Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Pocono Lake Pennsylvania.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Pocono Summit, Pennsylvania (Coolbaugh Township) for 2024

Licensing and Permits

• Obtain a Pennsylvania Sales and Use Tax License from the state.
• Obtain a Monroe County Hotel Excise Tax Certificate.
• Complete the Coolbaugh Township Short-Term Rental License Application, which includes:
• Property owner information
• 24/7 contact person who can respond to issues
• Parking plan showing all available parking spaces
• Trespass waiver allowing township officials to enter if issues arise
• Proof of insurance
• Copy of state tax license and county hotel tax certificate.

Fees

• Initial license application fee: $200
• Annual renewal fee: $150.

Safety and Compliance

• Pass a township safety inspection, which checks for various safety requirements such as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and sturdy stairs.

Occupancy and Guest Limits

• No specific guest limit mentioned for Coolbaugh Township, but neighboring regulations often limit occupancy (e.g., two people per bedroom plus two people in some areas).

Parking and Property Requirements

• Provide a minimum number of parking spaces, typically one parking space per bedroom.

Enforcement and Penalties

• Coolbaugh Township has hired a third-party company to identify unregistered STRs and ensure compliance with occupancy limits and other rules. Non-compliant owners may face penalties of up to $1,000 per day.

Community and HOA Rules

• Be aware of and comply with any Homeowners Association (HOA) rules and community covenants that may apply to the property. Recent court decisions have clarified that HOA bylaws cannot conflict with the original declarations of a community.

General Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all municipal and HOA rules to avoid fines and other penalties. It is recommended to consult with a local realtor experienced with short-term rentals to navigate the process.

Top Airbnb Revenue-Generating Neighborhoods in Pocono Lake, Pennsylvania

1. Arrowhead Lake

• Appeal: Arrowhead Lake is a highly sought-after community due to its scenic beauty and amenities. It is located within a short-term rental friendly township, making it an attractive option for investors. Guests are drawn to the lake's recreational activities, such as boating and fishing, and the community's well-maintained facilities.
• Financials: Properties in Arrowhead Lake contribute significantly to the average yearly revenue of $41,000 in Pocono Lake, with a high concentration of short-term rentals in this community.

2. Locust Lake Village

• Appeal: Locust Lake Village offers a similar allure with its picturesque lake setting and various outdoor activities. The community is known for its friendly HOA policies towards short-term rentals, which makes it a favorite among investors and guests alike. Guests enjoy the tranquil environment, access to water sports, and the proximity to other Pocono attractions.
• Financials: Like Arrowhead Lake, Locust Lake Village is a major contributor to the overall Airbnb revenue in Pocono Lake, with many properties generating substantial income through short-term rentals.

Why These Neighborhoods Are Appealing

• Proximity to Outdoor Attractions: Both Arrowhead Lake and Locust Lake Village are close to popular outdoor attractions such as ski resorts, hiking trails, and water sports facilities, making them ideal for guests seeking an immersive outdoor experience.
• Year-Round Activities: These communities offer a range of activities across all seasons, from skiing and snowboarding in winter to hiking, biking, and water sports in the warmer months.
• Scenic Beauty: The lakes and surrounding landscapes provide a serene and beautiful environment, perfect for family vacations, romantic getaways, or adventure-filled trips.
• Short-Term Rental Friendly: The HOAs in these communities are generally supportive of short-term rentals, which simplifies the investment process for property owners and ensures a steady stream of guests.

Creating an Inviting Airbnb in Pocono Lake, Pennsylvania: Design and Furnishing Tips

Lighting and Ambiance

• Maximize Natural Light: Ensure windows are unobstructed by heavy blinds or cumbersome curtains to allow ample natural light into the space.
• Use Warm Lighting: Opt for warm light bulbs instead of cool "daylight" bulbs to create a welcoming and cozy atmosphere.
• Turn Off Artificial Lights During Photography: Keep artificial lights off during photo shoots to avoid unwanted orange and yellow tones and maintain bright, clean visuals.

Layering and Decor

• Add Accent Pieces: Incorporate throw pillows, cozy blankets, shelf decor, and plants (living or artificial) to give the space a lived-in and inviting feel.
• Fill Shelves and Surfaces Thoughtfully: Use books, records, and other lifestyle elements to add visual interest and create a sense of warmth and relatability.

Location-Specific Amenities

• Reflect the Local Environment: If your rental is in a wooded area, include amenities like hot tubs, saunas, and fire pits. For city locations, consider amenities like record collections, board games, and local guides.
• Seasonal Amenities: Stock your rental with items that guests can enjoy year-round, such as sleds and snowshoes for winter, and bags for summer.

Guest Experience

• Create a Signature Experience: Tailor your rental to the unique aspects of Pocono Lake. For example, offer kayaks, fishing gear, or hiking guides to enhance the guest experience.
• Family-Friendly and Romantic Options: Provide game rooms, kid-friendly amenities, and private hot tubs to cater to both families and couples seeking romantic retreats.

Functional and Comfortable Spaces

• Fully Equipped Kitchens: Ensure the kitchen is well-stocked with all necessary tools and appliances for guests to prepare meals comfortably.
• Comfortable Living Areas: Include comfortable seating, smart TVs, and other amenities like billiards, foosball, or a theater room to enhance relaxation and entertainment.

Outdoor and Community Integration

• Utilize Outdoor Spaces: Highlight features like private beaches, sundecks, fire pits, and BBQ areas to make the most of the outdoor environment.
• Local Touches: Include gift baskets with items from local businesses to encourage community engagement and immersion in the local culture.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short-Term Rental Business in Pocono Lake, Pennsylvania

To ensure a smooth and profitable short-term rental business in Pocono Lake, Pennsylvania, several practical tips can make a significant difference. First, it is crucial to inform guests about noise regulations and quiet hours to maintain good relations with the local community. This can be included in a comprehensive digital and physical house manual that provides clear instructions, Wi-Fi passwords, and other essential information to enhance the guest experience.

A simplified check-in process is also vital. Utilizing smart locks eliminates the need for physical key exchanges, making the arrival process seamless. Additionally, providing detailed parking instructions accompanied by photos can help guests navigate the property easily and avoid any potential issues.

By adhering to these tips, you can ensure compliance with local regulations, improve guest satisfaction, and streamline the operational aspects of your short-term rental business, ultimately leading to a more successful and stress-free venture.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning, and related services providers in the Pocono Lake, Pennsylvania area:

House Cleaning Services

Poconos House Cleaning

• Based in Bushkill, PA, but serves the Pocono Mountain area, including Pocono Lake.
• Offers house cleaning, commercial cleaning, event cleaning, and vacation rental cleaning services.
• Uses eco-friendly products and provides deep clean services for an extra fee.

STR Super Cleaners

• Located in Pocono Lake, PA.
• Provides house cleaning, commercial cleaning, and vacation rental make-ready cleaning services.
• Offers flexible scheduling including one-time, seasonal, weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly services.

ProTrust Cleaning

• Serves the Poconos area, including Pocono Lake.
• Offers house cleaning, deep cleaning, window cleaning, carpet cleaning, and vacation rental cleaning services.
• Customizable cleaning plans and eco-friendly options available.

Other Services Mentioned

Fait Contracting

• While primarily a contracting company, they also offer cleaning services including residential cleaning and window cleaning.
• Based in the local area and has been in business since 2019.

Additional Resources

For more options and reviews, you can also check:- HomeAdvisor for a list of rated maid services and cleaning professionals in Pocono Lake, PA.- Care.com for local house cleaning services in Mount Pocono, PA, which may also serve the Pocono Lake area.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Pocono Lake, Pennsylvania

In Pocono Lake, Pennsylvania, the fees for short-term rental management can vary significantly, typically ranging from 10% to 30% of the rental revenue, depending on the level and scope of services provided. Full-service management companies, which handle comprehensive tasks such as guest communication, marketing, and maintenance, tend to charge on the higher end of this spectrum. These companies often employ local teams to ensure properties are well-maintained and guest needs are met around the clock, which can include services like cleaning, upkeep, and 24/7 guest support.

Basic services, which may only include listing and booking management, generally cost less. Additionally, property owners may incur extra fees for specific services such as cleaning, repairs, or interior design and remodeling. These additional costs can vary but are often included in the overall management fee structure or charged separately based on the needs of the property.