Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Milford Delaware.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Milford, Delaware for 2024

Licensing and Registration

• All residential rental properties must register annually with the City of Milford.
• A rental license must be obtained from the Planning & Economic Development Department, valid from January 1 to December 31 of each year. The fee for the rental license is $50.00 per unit.

Inspections

• Rental units are inspected on a four-year rotational schedule by ward to ensure code compliance.
• Properties must comply with Chapter 174 - Property Maintenance and the ICC 2015 International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) for basic equipment, light, ventilation, heating, sanitation, and fire safety.
• Initial inspection and one re-inspection are provided at no charge; additional inspections are assessed at $50.00 each.

Compliance and Maintenance

• Properties must meet minimum maintenance and housing standards as outlined in the City Code.
• Owners must ensure the property is ready for inspection, including notifying tenants and securing pets.
• Violations must be corrected, and a re-inspection scheduled by the property owner.

Taxation

• While specific local lodging taxes for Milford are not detailed, hosts must comply with state-level taxation requirements, including collecting and remitting the 8% (now 4.5% as per recent legislation) state accommodations tax.

Enforcement and Penalties

• Failure to comply with the requirements of Chapter 180 or other City Codes can result in violations and penalties, including fines of up to $1,000 per day.

Additional Requirements

• Properties that have been inspected for compliance with HUD or USDA Rural Development Housing Voucher programs can submit the most current inspection report instead of the City's inspection.
• Owners or caretakers must be present during the inspection and ensure tenants are properly notified.

Top Neighborhoods for Airbnb Revenue in Milford, Delaware

1. Downtown Milford

• Appeal: Downtown Milford is highly appealing due to its central location, walking distance to local boutiques, nightlife, and restaurants. Rentals like the "Luxury 2 bedroom Apt. Near DE Turf & Beaches!" offer a convenient and vibrant stay, with additional perks such as discounts at local eateries and distilleries.
• Amenities: Close proximity to amenities, dog and family-friendly environments, and easy access to beaches and the DE Turf complex.

2. Prime Hook Wildlife Refuge Area

• Appeal: This area is a favorite among guests for its stunning natural views and outdoor activities. "Mary's Place" is a standout, offering a roof deck with spectacular sunsets, a large screened porch, and direct access to beach walks along the Delaware Bay.
• Amenities: Bird watching, beach walks, and proximity to attractions like Dogfish Brewery.

3. Historic District of Milford

• Appeal: The historic district, home to the "Poe Themed Home Close to Beaches and DE Turf," attracts guests with its unique thematic stays and historic charm. The area is close to coffee shops, restaurants, and the historic Riverwalk.
• Amenities: Unique themed housing, basic kitchenette facilities, and walking distance to local amenities.

4. Milton (adjacent to Milford)

• Appeal: Although technically in Milton, rentals like "Beachin' Inn Milton" are close enough to Milford to be considered. These rentals offer a cozy, beach-themed stay with modern amenities and private parking.
• Amenities: Light and airy apartments, keyless private entrance, full bath, washer/dryer, and free WiFi.

5. Broadkill Beach Area

• Appeal: For those seeking a more secluded beach experience, the southern end of Broadkill Beach, such as the "ON THE BEACH. PET-FRIENDLY. LINENS INCLUDED." rental, provides a peaceful and private beach retreat. This area is less crowded compared to the northern end of the beach.
• Amenities: Secluded beach experience, pet-friendly, linens included, and convenient location near attractions.

These neighborhoods are highly appealing due to their unique blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and modern amenities, making them top generators of Airbnb revenue in the Milford, Delaware area.

Furnishing and Design Tips for an Inviting Airbnb in Milford, Delaware

Define Your Property's Aesthetic

• Align your furniture and decor with the local style and market of Milford, Delaware. Consider the coastal and historic elements of the area to create a cohesive look.

Choose Timeless and Durable Furniture

• Opt for sturdy, easy-to-clean furniture that can withstand frequent use. Avoid real and faux leather for sofas, and instead choose sofas with washable covers.

Optimize Space with Smart Storage

• Use furniture with built-in storage, such as beds with drawers, wall hooks, and stackable containers. This helps keep the space tidy and functional.

Ensure Functional Spaces

• Designate clear purposes for each area of your property, such as a well-defined reading nook, dining area, or relaxation spot. This enhances the guest’s overall experience.

Incorporate Local Touches

• Add elements that reflect the local culture or history of Milford, such as local artwork, decorative items, or a guidebook with local recommendations.

Use Neutral Color Palettes

• Select a neutral color palette for walls and large furniture pieces to create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that appeals to a wide range of tastes.

Enhance with Mirrors and Lighting

• Use mirrors to make the space feel bigger and brighter. Choose lighting fixtures that are warm and inviting, avoiding those that resemble office lighting.

Provide Essential Amenities

• Stock up on essentials like toiletries, basic cooking ingredients, and a first-aid kit. Also, include amenities such as a hairdryer, scented candles, and games for guests to enjoy.

Maintain a Clean and Uncluttered Space

• Ensure the property is free from personal items and clutter. Use white linens and towels for a clean and hotel-like feel. Store cleaning equipment in a designated area to avoid an intrusive feel.

Consider Guest Accessibility

• Make your Airbnb accessible to guests with disabilities by incorporating features like ramps, wide doorways, and grab bars in bathrooms.

Update Strategically

• Plan furniture updates during the off-season or short gaps between bookings to minimize disruption and keep the space in top shape for guests.

Add Modern Conveniences

• Consider adding smart home features like keyless entry, smart thermostats, or streaming devices to enhance the guest experience and appeal to tech-savvy travelers.

Discovering Milford, Delaware: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Local Attractions

Abbott's Mill Nature Center

• Explore the 313-acre Milford Millponds Nature Preserve, featuring trails, a preserved gristmill, a pond, meadows, an animal collection, and educational programs.

Bug & Bud Festival

• Celebrate the ladybug and nature in April, including Arbor Day and Milford’s designation as a USA Tree City.

Riverwalk Freedom Festival

• Attend Milford’s largest annual outdoor festival in September, commemorating the anniversary of September 11, 2001, with events spanning downtown Milford.

DuPont Nature Center

• Visit this science-based educational facility to learn about the Delaware Bay's natural history and ecology, featuring interactive exhibits and live animal displays.

Mispillion Riverwalk

• Enjoy a mile-long park through downtown Milford, offering recreational opportunities, a dog park, basketball court, boat and kayak launch, and scenic views.

Mispillion Art League

• Explore the local art scene at the Riverwalk Center for the Arts, sign up for classes, view exhibits, or participate in special art events.

Milford Holiday Stroll

• Experience an old-fashioned yuletide season in December with live entertainment, downtown business highlights, and a visit from Santa Claus.

Toasting the Town St. Patrick's Day Pub Crawl

• Join a pub crawl in March, sampling unique drinks and foods at local businesses and pubs.

The Big Draw DE

• Participate in over 50 artistic activities and classes in October as part of an international festival.

Emory Nature Trail and Goat Island

• Walk the Emory Nature Trail around Goat Island, exploring three different ecosystems and scenic viewing platforms.

Milford Museum

• Visit the museum to learn about the history of Milford, with rotating exhibits and free admission.

Insider Tips

Self-Guided Walking Tour

• Take a self-guided walking tour of Milford’s historic districts, including the North Milford, Victorian, and Shipyard Historic Districts, using the guide from the Milford Museum.

Weekly Farmers Market

• Visit the weekly farmers market every Saturday from May to October at the intersection of S. Walnut Street and Mispillion Riverwalk.

Downtown Boats

• Find and take photos with the brightly decorated model boats scattered throughout downtown Milford.

Local Restaurants and Breweries

• Enjoy handcrafted beer at Mispillion River Brewing and explore the local dining scene at neighborhood restaurants.

Bicycle Rentals

• Rent a bicycle to explore the colorful buildings, walls, and the Mispillion Riverwalk.

Community Events

• Check the Community Calendar for upcoming events, including the Ladybug Music Festival and other local celebrations.

By sharing these attractions and tips, your guests can fully immerse themselves in the charm and rich history of Milford, Delaware.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short Term Rental Business in Milford, Delaware

To ensure the success of a short-term rental business in Milford, Delaware, several practical tips can be implemented:

Noise Regulations and Quiet Hours

Inform guests about noise regulations and quiet hours to maintain a harmonious relationship with the local community. Clearly communicate these rules in the rental agreement and through a digital or physical house manual to avoid any misunderstandings.

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 highlight local amenities, dining options, and activities to enhance the guest experience.

Simplified Check-in Process

Utilize smart locks to streamline the check-in process, eliminating the need for physical key exchanges. Provide guests with detailed instructions on how to access the property, including photos of the smart lock and any other relevant entry points.

Parking Instructions

Include clear parking instructions with photos in the house manual to avoid confusion. This ensures guests know where to park and how to access the property, reducing the likelihood of issues and enhancing their overall experience.

By adhering to these tips, hosts can ensure compliance with local regulations, improve guest satisfaction, and ultimately increase the success and profitability of their short-term rental business in Milford, Delaware.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning providers in Milford, Delaware:

House Cleaning Services in Milford, DE

MaidPro Milford

• Offers expert home cleaning services with a 49-Point Checklist™ and flexible schedules.

Sparkling and Beyond

• A professional cleaning company using state-of-the-art equipment and with years of experience.

Various Local Cleaners

• Listed on Care.com, including cleaners like Jakerra C. and Christopher L., with an average rate of $18/hr and an average experience of 4 years.

Angie's List Cleaners

• A list of top-rated house cleaners in Milford, DE, based on real reviews and ratings.

Walmart House Cleaning Services

• Offers cleaning services for bathrooms, kitchens, and bedrooms, available through a dedicated phone number or in-person at Store 1741.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Milford, Delaware: A Comprehensive Guide

In Milford, Delaware, 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, such as Summer and Awning, offer a broad spectrum of services including guest communication, marketing, and maintenance, which usually fall on the higher end of this fee range.

Basic services, which might include only the essential management tasks, can be less expensive. Additionally, hosts may need to account for other fees such as cleaning fees, repair costs, and design or amenity maintenance, which can be charged separately. For instance, Summer charges a consumables fee to cover items like linens, toiletries, and light bulbs, while Awning's fees vary based on property size, type, and location.

Understanding these fees is crucial for hosts to ensure they comply with local regulations, maintain their properties, and optimize their rental income.