealing for families looking for vacation rentals.

Neighborhoods with Community Amenities

• Neighborhoods with community amenities like shopping centers, restaurants, and community parks can enhance the guest experience and attract more bookings.

Up-and-Coming Areas

• Areas with new developments or those undergoing revitalization could offer investment opportunities with potential for growth in rental income and property values.

Key Metrics for Largo

• Average Monthly Rental Income: $2,424, indicating a strong rental market.
• Airbnb Cash on Cash Return: Ranges from 5.35% to 7.10% depending on the property type, showing promising returns for short-term rentals.

While specific neighborhood names are not provided, investors should focus on areas that offer a mix of proximity to attractions, diverse property options, and strong community amenities to maximize Airbnb revenue in Largo, Florida.

Tips for Furnishing and Designing an Inviting Airbnb in Largo, Florida

Define Your Theme and Audience

• Choose a theme that reflects Largo's unique style, such as a coastal or tropical theme, to create a cohesive and inviting space.

Set a Budget and Prioritize Essentials

• Determine your budget and focus on essential items like a comfortable mattress, quality linens, and basic kitchenware before moving on to decorative elements.

Focus on Key Areas

• Concentrate on the bedroom, living room, and kitchen to ensure these spaces are well-equipped and welcoming. These areas have the most impact on guests' experiences.

Use Local and Cultural Elements

• Incorporate local art and decor to add a personal touch and reflect the community. Consider partnering with local artists for unique pieces.

Opt for Multi-Functional Furniture

• Choose furniture that serves multiple purposes, such as sofa beds, ottomans with storage, or dining tables that can double as workspaces. This maximizes space and functionality.

Utilize Secondhand Shopping

• Explore thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces for affordable and unique furniture pieces. Be prepared to negotiate prices and upcycle items when necessary.

DIY Decor and Upcycling

• Engage in DIY projects to upcycle old furniture or create unique decor. This adds a personalized touch without breaking the bank.

Select Durable and Easy-to-Clean Furniture

• Opt for furniture with easy-to-clean materials, such as sofas with washable covers, and durable pieces that can withstand frequent use. Avoid real and faux leather for maintenance reasons.

Enhance with Smart Storage

• Use beds with drawers, wall hooks, pegboards in the kitchen, and stackable containers to keep the space tidy and organized. Provide designated spots for guests' personal items.

Incorporate Coastal Elements

• For a coastal theme, use nautical accents like shells, driftwood, and light, airy fabrics to create a breezy and fresh atmosphere. Choose a color palette of blues, whites, and natural tones to reflect the tranquility of the water.

Ensure Practicality and Comfort

• Provide amenities such as a hairdryer, basic toiletries, a first-aid kit, and high-quality towels. Ensure there is ample storage for guests' toiletries and personal items.

Consider Accessibility and Safety

• Make your Airbnb accessible to guests with disabilities by including features like ramps, wide doorways, and grab bars in bathrooms. Install smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and a first aid kit for safety.

Use Mirrors and Lighting Effectively

• Use mirrors to make the space feel bigger and brighter. Ensure good lighting and easy access to power outlets, especially in areas where guests will be getting ready or working.

Discover Largo, Florida: Local Attractions and Insider Tips for Airbnb Hosts

Local Attractions

Nature and Parks

• Florida Botanical Gardens: A free 182-acre park featuring various specialty gardens, including azaleas, butterflies, cacti, and palms. Don't miss the holiday light display in December and early January.
• Largo Central Park Nature Preserve: A 70-acre green space with fountains, picnic areas, and the accessible Rainbow Rotary Playground. It also hosts the Eight O’Clock Theatre for Broadway and cabaret shows.
• Walsingham Park: The second largest park in St. Pete/Clearwater, offering walking trails, a 90-acre freshwater lake, and frequent alligator sightings.
• Eagle Lake Park: Formerly a citrus grove and cattle ranch, now featuring citrus-themed amenities and native Florida plants. The park has wide, paved trails and lake views.

Family-Friendly Activities

• Highland Family Aquatic Center: A fun spot with a towering waterslide and water play areas.
• Sky Zone Trampoline Park: Perfect for kids to get some exercise and have fun.

Golfing

• Largo Golf Course: A public golf course ideal for a day on the greens.
• East Bay Golf Club: Another public golf course offering a great golfing experience.

Other Attractions

• Heritage Village: A collection of restored historic homes and buildings on 21 acres of woodland, open Wednesdays through Sundays.
• George C. McGough Nature Park (Turtle Park): Known for its large population of aquatic turtles and rescued birds of prey.

Insider Tips

Dining

• Cafe Largo: Enjoy elegant French cuisine, including duck with tarragon sauce and rack of lamb provencal. Occasionally offers cooking classes and wine pairing dinners.
• Cafe Sahara: A cozy spot for Mediterranean food, including halal meats and vegetarian dishes. Features a wine bar.
• The Spot Sushi Burrito and Vietnamese: Located at the Largo Mall, offering sushi burritos, boba, and pho.
• Jupiter Donuts: Famous for over 40 handcrafted donuts, bagel sandwiches, and pastries near the Largo Mall.
• Frida’s Cafe & Bakery: Offers delicious treats like raspberry biscotti cheesecakes, fresh fruit tortes, and a variety of cookies, including gluten-free options.

Nearby Attractions

• John's Pass Village & Boardwalk: While not in Largo itself, this nearby attraction in Madeira Beach is worth a visit for its shops, restaurants, and waterfront activities.
• Tropicana Field: Home of the Tampa Bay Rays baseball team, located in nearby St. Petersburg.

Local Events

• Holiday Light Display: The Florida Botanical Gardens hosts an impressive light display during the holiday season, a must-see for visitors in December and early January.

By providing these recommendations, you can help your Airbnb guests make the most of their stay in Largo, Florida, and enjoy the city's unique attractions and experiences.

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

To ensure the success and smooth operation of a short-term rental business in Largo, Florida, several practical tips are essential. First, it is crucial to inform guests about noise regulations and quiet hours to maintain a harmonious relationship with neighbors. This can be achieved by including clear guidelines in both digital and physical house manuals, which should also contain other vital instructions, such as Wi-Fi passwords and emergency contact information.

A simplified check-in process can significantly enhance the guest experience. Utilizing smart locks eliminates the need for physical key exchanges, and providing detailed parking instructions accompanied by photos helps guests navigate the property easily. Additionally, automating various aspects of property management, such as check-ins, pre-stay messages, and review requests, using automation software can save time and reduce stress.

By adhering to these tips, property owners can ensure compliance with local regulations, such as those outlined in Largo's Ordinance No. 2019-28, which includes specific safety standards and occupancy limits. This approach not only avoids potential fines but also contributes to a positive and respectful environment for both guests and local residents.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning providers in Largo, Florida:

House Cleaning Providers in Largo, FL

My Cleaning Angel

• Offers one-time, move-in/move-out, post-construction, recurring, and vacation rental cleaning services.
• Uses eco-friendly cleaning products and provides flexible scheduling options.

MaidPro

• Provides weekly, bi-weekly, or one-time house cleaning services.
• Customizable maid services tailored to your needs.

Merry Maids

• Offers reliable house cleaning services with free estimates available.
• Contact them via phone or online to get started.

Care.com House Cleaning Services

• Lists various local house cleaning options with rates starting at $22.14/hr.
• Searchable by rates, reviews, experience, and more.

Angi House Cleaners

• Provides a list of top-rated house cleaners in Largo, FL, with real reviews and ratings.

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

In Largo, Florida, the fees for managing short-term rentals can vary significantly, typically ranging 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, often falling between 20% to 30% of the rental income.

Basic services, such as tenant placement and minimal property oversight, may incur lower fees, sometimes as low as 10% to 15% of the gross monthly rental income.

In addition to these management fees, property owners may also incur additional costs for services like cleaning, repairs, or design enhancements. These extra fees can add up, making it important for owners to carefully evaluate the services included in the management contract to ensure they align with their budget and property needs.