Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Quincy Washington.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Quincy, Washington for 2024

Permit Requirements

• Property owners must submit a short-term rental permit application to the City of Quincy before conducting any short-term rental activities. No rental activity can occur until the City grants the final permit.

Permit Types and Conditions

• There are two types of short-term rental permits: Type 1 and Type 2. Each permit applies to a single dwelling unit and must comply with all current building and zoning codes.

Maximum Occupancy

• The maximum occupancy for all short-term rentals is two persons per bedroom plus two. For properties with zero bedrooms, the maximum occupancy is two persons per 1,000 square feet.

Designated Caretaker

• A designated caretaker must reside within a 45-minute drive of the property. The caretaker's name and contact information must be provided to the city, along with a notarized signature.

Business License and Taxes

• All short-term rental operators must obtain a business license, regardless of the rental frequency. Operators must also collect and remit a Lodging Tax to the city, currently set at 8.2%.

Zoning Compliance

• Properties must be zoned appropriately for short-term rental use, particularly in residential areas. It is crucial to check with the City Planning Department to ensure compliance.

Safety Regulations

• Rental properties must have functioning smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers. Operators must also post emergency contact information, floor plans indicating fire exits, and maximum occupancy limits in a conspicuous place within the dwelling unit.

Liability Insurance

• Short-term rental operators must maintain primary liability insurance to cover the dwelling unit with an aggregate minimum of $1 million.

Consumer Safety Requirements

• Operators must provide contact information to guests, ensure compliance with state building codes, and post necessary safety information such as emergency contacts and fire exit plans.

Permit Renewal and Expiration

• Short-term rental permits expire on January 31st of each year. Renewal applications must be completed, and inspections must be passed by this date to continue rental activities.

Maximum Number of Permits

• The total number of permitted short-term rentals is limited to 1% of the most recent OFM estimate of total housing units in Quincy. This number is updated annually by September 30th.

Enforcement

• Properties conducting short-term rental activities without an approved permit will receive a written notice to cease operations within five days. Failure to comply may result in a daily fee of $100 until the permit is granted.

Top Airbnb Revenue-Generating Neighborhoods in Quincy, Washington

1. Crescent Bar

• Appeal: Crescent Bar is highly attractive due to its proximity to the Gorge Amphitheatre, a major outdoor concert venue that hosts iconic bands and festivals like Watershed and Bass Canyon. The area offers luxurious vacation rentals with amenities such as hot tubs, outdoor fire pits, and stunning views of the Columbia River and surrounding vineyards.

2. Quincy City Center

• Appeal: The city center benefits from its central location, providing easy access to various attractions, including the Gorge Amphitheatre, Quincy Lakes, and other local recreational areas. Guests can find a variety of accommodations, from luxurious homes to condos, many of which are within walking distance to concerts and other local amenities.

3. Cave B Winery Area

• Appeal: This area is popular for its wineries, such as Cave B Winery, which offer not only wine tastings but also luxurious accommodations with views of the Columbia River and the gorge. The proximity to wineries, restaurants, and spas makes it an ideal destination for couples and families.

4. Quincy Lakes Area

• Appeal: The Quincy Lakes area attracts guests with its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Vacation rentals here often come with lakeside access, making it a desirable spot for those seeking a natural and peaceful environment.

5. Gorge Amphitheatre Vicinity

• Appeal: The immediate vicinity of the Gorge Amphitheatre is highly sought after due to the convenience of walking to concerts and events. Properties in this area often feature high-end amenities and are favored by concertgoers and those looking for a luxurious experience.

These neighborhoods generate significant Airbnb revenue due to their unique combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and proximity to major attractions like the Gorge Amphitheatre.

Tips for Furnishing and Designing an Inviting Airbnb in Quincy, Washington

Understand Your Budget and Prioritize

• Set a clear budget and allocate funds wisely. For a 1000 square foot space, expect to spend between $10,000 to $15,000 on furnishings.
• Identify key areas to splurge on, such as the living room, and make sacrifices in other areas to stay within budget.

Choose Quality Over Quantity

• Avoid buying cheap, generic furniture from places like IKEA and Target, as they can make your space look less unique. Instead, opt for higher-quality, unique pieces.

Select Statement Pieces

• Invest in statement pieces like couches, coffee tables, credenzas, and dining room tables that define the space and create a cohesive look.

Use Local and Natural Elements

• Incorporate elements that reflect Quincy's natural surroundings, such as using natural materials, earthy colors, and adding plants to liven up the space.

Pay Attention to Details

• Add decorative items that reflect the local culture and style. For example, use local artwork, vintage items, or unique decor that tells a story about the area.

Ensure Comfort and Practicality

• Use high-quality bedding and linens, such as 100% cotton sheets, to ensure guest comfort. These can be found at affordable prices from certain retailers.
• Provide modern amenities like high-speed Wi-Fi, fully stocked kitchens, and comfortable seating areas to enhance the guest experience.

Create a Cozy Atmosphere

• Use lighting, textiles, and color schemes to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Consider adding items like plush sofas, cozy throw blankets, and warm lighting fixtures.

Utilize Outdoor Spaces

• If your Airbnb has an outdoor area, make sure it is fully furnished and inviting. Add BBQ grills, outdoor seating, and decorative elements to make the space usable and enjoyable.

Maintain Consistency

• Ensure that the design and furnishings are consistent throughout the space to create a cohesive and welcoming environment for guests.

Local Attractions and Insider Tips for Quincy, Washington

Natural Attractions

• Quincy Lakes: Offers camping, fishing, hiking, and horseback riding opportunities, located about 6 miles south of Quincy.
• Beverly Dunes: A popular spot for Off Road Vehicles (ORVs), approximately 30 miles south of Quincy.
• Ginkgo Petrified Forest: A 25-minute drive from Quincy, featuring petrified wood and scenic views.
• Sunlakes State Park: Located to the northeast, offering access to Moses Lake and the Pot Holes.
• Ancient Lakes: A scenic area with colorful lakes, waterfalls, and hiking trails along the Columbia River Gorge.
• Frenchman Coulee: A rock climber’s paradise with numerous sport and trad routes near Vantage.

Man-Made Attractions

• The Gorge Amphitheatre: A renowned music venue that attracts large crowds; check the schedule for upcoming events.
• Wenatchee Valley Museum: A museum showcasing local history and culture.
• Quincy Valley Historical Society and Museum: Offers insights into the local history and heritage.
• Cave B Estate Winery: Enjoy wine tastings and tours in a scenic setting.
• Beaumont Cellars: Another winery offering wine tastings and tours.
• Colockum Ridge Golf Course: A golf course providing a challenging and scenic round of golf.

Outdoor Activities

• Crescent Bar Resort: Located just seven miles from Quincy, offering water sports, camping, and golf.
• Quincy Aquatic Center: A fun and safe place for summer recreation with swimming lessons and programs for all ages.
• City Parks: Various parks in Quincy, including facilities for baseball, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a skate-park.
• Rock Climbing: Popular spots include the cliffs along the Old Vantage Highway and 'The Sunshine Wall' in Vantage.

Events and Festivals

• Farmer-Consumer Awareness Day: Celebrated every second Saturday in September, featuring farm tours, produce sales, tractor pulls, and more.
• Outdoor Concerts: Free concerts at McCosh Park in Moses Lake and other venues in the area.

Insider Tips

• Services and Amenities: Quincy is the closest town to The Gorge Amphitheatre with services such as motels and a full grocery store.
• Climate: Quincy has a semi-arid climate, making it ideal for water recreation during the summer months.
• Local Economy: The area is known for its agricultural products, including potatoes, wheat, and timothy grass. Consider visiting local farms or participating in farm tours.
• Data Centers: While not a tourist attraction, the presence of large data centers like Microsoft's Columbia Data Center is an interesting aspect of the local economy.

By sharing these attractions and tips, you can help your guests make the most of their visit to Quincy, Washington.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short-Term Rental Business in Quincy, Washington

To ensure a successful and compliant short-term rental business in Quincy, Washington, several practical tips are essential. First, it is crucial to inform guests about noise regulations and quiet hours to maintain a harmonious relationship with neighbors. This can be included in a comprehensive digital and physical house manual that also provides instructions on using appliances, Wi-Fi passwords, and other essential information.

A simplified check-in process can significantly enhance the guest experience. Utilizing smart locks eliminates the need for physical key exchanges and allows for seamless access. Additionally, providing detailed parking instructions accompanied by photos can help guests navigate the property easily, reducing potential confusion.

Compliance with local regulations, such as obtaining the necessary short-term rental permits, collecting and remitting the 8.2% Lodging Tax, and ensuring the property meets safety standards (including functioning smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers), is also vital.

By implementing these strategies, you can create a welcoming and well-organized environment for your guests, ensuring a positive experience and encouraging repeat bookings.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning providers in Quincy, Washington:

House Cleaning Services in Quincy, WA

NCW Prestige Cleaning Services, LLC

• A professional cleaning company that offers various residential cleaning services and is known for exceeding client expectations.

B-Clean Perfect Home Cleaning Services

• Provides a range of residential cleaning services with a focus on professional and thorough cleaning.

Nice N Kleen

• A prescreened cleaning and maid service offering residential cleaning solutions in Quincy, WA.

These services are highly rated and provide comprehensive cleaning solutions for homes in the area.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Quincy, Washington

In Quincy, Washington, the fees for managing short-term rentals 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, and maintenance, tends to be on the higher end of this spectrum, often starting at around 20% of the rental income.

Basic services, which may only include essential management tasks, can be less expensive but still incur additional fees for other necessities like cleaning, repairs, or design enhancements. For instance, some property managers charge a fee on the booking revenue excluding cleaning fees, while others may include these costs in their overall fee structure. Understanding these fee structures is crucial for property owners to make informed decisions about managing their short-term rental properties in Quincy.