Despite a temporary ban on new short-term rentals, Lewisville, Texas, has seen over 85% of existing short-term rental owners comply with new regulations, ensuring a well-regulated and thriving short-term rental market.
Strong Compliance and Steady Performance in Lewisville's Short-Term Rental Market
Despite the implementation of new regulations and a temporary ban on new short-term rentals, Lewisville, Texas, is seeing significant compliance and stable performance in its short-term rental market. As of October 2024, over 85% of short-term rental owners are in compliance with the new ordinance that went into effect on July 8, 2024. The city has issued 62 permits, with 16 more in progress, and has collected hotel occupancy taxes from newly registered rentals, averaging $421 monthly.
While specific data on occupancy rates and average daily rates for Lewisville's short-term rentals is not available in the current reports, the high compliance rate and the city's proactive approach to regulation suggest a well-managed and sustainable market. The temporary ban on new short-term rentals, set to expire in March 2025, is intended to help the city refine its permitting process and address any emerging issues, further ensuring the long-term viability of this sector.
Short-Term Rental Regulations in Lewisville, Texas for 2024
Key Regulations
Permitting and Compliance
- Annual Permit Requirement: Owners must obtain an annual permit prior to operating, renting, or advertising a short-term rental.
- Permit Application Process: The application process includes ensuring the owner is not delinquent on any city taxes, including hotel occupancy taxes, and passing an inspection.
- Permit Fee: A $400 annual permit fee is required.
Taxation
- Hotel Occupancy Tax: Owners must pay a 7% hotel occupancy tax on a monthly basis.
Property Requirements
- Inspection: The short-term rental unit must pass an inspection to ensure compliance with city codes.
- Insurance: Owners must carry $1 million in incident insurance.
- Property Manager: Designation of a local property manager who can respond expeditiously to issues is required.
- International Property Maintenance Code Standards: Properties must meet the standards for the number of bedrooms and other requirements.
Operational Requirements
- Occupancy Limits: Specific occupancy limits must be adhered to in order to obtain a permit.
- Informational Brochure: Owners must provide guests with an informational brochure containing contact numbers and city regulations on parking, trash collection, and noise.
Enforcement and Violations
- Fines: Violation of the ordinance can result in fines of up to $500 for each offense. Permits can be revoked if owners receive two violations in a year.
Parking and Zoning
- Limited Parking Zone: A limited parking zone has been established for short-term rental units.
Temporary Ban on New Short-Term Rentals
- One-Year Ban: A temporary ban on new short-term rentals has been implemented for one year, effective from March 4, 2024. This ban does not affect existing short-term rental properties.
Additional Requirements
- Registration and Tracking: The city uses a third-party vendor to track short-term rentals on various posting sites.
- Compliance Notices: Notices of violations are sent to properties operating without a permit or in violation of other regulations.
Top Neighborhoods for Airbnb Revenue in Lewisville, Texas
1. The Colony
- Appeal: The Colony is highly appealing due to its proximity to Lewisville Lake, Hawaiian Waters, Grandscape, and PGA. Guests favor homes here for their unique designs, outdoor oases, hot tubs, and game rooms. Properties like the "Home in The Colony" with a 4.99 out of 5 rating, featuring a hot tub, outdoor games, and a lighted pavilion, are particularly popular.
2. Little Elm
- Appeal: Little Elm is a favorite among guests due to its lakefront properties offering stunning views, private beaches, and access to lake toys such as kayaks and paddleboards. Homes like the "Remodeled Lakefront Private beach, toys & hot tub" with a $250,000 renovation and spa-like bathrooms are highly rated and sought after.
3. Lewisville
- Appeal: Lewisville itself attracts guests with its modern homes, convenient locations near DFW airport, and major highways. Properties such as the "Cozy Modern Home in Lewisville" with new furniture, a fully equipped kitchen, and a jacuzzi bathtub are highly rated. Additionally, homes with unique amenities like heated pools, game rooms, and entertainment-filled spaces are very appealing.
4. Hickory Creek
- Appeal: Hickory Creek is appealing due to its lake access, hot tubs, theaters, mini-golf, and kids' rooms. The "Lake Access, Hot Tub, Theater, MiniGolf, Kids Room" property, with a 5 out of 5 rating, is a prime example of why guests love this area for family-friendly vacations.
5. The Colony (near Lewisville Lake)
- Appeal: This area is popular for its family-friendly homes, game rooms, putting greens, and tikibar amenities. The "TXPool&SPA/Tikibar/PuttingGreen/GameRm/Playground" property, with a 5 out of 5 rating, highlights the appeal of these well-equipped and entertaining homes.
These neighborhoods are favored for their combination of scenic locations, modern amenities, and family-friendly activities, making them top generators of Airbnb revenue in the Lewisville area.
Tips for Furnishing and Designing an Inviting Airbnb in Lewisville, Texas
Understand Your Target Audience
- Cater to a mix of families, business travelers, and remote workers by incorporating features such as spacious layouts, multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, and home office spaces.
Choose Popular Amenities
- Include amenities like pools, hot tubs, outdoor spaces, and game rooms to enhance the leisure experience for families and groups.
- Ensure good internet connectivity and provide a home office atmosphere for remote workers.
Select Appropriate Furniture and Decor
- Opt for modern and high-quality furnishings that provide comfort and elevate the aesthetic of the property. This can include contemporary and cozy decor styles, as well as durable and functional furniture for family-friendly rentals.
- Consider bohemian styles with eclectic decor to appeal to younger travelers.
Neighborhood Considerations
- Invest in neighborhoods near Lake Lewisville for natural attractions and outdoor recreation opportunities. Areas close to DFW Airport are ideal for business travelers.
- Look for neighborhoods with a blend of residential vibes, shopping conveniences, and access to community parks and recreational facilities.
Add Personal and Local Touches
- Use local art and elements to add a personalized feel to the space, making it stand out in a crowded market.
- Incorporate thoughtful touches such as cozy seating areas and plants to promote relaxation and create a memorable stay.
Budget and Prioritize
- Set a budget and prioritize spending on statement pieces such as couches, coffee tables, and dining room tables that define the space.
- Balance budget constraints by splurging on key areas like the living room, which is often the centerpiece of the home.
Ensure Functionality and Comfort
- Equip the kitchen with all essentials to prepare meals, and ensure the living area is comfortable and well-equipped with amenities like large TVs and fast internet.
- Provide additional comforts such as fully equipped laundry rooms, washer and dryer facilities, and complimentary amenities like spa trays and jacuzzis.
Maintain High Standards of Cleanliness and Quality
- Ensure the property is highly rated for cleanliness and maintain a high standard of quality in furnishings and decor to attract repeat bookings and positive reviews.
Discovering Lewisville, Texas: Local Attractions and Insider Tips for Guests
Outdoor Adventures
- Lake Lewisville: Enjoy boating, fishing, and picnicking by the shore of this massive reservoir. It's a perfect spot for a day of relaxation and outdoor activities.
- Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area (LLELA): Explore hiking trails, engage in bird watching, and observe wildlife in this pristine natural area. Guided nature walks, night hikes, and kayak tours are also available.
Cultural and Entertainment Venues
- Old Town Lewisville: Stroll through this historic district filled with charming shops, boutiques, and eateries. Don't miss the unique architecture and small-town atmosphere.
- Toyota Music Factory: Catch concerts, comedy shows, and various live performances at this dynamic venue. Check the schedule for upcoming events.
- MCL Grand Theater: Attend theatrical productions, art exhibitions, and other cultural events at this cultural hub.
- Greater Lewisville Community Theatre: Enjoy homegrown performances in this historic theater, built in 1885.
Family-Friendly Fun
- Going Bonkers: An indoor play center with arcade games, a jungle gym, and mini-golf. Perfect for kids and a great way to beat the heat.
- Main Event Entertainment: Engage in bowling, laser tag, billiards, arcade games, and glow-in-the-dark miniature golf. The café and full bar add to the experience.
- Coyote Drive-In: Experience the nostalgia of an old-school drive-in movie theater with double features under the stars.
Sports and Leisure
- Bob Wiseman Soccer Complex: Catch a local soccer game or engage in a friendly match. A great spot for sports enthusiasts.
- Lake Park Golf Club: Play 18 holes on the banks of Lewisville Lake at this nationally recognized course. The Executive Course offers nine short holes lighted for night play.
- Bridlewood Golf Club: Enjoy golfing amidst lush Bermuda grass and rolling hills, with the Timber Creek meandering nearby.
Local Markets and Festivals
- Lewisville Farmers Market: Support local farmers and artisans every Saturday morning with fresh produce and handmade crafts.
- Western Days Festival: Attend this famous festival in September for a taste of local culture and entertainment.
- Lebanese Food Festival: Enjoy this festival in October for a culinary experience.
Insider Tips
- Check Event Schedules: Make sure to check the schedules for upcoming events at the Toyota Music Factory, MCL Grand Theater, and Greater Lewisville Community Theatre to plan your evenings out.
- Explore Local Distilleries and Wineries: Visit local distilleries and wineries for tours and tastings, often accompanied by live music and food trucks.
- Take Advantage of Water Activities: With Lake Lewisville and the Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area, there are plenty of opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
- Visit During Festivals: Plan your visit to coincide with local festivals like the Western Days and Lebanese Food Festival for a richer cultural experience.
By sharing these attractions and tips, you can help your guests make the most of their visit to Lewisville, Texas.
Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short Term Rental Business in Lewisville, Texas
To ensure a successful and compliant short-term rental business in Lewisville, Texas, several practical tips can be implemented:
Noise Regulations and Guest Notifications
Inform your guests about quiet hours and noise regulations to avoid complaints from neighbors. Include clear guidelines in your digital and physical house manual, emphasizing the importance of respecting the community.
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 should be easily accessible to guests upon arrival.
Simplified Check-in Process
Utilize smart locks to streamline the check-in process, eliminating the need for physical key exchanges. Provide guests with a unique access code and clear instructions on how to enter the property.
Parking Instructions
Include parking instructions with photos in your house manual to help guests understand where and how to park. This can help mitigate parking issues and reduce the risk of fines or complaints.
By following these tips, you can enhance the guest experience, reduce potential issues, and ensure your short-term rental business operates smoothly and in compliance with Lewisville's new regulations.
Here is a brief list of house cleaning providers in Lewisville, Texas:
House Cleaning Services in Lewisville, TX
CottageCare
- Offers professional house cleaning services in Carrollton and Lewisville.
- Uses eco-friendly products and provides a detailed 165 point cleaning checklist.
- Crew members are background-checked, and the company is bonded and insured.
Merry Maids of Denton County
- Provides comprehensive cleaning services, including routine, bi-weekly, monthly, deep cleaning, and move-in/move-out cleaning.
- Offers customized cleaning plans and uses eco-friendly products.
- Backed by a "Worry-Free Guarantee".
Molly Maid of DFW Metro Northwest
- Offers custom cleaning services tailored to individual needs, including recurring, occasional, and special event cleaning.
- Provides move-out and move-in cleanup, apartment cleaning, and light commercial cleaning.
- No contracts and flexible scheduling.
Buckets & Bows Maid Service
- Provides professional maid services, including one-time or recurring house cleaning, laundry, and light cleaning.
- Offers office cleaning and has a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
- Trusted for over 40 years in the Lewisville and Flower Mound area.
Various Local Providers
- There are also 36 other affordable house cleaning services listed in Lewisville, TX, with an average rate of $20/hr and an average experience of 3 years.
Managing Short-Term Rentals in Lewisville, Texas: Understanding Fees and Regulations
In Lewisville, Texas, the management of short-term rentals, such as those listed on Airbnb and VRBO, involves a range of fees and regulatory requirements. While the city's new ordinance, effective from July 8, 2024, mandates an annual permit fee of $400 and a 7% hotel occupancy tax, property management fees can vary significantly. Full-service property management, which includes guest communication, marketing, and maintenance, typically ranges from 10% to 30% of the rental revenue, with higher percentages often corresponding to more comprehensive services.
Basic property management services may incur lower fees, but additional costs for cleaning, repairs, or design can also apply. Property owners must also ensure compliance with the city's regulations, including inspections, designated property managers, and specific operational requirements. Failure to comply can result in fines up to $500 per offense, or $2,000 for violations related to safety, zoning, or public health.