Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Silverthrone Colorado.

Silverthorne, Colorado Short-Term Rental Regulations for 2024

Licensing Requirements

• A valid short-term rental license is required for each short-term rental property. Licenses are non-transferable and non-refundable in the event of property sale.
• Licenses must be renewed on an annual basis.
• The license number must be displayed in all advertising for the property.

Zoning and License Caps

• The town is divided into three zones:
• Area 1: Allows 10% of properties to obtain a short-term rental license.
• Area 2: Allows 50% of properties to obtain a short-term rental license.
• Area 3: No short-term rental licenses are allowed due to deed restrictions.

Application and Documentation

• Owners must file a short-term rental license application and provide written notice to the owner of the adjacent unit if the property is part of a duplex.
• Owners must read and sign the Good Neighbor Guidelines and submit a sworn affidavit certifying compliance with health and safety standards.

Responsible Agent

• Each owner must name a Responsible Agent who must resolve complaints within 60 minutes, or 30 minutes if the complaint occurs between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM.

Occupancy Limits

• The maximum occupancy is two people per bedroom plus two people. The number of bedrooms is determined by the Summit County Assessor’s Office.

Fees and Taxes

• License fees vary by the number of bedrooms:
• Studio: $150
• One Bedroom: $200
• Two Bedrooms: $250
• Three Bedrooms: $300
• Four Bedrooms: $350
• Five Bedrooms: $450
• Six or more Bedrooms: $500.
• Homeowners must collect an 8.0% lodging tax.

Compliance and Enforcement

• The town can request vacation rental services like Airbnb and VRBO to remove listings for properties without a valid short-term rental license.
• Deed-restricted properties are prohibited from being rented on a short-term basis.

Additional Requirements

• Individual homeowner associations may have additional requirements, restrictions, and covenants related to short-term rentals.
• Changes to an existing short-term rental license (e.g., mailing address, responsible agents, property management company) must be reported to the town.

High-Revenue Airbnb Neighborhoods in Silverthorne, Colorado

While specific neighborhood-level revenue data for Silverthorne is not provided in the sources, we can infer the most appealing areas for Airbnb investments based on the overall demand, amenities, and guest preferences.

1. Wildernest Neighborhood

• Appeal: This neighborhood is conveniently located near various amenities and attractions. Properties like the Running Bear Townhomes, which are part of this area, offer easy access to ski resorts, hiking trails, and other mountain activities.
• Guest Preferences: Guests appreciate the proximity to ski resorts, hiking trails, and the scenic views of the surrounding mountains.

2. Summit Sky Ranch

• Appeal: Known for its luxury homes and pristine mountain settings, Summit Sky Ranch is highly sought after by guests. Properties here often feature unobstructed views of the Gore Range and are close to several world-class ski resorts.
• Guest Preferences: The luxury amenities, stunning views, and proximity to ski resorts make this area highly appealing.

3. Ruby Ranch

• Appeal: Located at the base of the mountains, Ruby Ranch offers a distinctive community setting with easy access to outdoor activities. Homes here are often described as mountain retreats with private wooded settings.
• Guest Preferences: Guests like the private and wooded settings, along with the convenience of being close to hiking trails and ski resorts.

4. Buffalo Mountain Area

• Appeal: Properties in this area are perched on the top of Summit County, offering breathtaking views of Buffalo Mountain and Arapahoe National Forest. The proximity to trailheads and ski resorts is a significant draw.
• Guest Preferences: The panoramic views, easy access to trailheads, and the serene mountain environment are highly attractive to guests.

5. Downtown Silverthorne and 4th Street Crossing

• Appeal: Properties in these areas, such as Skywalk Flats at 4th Street Crossing, offer a blend of luxury and convenience. Guests can enjoy being close to shops, restaurants, and other local amenities.
• Guest Preferences: The walkability to local shops, restaurants, and the overall vibrant community atmosphere make these areas appealing.

These neighborhoods are particularly attractive due to their combination of luxury amenities, scenic views, and easy access to outdoor activities, which align well with the preferences of guests visiting Silverthorne.

Creating an Inviting Airbnb in Silverthorne, Colorado: Design and Furnishing Tips

To make your Airbnb in Silverthorne, Colorado, a standout and inviting space that reflects the city's unique style, consider the following tips:

Location and Neighborhood

• Choose a property in a popular tourist area, such as near Lake Dillon, the marina, or close to hiking trails and ski resorts, to attract a wide range of guests.

Amenities

• Include amenities that enhance guest comfort and convenience, such as hot tubs, modern kitchens, and outdoor spaces like balconies or patios with scenic views of the mountains.

Design and Furnishing

• Opt for a mountain-modern style that incorporates natural materials like wood floors, stone accents, and earthy color palettes to reflect the area's stunning outdoor setting.
• Use rustic and cozy elements such as plush textiles, handmade decor, and warm lighting to create an inviting atmosphere.

Lighting

• Ensure functional and ambient lighting. Use overhead lights, table lamps, and wall sconces to create a welcoming and well-lit space, especially in areas like the entryway, kitchen, and bathroom.

Textiles and Comfort

• Add warmth and texture with area rugs, throw blankets, and plush bath mats. These elements can make hardwood, tile, or laminate flooring feel more luxurious and cozy.

Entryway and First Impressions

• Create a well-organized and designed entryway with a table, chest of drawers, or shelving for keys and bags. Add a soft rug, mirror, potted plant, and artwork to make the space feel welcoming.

Kitchen and Bathroom Details

• Ensure the kitchen is well-equipped with easily accessible appliances and supplies. Leave directions for using appliances and provide a solid supply of dishcloths and napkins. In the bathroom, offer extra towels, soaps, shampoos, and personal care products.

Outdoor Spaces

• Highlight any outdoor spaces such as patios or gardens, which allow guests to enjoy the beautiful Colorado weather and scenic views.

Local Touches

• Incorporate local artwork and decor to enhance the guest experience and provide a sense of place. This can include vintage photos or items from local creators.

Cleanliness and Maintenance

• Maintain a spotless and tidy space. Cleanliness is crucial for attracting repeat guests and positive reviews.

Communication and Customer Service

• Be responsive to guests’ inquiries and provide excellent customer service. Offer detailed instructions, recommendations for local activities, and be available to answer questions.

By following these tips, you can create an Airbnb in Silverthorne that is not only inviting but also reflective of the city's unique style and charm.

Discover Silverthorne, Colorado: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Outdoor Adventures

Hiking and Biking

• Blue River Trail: A popular paved path connecting Silverthorne to Dillon, Keystone, Frisco, and Breckenridge, ideal for hikers and bikers.
• Ptarmigan Trail: A 4.6-mile moderate hike with a 1,141-foot elevation gain, offering scenic views.
• Eagles Nest Wilderness Area: Part of the White River National Forest, perfect for hiking, biking, horseback riding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.

Water Activities

• Blue River: Excellent for fly-fishing, rafting, and stand-up paddleboarding. Guided rafting trips like the Blue River Express are available for all skill levels.
• Dillon Reservoir: Nearby in Dillon, offers pontoon boat rentals, paddleboards, and sailboats in summer, and guided ice-fishing adventures in winter.

Winter Sports

• Skiing and Snowboarding: Silverthorne is close to renowned ski resorts like Breckenridge, Keystone, Copper Mountain, Loveland, and Arapahoe Basin.
• Cross Country Skiing: The Silverthorne Nordic Center at the Raven Golf Club and the Mesa-Cortina Trail to South Willow Creek Falls are top spots.
• Snowshoeing: Explore quiet mountain trails inaccessible to snowmobiles and cross-country skiers.

Other Outdoor Activities

• North Pond Park: Offers walking trails, ice skating in winter, osprey nests, and mountain wetlands.
• Raven Golf Club: Acclaimed golf course with a beautiful layout; also open for cross-country skiing in winter.

Local Parks and Facilities

• Rainbow Park: A 7-acre park with tennis courts, basketball courts, sand volleyball courts, a skate park, and picnic shelters.
• Silverthorne Recreation Center: A year-round facility featuring gyms, pools, an indoor track, racquetball courts, and fitness equipment.

Shopping and Culture

• Outlets at Silverthorne: A shopping complex with over 70 name-brand stores offering deep discounts.
• Silverthorne Performing Arts Center: Hosts live performances, outdoor musicals, and other cultural events.
• Public Art Displays: Take a walking tour to explore the town’s public-art displays.

Insider Tips

• Seasonal Events: Attend the Silverthorne Fine Arts Festival in summer or the Breckenridge Oktoberfest in fall for unique experiences.
• Local Dining and Breweries: Visit Angry James brewery for local beer and delicious food, and explore the town’s burgeoning restaurant scene.
• Kid-Friendly Activities: Use the kid-friendly map of Silverthorne to find suitable attractions and trails for families.

Nearby Attractions

• Dillon: Explore the pristine Dillon Reservoir, rent water toys, or enjoy guided ice-fishing adventures.
• Eagles Nest Wilderness Area: A prime center for year-round activities including hiking, biking, horseback riding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.

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

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short-Term Rental Business in Silverthorne, Colorado

To ensure a smooth and successful short-term rental business in Silverthorne, Colorado, several practical tips can be implemented:

Noise Regulations and Guest Communication

Inform your guests about the quiet hours and noise regulations in Silverthorne. The town has strict noise regulations, and it is crucial to communicate these rules clearly in your rental agreement and welcome packet. This can help prevent complaints and ensure a good neighborly relationship.

Comprehensive House Manual

Create both digital and physical house manuals that include essential instructions, such as Wi-Fi passwords, appliance usage, and emergency contact information. This manual should also outline the Good Neighbor Guidelines and health and safety standards as mandated by the Silverthorne short-term rental ordinance.

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

Include detailed parking instructions with photos in your house manual. This is particularly important in areas where parking can be limited or restricted. Clear instructions can help avoid confusion and potential issues with neighbors or local authorities.

By implementing these tips, you can enhance the guest experience, reduce potential issues, and maintain a positive reputation for your short-term rental business in Silverthorne.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning, repair, and maintenance providers in Silverthorne, Colorado:

House Cleaning Services

Team Clean

• Provides residential and commercial cleaning services, including house cleaning, janitorial services, and snow removal.
• Uses professional-grade disinfectants and equipment, adhering to CDC sanitization guidelines and EPA standards.

Exclusive Cleaning and Restoration

• Offers cleaning services for residential, commercial, and vacation rental properties.
• Specializes in deep cleans, move-in/move-out cleans, construction clean-ups, and specific surface cleaning (carpet, tile, granite, upholstery, etc.).

A&A Summit Cleaning Services

• Provides home cleaning services on a one-time or weekly schedule.
• Also offers commercial cleaning services and is known for thorough cleaning, especially for rental properties.

Summit Executive Cleaning

• Focuses on vacation rentals and commercial properties, offering premier cleaning and maintenance services.
• Provides real-time staff updates, complete linen and supply provision, and guaranteed quality service.

Cleaning Management

• Specializes in cleaning owner-managed vacation rental properties.
• Offers a full line of vacation rental cleaning services with a fully trained staff, serving areas including Keystone, Dillon, and Frisco, though also available in Silverthorne.

Silverthorne, Colorado: Understanding Short-Term Rental Management Fees

In Silverthorne, Colorado, managing short-term rentals can incur management fees that typically range from 10% to 30% of the rental revenue, depending on the level of service chosen. 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 around 25-30% of the adjusted gross rental income.

Basic or partial service options, where the owner handles some aspects like bookings and marketing, can be more cost-effective, usually ranging from 10% to 15% of the rental revenue. Additionally, property owners may incur extra fees for services like cleaning, repairs, and design, which can be billed separately or included in the overall management fee structure. These fees help ensure the property remains well-maintained and compliant with local regulations, such as those set by the Town of Silverthorne.