Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Long Pond Pennsylvania.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Long Pond, Pennsylvania for 2024

General Requirements

• Zoning Restrictions: Short-term rentals are only allowed in designated zoning areas. For Long Pond, which is often part of broader township regulations, rentals must comply with the specific zoning ordinances of the township in which Long Pond is located.

Licensing and Permits

• License Requirement: Each short-term rental unit must obtain its own license. Licenses are typically issued in the name of the owner and must be renewed annually.
• Application Process: The application process involves submitting necessary documents and paying the required fees. Incomplete applications are not accepted.

Property Standards

• Minimum Lot Size: In some townships, each dwelling unit must be situated on a lot with a minimum area, such as 0.50 acres in Mount Pocono.
• Bedroom Size and Occupancy: Bedrooms must meet specific size requirements (e.g., at least 70 sq ft for single occupancy, 100 sq ft for multiple occupants). The occupancy limit is often set at two people per bedroom plus two additional people.

Safety and Compliance

• Safety Requirements: Properties must comply with safety standards, including the installation of smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and ensuring sturdy stairs.
• Annual Inspections: Licenses require annual inspections to ensure compliance with safety and other regulations.

Contact and Communication

• Designated Local Contact: Each Airbnb property must have a designated local contact person who is contactable 24/7.

Parking and Signage

• Parking Requirements: A minimum of one parking space per bedroom must be provided.
• Signage Restrictions: No signage advertising or identifying the property as a short-term rental can be posted on the property.

Fees and Penalties

• License Fees: Initial and annual renewal fees apply, along with potential re-inspection fees for any deficiencies found during inspections.
• Penalties for Non-Compliance: Violations of city or township codes can result in penalties or revocation of the license.

Additional Regulations

• Proximity Restrictions: In some areas, short-term rentals are not permitted if they are located within 500 feet of another short-term rental property.
• Community Compliance: Regulations may include noise levels and guests’ behavior to ensure compliance with community standards.

Top Neighborhoods for Airbnb Revenue in Long Pond, Pennsylvania

1. Emerald Lakes

• Appeal: Emerald Lakes is highly appealing due to its extensive community amenities, including private beaches, lakes, kayaks, saunas, and fire pits. Guests can enjoy a peaceful lakefront experience with modern chalets and cabins that offer fully equipped kitchens, game rooms, and hot tubs.

2. Private Communities near Pocono Ski Resorts

• Appeal: These communities are close to the top ski resorts in the state, such as Camelback and Kalahari, making them ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Amenities include hot tubs, pools, BBQ grills, fire pits, and game rooms, all within a short walk to community lakes and other outdoor activities.

3. Long Pond Central

• Appeal: This area is central to many attractions, including water parks, shopping centers, dining places, and the Pocono Raceway. Guests love the convenience and the variety of amenities such as hot tubs, saunas, fire pits, and game rooms available in the vacation rentals.

4. Albrightsville and Surrounding Areas

• Appeal: While technically adjacent to Long Pond, these areas offer similar attractions and amenities, including beach volleyball homes, wheelchair-accessible properties, and homes with fenced yards, fireplaces, and hot tubs. The proximity to Long Pond and shared community amenities make them highly appealing.

5. Lake Harmony

• Appeal: Located just minutes from Long Pond, Lake Harmony offers large lodges with lake views, private beach access, and extensive amenities like XL hot tubs, fire pits, and game rooms. The picturesque setting and convenient location to ski resorts and other attractions make it a favorite among guests.

These neighborhoods are highly sought after due to their combination of natural beauty, extensive community amenities, and proximity to various recreational activities, making them ideal for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Crafting an Inviting Airbnb in Long Pond, Pennsylvania: Design and Furnishing Tips

Understanding the Local Market

• Long Pond, Pennsylvania, is nestled in the Pocono Mountains, attracting guests who love outdoor adventures. Your design should reflect this natural beauty and cater to various guest preferences, including rustic cabins, lakefront properties, and modern homes.

Amenities and Features

• Outdoor Spaces: Enhance outdoor areas with fire pits, BBQ grills, and seating areas to allow guests to enjoy the serene surroundings of the Pocono Mountains.
• Access to Nature: Ensure easy access to local attractions like hiking trails, lakes, and the Pocono Raceway. Properties close to these amenities are highly sought after.

Furnishing and Design

• Rustic Charm: Incorporate lodge-inspired furnishings, wooden furniture, and stone accents to connect guests with the natural beauty of the Poconos. Use a color palette that reflects the surrounding landscape.
• Modern Comforts: Invest in high-quality mattresses, bedding, and modern appliances to create a luxurious experience. This includes stylish decor and durable materials to enhance comfort and aesthetics.
• Cozy Interiors: Include cozy fireplaces, spacious backyards, and outdoor grilling options to make the space inviting and comfortable.

Family and Group-Friendly

• Game Rooms and Entertainment: Provide game rooms, lofts with board games, and entertainment areas to accommodate larger groups and families. This can include billiards, ping pong, air hockey, and other family-friendly activities.

Maintenance and Seasonality

• Regular Maintenance: Due to the region's harsh winters, regular maintenance is crucial. Engage a reliable local maintenance team to ensure properties remain in top condition.
• Seasonal Adjustments: Adjust pricing strategies according to the season to maximize revenue. Peak demand is during summer for lake activities and winter for skiing.

Personalized Local Experiences

• Local Experiences: Offer personalized local experiences such as fishing trips or hiking guides to enhance guest satisfaction and encourage repeat bookings.

Neighborhood Considerations

• Proximity to Attractions: Invest in neighborhoods close to outdoor activities, downtown attractions, and restaurants. Proximity to lakes can also be a significant differentiating factor.

By following these tips, you can create an inviting Airbnb space in Long Pond, Pennsylvania, that reflects the unique style and natural beauty of the area.

Discover Long Pond, Pennsylvania: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Local Attractions

Natural Wonders

• East Emerald Lake and West Emerald Lake: Perfect spots for a serene lakeside stroll and communing with nature.
• Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area: Explore the scenic beauty and outdoor activities of this national recreation area.
• Hickory Run State Park: Enjoy hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities in this picturesque park.

Adventure and Sports

• Pocono Raceway: Catch a NASCAR Cup Series race or other events at this renowned track.
• Camelback Ski Area, Jack Frost Mountain Resort, and Shawnee Mountain Ski Area: Great spots for skiing and snowboarding.
• Camelbeach Mountain Waterpark: A fun destination for water park enthusiasts.

Scenic Tours

• Private Mount Pocono Observation Air Tour: A unique way to see the Pocono Mountains from above.
• Delaware Water Gap Air Tour: Another aerial tour offering stunning views of the area.

Other Attractions

• Mount Airy Casino: For those looking for some gaming and entertainment.
• Pocono Premium Outlets: A shopper's paradise with various outlet stores.
• Great Wolf Lodge Waterpark: An excellent choice for family fun.
• Split Rock Resort Indoor Waterpark: Another great indoor water park option.

Insider Tips

Unique Ecosystems

• Long Pond is known for its unique inland freshwater wetland, featuring glacial till barrens, mixed hardwood deciduous forests, and vast peat bog swamps. Inform your guests about the diverse ecosystems and the potential for frost pockets even in summer months.

Community Events

• If your guests are visiting in July, they might be interested in the annual NASCAR Cup Series race at Pocono Raceway. Also, mention the historical Concert 10 rock festival that took place in 1972, which could spark interesting conversations.

Outdoor Activities

• Encourage guests to explore the public access lands within Long Pond, which are home to many species of plants and animals. This can be a great way to experience the local wildlife and natural beauty.

Local Recommendations

• Suggest visiting the nearby Lake Wallenpaupack for additional outdoor activities and scenic views.
• Recommend a visit to Mountain View Vineyard or Blue Ridge Estate Vineyard & Winery for wine tasting and a relaxing afternoon.

By providing these local attractions and insider tips, you can enhance your guests' experience and help them make the most of their visit to Long Pond, Pennsylvania.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short Term Rental Business in Long Pond, Pennsylvania

To ensure a smooth and profitable short-term rental business in Long Pond, Pennsylvania, several key strategies can be implemented. First, it is crucial to address noise regulations by informing guests about quiet hours through clear communication in the listing and a digital or physical house manual. This manual should also include essential instructions, such as Wi-Fi passwords, safety information, and specific rules like no pets or no smoking.

A simplified check-in process can significantly enhance the guest experience. Utilizing smart locks eliminates the need for physical key exchanges and provides guests with immediate access upon arrival. Additionally, providing detailed parking instructions accompanied by photos can help avoid confusion and ensure a hassle-free start to their stay.

By curating a comprehensive house manual and streamlining the check-in process, you can foster a positive and respectful environment for both guests and the local community, ultimately leading to better reviews and repeat business. Local regulations, such as those varying by location in Long Pond, should also be carefully adhered to, ensuring compliance with municipal zoning and other relevant rules.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning and related services providers in Long Pond, Pennsylvania:

House Cleaning Services

• Rebecca's Cleaning Services: Offers residential and commercial cleaning, power washing, and painting services. Located at Clover Road, Long Pond, PA 18334. Contact: (570) 872-6910.
• Homeaglow: Provides same-day cleaning services with professional, background-checked cleaners. Bookings start from $19 for a 3-hour clean.

Vacation Rental Cleaning Services

• Turno: Specializes in Airbnb and vacation rental cleaning services with 24/7 live customer support.

General Home Cleaning Services

• Various Providers Listed on Angie's List: A list of top-rated home cleaning services in Long Pond, PA, with real reviews and ratings.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Long Pond, Pennsylvania: A Comprehensive Guide

In Long Pond, Pennsylvania, managing a short-term rental property involves a range of fees that can vary significantly based on the level of service provided. Typically, property management fees for short-term rentals range from 10% to 30% of the rental revenue. Full-service management, which includes comprehensive services such as guest communication, marketing, and maintenance, tends to be on the higher end of this spectrum, often starting at around 15% to 20% of the revenue.

Basic services, which may include only the essential management tasks, can be less expensive but still fall within the 10% to 15% range. Additionally, property owners may incur extra fees for cleaning, repairs, or design services, which can be charged separately or included in the overall management fee. Companies like RedAwning, Summer, and Awning offer varying fee structures, each tailored to the specific needs and performance of the property, ensuring that owners can maximize their rental income while minimizing the hassle of day-to-day management.