Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Portsmouth Rhode Island.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Portsmouth, Rhode Island for 2024

Registration and Licensing

• Owners must register their properties through an online portal available on the town's website. The registration is mandatory for properties rented for fewer than 31 consecutive days.
• The registration fee is $130, which includes the inspection fee.

Inspections

• Properties are subject to inspections by the Building Official and the Fire Marshal before renting. Owners must schedule these inspections.

Maximum Occupancy

• Maximum occupancy is set at two persons per bedroom. A "person" is defined as an individual at least 12 years old. The number of bedrooms cannot exceed the number supported by the property's septic system.

Parking Requirements

• One off-street parking space must be provided on the same lot as the rental dwelling unit.

Rental Agreements and Posting Requirements

• The rental agreement must include a copy of the owner's registration form and permit with the Town. It must also state that the renter may be held legally responsible for any violations of Town laws.
• A copy of the current short-term rental agreement, registration form, and permit must be posted on the inside of the primary access door of the rental dwelling.

Compliance with Town Ordinances

• Owners must ensure renters comply with various town ordinances, including noise, disorderly conduct, disturbance of the peace, dog leash laws, parking, and trash maintenance and disposal.

Local Representative

• Owners must designate a local representative who can be contacted in case of issues related to the rental property.

Enforcement and Penalties

• Penalties for violations include $100 per day for a first violation, $250 per day for a second violation, and $500 per day for a third and each subsequent violation.
• The Zoning Enforcement Official may revoke a short-term rental permit if three or more violations occur within a twelve-month period. No new permit will be issued for 12 months following the revocation.

Proposed Amendments

• As of 2024, there are proposed amendments to the Short-Term Rental Ordinance, including revisions to definitions, registration and inspection requirements, registration fees, occupancy limits, and owner obligations. These amendments also include new provisions such as insurance requirements and specific prohibitions on short-term rentals.

Top Neighborhoods for Airbnb Revenue in Portsmouth, Rhode Island

Why These Neighborhoods Are Appealing

Here are the top neighborhoods in and around Portsmouth, Rhode Island, that generate significant Airbnb revenue, along with the reasons they are appealing to guests:

Newport

• Historic Charm and Tourist Hotspot: Newport is a major draw for tourists and locals alike, boasting historic properties and a bustling short-term rental market. Its rich history, scenic coastal views, and numerous tourist attractions make it an ideal location for Airbnb investments.

Warwick

• Convenient Transport Links and Year-Round Events: Warwick's proximity to the airport and its host of year-round events make it a prime location for Airbnb investments. The area's convenience and vibrant event calendar attract a steady stream of guests.

Jamestown and Barrington

• Historical Appeal and High Quality of Life: These towns are known for their historical significance and high quality of life. Guests are drawn to their charming atmosphere, making them desirable for long-term and short-term stays alike.

Key Statistics

• Newport:
• High occupancy rate
• Median property price: Around $475,000 for a 1-bedroom property
• Annual Airbnb revenue: Up to $69,923

• Notable attractions include historic mansions, beaches, and cultural events.

• Warwick:

• Consistently strong rental market
• Convenient location near the airport

• Year-round events attract a diverse range of guests.

• Jamestown and Barrington:

• Historical appeal and high quality of life
• Desirable for steady living due to family-friendly environments and excellent schools.

These neighborhoods offer a combination of historical charm, convenient locations, and high demand, making them highly appealing for both guests and investors in the Airbnb market.

Tips for Furnishing and Designing an Inviting Airbnb in Portsmouth, Rhode Island

Bedroom Furnishings

• Choose a Solid Bed: Opt for a bed with a nice headboard, preferably upholstered, to create a warm and cozy atmosphere. Avoid storage beds to minimize the risk of guests leaving items behind.
• Quality Mattress: Ensure the mattress is at least 8 inches thick and consider memory foam mattresses for their durability and ease of replacement. Use a mattress cover to protect against dirt and bugs.
• Consistent Bedding: Use white bedding sets from the same brand to maintain a clean and hotel-like feel. Add a simple throw pillow to enhance the bed's appearance.

Lighting and Decor

• Ample Lighting: Provide floor lamps and table lamps to ensure ample lighting, which can also serve as design features.
• Mirrors and Rugs: Use a full-length mirror and a thick area rug to add color, pattern, and a touch of luxury to the room. Mirrors can also make the space feel bigger and brighter.

Living and Dining Areas

• Durable Furniture: Choose sofas with washable covers and sturdy, lightweight chairs that can withstand heavy use. Avoid real and faux leather as they are hard to maintain.
• Functional Layout: Ensure the furniture layout does not block natural light sources and provides ample space to move around. Opt for space-saving furniture like sofa beds and folding tables.

Kitchen Essentials

• Well-Equipped Kitchen: Provide essentials such as plates, bowls, cups, utensils, pots, pans, a toaster, kettle, and coffee maker. Make sure the kitchen is modern and easy to use.

Bathroom Essentials

• High-Quality Towels: Use high-quality, durable towels in neutral colors that can be bleached. Ensure there is enough storage for guests' toiletries and personal items. Include a hair dryer, basic toiletries, and a first-aid kit.

Additional Amenities

• Smart Storage: Incorporate smart storage solutions like beds with drawers, wall hooks, and stackable containers to keep the space tidy and organized.
• Accessibility: Consider making your Airbnb accessible to guests with disabilities by adding features like ramps, wide doorways, and grab bars in bathrooms.

Local Charm and Theme

• Coastal Theme: Reflect Portsmouth's coastal charm by using a decor style that features soft blues and whites, paired with rustic wooden furnishings. Incorporate vintage and antique pieces to highlight the local heritage.
• Unique Decor: Add unique decorative elements such as local artwork and trendy decor pieces to enhance the atmosphere and provide a memorable experience for guests.

Maintenance and Cleaning

• Easy to Clean Furniture: Choose furniture that is easy to clean and maintain. Consult with your cleaning crew to ensure they are aware of any new furniture or layout changes.
• Off-Season Updates: Plan furniture updates during the off-season or short gaps between bookings to minimize disruption to your guests.

Discovering Portsmouth, Rhode Island: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Local Attractions

Outdoor Activities

• Rail Explorers: Experience a pedal-powered ride along the old Newport & Narragansett Bay Railroad, offering scenic views of Narragansett Bay. Choose from Tandem and Quad bikes and enjoy seasonal packages like Fireside Tours and Sunday Morning Brunch Tours.
• Sakonnet Greenway Trail: Explore this trail for a mix of outdoor adventure and scenic views.
• Urban Coastal Trail: A great option for walking or biking along the coast.
• Glen Park: Enjoy recreational activities and scenic views in this local park.
• Sandy Point Beach: Relax and enjoy the beachside amenities.

Historic and Cultural Sites

• Newport Car Museum: Visit this museum to see over 100 cars on display, including Lamborghinis, Corvettes, and a 1886 Benz Patent-Motorwagen. Don't miss the gift shop and the adjacent Newport Indoor Golf facility.
• Green Animals Topiary Garden: Wander through this beautiful garden featuring topiary animals and other horticultural delights.
• Battle of Rhode Island Site: Learn about the historical significance of this site, which played a role in the American Revolutionary War.
• Portsmouth Friends Meetinghouse Parsonage and Cemetery: Explore this historic site dating back to 1699.

Food, Drink, and Entertainment

• Ragged Island Brewing Company: Enjoy a beer garden experience with live music, trivia nights, and farm-fresh surroundings. Remember to grab a seat in one of their signature orange Adirondack chairs.
• The Grand Bellevue: Opt for a Dinner Train or Murder Mystery experience for a unique dining experience.

Sports and Recreation

• Glen Farm: Home to the Newport International Polo Series, offering exciting polo matches.
• Public Golf Courses: Portsmouth has several public golf courses for golf enthusiasts.

Insider Tips

Seasonal Activities

• Topiary Garden and Clam Cakes: During warmer months, explore the topiary garden and enjoy clam cakes by the sea.
• Fireside Tours and Sunday Morning Brunch Tours: Take advantage of seasonal packages offered by Rail Explorers.

Local Events

• Independence Day Parade in Bristol: If visiting in July, consider attending the longest continually held 4th of July parade in the U.S., just across the bridge in Bristol.

Nearby Attractions

• Newport and Bristol: Explore the nearby cities of Newport and Bristol for additional attractions like the Cliff Walk, Tennis Hall of Fame, and historic mansions.
• Block Island: Take a ferry to Block Island for a day of kayaking, biking, and relaxation. Ferries are available from Newport and Galilee.

Shopping and Dining

• Antique Shops and Marinas: Browse through the various antique shops and visit the marinas for a taste of local culture.
• Local Eats and Breweries: In addition to Ragged Island Brewing Company, explore other local eateries and breweries that offer unique dining experiences.

By sharing these attractions and insider tips, you can help your Airbnb guests make the most of their visit to Portsmouth, Rhode Island.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short-Term Rental Business in Portsmouth, Rhode Island

To ensure a smooth and compliant short-term rental business in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, several practical tips can be implemented:

Noise Regulations and Guest Communication

Inform your guests about the town's noise regulations and quiet hours to avoid any potential issues. Include a section in your rental agreement and house manual that clearly states the quiet hours and the consequences of violating noise ordinances. This helps maintain a good relationship with neighbors and prevents any fines or penalties.

Creating a Comprehensive House Manual

Develop both digital and physical house manuals that provide detailed instructions on how to use the property's amenities, including Wi-Fi passwords, appliance operation, and emergency contact information. This manual should also include town ordinances such as parking, trash maintenance, and occupancy limits 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 access the property, along with photos and videos to help them navigate any specific steps or features of the smart lock system.

Parking Instructions with Photos

Ensure that your house manual and check-in instructions include detailed parking information, complete with photos. This helps guests understand where they can park and how to comply with the town's off-street parking requirements, which mandate at least one off-street parking space per rental unit.

By following these tips, you can enhance the guest experience, reduce potential issues, and maintain compliance with Portsmouth's short-term rental regulations.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning providers in Portsmouth, Rhode Island:

House Cleaning Services

Southcoast Cleaning Company

• Offers residential and commercial cleaning services, including post-construction cleaning.
• Specializes in detailed cleaning of bathrooms, bedrooms, living rooms, and kitchens.
• Serves Portsmouth, RI, with a 15-year heritage of quality cleaning.

Sakonnet Cleaning Services

• Provides residential cleaning services in Portsmouth, RI, and surrounding areas.
• Offers standard home cleaning, deep cleaning, move-in/move-out cleaning, and specialized services like pressure washing and window washing.
• Known for meticulous attention to detail and use of eco-friendly cleaning products.

System4 IPS

• Primarily focuses on commercial cleaning services but can also serve residential clients.
• Offers office cleaning, carpet cleaning, floor cleaning, and commercial kitchen cleaning.
• Uses cutting-edge technology and industry-leading tools for facility management.

Additional Resources

For more options and reviews, you can also check:- Care.com: Lists multiple house cleaning services in Portsmouth, RI, with rates, reviews, and experience.- Angi: Provides a list of the top-rated house cleaners in Portsmouth, RI, along with reviews and ratings.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Portsmouth, Rhode Island

In Portsmouth, Rhode Island, the fees for managing short-term rental properties can vary significantly, typically ranging from 10% to 30% of the rental revenue. This variance is largely dependent on the level of service provided. Full-service management, which includes comprehensive tasks such as guest communication, marketing, and property maintenance, tends to be on the higher end of this spectrum, often falling between 20% to 30% of the rental income.

In contrast, basic management services that cover only essential tasks like guest check-ins and communication may incur lower fees, usually around 10% to 15% of the rental revenue. Additionally, property owners may need to account for extra fees related to cleaning, repairs, or specialized amenities like interior design, which can further impact the overall cost of management services. Understanding these fee structures is crucial for property owners to make informed decisions about managing their short-term rental properties effectively.