Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Little Rock Arkansas.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Little Rock, Arkansas for 2024

Licensing and Permitting Requirements

• Operators must obtain a business license to operate a short-term rental property.
• Annual inspection fee of up to $500, which can be waived for the first year if the property was previously deemed unsafe or vacant and has been rehabilitated.

Types of Properties and Permitting Processes

• Owner-Occupied STRs: Require a special use permit granted by the Planning Commission. Owner's primary residence must be on the same property or within 1,500 feet of the rental property.
• Non-Owner Occupied STRs: Require approval for a Planned Zoning Development, which involves approval from the Little Rock Planning Commission and the city board.

Operational Standards

• No Private Parties or Special Events: Private parties, special events, or commercial activities other than lodging are prohibited.
• Minimum Age Requirement: The principal renter must be at least 18 years old.
• Maximum Occupancy: Limited to 2 people per bedroom plus 2 additional guests.
• Quiet Hours: Quiet hours are between 10 PM and 7 AM, with no excessive noise audible off-property at any time.
• Property Maintenance: Properties must be kept clean, safe, and in good repair with no visible trash or debris.

Safety and Compliance

• Life-Safety Inspections: Annual inspections to ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Required Documents: Proof of $500,000 in short-term rental liability insurance, parking plan, floor plan indicating rooms to be rented and locations of smoke/CO detectors and fire extinguishers, etc..

Caps and Limits

• Total STR Cap: Limited to 500 short-term rental properties within the corporate boundaries of Little Rock.
• Multi-Unit Buildings: No more than 25% or 2 units, whichever is greater, can be licensed as short-term rentals in multi-unit buildings.

Additional Requirements

• Posting Requirements: STR license number, owner contact information, and a copy of STR rules must be posted inside the unit.
• Parking: Minimum of 2 off-street parking spaces required, with more in certain zoning districts.
• Tax Compliance: Operators must implement a system to collect and remit all applicable state and local taxes on a monthly basis.

Enforcement

• Violations: Three or more confirmed violations within a calendar year can result in the revocation of the business license and a bar from obtaining a new license for the same property for one year.

Top Airbnb Revenue-Generating Neighborhoods in Little Rock, Arkansas

1. Downtown Little Rock

Downtown Little Rock is a hub for Airbnb revenue due to its central location and plethora of attractions. Guests are drawn to this area for its:- Proximity to the River Market, museums, parks, theaters, and renowned breweries.- Easy access to popular spots like Fassler Hall, Dust Bowl Lanes & Lounge, and the Statehouse Convention Center.- Modern amenities and historic settings, such as the highly-rated Mills-Davis House and luxurious walkable suites.

2. South Main (SoMa)

The SoMa neighborhood is appealing for its:- Central location, close to the River Market, The Clinton Library & Museum, and the airport.- Historic charm, with converted homes like the 1896 Craftsman style home and the Historic Carriage House.- Peaceful and safe environment, with amenities like off-street parking and easy access to local parks.

3. Hillcrest

Hillcrest is a favorite among guests due to its:- Historic and convenient neighborhood with many restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques within walking distance.- Proximity to UAMS, Park Plaza mall, and the Little Rock Zoo.- Cozy and newly renovated guesthouses and studios, such as the Little Red House and the Blue Jay Hillcrest Bungalow.

4. The Heights

The Heights area attracts guests with its:- Newly constructed and nicely appointed garage apartments and guesthouses.- Convenient location near shopping, bars, and restaurants, with the funky Hillcrest neighborhood in walking distance.- Modern amenities like WiFi, Roku TV, and central heat/air conditioning.

5. Argenta Historic Arts District (North Little Rock)

Located just across the river, Argenta is popular for its:- Vibrant arts district with dining options, art galleries, and a bustling nightlife.- Easy access to the Arkansas River Trail and the trolley to Little Rock.- Unique and romantic escapes like The Quarters at Rockwater and the Little House on the River.

Furnishing and Design Tips for an Inviting Airbnb in Little Rock, Arkansas

Defining Your Property's Aesthetic

• Reflect Little Rock's unique style by incorporating elements of Southern charm and modern urban flair.
• Consider the local culture, history, and natural surroundings when choosing furniture and decor.

Measuring and Layout

• Measure your rooms carefully to ensure the best layout and to avoid blocking natural light sources.
• Leave ample space for guests to move around comfortably.

Choosing Durable and Functional Furniture

• Opt for solid, sturdy pieces that can withstand frequent use, such as solid wood furniture over particle board.
• Select beds with storage drawers for extra space and easy cleaning.

Easy-to-Clean Furniture

• Prioritize furniture that is easy to clean, such as leather or wipeable surfaces.
• Use ScotchGuard on fabrics and maintain a cleaning kit with tools like the Bissel Little Green.

Smart Storage Solutions

• Use space-saving furniture with big functionality, such as sofa beds, folding tables, and ottomans with hidden storage.
• Incorporate smart storage options like beds with drawers, wall hooks, and stackable containers.

Mirrors and Lighting

• Use mirrors to make your space feel bigger and brighter.
• Ensure good lighting and easy access to power outlets. Consider adding a desk lamp and ensuring high-speed internet availability.

Practical and Useful Items

• Ensure each piece of furniture serves a purpose and is useful to guests.
• Avoid unnecessary decor and furniture; instead, use cabinets and shelves for storage and accessibility.

Comfort and Style

• Choose a comfortable and durable sofa, preferably with washable covers.
• Select high-quality, durable towels and basic toiletries. Provide a hairdryer, first-aid kit, and other essentials.

Kitchen Essentials

• Equip your kitchen with necessary appliances like a coffee maker, microwave, toaster, and kettle.
• Include basic cookware, utensils, dinnerware, and items like a cutting board and measuring cups.

Safety and Accessibility

• Mount TVs and large mirrors securely to the wall for safety and aesthetic appeal.
• Consider making your Airbnb accessible to guests with disabilities by adding ramps, wide doorways, and grab bars in bathrooms.

Seasonal Decor

• Decorate seasonally to keep the space fresh and inviting. For example, use warm fall colors in November, traditional holiday colors in December, and Valentine's Day themes in February.

Final Touches

• Add plants and seasonal decor to liven up the space.
• Ensure consistency in your design theme to create a cohesive and welcoming atmosphere.

Discovering Little Rock, Arkansas: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Outdoor Activities and Natural Beauty

• Pinnacle Mountain State Park: A must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, biking, and stunning views of the city from its summit.
• Arkansas River Trail: A 15-mile scenic pathway perfect for biking, jogging, or walking, featuring pedestrian bridges like the Big Dam Bridge.
• Riverfront Park: Explore 33 acres of urban parkland, including Peabody Splash Park, Junction Bridge, and the Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden.

Cultural and Historical Landmarks

• William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Park: Learn about Arkansas government and history, and explore the adjacent Clinton Presidential Park Wetlands.
• Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site: Follow the footsteps of the Little Rock Nine and understand the city's significant role in the Civil Rights Movement.
• Mosaic Templars Cultural Center: Celebrate the history and contributions of Black men and women in Little Rock.

Arts and Entertainment

• River Market District: The heart of Little Rock’s social scene, offering live music, a farmers market, and a diverse range of dining options.
• Creative Corridor: A vibrant area along Main Street featuring arts, culture, and innovative urban design. Visit the Arkansas Repertory Theatre and various art galleries.
• Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts: Home to traveling exhibitions and an exceptional permanent collection of works on paper.

Unique Experiences

• Little Rock Metro Streetcar: A convenient and enjoyable way to explore the city, connecting key attractions in Little Rock and North Little Rock.
• Little Rock Zoo: A family-friendly destination with a historic carousel and scenic strolls.
• La Petite Roche Plaza: Learn about the city’s namesake and enjoy the beautiful landscaping and interpretive plaques.

Insider Tips

• Rent Bicycles: Use Rock Town River Outfitters to rent bicycles and explore the Arkansas River Trail and other scenic bike paths.
• Farmers Market: Visit the River Market District’s farmers market for locally sourced produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts.
• Live Music and Nightlife: Enjoy the vibrant nightlife in the River Market District and Creative Corridor, featuring various genres of music and lively bars and pubs.
• Guided Tours: Take a Little Rock Civil Rights Tour or a state-of-the-art bus tour to get a comprehensive overview of the city’s history and attractions.

Local Favorites

• Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken: A must-try for food enthusiasts in the River Market District.
• Blue Canoe Brewing: One of the many local brewpubs offering a great dining and drinking experience.
• Nexus Coffee: A cozy café in the River Market District perfect for a morning coffee or afternoon break.

By sharing these attractions and tips, you can help your Airbnb guests make the most of their visit to Little Rock, Arkansas.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short Term Rental Business in Little Rock, Arkansas

To ensure a smooth and compliant operation of a short-term rental business in Little Rock, Arkansas, several key practices can be implemented. First, it is crucial to inform guests about the noise regulations, specifically the quiet hours between 10pm and 7am, to avoid any potential violations and maintain a positive relationship with neighbors. This information should be clearly outlined in both digital and physical house manuals, which should also include essential instructions, Wi-Fi passwords, and other pertinent details to enhance the guest experience.

A simplified check-in process can be achieved by utilizing smart locks, eliminating the need for physical key exchanges and allowing guests to access the property seamlessly. Additionally, providing detailed parking instructions accompanied by photos can help guests navigate the property easily and reduce the likelihood of parking-related issues.

By adhering to these tips, hosts can not only comply with the city's regulations but also create a welcoming and hassle-free environment for their guests, ultimately contributing to a successful and reputable short-term rental business.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning providers in Little Rock, Arkansas:

House Cleaning Services in Little Rock, AR

Picture Perfect Cleaning

• Offers weekly, biweekly, and monthly cleaning services in North Little Rock, Little Rock, Jacksonville, and surrounding areas.
• Provides all necessary cleaning tools and materials.

Molly Maid of Greater Little Rock

• Offers regularly scheduled residential cleaning, new construction cleaning, post-remodel cleaning, one-time cleaning services, and spring-cleaning services.
• Trained and insured professionals.

Merry Maids of Little Rock

• Provides comprehensive cleaning services with 40 years of experience.
• Offers free estimates for their services.

Various Local House Cleaning Services

• Listed on platforms like Care.com and Angi, these services include multiple local providers offering a range of cleaning options.
• Average rates range from $17 to $50 per hour, depending on the service and house size.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Little Rock, Arkansas: A Comprehensive Guide

In Little Rock, Arkansas, 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 25% to 30% of the rental income. This comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of the rental property are handled, from advertising and guest screening to cleaning and repairs. On the other hand, basic services that may only include rent collection and minimal oversight can cost less, usually around 10% to 15% of the rental revenue. Additionally, property owners may incur extra fees for specific services such as cleaning, repairs, or design enhancements, which can add to the overall cost of managing their short-term rental properties.