Airbnb & VRBO Performance in North Little Rock Arkansas.

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

Licensing and Registration

• Short-term rental operators must obtain a business license from the city of North Little Rock.
• The initial and subsequent annual business license privilege tax for short-term rental operators is $50 per person, per year.

Zoning Restrictions

• New short-term rentals are prohibited in R1 and R2 zoning districts, which are owner-occupied and single-family districts.

Compliance and Documentation

• Existing short-term rental properties must provide satisfactory proof of operation prior to the adoption of the ordinance to qualify as preexisting short-term rentals.
• Operators with an active city business license have a six-month startup period to submit documentation to maintain their license. If the process is not started within three months, the revocation process for existing licenses will be initiated.

Operational Requirements

• Short-term rental operators must adhere to neighborhood rules and regulations to maintain their licenses.

Tax Compliance

• The city aims to ensure that short-term rental operators pay the necessary taxes, as there have been issues with collecting taxes from these properties in the past.

Moratorium and State-Level Considerations

• The city has imposed a moratorium on new short-term rental business licenses pending the outcome of state-level deliberations, such as Senate Bill 197, which could override local ordinances.

Enforcement

• Failure to comply with the regulations can result in the revocation of the business license, although specific enforcement mechanisms are not detailed in the North Little Rock regulations as they are in other cities like Little Rock.

Top Neighborhoods Generating Airbnb Revenue in North Little Rock, Arkansas

Argenta Historic District

• Appeal: The Argenta Historic District is highly appealing due to its close-knit community and proximity to numerous downtown attractions. Guests can walk to Argenta Square, Simmons Arena, Dickey-Stephens baseball park, the Arkansas River, biking and walking trails, and the trolley. Properties like "The Life Pearl" bungalow and "Argenta No Cleaning Fee Maple and Main" townhouse offer a mix of modern amenities and a retro vibe, making this area a favorite among guests.

Downtown North Little Rock along the Arkansas River Trail

• Appeal: This area is popular for its mix of downtown vibrancy and small-town community charm. The Quarters at Rockwater, a 4-unit complex, is a prime example, offering units like Unit A with private patios and easy access to the Arkansas River Trail, which links the downtowns of Little Rock and North Little Rock. This location provides a win-win for guests seeking both urban and scenic experiences.

Neighborhoods near Small Lakes and Scenic Areas

• Appeal: Homes located near small lakes, such as the "4 Bd/2.5 Ba Home on Small Lake," are highly rated for their serene and convenient locations. These properties offer relaxing environments with amenities like back decks overlooking the lake, fishing opportunities, and proximity to shopping and restaurants. The combination of natural beauty and convenience makes these areas very appealing to guests.

Historic Old Mill Neighborhood

• Appeal: The historic Old Mill neighborhood is favored for its charming mid-century homes and responsive hosts. Properties here, such as the "Mid-cen house in historic Old Mill neighborhood," are praised for their cleanliness, location, and the overall guest experience. The historic charm and quiet neighborhood setting make this area a standout for guests seeking a more traditional and peaceful stay.

These neighborhoods in North Little Rock are highly sought after due to their unique blend of historical charm, modern amenities, and convenient access to local attractions and natural beauty.

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

Define Your Property's Aesthetic

• Align your design with the local market and price tier. North Little Rock's blend of downtown vibrancy and small-town charm should influence your aesthetic choices.

Focus on Functionality and Comfort

• Ensure that each room is both functional and comfortable. This includes providing ample seating, well-equipped kitchens, and comfortable bedding.

Choose Statement Pieces Wisely

• Invest in statement pieces such as couches, coffee tables, and dining room tables that define the space. These pieces should reflect the local style and be of good quality to justify the investment.

Avoid Overly Common Furniture

• Steer clear of very common furniture items that can be found in many other Airbnbs. Instead, opt for unique pieces that add character to your space.

Add Local Touches

• Incorporate local elements and decor that reflect North Little Rock's culture and history. This could include artwork, furniture pieces, or accessories that are unique to the area.

Use Plants to Enhance the Space

• Add plants to liven up the space and create a welcoming atmosphere. This is especially effective in corners and areas that might otherwise feel empty.

Balance Budget and Quality

• Make budget-conscious decisions but also be willing to splurge on key items that will make a significant impact on the overall look and feel of the space. Prioritize the living room or other key areas as your showpiece.

Ensure Cohesive Design

• Maintain a cohesive design throughout the property. Use a consistent color scheme, furniture style, and decor to create a harmonious and inviting environment.

Consider Guest Amenities

• Provide amenities that cater to the needs and preferences of your guests, such as fully equipped kitchens, comfortable workstations, and high-speed Wi-Fi. These amenities can enhance the guest experience and reflect positively on the local hospitality.

Protect Your Furniture

• Take measures to protect your furniture from wear and tear. Use durable materials, consider using furniture covers, and establish clear house rules to maintain the condition of your property.

Discover North Little Rock, Arkansas: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Local Attractions

Historic and Cultural Sites

• Argenta Historic District: Explore the thriving entertainment district with theaters, fine dining, bars, gastropubs, and boutiques.
• Argenta Drug Store: Visit the oldest continuously operating pharmacy west of the Mississippi, built in 1887.
• Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum: Tour a World War II submarine and tugboat, and explore the museum's Naval artifacts.
• Arkansas National Guard Museum: Learn about the history of the Arkansas National Guard and Camp Robinson.

Outdoor Activities

• Burns Park: Enjoy miles of trails, disc golf courses, playgrounds, and the seasonal Funland Amusement Park in one of the largest municipal parks in the U.S..
• Emerald Park: Hike to scenic views of the cliffs and Arkansas River, or start at the bottom for a more challenging trail from Big Rock Quarry.
• North Shore Riverwalk: Take a lighted walk or jog along the Arkansas River and explore interpretive panels commemorating the Trail of Tears.
• Rock Town River Outfitters: Experience guided kayak tours suitable for both experienced paddlers and first-timers.

Sports and Entertainment

• Dickey-Stephens Park: Catch a game by the Arkansas Travelers minor league baseball team.
• Simmons Bank Arena: Attend concerts, special events, and visit the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame Museum.

Shopping and Dining

• McCain Mall and Lakewood Village: Shop at Central Arkansas' largest mall and other shopping centers.
• Antique Malls: Explore various antique malls scattered throughout the city.

Unique Landmarks

• The Old Mill: Visit the authentic reproduction of an old water-powered grist mill featured in "Gone with the Wind," located in T.R. Pugh Memorial Park.

Insider Tips

Getting Around

• Rock Region METRO Streetcar: Use the free streetcar for a tour of downtown North Little Rock and access to key attractions.
• Rock Region Metro: Utilize the public bus system for convenient travel within the city.

Local Favorites

• Hideaway Pizza: Enjoy a local favorite for pizza and a casual dining experience.
• Argenta Plaza: Explore this vibrant area for dining, shopping, and entertainment.

Seasonal Activities

• Fall Festivities: Experience the city's festive atmosphere during fall, with changing colors, cooler weather, and local events.

Additional Tips

• North Little Rock Welcome Center: Start your visit here for free maps, local products, and information about the city.
• St. Joseph Center of Arkansas: Visit this agritourism destination for family fun, sustainable farming experiences, and Arkansas products.

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

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

To run a successful short-term rental business in North Little Rock, Arkansas, several practical tips can enhance the guest experience and ensure compliance with local regulations. Here are some key considerations:

Noise Regulations and Guest Communication

Inform your guests about the quiet hours, which are typically between 10pm and 7am, to avoid noise complaints from neighbors. Clearly outline these rules in your digital and physical house manual to set expectations from the outset.

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 should also cover house rules, including noise regulations, to ensure guests are well-informed.

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 use the smart locks and include photos to help them navigate the property.

Parking Instructions

Ensure that parking instructions are clear and accompanied by photos. This helps guests understand where to park and how to access the property, reducing the likelihood of parking-related issues.

By implementing these strategies, you can enhance guest satisfaction, reduce potential conflicts, and maintain a positive reputation for your short-term rental business in North Little Rock.

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

House Cleaning Services in North Little Rock, AR

Picture Perfect Cleaning

• Offers weekly, biweekly, and monthly cleaning services.
• Covers North Little Rock, Little Rock, Jacksonville, and surrounding areas.
• Provides deep cleaning services using environmentally friendly products.

CottageCare

• Provides eco-friendly cleaning and maid services.
• Offers customized housekeeping packages, including weekly, bi-weekly, and as-needed services.
• Serves North Little Rock, Little Rock, Sherwood, Maumelle, and other nearby areas.

Molly Maid of Greater Little Rock

• Offers trusted and reliable house cleaning services.
• Provides regularly scheduled residential cleaning, new construction cleaning, post-remodel cleaning, and one-time cleaning services.
• Serves the Greater Little Rock area, including North Little Rock.

North Little Rock, Arkansas: Understanding Short-Term Rental Management Fees

In North Little Rock, Arkansas, the fees for managing short-term rentals, such as those listed on Airbnb, can vary significantly based on the level of service provided. Typically, these fees range from 10% to 30% of the rental revenue. Full-service management, which includes comprehensive tasks like guest communication, marketing, and maintenance, tends to be on the higher end of this spectrum, often starting at around 20% of the booking revenue.

Basic services, which might only include resident placement or rent collection, can be less expensive. Additionally, hosts may incur extra fees for services such as cleaning, repairs, and design. For instance, companies like Summer charge a consumables fee to cover items like linens, toiletries, and other essentials to ensure each guest has a fresh experience. Understanding these fee structures is crucial for hosts to manage their expenses and ensure compliance with local regulations.