Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Surfside Beach South Carolina.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Surfside Beach, South Carolina for 2024

General Requirements

• Business License and STR Permit: Short-term rental owners must obtain a business license and a short-term rental (STR) permit from local authorities. The business license is valid for one year and is based on the gross revenue from the rental property.

Permit and Registration

• STR Permit: Each dwelling unit needs a separate STR permit. The permit is valid for one year and must be renewed by July 1 of each year. Fees include an application fee of $50 and a STR permit registration fee (e.g., $100 for owner-occupied STRs and $250 for non-owner occupied STRs).

Zoning and Location

• Zoning Ordinances: Short-term rentals are allowed in specific zoning districts. Owners must ensure their property complies with local zoning regulations, which may prohibit STRs in residential neighborhoods.

Safety and Compliance

• Safety Regulations: Properties must have working fire safety devices and may require safety inspections with a 24-hour notice.
• Compliance with City Ordinances: Owners must comply with all city ordinances and codes related to safety and other issues.

Taxation

• State and Local Taxes: Short-term rentals are subject to state sales tax, state accommodations tax, and local taxes. Owners must register for a retail license with the South Carolina Department of Revenue if they rent out properties for more than 15 days in a taxable year or use a short-term rental marketplace.

Guest and Property Management

• Guest Information: Keep records of the name and phone number of all guests for two years.
• Emergency Contact: Have an emergency contact available to take phone calls at all times.
• Minimum Age for Bookings: Allow bookings and reservations only by guests who are at least 18 years of age.
• Occupancy Limits: Do not exceed the maximum overnight occupancy of two persons per bedroom plus two additional persons, excluding minor children.

Advertising and Notifications

• STR Permit Number in Advertising: Include the STR permit number in all online advertising.
• House Manual: Provide a house manual to each guest, including emergency contact numbers, owner's or responsible local representative's name and contact information, and house rules.
• Notification to Neighbors: Notify all adjacent households and neighborhood associations that the property is being operated as a short-term rental.

Additional Requirements

• Parking: Ensure that there are at least two parking spaces available for guests.
• Inspections and Records: Allow safety inspections and keep records demonstrating compliance with city provisions for two years.

Top Neighborhoods for Airbnb Revenue in Surfside Beach, South Carolina

While specific neighborhood data for Surfside Beach is not as detailed as for some other areas, we can infer the most appealing and profitable areas based on general trends and characteristics of the region.

General Appeal of Surfside Beach

Surfside Beach is a popular vacation spot known for its oceanfront properties, family-friendly atmosphere, and proximity to other tourist destinations like Myrtle Beach. Here are some of the key areas and their appeal:

Oceanfront Properties

• Why it's appealing: Direct access to the beach, stunning ocean views, and a range of amenities such as pools, beach chairs, and umbrellas.
• Revenue Potential: Properties with oceanfront views and direct beach access tend to have higher occupancy rates and average daily rates. For example, a typical short-term rental in Surfside Beach can earn an average daily rate of $249 and an annual revenue of $52,000.

Central Surfside Beach

• Why it's appealing: Close proximity to local restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Guests can easily access the beach and other local amenities.
• Revenue Potential: Central locations tend to have higher demand due to their convenience, contributing to a median occupancy rate of 58% and significant annual revenue.

Neighborhoods Near Myrtle Beach

• Why it's appealing: While not technically within Surfside Beach, properties near Myrtle Beach benefit from the broader tourist infrastructure, including golf courses, resorts, and various attractions.
• Revenue Potential: These areas can leverage the high demand from Myrtle Beach visitors, ensuring a steady stream of bookings and higher revenue potential.

Key Metrics

• Occupancy Rate: A median occupancy rate of 58% indicates a strong demand for short-term rentals in Surfside Beach.
• Average Daily Rate: $249, which is among the highest in the region, reflecting the premium nature of oceanfront and central properties.
• Annual Revenue: Typical hosts can earn around $52,000 annually, making it a profitable investment.

While specific neighborhood names are not provided, the general areas of oceanfront properties and central Surfside Beach are the most lucrative and appealing for guests due to their direct access to amenities and the beach.

Furnishing and Design Tips for an Inviting Airbnb in Surfside Beach, South Carolina

Embrace the Coastal Theme

• Use a color palette that reflects the ocean and beach, such as blues, whites, and sandy neutrals.
• Incorporate natural materials like wicker, rattan, and driftwood into your furniture and decor.
• Add nautical elements such as anchors, ropes, and shells to create a coastal vibe.

Light and Airy Interiors

• Opt for light-colored walls and flooring to make the space feel larger and brighter.
• Utilize sheer curtains or blinds to allow natural light to flood the rooms.
• Incorporate mirrors to reflect light and enhance the sense of space.

Comfortable Beach Living

• Choose plush, beach-friendly furniture with easy-to-clean fabrics.
• Provide ample storage for beach gear, such as surfboards, beach chairs, and towels.
• Include cozy throw blankets and pillows in beach-inspired colors.

Local Touches

• Decorate with local artwork or prints that reflect the history and beauty of Surfside Beach.
• Display items that highlight the area's natural environment, such as seashells, starfish, or driftwood sculptures.
• Incorporate maps or vintage postcards of the Grand Strand to add a personal touch.

Functional and Family-Friendly

• Ensure the space is family-friendly by including amenities like high chairs, cribs, and children’s toys.
• Provide a fully equipped kitchen with beach-themed dishes and utensils.
• Include outdoor furniture and decor that invites guests to enjoy the beach views and fresh air.

Eco-Friendly and Autism-Friendly Considerations

• Incorporate eco-friendly practices by using recyclable materials and providing recycling bins.
• Consider adding autism-friendly features such as sensory-friendly decor, quiet spaces, and clear instructions for appliances and amenities.

Seasonal and Event Decor

• Update decor seasonally to reflect local events and holidays, such as beach-themed Christmas decorations or summer festival colors.
• Highlight local events and attractions through informational brochures or a community board in the Airbnb.

Outdoor Spaces

• If the property has an outdoor area, furnish it with comfortable seating and dining options.
• Add outdoor lighting to extend the use of the outdoor space into the evening.
• Incorporate plants and flowers that are native to the coastal region to enhance the natural beauty of the area.

Personalized Welcome

• Create a welcoming atmosphere by leaving a personalized note or a small gift that reflects the local culture.
• Provide a guide to local attractions, restaurants, and hidden gems to help guests make the most of their stay.

Discover Surfside Beach, South Carolina: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Local Attractions

Beach and Water Activities

• Immerse Yourself in Beach Life: Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, sandcastle building, and beachcombing along the two miles of pristine oceanfront. The beach is cleaned daily and supervised by lifeguards and police.
• Watersports: Engage in parasailing, jet skiing, kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Visit Myrtle Waves Water Park for water and tube slides during the warmer months.
• Deep Sea Fishing: Explore the waters for a fishing adventure, and visit the soon-to-be-reopened Surfside Beach Pier for fishing and scenic views.

Family-Friendly Fun

• Surfside Bowling Center: Enjoy bowling and an arcade with 30 video and prize games.
• All Children’s Park: A park with two playgrounds, picnic sections, and restroom facilities, located on the corner of 10th Avenue South and Hollywood Drive.
• Mini Golf: Participate in friendly mini golf competitions at various courses in the area.

Nature and Wildlife

• Brookgreen Gardens: Explore 9,170 acres of gardens featuring American figurative sculptures, a butterfly garden, and the Lowcountry Zoo.
• Dolphin Cruises: Take a dolphin-watching tour or a nature and wildlife boat tour to explore the local marine life.
• Huntington Beach State Park: Go hiking and enjoy the natural beauty of this park located near Murrells Inlet.

Shopping and Dining

• Local Shopping: Visit unique local shops and galleries such as Barefoot Landing, Broadway At The Beach, The Hammock Shops Village, and The Market Common.
• Dining: Enjoy a range of dining options from fine dining to relaxed cafes, including oceanfront restaurants and fresh seafood at the Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk.

Other Attractions

• Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade: Stroll along the 1.2-mile boardwalk, dine, shop, and enjoy live festivals and events.
• Seakart Adventure: Experience the thrill of Seakart, combining the speed of a jet ski with the safety and comfort of a boat.
• The Pier at Garden City: A family-friendly spot for fishing, gaming, and enjoying beautiful sunsets.

Insider Tips

Accessibility

• The new Surfside Pier will feature elevators and ramps to ensure accessibility for visitors of all abilities.

Seasonal Events

• Check the Surfside Beach Events Calendar for year-round community events and happenings.

Eco-Friendly

• Surfside Beach is an eco-friendly town; encourage guests to recycle by using the provided collection facilities for cans, bottles, and newspapers.

Autism-Friendly

• Surfside Beach is an Autism-friendly family travel destination, offering a welcoming environment for all families.

Local Favorites

• Start the day with a visit to Benjamin’s Bakery and Cafe for decadent morning treats and custom-made lattes.

Nearby Attractions

• Inform guests about the proximity to Myrtle Beach and its numerous attractions, including the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel and 87 premier golf courses.

By providing these local attractions and insider tips, your Airbnb guests will have a comprehensive guide to making the most of their visit to Surfside Beach, South Carolina.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short-Term Rental Business in Surfside Beach, South Carolina

To ensure the success of your short-term rental business in Surfside Beach, South Carolina, several practical tips can make a significant difference in guest satisfaction and compliance with local regulations.

Noise Regulations and Guest Communication

Inform your guests about the quiet hours and noise regulations enforced by Surfside Beach. Clearly communicate these rules in your listing description, house manual, and through pre-arrival messages to avoid any potential issues. Failure to comply with noise regulations can result in fines or the revocation of your business license.

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 also outline the property's amenities, local attractions, and any specific rules or guidelines for the property.

Simplified Check-in Process

Utilize smart locks to streamline the check-in process, eliminating the need for physical key exchanges. Provide guests with detailed instructions on how to access the property, along with photos of the parking area and any specific parking instructions. This ensures a smooth and hassle-free arrival experience for your guests.

By implementing these strategies, you can enhance guest satisfaction, reduce potential conflicts, and maintain compliance with local regulations, ultimately contributing to the success of your short-term rental business in Surfside Beach.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning, repair, and maintenance providers in Surfside Beach, South Carolina:

House Cleaning Services

• Merry Maids of the Grand Strand:

• Offers customized house cleaning programs, deep cleaning services, and attention to all areas of the home, including kitchens, bathrooms, living areas, and bedrooms.

• The Clean Up Club:

• Provides professional cleaning services for homes, businesses, oceanfront properties, and construction sites. Services include move-in/move-out cleaning, spring cleaning, residential cleaning, office cleaning, new construction cleaning, and vacation rental cleaning.

• Aces Cleaning:

• Offers residential and commercial cleaning services, including vacation rental cleanings, daily, weekly, or monthly janitorial services, and cleaning for Air B&B and VRBO properties.

Maintenance and Additional Services

• All American Cleaning and Maintenance Services:

• Although based in Murrells Inlet, they also serve Surfside Beach. They provide full-service linen cleaning, power washing, landscaping, and property management services for vacation rental properties.

• Coastal Cleaning Services:

• While primarily based in Myrtle Beach, they offer services that can extend to Surfside Beach. They provide cleaning services, linen rental, and property maintenance, with a focus on vacation rental management.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Surfside Beach, South Carolina

In Surfside Beach, South Carolina, 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 companies, such as those offered by Summer and Awning, handle a comprehensive range of tasks including guest communication, marketing, pricing optimization, and maintenance, and their fees often start at around 15% to 20% of the revenue.

On the other hand, basic or half-service management options, like those from Evolve, may charge lower fees starting at 10%, but these services usually leave more of the day-to-day tasks to the property owner. Additional fees can also apply for services such as cleaning, repairs, and interior design, which can further impact the overall cost of management. Understanding these fee structures is crucial for property owners to manage their expenses effectively and maximize their rental income.