Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Saint Louis Missouri.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in St. Louis, Missouri for 2024

Overview

As of November 6, 2024, the City of St. Louis has implemented new regulations for short-term rentals, such as those listed on Airbnb and VRBO, under Ordinance 71729.

Key Regulations

Permit Requirements

• All short-term rental properties and platforms must obtain a permit to operate within the city limits. Owners have until May 6, 2025, to apply for these permits.

Ownership Limits

• An individual can operate no more than four short-term rental units in the City of St. Louis.

Occupancy and Residency

• For "Short-Term Rental, Occupied" permits, the unit must be the owner's primary residence. Only one such permit can be issued per resident.

Minimum Stay

• A minimum stay of two nights is required to reduce the occurrence of parties at short-term rental properties.

Safety and Compliance

• Properties must have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Owners must ensure that the use of the premises does not disrupt the neighborhood or interfere with neighboring property owners' rights to quiet enjoyment.

Agent Requirement

• Each property must have a designated rental agent who can be on location within an hour to address any issues, 24/7.

Tax and Financial Compliance

• Applicants must not have any outstanding taxes or other obligations to the City of St. Louis.
• Short-term rental hosts are required to collect and remit state sales and lodging taxes, as well as the city’s hotel-motel room tax.

Multi-Unit Buildings

• There are limits on the percentage of units in a multifamily building that can be used for short-term rentals.

Public Conditional Use Hearings

• In areas zoned for single-family residential use, owners must go through public conditional use hearings to apply for a permit.

Ineligibility

• Properties that have received tax-increment financing for improvements are ineligible to operate as short-term rentals.

Reporting Issues

• A hotline and online portal are available for residents to report short-term rental-related issues (314-798-9245).

Consequences of Non-Compliance

• Permits can be revoked for non-compliance, and owners who receive three violation notices within 24 months may be fined and have their permit revoked for up to a year.

Platform Responsibilities

• Short-term rental platforms must delist any property that has its operating permit revoked by the city and cannot complete bookings for properties without a permit number.

Additional Fees

• A 3% fee on short-term rentals was approved by voters to raise funds for affordable housing initiatives.

Top Neighborhoods for Airbnb Revenue in St. Louis, Missouri

1. St. Louis Hills

• Average Revenue: $27.1K per year
• Average Daily Rate: $119 per night
• Average Occupancy Rate: 69%
• Appeal: St. Louis Hills offers a blend of residential tranquility and urban convenience, with easy access to major highways and public transportation. This neighborhood is highly connected to the rest of the city, making it ideal for both short-term and long-term renters.

2. Ellendale

• Average Revenue: $27.8K per year
• Average Daily Rate: $140.5 per night
• Average Occupancy Rate: 59%
• Appeal: Ellendale is a charming and historic area with stunning architecture and a tight-knit community atmosphere. Although not as centrally located as some other neighborhoods, it still offers relatively easy access to the city's main attractions and business districts via several bus lines and major highways.

3. Forest Park South East

• Average Revenue: $26.3K per year
• Average Daily Rate: $113.8 per night
• Average Occupancy Rate: 72%
• Appeal: This neighborhood is a hidden gem bordering the iconic Forest Park, offering a prime location with diverse attractions and a thriving community. It is highly convenient, situated just minutes from downtown St. Louis and well-connected via major highways and public transportation.

4. Tower Grove South

• Average Revenue: $22.1K per year
• Average Daily Rate: $124.9 per night
• Average Occupancy Rate: 62%
• Appeal: Tower Grove South is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood with a perfect blend of urban convenience, stunning architecture, and a thriving local community. It offers easy access to major highways and public transportation, making it an ideal base for exploring the city. The neighborhood is also close to Tower Grove Park and the Missouri Botanical Gardens.

5. Soulard

• Appeal: Soulard is a historic neighborhood just south of downtown St. Louis, known for its convenience and strong rental potential. It is close to popular destinations like the Gateway Arch, Busch Stadium, and City Museum, making it an attractive option for business travelers and sports fans.

These neighborhoods are highly appealing to guests due to their unique blend of historic charm, modern amenities, and convenient access to St. Louis's major attractions and transportation hubs.

Furnishing and Design Tips for an Inviting Airbnb in Saint Louis, Missouri

Defining Your Property's Aesthetic

• Align your property's aesthetic with the local market and price tier. In Saint Louis, a blend of modern and comfortable aesthetics, often with homey touches, is popular.

Furniture Considerations

• Quality and Durability: Invest in stylish and durable furniture to enhance both aesthetic appeal and guest comfort.
• Functionality: Ensure furniture is functional and comfortable. For example, provide ample seating and storage options.

Room-by-Room Furnishing

• Living Room:
• Use a mix of contemporary designs with homey touches.
• Incorporate unique decorative touches, such as vintage pieces or colorful accents.
• Replace bulky furniture with leggy pieces to make the room look larger.
• Bedrooms:
• Use white or light-colored bedding for a professional look.
• Add decorative bed pillows and larger-scaled nightstands.
• Hang curtains higher to make the ceiling look higher and use patterned curtains for visual interest.
• Bathrooms:
• Choose warm and inviting color schemes, such as creamy hexagon tiles or black and white penny tiles.
• Add matching bath mats and towels in bulk to maintain a cohesive look.
• Kitchen:
• Provide thoughtful kitchen amenities, including durable and functional items.
• Consider adding unique touches like antique brass frames or floral prints.

Decorative Touches

• Lighting: Use table lamps and soft lighting to create a welcoming atmosphere, especially in the evenings.
• Art and Mirrors: Replace bad art with large mirrors or unique, whimsical prints in light-colored frames.
• Textiles: Add bright, “boho-ish” pillows and soft, patterned curtains to enhance the design.
• Storage: Use deep wicker baskets for toy storage or other items to keep the space organized and visually appealing.

Budget-Friendly Tips

• Thrift and Second-Hand: While not always preferred, thrift stores and second-hand shops can offer unique and affordable pieces that add character to your space.
• DIY and Repurposing: Consider repurposing items you already have or finding creative ways to use new purchases, such as using a floor lamp in multiple rooms.

Cohesive Design

• Color Palette: Use a consistent color thread throughout the property to create a cohesive look. This doesn’t mean every room must have the same colors, but a similar palette can tie the space together.

Outdoor Spaces

• Durable Outdoor Furniture: Invest in durable outdoor furniture to create inviting spaces for relaxation and outdoor activities.

By following these tips, you can create an inviting Airbnb space in Saint Louis, Missouri, that reflects the city's unique style and appeals to a wide range of guests.

Discovering Saint Louis: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Cultural Institutions

• Missouri History Museum:
• Explore the rich history of Saint Louis and the region.
• Contact: 314.746.4599 | [mohistory.org]
• The Muny:
• Enjoy outdoor musical theatre performances during the summer.
• Contact: 314.361.1900 | [muny.org]
• Saint Louis Art Museum:
• Admire a vast collection of art from around the world.
• Contact: 314.721.0072 | [slam.org]
• Saint Louis Science Center and James S. McDonnell Planetarium:
• Interactive exhibits and a planetarium for all ages.
• Contact: 314.289.4400 | [slsc.org]
• Saint Louis Zoo:
• Home to over 18,000 animals from around the globe.
• Contact: 314.781.0900 | [stlzoo.org]
• Shakespeare Festival St. Louis:
• Free outdoor Shakespeare performances in the summer.
• Contact: 314.531.9800 | [sfstl.com]

Landmarks

• Cabanne House:
• The first brick farmhouse west of the Mississippi River, built in 1819.
• More information: [Forest Park Forever]
• Dennis & Judith Jones Visitor and Education Center:
• A great place to start your Forest Park adventure.
• More information: [Forest Park Forever]
• The Jewel Box:
• A stunning glass conservatory perfect for events and weddings.
• More information: [Forest Park Forever]
• World's Fair Pavilion:
• Built in 1909, this pavilion is a popular event space.
• Contact: 314.289.5344 for availability

Natural Highlights

• The Cascades:
• A 75-foot waterfall and a popular spot for photos and picnics.
• Located west of the Saint Louis Art Museum
• John F. Kennedy Memorial Forest:
• Hiking trails and bird-watching opportunities.
• Managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation
• Nature Playscape:
• A 17-acre play area with natural landscapes and interactive activities.
• Opened in June 2021
• Art Hill:
• A popular spot for sledding in the winter and picnics in the summer.
• Located between the Emerson Grand Basin and the Saint Louis Art Museum

Recreational Activities

• Steinberg Skating Rink:
• Enjoy ice skating in the winter.
• Contact: 314.361.0613 | [steinbergskatingrink.com]
• Stand Up Paddleboarding:
• Rent equipment and paddle through Forest Park.
• More information: [paddleforestpark.com]

Insider Tips

• Gateway Arch:
• A must-visit symbol of Saint Louis. Take a tram ride to the top for panoramic views.
• Missouri Botanical Garden:
• One of the oldest and largest botanical gardens in the country. Don't miss the Japanese garden and hedge maze.
• City Museum:
• A unique museum made from reclaimed materials like old airplanes, school buses, and construction equipment. Great for families.
• Anheuser-Busch Brewery:
• Take a tour and see the famous Clydesdale horses. A great spot for beer enthusiasts.
• Forest Park Trails:
• Explore the numerous trails within Forest Park, suitable for walking, jogging, or biking.

Additional Recommendations

• Columbia Bottom Conservation Area:
• Where the Missouri and Mississippi rivers meet. Great for nature lovers and bird watchers.
• Economy Museum at the St Louis Fed:
• An interactive museum about the economy, located within the Federal Reserve Bank of St Louis.
• Grant's Farm:
• A family-friendly attraction with animals and Clydesdale horses, once owned by the Busch family.

By sharing these attractions and tips, your guests will have a comprehensive guide to experiencing the best of Saint Louis.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short-Term Rental Business in Saint Louis, Missouri

To run a successful short-term rental business in Saint Louis, Missouri, several practical tips can help you navigate the city's regulations and enhance the guest experience.

Noise Regulations and Quiet Hours

Ensure compliance with Saint Louis's noise regulations by informing your guests about quiet hours. Include clear guidelines in your digital and physical house manual, emphasizing the importance of respecting the neighborhood's peace and quiet, especially after 10 PM.

Creating a Comprehensive House Manual

Develop a detailed house manual that includes essential instructions, Wi-Fi passwords, and other important information. This manual should be both digital, accessible through a shared link or app, and physical, placed prominently in the rental unit. This helps guests quickly find the information they need, reducing the likelihood of disruptions and complaints.

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 of the lock and any other relevant entry points. This not only enhances convenience but also ensures a smooth and hassle-free arrival experience.

Parking Instructions with Photos

Include detailed parking instructions in your house manual, accompanied by photos to help guests identify designated parking areas. This is particularly important in urban settings where parking can be limited and confusing, helping to avoid potential issues with neighbors and local authorities.

By implementing these strategies, you can ensure your short-term rental business in Saint Louis operates smoothly, complies with local regulations, and provides a positive experience for your guests.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning providers in Saint Louis, Missouri:

Scrubby Dutch Cleaning

• Family-owned and operated since 1983
• Offers Routine Cleaning and Heavy Duty Cleaning services
• Fully licensed, bonded, and accredited by the Better Business Bureau
• Serves St. Louis and St. Charles, Missouri, and surrounding areas.

The Cleaning Authority - Concord

• Providing services since 2004
• Serves South St. Louis, Concord, Arnold, Fenton, and surrounding areas
• Fully bonded and insured; uses eco-friendly products
• Offers tailored cleaning solutions and a satisfaction guarantee.

Heavenly Scent

• Local and family-owned since 2005
• Pre-screened, professionally-trained C.O.R.E. certified cleaning technicians
• Licensed, bonded, and insured; flexible scheduling and no contracts
• Offers recurring, deluxe deep cleaning, move in/out cleaning, and commercial cleaning services.

Molly Maid

• Operating in St. Louis for over a decade
• Customized cleaning plans with no contracts
• 24-hour warranty and strong support from Field Managers
• Provides routine, thorough, and occasional cleaning services.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Saint Louis, Missouri

In Saint Louis, Missouri, the fees for managing short-term rentals can vary significantly based on the level of service provided. While the general discussion on property management fees in St. Louis often focuses on long-term rentals, short-term rental management can range from 10% to 30% of the rental revenue. Full-service management, which includes comprehensive services such as guest communication, marketing, and maintenance, tends to be on the higher end of this spectrum. In contrast, basic services that may only include listing and booking management could be less expensive. Additionally, property owners may incur extra fees for services like cleaning, repairs, or design enhancements to attract more guests.

Note that the primary sources provided do not specifically address short-term rental management fees, but the range and service variations can be inferred from general property management fee structures and the additional services often required for short-term rentals.