Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Shrewsbury Massachusetts.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts for 2024

General Regulations

• Prohibition in Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): Short-term rentals, such as those offered by Airbnb and Vrbo, are prohibited in ADUs.

State and Local Compliance

• Registration Requirement: Operators of short-term rentals must register with the Massachusetts Department of Revenue (DOR) and obtain a Certificate of Registration for each property offered for rent.
• Local Ordinances: Operators must check with the town of Shrewsbury for any separate registration or licensing requirements.

Taxation

• Room Occupancy Excise Tax: Operators must comply with state and local room occupancy excise tax rules, combining state rates with local rates and fees, and report these to the DOR.

Exemptions

• 14-Day Rental Exemption: Operators must claim or renew a 14-day rental exemption by January 15 to avoid sales tax collection on rentals from January 1.

Other Requirements

• Posting Certificate of Registration: Operators must post the Certificate of Registration on each property they rent.
• Intermediary or Agent Registration: If using intermediaries or agents, operators must provide them with a copy of the Certificate of Registration or the Certificate number.

Definitions and Inclusions

• Short-Term Rental Definition: A short-term rental is defined as a stay that is 31 days or less. Stays longer than 31 days are not taxed or regulated under this law.
• Included Properties: Short-term rentals include apartments, houses, cottages, and condominiums, but exclude tenancies at will, month-to-month leases, time-share properties, and bed and breakfast homes.

Top Neighborhoods for Airbnb Revenue in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts

1. Edgemere

• Appeal: Edgemere is one of the most frequently booked neighborhoods in Shrewsbury. It offers a mix of modern and historic homes, many of which are fully furnished and equipped with amenities like washer and dryer, central air conditioning, and high-speed WiFi. The proximity to local parks, hiking trails, and easy access to major highways make it an attractive option for both families and business travelers.

2. Grafton Hill

• Appeal: With over 390 vacation rentals, Grafton Hill is a popular choice due to its convenient location near various amenities such as restaurants, shops, and recreational areas. Many rentals in this area are highly rated for their cleanliness, location, and modern amenities like fully equipped kitchens and laundry facilities.

3. Lake Park

• Appeal: Lake Park is another highly sought-after neighborhood, offering over 390 vacation rentals. Guests are drawn to its scenic views, especially those rentals near Lake Quinsigamond. The area provides a peaceful and family-friendly environment with easy access to outdoor activities and local attractions.

4. Downtown Shrewsbury

• Appeal: Downtown Shrewsbury is appealing for its central location, making it easy for guests to access local shops, restaurants, and historical sites. Rentals here often include amenities like Netflix, Roku, Alexa, and high-speed WiFi, making them comfortable for both short and long-term stays. The neighborhood is also pet-friendly and has options for family vacations.

5. Neighborhoods Near UMass Memorial Health- University Campus and UMass Chan Medical School

• Appeal: These neighborhoods are particularly attractive to medical students, professionals, and families due to their proximity to the university and medical school. Rentals in this area are often fully furnished, include private entrances, gourmet kitchens, and in-unit washer and dryer, making them highly convenient and comfortable.

Furnishing and Design Tips for an Inviting Airbnb in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts

Bedroom Furnishings

• Bed and Headboard: Choose a bed with a nice headboard for a cozy and welcoming feel. Avoid storage beds to prevent guests from leaving items behind.
• Mattress: Opt for a mattress that is at least 8 inches thick, preferably a memory foam mattress for durability and ease of replacement.
• Bedding: Use white bedding for a clean and hotel-like feel. Ensure consistency by using the same brand for all bedding items.
• Lighting: Provide ample lighting with floor lamps or table lamps that also serve as design features.
• Mirror and Storage: Include a full-length mirror and sufficient storage options like dressers or nightstands.

Living and Dining Areas

• Furniture Layout: Measure the rooms and arrange furniture to maximize space and natural light. Opt for timeless, sturdy pieces that fit your theme.
• Sofa and Chairs: Choose a durable sofa, preferably with washable covers, and sturdy yet lightweight chairs. Consider a sofa bed to increase guest capacity.
• Dining Table: Select a tough and resistant dining table that can be enhanced with tablecloths and decor.

Kitchen Essentials

• Appliances and Utensils: Equip the kitchen with essentials like a coffee maker, microwave, toaster, kettle, pots, pans, and cutlery. Ensure there are enough items for the maximum number of guests.
• Storage: Use pegboards and stackable containers to keep the kitchen organized and clutter-free.

Bathroom Essentials

• Toiletries and Towels: Provide high-quality, neutral-colored towels and basic toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and toothpaste. Include a hair dryer and a first-aid kit.
• Storage and Accessibility: Ensure there is enough storage for guests' toiletries and consider adding features like grab bars for accessibility.

Decor and Local Touches

• Color Palette: Use a neutral color palette for walls and large furniture pieces to create a relaxed atmosphere.
• Local Elements: Incorporate elements that reflect the local culture or history of Shrewsbury, such as local artwork or guidebooks with recommendations.
• Smart Technology: Consider adding smart home features like keyless entry, smart thermostats, or streaming devices for modern conveniences.
• Rugs and Arts: Use heavy-duty rugs and add local or thematic artwork to enhance the space and make it feel more welcoming.

Guest Amenities

• Additional Comforts: Provide amenities like universal phone chargers, outlet converters, flip flops or slippers, bathrobes, and a yoga mat to enhance guest comfort.
• Games and Entertainment: Leave some games, cards, and informative books to keep guests entertained during their stay.

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.
• Clutter-Free Space: Keep the property clutter-free by not leaving personal items, old furniture, or valuable objects. Store cleaning equipment in a designated area.

Seasonal and Practical Considerations

• Off-Season Updates: Plan furniture updates during the off-season or short gaps between bookings to minimize disruption.
• Functional Spaces: Ensure each area of the property has a clear purpose, such as a well-defined reading nook or dining area.

Discovering Shrewsbury, Massachusetts: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Local Attractions

1. General Artemas Ward Museum

• Visit the historic home of General Artemas Ward, now a museum owned by Harvard University. This is a great place to learn about the town's history and its most famous son.

2. Dean Park

• A favorite public park with 79 acres of land, featuring a pond, almost two miles of trails, a bandstand for summer concerts, playgrounds, baseball/softball fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, and a sledding hill for winter fun.

3. Prospect Park

• Explore the 71-acre park that was once a summer estate for Matthew John Whitall. Enjoy walking, running, and biking trails, and see the remnants of the formal gardens and the footprint of the historic mansion, Juniper Hall.

4. Ski Ward Ski Area

• A year-round recreational facility offering skiing, snowboarding, and snowtubing in the winter, and other activities during the summer months.

5. Broken Creek Winery

• Visit this local winery for wine tastings and tours, a great way to spend an afternoon in Shrewsbury.

6. Hebert Candies

• Known as the "Candy Mansion," this is a popular spot for sweet treats and a unique shopping experience.

7. Secret Garden

• A hidden gem with a 0.4-mile pondside trail, whimsical sculptures, interactive installations, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for families.

8. Lake Quinsigamond

• Enjoy rowing, summer festivals, and scenic views around this lake, which has been a summer escape for the wealthy and a recreational hub for the town.

Insider Tips

Summer Festivals

• Don't miss the annual Summer Festival in early August at the Scandinavian Athletic Club Park, featuring live performances, local vendors, and fun activities for children.

Food Truck Thursdays

• Every Thursday from mid-April to October, head to the Town Hall lawn for a variety of food trucks offering everything from hot dogs to Italian street food.

Local Events

• Check out local event listings for activities such as comedy nights, trail rides, and special performances that can enhance your stay in Shrewsbury.

Historical Sites

• Visit the Shrewsbury Historic District, District No. 5 School, and the 1767 Milestones from the Boston Post Road, all listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Recreation

• Besides the mentioned parks, also explore the Jordan Pond Recreational area for additional trails and scenic views.

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

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short Term Rental Business in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts

To ensure the success of a short-term rental business in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, several key strategies can be implemented. First, it is crucial to adhere to and inform guests about local noise regulations, including quiet hours, to maintain a positive relationship with neighbors and avoid potential fines. Creating a comprehensive digital and physical house manual is also essential; this should include detailed instructions, Wi-Fi passwords, and other pertinent information to make the guest's stay seamless.

A simplified check-in process can significantly enhance the guest experience. Utilizing smart locks eliminates the need for physical key exchanges and provides guests with immediate access upon arrival. Additionally, providing clear parking instructions accompanied by photos can help avoid confusion and ensure that guests park in the designated areas.

By addressing these aspects, you can create a well-organized, guest-friendly environment that fosters positive reviews and repeat bookings, ultimately contributing to the success of your short-term rental business in Shrewsbury.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning providers in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts:

House Cleaning Services

Oliveira's Cleaning Service

• Based in Shrewsbury, MA, offering residential and commercial cleaning services.
• Tailored cleaning plans, including deep cleaning, regular maintenance, and post-construction cleaning.
• Uses pet-safe and eco-friendly products.

Sparklean Cleaning Services

• Serves Shrewsbury and surrounding areas.
• Offers deep cleaning, window cleaning, turnover cleaning, garage cleaning, one-time cleaning, carpet cleaning, floor care, and disinfecting services.

MaidPro

• Provides weekly, bi-weekly, or one-time house cleaning services.
• Customizable maid services designed around client needs.

Additional Listings

Various House Cleaning Services

• Listed on Care.com and Angie's List, including multiple local providers with varying rates and services.
• Average rate around $22-$50 per hour, depending on the service and house size.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts

In Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, 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 between 20% to 30% of the rental income.

Basic or a la carte services, which may only include specific aspects of management, can be less expensive. Additionally, property owners may incur extra fees for services like cleaning, repairs, or interior design, which can further impact the overall cost. Understanding these fee structures is crucial for property owners to maximize their rental income while ensuring their properties are well-managed and guest-ready.