Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Lewistown Montana.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Lewistown, Montana for 2024

State and Local Requirements

State-Level Regulations

• Public Accommodation License: Short-term rental hosts must obtain a Public Accommodation License from the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, which includes inspections for potable water, hygienic amenities, and overall property maintenance.
• Guest Register: Hosts must maintain a guest register with names and contact information for at least one year.
• Lodging Taxes: Hosts must collect and remit a 4% Lodging Facility Use Tax and a 4% Lodging Sales Tax on the full listing price, including any cleaning fees and guest fees, for reservations 29 days or shorter. However, note that some sources mention a 7% accommodation tax, which may be a misunderstanding or an additional local tax.

Local Regulations in Lewistown

• Business License: Hosts must obtain a business license if their Airbnb operation is considered a business under local law.
• Zoning Laws: Hosts should be aware of zoning laws, as some residential areas may have restrictions on short-term rentals.
• Health and Safety Standards: While Lewistown does not have specific laws governing short-term rentals, standard housing and business regulations apply, including adherence to health and safety standards.
• Lenient Enforcement: Local government in Lewistown is not strictly enforcing short-term rental-related regulations, as indicated by few Airbnb listings displaying their license numbers.

Additional Considerations

• Seasonality and Market Trends: Understanding the seasonal trends in Lewistown, which include peak seasons in late spring through summer and a smaller surge in winter for winter sports, can help hosts optimize their pricing and availability strategies.
• Compliance with General Regulations: It is recommended to consult with a local attorney or real estate professional to ensure full compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.

Top Airbnb Revenue-Generating Neighborhoods in Lewistown, Montana

While specific neighborhood data for Lewistown, Montana, is not extensively detailed in the sources, we can infer some insights based on the general appeal and market statistics of Lewistown as a whole.

General Appeal of Lewistown

• Natural Attractions: Lewistown is surrounded by natural attractions such as the Helena National Forest and Makoshika State Park, making it a hub for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Historical Significance: The town has a rich historical background, with many preserved buildings and landmarks that attract history buffs.
• Community Events: Lewistown hosts various community events and festivals, adding to its charm and appeal for visitors.

Potential High-Revenue Neighborhoods

Given the limited specific data on neighborhoods, here are some general areas that could be attractive for Airbnb guests:

Downtown Lewistown

• Central Location: Staying in the downtown area provides easy access to local shops, restaurants, and historical sites.
• Community Events: Guests can easily participate in local events and festivals that take place in the downtown area.

Neighborhoods Near Outdoor Recreational Areas

• Proximity to Nature: Areas close to Helena National Forest and Makoshika State Park are likely to attract nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
• Scenic Views: These neighborhoods often offer scenic views and easy access to hiking trails and other outdoor activities.

Historic Districts

• Historical Charm: Staying in historic districts allows guests to experience the town's rich history firsthand.
• Preserved Architecture: These areas typically feature well-preserved buildings and landmarks that are of interest to history enthusiasts.

Key Statistics for Lewistown Airbnb Market

• Annual Revenue: A typical host income in Lewistown is around $27,547 annually.
• Occupancy Rate: The Airbnb occupancy rate in Lewistown is approximately 61%.
• Average Daily Rate: The average daily rate for Airbnb listings in Lewistown is about $101.

While specific neighborhood data is not available, these general areas are likely to generate significant Airbnb revenue due to their appeal to various types of guests.

Creating an Inviting Airbnb in Lewistown, Montana: Design and Furnishing Tips

Entryway

• Design the entryway to make a strong first impression. Ensure it feels welcoming and thoughtfully arranged.
• Provide amenities such as a keyless entry system for convenience and a welcoming note or local guide to make guests feel special.

Living Room

• Lighting Control: Install lamps and dimmer switches to create a cozy and adjustable lighting environment.
• Comfortable Seating: Include soft, clean blankets and pillows with various fill options to cater to different preferences.
• Functional Layout: Arrange the room to evoke conversation and ensure each guest has a place to put their drinks and feet up.
• Occasional Tables: Ensure there are sufficient tables for guests to place their belongings.

Bedroom

• Layered Bedding: Offer high-quality bedding options and store extra layers in the closet for easy access and minimal turnover work.
• Pillows and Temperature Control: Provide two sleeping pillows per guest with different fill options and consider adding a ceiling fan for temperature control.
• Bedside Amenities: Include bedside tables and lamps for each guest, ideally with USB ports or wireless charging features.
• Blackout Shades: Install blackout shades to cater to different sleep preferences.

General Amenities

• High-Speed Wi-Fi: Ensure reliable internet access to meet modern guest expectations.
• Fully Equipped Kitchen: Provide a kitchen with all necessary appliances and utensils to make guests feel at home.
• Outdoor Spaces: Create inviting outdoor areas for BBQs, bonfires, or other outdoor activities that reflect Lewistown's natural beauty.

Local Touches

• Local Elements: Incorporate locally sourced furnishings, artwork, or decor to reflect Lewistown's rich history and natural beauty.
• Access to Local Attractions: Highlight easy access to local attractions such as Big Spring Creek for fishing or the Snowy Mountains for hiking in your listing.

Seasonal Considerations

• Optimize for Seasonal Demand: Adjust pricing and amenities according to seasonal fluctuations, particularly during peak summer months and hunting season.
• Maintain High Standards: Ensure high standards of cleanliness and quick response times to inquiries to enhance guest satisfaction and garner positive reviews.

Local Experiences

• Partner with Local Businesses: Establish relationships with local tour operators, restaurants, and other businesses to offer guests unique local experiences, enhancing the property's appeal.

Discovering Lewistown, Montana: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Outdoor Adventures

• Walking and Biking Trails: Explore Lewistown's 24 miles of paved and graveled trails that meander along Big Spring Creek, linking downtown, schools, and parks. Perfect for hiking, biking, or a leisurely walk.
• Limekiln Hike: Take on the 7-mile Limekiln Loop Trail, an intermediate hike with a 1,000-foot elevation gain, offering scenic views and well-maintained trails by the BLM.
• Crystal Lake: Enjoy fishing, hiking to ice caves, or relaxing around a campsite at this picturesque lake, a true gem of Lewistown.
• Float Big Spring Creek: Cool off during summer with a float down Big Spring Creek, a popular summer activity.
• Ackley Lake State Park: Camp and enjoy water activities at this local favorite, approximately 30 minutes west of Lewistown.

Cultural and Historical Experiences

• Central Montana Historical Museum: Learn about the history of Central Montana through exhibits on Native American culture, fossils, historic photographs, and more.
• Lewistown Art Center: Visit this historic downtown art center for various exhibits by local artists and participate in monthly Gallery Receptions and Social Nights.
• Lewistown Walking Tours: Take a self-guided tour through six historic districts, including Courthouse Square and the Silk Stocking district, to soak up the local history.
• Bear Gulch Pictographs: Schedule a tour to see nearly 4,000 prehistoric pictographs in a beautifully rugged landscape near Forest Grove, MT.

Community and Festivals

• Central Montana Rodeo and Fair: Attend the rodeo and fair in late July, featuring top talent, rides, games, and local food.
• Festivals: Check out the Chokecherry Festival and the Montana Cowboy Poetry Gathering, among other events that bring the community together.
• Downtown Lewistown: Explore Main Street for unique shopping, dining, and live music events, especially during summer.

Unique Experiences

• Charlie Russell Chew Choo Dinner Train: Enjoy a 4.5-hour dinner train excursion through ranch land, complete with a prime rib dinner and local entertainment.
• Big Spring Creek Park: Spend an afternoon fishing for trout or simply enjoying the shaded areas along the creek.

Insider Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Summer is ideal for outdoor activities, while winter offers a serene landscape perfect for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.
• Getting Around: Use the extensive trail system for walking or biking, or rent a car if needed. Ride-share options like Uber and Lyft may also be available.
• Local Dining: Try Central Feed Grilling Company for microbrews and a satisfying menu, or explore other local eateries for steaks, burgers, and more.
• Bird Watching: Take advantage of Central Montana's renowned bird watching opportunities, spotting pheasants, eagles, and other species.

By sharing these attractions and tips, you can help your guests make the most of their visit to Lewistown, Montana.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short-Term Rental Business in Lewistown, Montana

To ensure a smooth and profitable short-term rental business in Lewistown, Montana, several practical tips can make a significant difference in guest satisfaction and compliance with local regulations.

Noise Regulations and Guest Communication

Inform your guests about quiet hours to maintain a peaceful environment, especially in residential areas. Include clear noise regulations in your house manual and communicate them through pre-arrival messages to set expectations.

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 should also outline local regulations, including any specific rules or restrictions in Lewistown.

Simplified Check-in Process

Utilize smart locks to streamline the check-in process, eliminating the need for physical key exchanges. Provide detailed check-in instructions, including photos of the property and its amenities, to help guests navigate the space easily.

Parking Instructions

Include parking instructions with photos in your house manual to avoid any confusion. Clearly indicate designated parking areas and any specific parking rules or restrictions in the neighborhood.

By implementing these strategies, you can enhance the guest experience, reduce potential issues, and ensure compliance with local regulations, making your short-term rental business in Lewistown, Montana, a success.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning providers in Lewistown, Montana:

House Cleaning Providers in Lewistown, MT

1. Sparkling and Beyond

• Offers standard and deep cleaning services for residential and commercial properties.

2. Service Master Co.

• Located at 105 Cottonwood St., Lewistown, MT.

3. Magic City Cleaning

• Located at 514 W Morase St., Lewistown, MT.

4. ServiceMaster Clean

• Located at 809 W Montana St., Lewistown, MT.

These providers specialize in house cleaning services, but do not explicitly mention repair or maintenance services.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Lewistown, Montana: A Comprehensive Guide

In Lewistown, Montana, managing a short-term rental property can incur management fees that typically range from 10% to 30% of the rental revenue, depending on the level of service provided. Full-service management companies, which handle guest communication, marketing, and maintenance, usually charge fees on the higher end of this spectrum, often around 20% to 25% of the rental income.

Basic service packages, which may include fewer amenities and less hands-on management, can be more cost-effective but still significant. Additional fees may apply for services such as cleaning, repairs, and design enhancements. For instance, companies like GoSummer charge a 20% fee based on the booking revenue, excluding cleaning fees, and also include a consumables fee to cover items like linens and toiletries.

Understanding these fee structures is crucial for property owners to ensure they are making informed decisions and maximizing their rental income.