Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Morgantown West Virginia.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Morgantown, West Virginia for 2024

State and Local Requirements

Business Registration and Taxation

• Obtain a business registration certificate from the West Virginia State Tax Department for each rental location.
• Register to collect and remit the 6% West Virginia sales and use tax.
• Register to collect and remit local hotel occupancy tax, which can vary by location.

Municipal Licenses

• If your property is within city limits, obtain a municipal business license from the local municipality (e.g., City of Morgantown).

Property Registration and Inspections

• Register the rental property with the City of Morgantown. Properties are inspected every 3 years under the I.C.C. property maintenance code, and any code violations must be corrected within 20 days.

Zoning Compliance

• Ensure the property is zoned for short-term rental use. Check with the local zoning office for specific requirements.

Safety and Health Compliance

• Comply with safety regulations, such as fire safety inspections and certificates of occupancy. Obtain necessary approvals from health departments if the property falls outside primary residence use.

Insurance and Agreements

• While not a state requirement, it is highly recommended to have proper insurance coverage for your short-term rental. Also, have a well-drafted short-term rental agreement to provide legal protection and clarity for both hosts and guests.

Local Specifics

Code Enforcement

• The City of Morgantown enforces the State of West Virginia Building Code and Housing Code. Rental properties must meet minimum health and safety standards.

Occupancy Regulations

• Prospective occupants can check with code enforcement to verify if a rental unit is registered and compliant with occupancy standards.

Reporting Concerns

• Occupants and property owners can report concerns or code violations online or by contacting the code enforcement department.

Additional Considerations

Homeowners Association (HOA) and Property Deed Restrictions

• Be aware of any HOA covenants or property deed restrictions that could affect short-term rental operations.

Community Impact

• Be mindful of the impact of short-term rentals on the local housing stock and community, as these can be subjects of local regulation and community concern.

Top Airbnb Revenue-Generating Neighborhoods in Morgantown, West Virginia

1. Downtown Morgantown

• Appeal: Centrally located, these properties are highly rated for their proximity to restaurants, entertainment, arts, culture, and recreational areas such as the Rail Trail, Decker's Creek, and the Mon River. Guests appreciate the walkability to downtown and the Wharf District.
• Revenue Potential: High demand due to the central location and amenities, with annual revenues potentially exceeding $13,000 for a 2-bedroom unit.

2. Suncrest Neighborhood

• Appeal: Known for its inviting and comfortable decor, this neighborhood is close to West Virginia University (WVU), hospitals, and various outdoor activities like Coopers Rock State Forest and the WVU Arboretum. It is a favorite among guests due to its cleanliness and convenient location.
• Revenue Potential: With its proximity to WVU and other local attractions, this area can generate significant revenue, similar to other high-demand areas in Morgantown.

3. Near WVU Campus

• Appeal: Properties in this area are highly sought after by students and visitors to WVU. The proximity to the football stadium, Coliseum Basketball Arena, and Mylan Park Sports Complex makes it an attractive location. Additionally, the area offers easy access to hiking and outdoor activities.
• Revenue Potential: High demand from students and sports fans can lead to substantial annual revenues, potentially around $13,542 for a 2-bedroom unit.

4. Bruceton Mills Area

• Appeal: Located just minutes from downtown Morgantown and Coopers Rock State Forest, this area offers a mix of rural charm and easy access to outdoor recreation. Guests enjoy the private entrances, full kitchenettes, and spectacular landscape views.
• Revenue Potential: The combination of natural beauty and proximity to Morgantown can attract a steady stream of guests, leading to annual revenues comparable to other popular areas in Morgantown.

5. Greenmont Neighborhood

• Appeal: This neighborhood is known for its family-friendly environment and is within walking distance to WVU. It offers a quiet and comfortable stay with easy access to local amenities and outdoor activities.
• Revenue Potential: The appeal to families and students can drive consistent bookings, contributing to a robust annual revenue stream.

These neighborhoods in Morgantown, West Virginia, are appealing due to their combination of central locations, proximity to key attractions like WVU, and access to outdoor recreational activities, making them highly profitable for Airbnb investors.

Tips for Furnishing and Designing an Inviting Airbnb in Morgantown, West Virginia

General Design Principles

• Neutral Color Palette: Use a neutral color palette for walls and large furniture pieces to create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that appeals to a wide range of guests.
• Functional Spaces: Ensure each area of the property has a clear purpose, such as a well-defined reading nook, dining area, or relaxation spot.

Local Touches

• Reflect Local Culture: Incorporate elements that reflect Morgantown's local culture and history, such as artwork, decorative items, or a guidebook with local recommendations.
• Eclectic and Vintage Decor: Mix vintage and modern decor to harmonize with the local environment and community vibe, which is popular in Morgantown.

Furniture and Decor

• Quality Over Quantity: Invest in high-quality, stylish furniture rather than cheap, generic pieces. Statement pieces like couches, coffee tables, and dining room tables can define the space.
• Avoid Personal Items: Do not leave personal items such as clothes, personal photos, or overpacked bookshelves. Keep the space clutter-free and guest-friendly.
• Heavy-Duty Materials: Use heavy-duty materials for rugs and other furnishings to ensure they can withstand wear and tear.

Amenities and Comfort

• Essential Amenities: Stock up on essential items like toiletries, basic cooking ingredients, and a first aid kit to enhance guest comfort and satisfaction.
• Modern Conveniences: Consider adding smart home features like keyless entry, smart thermostats, and streaming devices for entertainment.
• Luxury Bedding: Use luxury bedding and provide quality shampoo and soap to indulge your guests and create a welcoming atmosphere.

Guest Experience

• Outdoor Spaces: If possible, include outdoor spaces for gatherings, such as a BBQ area or a deck, which are highly sought after by guests in Morgantown.
• Local Information: Provide informative books and guides about local attractions, events, and recommendations to enhance the guest experience.

Maintenance and Cleanliness

• Clean and Organized: Ensure the property is clean and organized. Use white linens and avoid old or dirty-looking items. Store cleaning equipment in a designated area to avoid clutter.
• Guest Responsibilities: Expect guests to clean up after themselves but do not require them to bring their own cleaning supplies.

Unique Features

• Scenic Views and Historic Charm: Highlight any unique features such as scenic views or historically significant architecture to attract more attention from prospective renters.
• Cozy Touches: Add cozy touches like scented candles, games, and cards to create a welcoming and homely atmosphere, especially during colder months.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short Term Rental Business in Morgantown, West Virginia

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

Noise Regulations and Guest Communication

Inform guests about quiet hours and local noise regulations to maintain a peaceful environment and avoid potential issues with neighbors. Clearly communicate these rules in the listing description and within a digital or physical house manual.

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 helps guests navigate the property easily and reduces the need for frequent host interventions.

Simplified Check-in Process

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

Parking Instructions

Include detailed parking instructions with photos in the house manual to help guests find and use designated parking areas. This reduces confusion and ensures that guests park in the correct locations, respecting both the property and neighboring residences.

By implementing these strategies, hosts can enhance the guest experience, comply with local regulations, and manage their properties more efficiently, ultimately leading to a successful and profitable short-term rental business in Morgantown.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning providers in Morgantown, West Virginia:

House Cleaning Providers in Morgantown, WV

Green Girl Cleaning

• Locally owned and operated, founded in 2013
• Offers earth-friendly cleaning solutions
• Services include house cleaning, move out cleaning, and small business cleaning.

Mountaineer Cleaning Service LLC

• Family-owned and operated, established in 2022
• Primarily focuses on commercial cleaning but also offers residential services
• Licensed, insured, EPA-approved, and CDC-compliant.

Mountain Tidy Cleaning Services

• Offers home cleaning services
• Allows for booking a trusted maid instantly.

Mountaineer Maids

• Provides a range of cleaning services including house cleaning, apartment cleaning, and move in or out cleaning.

These providers do not include repair or maintenance services, as the sources primarily focus on cleaning services.

Morgantown, West Virginia: Understanding Short-Term Rental Management Fees

In Morgantown, West Virginia, short-term rental management fees 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 comprehensive tasks such as guest communication, marketing, booking management, and maintenance, tends to be on the higher end of this spectrum, often starting at around 15% to 25% of the rental income.

Basic or a la carte services, which may only include specific aspects like listing optimization or cleaning, can be less expensive. Additionally, property owners may incur extra fees for services such as cleaning, repairs, or design enhancements. These fees are structured to reflect the unique characteristics of the property, including its size, type, location, and annual estimated revenue.