Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Shawnee Kansas.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Shawnee, Kansas for 2024

Key Regulations

• Effective Date: The new ordinance regulating short-term vacation rentals took effect on March 26, 2024.

• Capacity Limitations: Short-term rentals are limited to a maximum of 10 people per rental property.

• Noise Restrictions: Occupants of short-term rentals must obey noise restrictions. While parties are not specifically mentioned, the ordinance emphasizes compliance with noise rules.

• Local Agent Requirement: Property owners must have a local agent who lives within 40 miles of the property.

• Licensing and Fees: Short-term rental owners are required to obtain a business license. The cost for a license has been mentioned, although the specific fee amount for Shawnee is not detailed in the sources provided.

• Enforcement and Penalties: Violations of the city code can result in fines of at least $500 or even jail time. Residents can report code violations to the police or the community development department.

• Property Use Restrictions: Properties cannot be used for parties or meetings.

• Compliance with City Codes: Both renters and property owners are subject to fines if they do not comply with the city's ordinances.

Top Airbnb Revenue-Generating Neighborhoods in Shawnee, Kansas

While specific neighborhood-level data for Shawnee, Kansas, is not provided in the sources, we can infer some insights from the broader context of Shawnee and its surrounding areas.

Shawnee City-Wide Insights

• Shawnee has seen significant revenue from short-term rentals, with the city earning $93,235 from a transient guest tax on Airbnb and VRBO properties since last year.

Appealing Factors for Guests

General Appeal of Shawnee

• Proximity to Kansas City: Shawnee is close to Kansas City, Missouri, making it an attractive option for guests who want to explore the city without the higher costs of staying in the city center.
• Local Amenities: Shawnee offers various local amenities, such as parks, shopping centers, and dining options, which are appealing to guests.
• Community Events: The city hosts various community events and festivals, drawing visitors who need short-term accommodations.

Potential High-Revenue Neighborhoods

While specific neighborhoods are not detailed, here are some general areas that could be lucrative based on typical factors:

Neighborhoods Near Major Attractions

• Areas around Shawnee Mission Park: This large park is a major attraction and could attract guests looking for outdoor activities and easy access to recreational facilities.
• Neighborhoods close to shopping centers: Areas near shopping centers like the Shawnee Station or other local retail hubs could be appealing due to their convenience.

Neighborhoods with Easy Access to Kansas City

• Neighborhoods along major highways: Areas with easy access to highways connecting to Kansas City, such as I-35 or I-435, would be attractive for guests who plan to explore the city.

Family-Friendly Neighborhoods

• Areas with good schools and family amenities: Neighborhoods known for their family-friendly environment, good schools, and community amenities could attract families looking for short-term rentals.

Example Neighborhoods (Hypothetical)

Given the lack of specific data, here are some hypothetical examples based on typical factors:

• Old Shawnee Town: Known for its historic charm and community events, this area could attract guests interested in local history and culture.
• Cedar Creek: This area might be appealing due to its proximity to parks and recreational facilities.
• Switzer: Located near shopping centers and with easy access to highways, this area could be attractive for guests seeking convenience.

In summary, while the exact neighborhoods are not specified, areas with proximity to major attractions, easy access to Kansas City, and family-friendly amenities are likely to generate significant Airbnb revenue in Shawnee, Kansas.

Furnishing and Design Tips for an Inviting Airbnb in Shawnee, Kansas

Define Your Property's Aesthetic

• Align your Airbnb's aesthetic with the local style of Shawnee, Kansas. Consider a blend of modern, sleek designs and elements of western-theme or boho chic to reflect the city's unique vibe.

Focus on Functionality and Comfort

• Ensure the space is functional and comfortable. Opt for an open-concept living room and kitchen floor plan to facilitate easy interaction and movement.

Choose Quality Over Quantity

• Invest in statement pieces such as couches, coffee tables, and dining room tables that define the space and provide a high-end feel. Avoid overly generic or cheap furniture that may be found in multiple other Airbnbs.

Pay Attention to Details

• Add soft pillows, floor rugs, and comfortable bedding to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Use warm wood furniture and soft bedding textures to enhance the comfort of the bedrooms.

Incorporate Local Touches

• Include local art displays and vintage-inspired furniture to give your Airbnb a unique and authentic feel that reflects the city's culture.

Provide Luxury Amenities

• Offer luxury amenities such as high-quality bath products, hair dryers, make-up removal washcloths, and soft white towels to enhance the guest experience.

Utilize Natural Light

• Ensure that the bedrooms and bathrooms make the most of natural light. This can be achieved through well-placed windows and light-colored decor.

Add Outdoor Comforts

• If possible, include an outdoor balcony or seating area where guests can enjoy fresh air. For pet-friendly AirbnBs, consider nearby amenities like dog parks.

Furnish the Kitchen Thoroughly

• Equip the kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances and necessary cookware. Include essentials like placemats and barware to make meal preparation convenient and enjoyable.

Include Practical Amenities

• Provide a full-size washer and dryer, as well as an iron and ironing board, to make the stay more convenient for guests.

Add Greenery

• Incorporate plants in the corners of the rooms to liven up the space and add a touch of natural beauty.

Discover Shawnee, Kansas: Local Attractions and Insider Tips for Airbnb Hosts

Local Attractions

Shawnee Mission Park

• A 1,600-acre park featuring a 120-acre lake, perfect for biking, swimming, fishing, disc golfing, and kayaking.
• Includes equestrian, hiking, and biking trails, as well as a 44-acre off-leash dog area.

Wild Bill Hickok Statue – Trail Scout Park

• A 13-foot-tall bronze sculpture of Wild Bill Hickok, with free parking and interpretive displays nearby.

Pioneer Crossing Park

• Features a life-size sculpture depicting the history of wagon trains, along with a bronze statue of wagonmaster Richard Williams.

Herman Laird Park

• Home to the bronze sculpture “Talking Time,” honoring Chief Charles Bluejacket. The park also has playground equipment and is near Shawnee Town 1929.

Shawnee Town 1929

• A living history museum offering guided and self-guided tours of authentic and replica buildings from the 1920s. Highlights include a one-room schoolhouse, a farmhouse, and botanical gardens.

Theatre in the Park

• A venue for outdoor theater performances, adding to the city's cultural offerings.

Transport Brewery

• A local brewery where guests can enjoy craft beers and a lively atmosphere.

Events and Festivals

Old Shawnee Days

• A major annual event featuring a carnival, parade, Tomato Roll, pie and baking contests, and a concert. Takes place in June.

Tour De Shawnee

• A cycling event with various route lengths, starting in Downtown Shawnee. Ideal for cyclists of all levels.

Craft and Fall Festival

• Held at Shawnee Town 1929, this festival includes vendors, free activities for kids, and early Christmas shopping opportunities. Takes place in September.

Shawnee BBQ Competition

• A festival-style event with live music, food trucks, and BBQ competition teams. Open to the public on Friday evening and Saturday.

Scarecrow Festival

• A children's focused fall crafting event in downtown Shawnee, featuring pumpkin decorating, fall crafts, and a Farmer's Market. Takes place in October.

Insider Tips

Parking and Accessibility

• Free parking is available near many attractions, including the Wild Bill Hickok Statue and Shawnee Mission Park.

Family-Friendly Activities

• Herman Laird Park and Shawnee Town 1929 are excellent spots for families, with playgrounds and interactive historical exhibits.

Local Cuisine and Breweries

• Recommend local eateries like Hereford House and breweries such as Transport Brewery for a taste of Shawnee’s dining scene.

Historical Significance

• Inform guests about Shawnee’s rich history, including its role in the American Civil War and its connection to the Oregon and Santa Fe Trails.

Community Events

• Keep guests updated on upcoming events like the Duck Race, Tour De Shawnee, and other festivals to enhance their stay.

Transportation

• Provide information on Johnson County Transit for local bus service, making it easier for guests to get around without a car.

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

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short Term Rental Business in Shawnee, Kansas

To operate a successful short-term rental business in Shawnee, Kansas, several practical tips can help you navigate the local regulations and enhance the guest experience.

Noise Regulations and Guest Communication

Ensure you inform your guests about quiet hours and noise regulations to avoid complaints from neighbors. This can be included in a digital and physical house manual, which should also cover other essential instructions.

Comprehensive House Manual

Create a detailed house manual that includes Wi-Fi passwords, appliance instructions, and emergency contact information. This manual should be both digital, accessible through a guest portal, and physical, placed prominently in the rental property.

Simplified Check-in Process

Utilize smart locks to streamline the check-in process, eliminating the need for physical key exchanges. Provide clear instructions on how to use the smart locks and ensure guests have all necessary access codes.

Parking Instructions

Include detailed parking instructions with photos to help guests understand where they can park and any specific rules or restrictions. This can help mitigate parking issues that might disturb neighbors.

By adhering to these tips, you can maintain compliance with local regulations, reduce potential conflicts with neighbors, and provide a seamless and enjoyable experience for your guests, thereby ensuring the success of your short-term rental business in Shawnee, Kansas.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning providers in Shawnee, Kansas:

House Cleaning Providers in Shawnee, KS

Mini Maid of Johnson County

• Offers professional house cleaning, maid services, move-in/move-out cleaning, and more.
• Family-owned and operated since 1979.
• Serves Shawnee, Overland Park, and the surrounding Johnson County area.
• Contact: 913-894-2200.

Platinum Cleaning

• Provides residential cleaning, deep cleaning, move-in/move-out cleaning, and custom schedules.
• Experienced staff serving the area since 1995.
• Licensed, insured, and bonded.
• Contact: 913-291-3005.

CottageCare

• Offers professional house cleaning services with flexible scheduling and eco-friendly practices since 1976.
• Serves Shawnee and Lenexa.
• Free instant quotes available online or over the phone.

Sunflower Maids

• Leading maid service offering move-out, deep cleaning, and other house cleaning services.
• Insured and bonded with satisfaction guaranteed.
• Contact: 913-717-8178.

Molly Maid of Greater Kansas City

• Provides professional cleaning services for homes and businesses in Shawnee, KS.
• Contact them to schedule a cleaning.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Shawnee, Kansas

In Shawnee, Kansas, the fees for managing short-term rentals, such as those listed on Airbnb, can vary significantly based on the level of service provided. Full-service management, which includes comprehensive tasks like guest communication, marketing, and maintenance, typically ranges from 20% to 30% of the rental revenue.

On the lower end, basic services or a la carte options might reduce the fee to around 15% to 20% of the rental income. Additionally, hosts may incur extra fees for services such as cleaning, repairs, and design, which can be charged separately or included in the overall management fee. For instance, some management companies charge a cleaning fee that is passed on to the guests, while the management fee itself is calculated only on the net rental revenue after cleaning fees are deducted.