Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Shelbyville Kentucky.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Shelbyville, Kentucky for 2024

Licensing and Fees

• Anyone opening a short-term rental business in Shelby County must obtain a business license (occupational license). The application cost is $75 and can be submitted in person or by mail.

Zoning and Planning

• Owners must comply with the zoning regulations of the area. They should contact the Triple S Planning and Zoning Commission to determine the property’s existing zoning and identify zoning requirements for operating a short-term rental.

Taxes

• Short-term rental hosts must pay applicable taxes. This includes considering consulting with a financial advisor for accounting and tax advice.

Insurance

• Owners should review their insurance policies to ensure they cover injuries, accidents, or losses arising from the use of the property by renters. Some homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover these claims.

Restrictive Covenants

• Owners living in a development or subdivision with restrictive covenants should determine if the covenants regulate rental activity. These covenants may prohibit rental or commercial activities.

Occupancy and Agreements

• It is optional but recommended to seek legal advice to determine if a different form of ownership is needed to provide anonymity or protection from individual liability. Owners should also prepare an occupancy agreement specific to the arrangement with the renter.

Landlord Approval

• If the property is rented, the owner must check with the landlord before using it as a short-term rental. Approval should be obtained in writing to avoid disputes.

Compliance with Building and Fire Codes

• While specific to other counties, it is generally advisable that short-term rentals comply with applicable building code and fire code requirements. Owners should contact the relevant local authorities to determine specific requirements.

Other Legal Considerations

• Owners should be aware of other local, state, and federal taxes and regulations, including but not limited to the 1 percent state transient room tax and 6 percent sales tax.

Top Neighborhoods for Airbnb Revenue in Shelbyville, Kentucky

1. Downtown Shelbyville

• Appeal: Guests favor this area due to its proximity to historic town amenities, including antique shops, local coffee houses, and various dining options. Properties like "Parris on Main" and "Historic Downtown~Heart of Bourbon Trail" are highly rated for their central location and easy access to local attractions.

2. Bourbon Trail Area

• Appeal: This region is popular because it is strategically located near several major bourbon distilleries, local wineries, and other Bourbon Trail attractions. Properties such as "Bottled in Bond: Close to Buffalo Trace and Others" and "Farm stay Bourbon Trail!" offer guests a unique experience with easy access to bourbon tastings and tours.

3. Simpsonville

• Appeal: Simpsonville, known as the "Saddlebred Capital of the world," attracts guests with its peaceful and quiet environment. Rentals like "Ridgecrest Estate" and "Horse Farm 4Bedrm home Bourbon Trail ~private pool" are favored for their spacious settings, private entrances, and proximity to horse farms and the Bourbon Trail.

4. Finchville

• Appeal: Finchville offers a country retreat experience with properties like "Country Retreat on Bourbon Trail - Fire Pit - King." Guests appreciate the serene atmosphere, fire pits, and king-sized accommodations, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a relaxing getaway.

5. Shelbyville Lake Area

• Appeal: Properties near the lake, such as "Bourbon by the Lake," are appealing due to their scenic views and recreational opportunities. Guests enjoy the combination of lake activities and the convenience of being close to the Bourbon Trail and other local attractions.

These neighborhoods are highly sought after due to their unique blend of historical charm, access to bourbon distilleries, and the natural beauty of the Kentucky countryside, making them top generators of Airbnb revenue in Shelbyville, Kentucky.

Furnishing and Design Tips for an Inviting Airbnb in Shelbyville, Kentucky

Setting the Foundation

• Set Your Budget and Vision: Define your budget and the style you want to achieve. Consider the unique charm of Shelbyville, such as its rural elegance and bourbon trail heritage.

Choosing the Right Furniture

• Invest in Quality, Stylish Furniture: Opt for furniture that is both durable and aesthetically pleasing. Avoid cheap, generic pieces that may be found in many other Airbnbs.
• Select Timeless, Sturdy Pieces: Go for solid beds, storage beds for extra space, and mattresses that are at least 8 inches thick. Memory foam mattresses are more durable and cost-effective in the long run.
• Opt for Easy-to-Clean Furniture: Choose sofas with washable covers and avoid real or faux leather. Select dining tables and chairs that are resistant to wear and tear.

Enhancing Aesthetic Appeal

• Reflect Local Style: Incorporate elements of rural charm or farmhouse style, which are popular in the Shelbyville area. Consider using local art or crafts to personalize the space.
• Use Neutral Tones with Bold Accents: Neutral colors with bold accents can create an aesthetically pleasing environment that appeals to various guests.

Maximizing Space and Functionality

• Measure and Plan Your Layout: Ensure there is plenty of space to move around and that natural light sources are not blocked. Use space-saving furniture like sofa beds, folding tables, and ottomans with hidden storage.
• Utilize Smart Storage: Incorporate beds with drawers, wall hooks, pegboards in the kitchen, and stackable containers to keep the space tidy and functional.

Adding Comfort and Convenience

• Provide Essential Amenities: Equip your kitchen with essentials like a coffee maker, microwave, toaster, and kettle. Include a hairdryer, basic toiletries, and a first-aid kit in the bathroom.
• Ensure Comfort and Cleanliness: Use high-quality, durable towels in neutral colors that can be bleached. Ensure there is enough storage for guests' toiletries and personal items.

Lighting and Ambiance

• Focus on Lighting: Proper lighting can make a space feel bigger and brighter. Use mirrors strategically to enhance natural light and add lamps or other light sources as needed.

Accessibility and Special Touches

• Make Your Airbnb Accessible: Consider adding features like ramps, wide doorways, and grab bars in bathrooms to make your property accessible to guests with disabilities.
• Add Personal Touches: Incorporate plants, local artwork, and unique decor items to give your space a personal and welcoming feel.

Timing and Maintenance

• Update During Off-Season: Plan furniture updates during the off-season or short gaps between bookings to minimize disruption to your guests.
• Involve Your Cleaning Crew: Ensure your cleaning crew is aware of any new furniture or changes in the layout to maintain the property effectively.

Discover Shelbyville, Kentucky: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Local Attractions

Distilleries and Wineries

• Bulleit Distilling Co. Visitor Experience: Explore the modern, sustainable distilling processes and enjoy a tasting at this state-of-the-art facility.
• Jeptha Creed Distillery: Visit this dynamic mother-daughter owned distillery for bourbon, vodka, and moonshine tastings.

Historical and Cultural Sites

• Shelby County History Museum: Located in the historic Presbyterian Manse building, this museum features exhibits on the local tobacco industry and the celebrated Crabtree Saddlebred Farm.
• Shelbyville Fountain: Admire the historic ‘“Atlantis” pattern’ fountain, a landmark since the 1890s, and enjoy the surrounding plaza.

Outdoor Activities

• Shelby Trails Park & Red Fern Riding Center: Enjoy horseback riding, hiking, and seasonal events on the 462-acre park with groomed trails and riding facilities.
• Lake Shelby Park: Engage in fishing, paddlesports, and birdwatching at this 20-acre lake, and use the camping sites for a more immersive experience.
• Red Orchard Park: Explore the historic trails, disc golf course, dog park, and event venues in this park with a rich early settler history.

Shopping and Dining

• The Outlet Shoppes of the Bluegrass: Shop at over 80 designer outlets and enjoy the dining options available.
• Main Street Shelbyville: Discover unique stores for antiques, home design, pet care, and clothing, and visit the Sixth & Main Coffeehouse for a local coffee experience.

Events and Festivals

• Main Street Week and Art & Music Festival: Attend these events in May for a vibrant celebration of local art, music, and community spirit.
• Shelbyville Horse Show: Witness the annual horse show, a significant event in the Saddlebred Capital of the World.
• Shelbyville Dogwood Festival: Enjoy this renowned arts and craft festival that draws visitors from around the region.

Insider Tips

Best Time to Visit

• For breathtaking fall foliage, plan your visit as summer fades into autumn.

Local Favorites

• Dining: Recommend the local restaurants perfect for date nights, offering a range of atmospheres from elegant to casual.
• Community Events: Inform guests about the annual pride parade, horse shows, and other local events that showcase the community's spirit.

Getting Around

• Shelbyville is conveniently located near Louisville and Lexington, with several airports within driving distance, including Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport and Blue Grass Airport.

Outdoor Adventures

• Suggest guided horseback rides through the beautiful parks, and highlight the scenic trails and recreational activities available in ShelbyKY parks.

Shopping

• Point out the variety of shopping options, from boutique stores on Main Street to the extensive designer outlets at The Outlet Shoppes of the Bluegrass.

By sharing these local attractions and insider tips, you can help your Airbnb guests make the most of their visit to Shelbyville, Kentucky.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short-Term Rental Business in Shelbyville, Kentucky

To ensure the success and smooth operation of a short-term rental business in Shelbyville, Kentucky, several practical tips can be implemented:

Noise Regulations and Guest Communication

Inform your guests about quiet hours to maintain a respectful environment for neighbors. Include this information in your listing and in a welcome message to set clear expectations. This helps in avoiding potential conflicts and ensures a positive experience for both guests and neighbors.

Creating a Comprehensive House Manual

Develop both digital and physical house manuals that include essential instructions, such as Wi-Fi passwords, appliance usage, and emergency contact information. This manual should be easily accessible to guests, either in the rental property or via a digital link provided upon booking.

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 use the smart locks and ensure they have all necessary access codes before their arrival.

Parking Instructions with Photos

Include detailed parking instructions with photos to help guests navigate the property's parking area. This can prevent confusion and potential issues, especially if the parking area is shared or has specific rules.

By implementing these tips, you can enhance the guest experience, reduce potential issues, and maintain a positive relationship with your neighbors, all of which are crucial for running a successful short-term rental business in Shelbyville, Kentucky.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning providers in Shelbyville, Kentucky:

House Cleaning Services in Shelbyville, KY

Maids in Apron

• Offers bespoke residential house cleaning, including deep cleaning, standard cleaning, move-in, move-out cleaning, and post-construction cleaning.
• Flexible scheduling with weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly cleaning solutions.
• Contact: (502) 202-7542.

Super Cleaning Service Louisville

• Provides house cleaning services to maintain homes with minimal stress.
• Friendly representatives available for scheduling.
• Contact: (502) 230-6735.

Care.com House Cleaning Services

• Lists multiple affordable house cleaning options starting at $16.83/hr.
• Searchable by rates, reviews, experience, and more.

Angie's List House Cleaners

• A list of top-rated house cleaners in Shelbyville, KY, with real reviews and ratings.
• Helps in picking the right house cleaners based on user feedback.

Walmart House Cleaning Services (Store 497)

• Offers cleaning services for various parts of the home, including bathrooms, kitchens, and bedrooms.
• Contact: 833-600-0406.

Managing Short-Term Rentals in Shelbyville, Kentucky: Understanding Management Fees

In Shelbyville, Kentucky, managing a short-term rental property can involve various levels of service, each with corresponding fees. Typically, property management fees for short-term rentals range from 10% to 30% of the rental revenue, depending on the scope of services provided. Full-service management, which includes guest communication, marketing, and maintenance, tends to be on the higher end of this spectrum, often ranging between 20% to 30% of the rental income. In contrast, basic services such as listing and booking management may incur lower fees. Additionally, hosts may need to account for extra fees related to cleaning, repairs, or design services, which can further impact the overall cost of managing their short-term rental properties.