Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Surprise Arizona.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Surprise, Arizona for 2024

Licensing and Registration

• It is unlawful to rent or offer to rent a short-term or vacation rental without first obtaining a valid short-term or vacation rental license issued by the City of Surprise.
• Hosts must provide contact information, proof of ownership or permission from the property owner, and a business license.

Tax Compliance

• Short-term rentals are subject to Arizona's transaction privilege tax (TPT). The TPT rate for residential rentals in Surprise is 2.2%, and the combined state and city rate is 13.99% for hotel/motel/transient lodging classification.
• Hosts must comply with all applicable state and local sales, hotel, and other taxes.

Operational Requirements

• Short-term rentals cannot be used for large events like parties or weddings to maintain neighborhood tranquility, though this is more of a general Arizona guideline.
• Hosts must ensure compliance with other contracts or rules, such as leases, condo boards, co-op rules, HOA rules, or rules established by tenant organizations.

Advertising Compliance

• While specific to Phoenix, it is advisable to display any necessary permit numbers on advertisements to avoid potential fines, though Surprise does not have this requirement explicitly stated.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

• Failure to register or comply with regulations can result in fines and penalties, though the specific penalty structure for Surprise is not detailed. However, it is clear that non-compliance is strictly enforced.

Additional Requirements

• Property owners may need to register their properties with the County Assessor, and there may be additional requirements imposed by the city or county beyond the TPT license.

Compliance Workshops

• Rental owners and property management companies can attend workshops offered by the Arizona Department of Revenue to ensure compliance with TPT regulations and other requirements.

Top Neighborhoods for Airbnb Revenue in Surprise, Arizona

Why These Neighborhoods Are Appealing

Surprise, Arizona, is a burgeoning market for short-term rentals, driven by its attractive location and various amenities. Here are the top neighborhoods generating significant Airbnb revenue and why they are appealing to guests:

Surprise Farms

• Proximity to Attractions: Surprise Farms is close to Surprise Stadium, a major draw for sports fans, especially during spring training. It is also near shopping, dining, and recreational facilities.
• Family-Friendly: This area offers numerous family-friendly rentals, making it ideal for families and groups.

Sun City Grand

• Retiree and Family Appeal: Sun City Grand is known for its retirement communities but also attracts families due to its well-maintained amenities and safe environment.
• Recreational Opportunities: The area provides easy access to golf courses, hiking trails, and other outdoor activities.

Marley Park

• Community Amenities: Marley Park offers a range of community amenities, including parks, walking trails, and community centers, which are highly appealing to families and those seeking a community feel.
• New Developments: The area is seeing new developments, which often include modern and well-furnished homes that attract high-quality tenants.

Areas Near Lake Pleasant and White Tank Mountains

• Outdoor Activities: These areas attract outdoor enthusiasts with opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, and scenic views. The proximity to natural attractions increases rental demand year-round.
• Scenic Views: Rentals in these areas often offer breathtaking views of the Bradshaw mountains and the Sonoran Desert, enhancing the guest experience.

Neighborhoods Around Surprise Stadium

• Sports Events: Being close to Surprise Stadium makes these neighborhoods highly desirable during spring training and other sports events, drawing in sports fans and vacationers.
• Convenience: Easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment centers like WestGate adds to the appeal of these neighborhoods.

These neighborhoods stand out due to their combination of proximity to attractions, family-friendly amenities, and the opportunity for outdoor activities, making them highly attractive to a wide range of guests.

Furnishing and Design Tips for an Inviting Airbnb in Surprise, Arizona

Understanding the Local Style and Guest Preferences

• Reflect the City's Culture: Incorporate Southwestern and desert themes, featuring warm colors and rustic textures that pay homage to the Arizona landscape. Modern minimalist styles can also be appealing, with clean lines and functional decor.

Choosing the Right Furniture

• Opt for Durable and Comfortable Pieces: Select furniture that is easy to clean and maintain. Solid beds, storage beds, and sofas with washable covers are essential. Ensure beds have sturdy legs and consider memory foam mattresses for durability.

• Space-Saving Furniture: Use sofa beds, folding tables, and ottomans with hidden storage compartments to maximize space and functionality.

Enhancing Comfort and Leisure

• Upgrade Kitchen Appliances: Equip your kitchen with modern appliances such as a coffee maker, microwave, toaster, and kettle to enhance guest comfort.

• Outdoor Amenities: Include pools, hot tubs, BBQ areas, and spacious outdoor spaces to cater to the city's outdoor lifestyle.

Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere

• Use Mirrors and Natural Light: Utilize mirrors to make your space feel bigger and brighter. Ensure furniture does not block natural light sources and leave ample space for guests to move around.

• Aesthetic Decor: Use tablecloths, runners, vases, and candles to enhance the dining area. Opt for comfy, lightweight chairs that are easy to move around.

Accessibility and Practicality

• Accessibility Features: Consider making your Airbnb accessible to guests with disabilities by including ramps, wide doorways, and grab bars in bathrooms.

• Smart Storage: Incorporate beds with drawers, wall hooks, pegboards in the kitchen, and stackable containers to keep the space tidy and organized.

Timing and Maintenance

• Update During Off-Season: Plan furniture updates during the off-season or short gaps between bookings to minimize disruption to guests.

• Involve Your Cleaning Crew: Ensure your cleaning crew is aware of new furniture and layout changes to maintain the property effectively.

Neighborhood Considerations

• Proximity to Attractions: Choose neighborhoods close to attractions like Surprise Stadium, Lake Pleasant, and the White Tank Mountains to attract a diverse guest demographic.

By following these tips, you can create an inviting Airbnb space in Surprise, Arizona, that reflects the city's unique style and meets the preferences of your guests.

Discover Surprise, Arizona: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Local Attractions

Outdoor Adventures

• White Tank Mountain Regional Park: Hike, bike, or horseback ride through miles of trails, and explore ancient petroglyphs left by the Hohokam and Patayan peoples. Don't miss the White Tank Nature Center and the Waterfall Trail.
• Surprise Community Park: Enjoy a day outdoors with playgrounds, picnic areas, basketball courts, pickleball courts, a fishing lake (permit required), and a dog park.

Family-Friendly Activities

• Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park: Located in nearby Litchfield Park, this zoo features over 600 species of animals, a petting zoo, daily feedings, and a 100-acre safari. The aquarium boasts the longest acrylic tunnel in Arizona.
• Camelback Ranch-Glendale: While not in Surprise, this state-of-the-art baseball facility is just a short drive away and serves as the Spring Training home for the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago White Sox.

Arts and Culture

• WHAM Community Art Center: Explore local art galleries, participate in art classes, and enjoy weekly events such as poetry readings and fashion shows.
• Surprise Regional Library: A modern library with public art installations and various community events.

Sports and Entertainment

• Surprise Stadium: Catch a Spring Training game featuring the Kansas City Royals and the Texas Rangers.
• Surprise Tennis and Racquet Complex: Host to various professional tennis and pickleball events.
• Ghostlight Theatre: Enjoy quality and diverse theater performances in nearby Sun City West.

Other Attractions

• Uptown Alley: A fun spot for bowling and entertainment.
• Desert Diamond Arena: A multi-purpose sports and entertainment facility in nearby Glendale.
• Westgate Entertainment District: Offers a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.

Insider Tips

Getting Around

• Surprise is served by Loop 303 and U.S. Route 60, making it easy to travel to nearby cities like Phoenix and Glendale.

Dining and Shopping

• Westgate Entertainment District: A great place for dining, shopping, and entertainment, located just a short drive away in Glendale.
• Local Events: Check out the city’s holiday events like the Easter Eggstavaganza and Sparkling Surprise Christmas, as well as community events like Sundays in the Park and Lunchtime Theater.

Outdoor Tips

• Permits: Remember that a fishing permit is required for fishing at Surprise Lake.
• Trail Information: Many trails at White Tank Mountain Regional Park are available year-round but check the conditions before heading out, especially during hot summer months.

Community Engagement

• Public Art: Look out for public art installations across the city, many of which are collaborations with the WHAM community art center.

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

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short Term Rental Business in Surprise, Arizona

To ensure the success and smooth operation of a short-term rental business in Surprise, Arizona, several practical tips can be implemented. Here are some key considerations:

Noise Regulations and Guest Communication

Inform your guests about quiet hours and noise regulations to maintain a peaceful environment for both the guests and the neighbors. Including this information in your digital and physical house manual helps set clear expectations.

Comprehensive House Manual

Create a detailed digital and physical house manual that includes 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.

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, along with parking instructions accompanied by photos to ensure they can find and access the property effortlessly.

Additional Tips

• Ensure compliance with local regulations, such as obtaining a valid short-term or vacation rental license and a license for the transaction privilege tax, as required by the City of Surprise.
• Invest in good security measures, including smart technology like doorbell cameras and sensors, to protect both your guests and your property.
• Regularly update your property listings on platforms like Airbnb and VRBO, and consider listing on social media to enhance visibility and engagement with potential guests.

By following these tips, you can enhance the guest experience, reduce potential issues, and maintain a successful and compliant short-term rental business in Surprise, Arizona.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning providers in Surprise, Arizona:

House Cleaning Services in Surprise, AZ

Dirt Busters House Cleaning

• A green, environmentally safe maid service using non-toxic and biodegradable products.
• Offers recurring services, add-on services like appliance cleaning, and a 100% happiness guarantee.
• Serving Surprise, AZ and nearby areas.

Queen of Maids

• Provides house cleaning and maid services with a 100% happiness guarantee.
• Background-checked and skill-tested professionals.
• Customizable cleaning services, including add-ons like inside fridge and oven cleaning.
• Available in Surprise, AZ, and other nearby areas like Scottsdale and Glendale.

AZ Valley Cleaning

• Offers various cleaning services including move-in/move-out, deep cleans, and construction clean-ups.
• Background-checked and 5-star rated cleaners.
• Customizable visits and a free online estimate.
• Based in Surprise, AZ, and serving the West Phoenix Valley.

Eco Mama Green House Cleaning

• An environmentally-conscious cleaning service using toxic-free products.
• Provides recurring, deep, and move-in/move-out cleans.
• Licensed, insured, and highly qualified team.
• Serving Surprise, AZ, and nearby communities like Scottsdale, Sun City, and Glendale.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Surprise, Arizona: A Breakdown

In Surprise, Arizona, managing short-term rentals such as those listed on Airbnb or VRBO can incur management fees that vary widely based on the level of service provided. Full-service management companies, which handle comprehensive tasks including guest communication, marketing, and maintenance, typically charge fees ranging from 20% to 30% of the rental revenue. For example, companies like GoSummer charge around 20% of the booking revenue, excluding cleaning fees.

On the other hand, basic services that may only include leasing and financial management might be less expensive, often ranging from 10% to 15% of the rental income. Additional fees can also apply for services such as cleaning, repairs, and design enhancements. Property management companies like PURE Property Management and Service Star Realty offer various service levels, each with its own fee structure, ensuring that property owners can choose the level of management that best fits their needs and budget.