Airbnb & VRBO Performance in North Conway New Hampshire.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in North Conway, New Hampshire for 2024

State and Local Requirements

State-Level Requirements

• Meals and Rooms (Rentals) Tax License: All short-term rental operators must obtain this license from the New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration.
• Apply using the Application for Meals & Rentals Tax Operators License & Renewal (Form CD-3).
• Submit the application at least 30 days prior to the start of business.
• The license fee is $58.

Local Zoning and Regulatory Requirements

• Zoning Ordinances: Municipalities have the authority to regulate short-term rentals through zoning laws under RSA 674:16. Rules vary across different communities.
• Conditional Use Permits: In some towns, like Gilford, a Conditional Use Permit from the Planning Board may be required.

North Conway Specific Regulations

Licensing and Inspection Program

• Licensing Program: The town is considering a licensing program for all rental properties, including short-term rentals, following a recent NH Supreme Court decision.
• Building Code/Life Safety Inspections: The town plans to implement inspections for rental properties, including existing ones, to ensure compliance with building codes and life safety standards.

Current Status of Inspections

• Inspection Program On Hold: The recently adopted rental inspection ordinance has hit a legal snag and is currently on hold until an amendment can be made to include references to specific state statutes.

Key Issues and Considerations

• Grandfathering Existing Units: Existing rental units may be grandfathered from some portions of the building code, but not from life-safety issues.
• Emergency Egress: Landlords with pre-2006-built rental properties without bedroom window egress may be allowed to sign affidavits to address this issue over a reasonable period.

Legal Challenges

• Lawsuit and Enforcement Pause: The Mt. Washington Valley Association for Responsible Vacation Rentals has filed a lawsuit challenging the rental inspection program, leading to a pause in enforcement until the ordinance is updated.

Future Steps

• Ordinance Amendments: The town plans to amend the rental ordinance at the 2025 town meeting to include correct citations and set a fine schedule.
• Clarification and Communication: The town will draft a letter explaining the situation to rental property owners and present it at the next Selectmen’s meeting.

Neighborhoods Generating the Most Airbnb Revenue in North Conway, New Hampshire

While the sources do not provide a detailed breakdown of specific neighborhoods within North Conway, they do offer insights into the overall appeal and factors contributing to the high revenue generated by Airbnb rentals in the area.

General Appeal of North Conway

• Year-Round Tourism: North Conway benefits from a year-round tourism industry, driven by its proximity to popular ski resorts, outdoor activities, and the White Mountain National Forest.
• Outdoor Activities: The area is renowned for its access to hiking, climbing, bouldering, sport climbing, and mountain biking, making it a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts.
• High Demand: The combination of natural attractions and recreational opportunities creates a high demand for vacation rentals.

Key Areas and Their Appeal

While specific neighborhoods are not listed, here are some general areas and their appeal:

Central North Conway

• Proximity to Amenities: Central areas are likely to be close to shops, restaurants, and other amenities, making them appealing for guests who want easy access to local services.
• Public Transportation: Closer proximity to public transportation hubs can also increase the appeal for guests without vehicles.

Areas Near Ski Resorts

• Skiing and Snowboarding: Neighborhoods close to ski resorts such as Cranmore Mountain Resort or Attitash Mountain Resort are highly appealing during the winter months for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
• Seasonal Activities: These areas often offer a range of seasonal activities, enhancing their appeal throughout the year.

White Mountain National Forest

• Direct Access to Trails: Areas adjacent to the White Mountain National Forest, such as those mentioned in the forum post, offer direct access to hiking and biking trails, making them highly attractive to outdoor enthusiasts.

Residential Areas with Amenities

• Family-Friendly: Neighborhoods with larger homes, such as those with 3-5 bedrooms, are appealing to families and groups of friends looking for spacious accommodations with amenities like full kitchens and multiple bathrooms.

In summary, while specific neighborhood names are not provided, the appeal of North Conway's Airbnb rentals can be attributed to their proximity to outdoor activities, ski resorts, and local amenities, making the entire area a lucrative market for vacation rentals.

Creating an Inviting Airbnb in North Conway, NH: Tips for Furnishing and Design

Embrace the Mountain Aesthetic

• Incorporate natural materials such as wood, stone, and earthy tones to reflect the surrounding White Mountains.
• Use rustic furniture pieces, like wooden beams and log accents, to create a cozy and authentic mountain feel.

Local Inspiration

• Draw inspiration from North Conway's rich history and outdoor culture. Incorporate elements like vintage ski equipment, hiking gear, and local artwork.
• Display maps, guides, and photographs of the area's iconic landmarks, such as Cathedral Ledge, Cranmore Mountain, and the Conway Scenic Railroad.

Cozy and Comfortable

• Choose plush furnishings and warm textiles like wool blankets, fleece throws, and comfortable seating to create a welcoming atmosphere.
• Ensure ample lighting with a mix of table lamps, floor lamps, and string lights to mimic the warm glow of a mountain cabin.

Functional and Practical

• Provide storage solutions that blend with the decor, such as wooden chests and woven baskets, to keep the space organized and clutter-free.
• Include amenities like a fully equipped kitchen, a fireplace or wood stove, and a washer/dryer to make the space feel like a home away from home.

Highlight Local Charm

• Incorporate local touches such as antique pieces, handmade crafts, and items from North Conway's unique shops and artisans.
• Add decorative elements that reflect the area's outdoor activities, such as fishing nets, hiking boots, or vintage ski poles.

Seasonal Decor

• Update your decor seasonally to reflect the changing beauty of North Conway. For example, use autumn colors and foliage in the fall, winter wonderland themes in the winter, and blooming flowers in the spring.
• Ensure that your decor is versatile enough to appeal to guests visiting during different seasons.

Outdoor Integration

• If your Airbnb has an outdoor space, furnish it with comfortable seating, a fire pit, and outdoor lighting to encourage guests to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
• Provide outdoor gear such as bicycles, hiking poles, or snowshoes to enhance the guest experience and encourage exploration of the area.

Personal Touches

• Leave a welcome book or guide with recommendations for local restaurants, shops, and activities to help guests make the most of their stay.
• Include personal touches like a welcome basket with local treats and a handwritten note to make guests feel welcome and valued.

Technology and Convenience

• Ensure that your Airbnb is equipped with modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, smart TVs, and charging stations while maintaining the rustic charm of the space.
• Provide a portable charger or power bank for guests to use during their outdoor adventures.

Discover North Conway, New Hampshire: Top Attractions and Insider Tips

Local Attractions

Outdoor Adventures

• Cranmore Mountain Resort: Enjoy skiing, tubing, and riding in the winter. In the summer, experience the Mountain Coaster, Soaring Eagle Zip Line, and the Giant Swing.
• Cathedral Ledge and Whitehorse Ledges: Perfect for rock climbers, offering stunning views and challenging routes.
• Echo Lake State Park: A great spot for swimming, picnics, and scenic trails around the lake.
• Black Cap Hiking Trail: A 2.4-mile easy trail with unmatched views of the Mount Washington Valley.
• Diana's Baths: Explore waterfalls and hiking trails just off West Side Road.

Scenic Experiences

• Conway Scenic Railroad: Take a historic train excursion through the Mount Washington Valley and Crawford Notch.
• Kancamagus Highway: Drive through one of the most scenic routes in the country, especially renowned for fall foliage.
• Mount Washington Auto Road: Journey to the highest peak in the Northeast, with winter options including the Mount Washington SnowCoach.

Family Fun

• Story Land Theme Park: A fairy tale-themed park with rides, shows, and a water park.
• Santa's Village: Celebrate Christmas year-round with rides, Santa's Home, and the HOHOH20 water park.
• Kahuna Laguna: An indoor water park at the Red Jacket Resort with slides, a wave pool, and adventure activities.

Shopping and Culture

• Settlers Green Outlet Village: New England's largest tax-free shopping outlet with over 100 stores.
• North Conway Village: Explore quaint shops, antique stores, bookstores, and bakeries along Main Street.
• Art Galleries: Discover over 30 artists and art galleries in the North Conway and Mt. Washington Valley area.

Other Attractions

• Mount Washington Observatory Weather Discovery Center: Learn about weather and experience interactive exhibits.
• Schouler Park: A popular spot for picnics, dog walking, and special events like the 4th of July Celebration.
• Uberblast: Enjoy laser tag, mini golf, arcade games, and ski ball.

Insider Tips

Seasonal Activities

• Winter: Enjoy skiing at one of the 7 alpine resorts or 6 cross-country centers. Don't miss snow-tubing options and the Mount Washington SnowCoach.
• Summer: Take scenic chair lift rides at Cranmore Mountain, swim in the Saco River, or attend free concerts in Schouler Park.

Local Cuisine

• Dining: Choose from nearly 100 restaurants, breweries, distilleries, coffee shops, and cafes in the area.
• Tax-Free Shopping: Take advantage of tax-free shopping at various outlets and local shops.

Scenic Drives and Hikes

• Scenic Drives: Explore the Kancamagus Highway and other scenic routes for breathtaking views.
• Hiking Trails: With over 1,200 miles of trails in the White Mountain National Forest, there's something for every hiking level.

Family-Friendly Activities

• Water Parks: Besides Kahuna Laguna, consider the HOHOH20 water park at Santa's Village.
• Playgrounds and Parks: Schouler Park and Echo Lake State Park are great for family outings.

By sharing these attractions and insider tips, you can help your Airbnb guests make the most of their visit to North Conway, New Hampshire.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short Term Rental Business in North Conway, New Hampshire

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for both you and your guests in North Conway, New Hampshire, several key practices can be implemented:

Noise Regulations and Guest Communication

Inform your guests about quiet hours and local noise regulations to maintain a respectful environment for neighbors. Include this information in your welcome message or house manual to avoid any potential issues.

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 will help guests navigate the property easily and reduce the number of inquiries you receive.

Simplified Check-in Process

Utilize smart locks to streamline the check-in process, eliminating the need for physical key exchanges. Provide clear instructions on how to use the smart locks and ensure that guests have all the necessary access codes before their arrival.

Parking Instructions

Include detailed parking instructions with photos in your house manual or welcome packet. This helps guests understand where they can park and how to navigate any specific parking rules or restrictions in the area.

By following these tips, you can enhance the guest experience, reduce potential conflicts, and ensure your short-term rental business in North Conway operates efficiently and successfully.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning, repair, and maintenance providers in North Conway, New Hampshire:

House Cleaning Services

• Little fish Cleaning: Serving Mt Washington Valley, including North Conway, Bartlett, Jackson, Glen, and Madison.
• Sparkling Spaces Cleaning Service: Offers professional cleaning services with 8 years of experience.
• ServiceMaster of Carroll and Coos County: Provides house cleaning, light commercial, office cleaning, and more, with 72 years of experience.
• Sandy's Cleaning Service: Known for reliability and professionalism, with 44 years of experience.
• Vista Services: Fully insured with great valley references, offering prompt and reliable services, with 27 years of experience.

Property Management and Cleaning

• North Conway Property Management: Offers a 54-point cleaning and disinfecting service, particularly for short-term rentals.

Additional Resources

• Care.com House Cleaning Services: Lists various house cleaning services in North Conway, with rates starting at $26.90/hr and an average of 4 years of experience.
• Angie's List House Cleaners: Provides a list of top-rated house cleaners in North Conway, along with reviews and ratings.

Note that while the list primarily focuses on house cleaning services, some of these providers may also offer additional maintenance or repair services, but this is not explicitly stated in the sources.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in North Conway, New Hampshire

Managing a short-term rental property in North Conway, New Hampshire, involves various fees that can range from 10% to 30% of the rental revenue, depending on the level of service provided. Full-service management companies, such as Awning and North Conway Property Management, typically charge fees starting at 15% of revenue. These services include comprehensive management of guest communications, marketing, booking optimization, cleaning, and maintenance, ensuring a hassle-free and profitable experience for property owners.

Basic or half-service management options, like those offered by Evolve, may start at a lower rate of around 10%, but these services often leave more of the day-to-day tasks, such as cleaning and guest communication, to the property owner. Additional fees may apply for services like professional photography, repairs, and design updates to enhance the property's appeal and rental income. The specific fee structure can vary based on factors such as property size, type, location, and the annual estimated revenue.