Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Woodstock New Hampshire.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Woodstock, Vermont for 2024

General Definitions and Requirements

• A short-term rental is defined as a furnished house, condominium, or other dwelling unit rented out for fewer than 30 consecutive days but more than 14 days per year.

Registration and Fees

• Owners must register their short-term rental properties using the new online registration and payment system called GovOS.
• Fees include:
• $500 base fee for owner-occupied short-term rentals
• $1,000 base fee for non-owner occupied short-term rentals
• Occupancy fees: $250 for 1-4 occupants, $1,000 for 5-8 occupants, and $2,000 for 9 and above.

Caps on Short-Term Rentals

• The village has a cap of 55 owner-occupied short-term rentals and 55 non-owner occupied short-term rentals. Exemptions apply for pre-existing multiple unit operators and pre-existing rural operators.

Operational Limits

• Properties can be rented out a limited number of times per year:
• 10 times per year for non-owner occupied rentals
• 15 times per year if the owner occupies the building during the rental
• In five-acre residential and short-term rental zones, rentals are allowed 15 times per year with a two-night minimum, except during foliage season.

Safety and Compliance

• Satisfactory fire safety inspection by Woodstock’s fire chief is required
• Two-persons per bedroom occupancy limit and a six-person maximum per household
• Adequate legal parking and rubbish removal
• Posted notice of rules regarding rubbish, parking, and noise.

Prohibited Activities

• Prohibitions include weddings, parties, catered events, signs, and outdoor activities between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m..

Owner/Manager Requirements

• The owner or a manager must be identified and available within 30 minutes at all times
• Contact information must be provided
• A rental report must be filed by January 31 each year.

Enforcement and Penalties

• The town will monitor short-term rentals advertised outside the limitations of the law
• Neighbors can report infractions
• Fines start at $200 per day per violation for non-compliance. For the new ordinance, fines start at $500.

Special Considerations

• Residents who rented out their homes for fewer than 14 days per year do not need a permit or are not included in the cap.
• Pre-existing rural operators in certain zoning districts do not need permits but must comply with the regulations.

Top Neighborhoods for Airbnb Revenue in Woodstock, New Hampshire

Why Woodstock, NH?

Woodstock, NH, located in the heart of the White Mountains, is a highly appealing destination for Airbnb guests due to its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and charming small-town atmosphere.

Neighborhoods Generating the Most Airbnb Revenue

1. Main Street and Downtown Area

• Appeal: The downtown area of Woodstock is filled with quaint shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, providing guests with a charming and walkable experience.
• Activities: Guests can enjoy local dining, shopping, and exploring the town's historic sites.

2. Lost River Road and Surroundings

• Appeal: This area is known for its scenic beauty, with properties often offering stunning mountain views and easy access to outdoor activities like hiking and skiing.
• Activities: Proximity to the White Mountains, Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves, and other natural attractions makes this area highly desirable.

3. Areas Near the White Mountains

• Appeal: Being close to popular ski resorts and outdoor recreational activities, these neighborhoods attract a steady stream of tourists throughout the year.
• Activities: Guests can engage in skiing, snowboarding, hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities that the White Mountains offer.

4. Areas Around Kancamagus Highway

• Appeal: Known for its scenic drives and stunning fall foliage, properties near the Kancamagus Highway are highly sought after for their picturesque views and easy access to nature.
• Activities: Guests can enjoy scenic drives, hiking, and exploring the natural beauty of the area.

Key Features of Successful Listings

• Proximity to Natural Attractions: Properties near the White Mountains, Lost River Gorge, and other scenic spots are highly desirable.
• Modern Amenities: Well-kept properties with amenities like heating, Wi-Fi, and cozy furnishings are preferred by guests.
• Access to Outdoor Activities: Properties that offer easy access to hiking, skiing, fishing, and other outdoor activities are more appealing.

Furnishing and Design Tips for an Inviting Airbnb in Woodstock, New Hampshire

Define Your Property's Aesthetic

• Align your furniture and decor with the rustic, natural beauty of Woodstock, incorporating elements like wood, stone, and earthy colors to reflect the local style.

Choose Timeless and Durable Furniture

• Opt for sturdy, high-quality pieces that can withstand frequent use. Consider solid beds, memory foam mattresses, and sofas made from easy-to-clean materials.

Utilize Smart Storage

• Incorporate space-saving furniture such as beds with drawers, wall hooks, pegboards in the kitchen, and stackable containers to keep the space tidy and functional.

Maximize Natural Light and Space

• Ensure that furniture does not block natural light sources. Arrange furniture to create a spacious and airy feel, especially in rooms with cathedral ceilings or large windows.

Add Cozy Touches

• Include amenities like indoor fireplaces, outdoor fire pits, and private decks or patios to enhance the cozy and inviting atmosphere of your Airbnb.

Provide Essential Amenities

• Stock your Airbnb with basic cookware, utensils, dinnerware, and appliances like blenders and coffee makers. Also, include toiletries, hair dryers, and a first-aid kit for guest convenience.

Ensure Comfort and Functionality

• Offer a full kitchen, laundry facilities, and high-speed internet. For work-friendly spaces, include a sturdy desk, comfy chair, and good lighting.

Use Mirrors to Enhance the Space

• Install mirrors to make the space feel bigger and brighter. Choose mirrors with stylish frames to add a touch of elegance.

Consider Guest Needs

• Provide storage for guests' personal items, such as luggage racks and shelves. For family-friendly rentals, include amenities like high chairs, travel cribs, and strollers.

Maintain Accessibility

• If possible, make your Airbnb accessible to guests with disabilities by including features like ramps, wide doorways, and grab bars in bathrooms.

Update Seasonally

• Plan furniture updates during the off-season or between bookings to minimize disruption. This ensures your space remains in top condition for guests.

Discover Woodstock, New Hampshire: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Local Attractions

Natural Wonders

• Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves: Explore historic glacial caves and a stunning waterfall, perfect for families and nature enthusiasts.
• Flume Gorge: A scenic gorge with Avalanche Falls, part of Franconia Notch State Park, offering hiking trails and stunning views.
• White Mountain National Forest: Over 1,200 miles of hiking trails, scenic drives, and breathtaking mountain vistas.

Winter Attractions

• Ice Castles: Located in North Woodstock, featuring slides, mazes, thrones, and an enchanted forest made from over 20 million pounds of ice.
• Loon Mountain Ski Resort: Offers skiing, snowboarding, and a lift-serviced snow tubing hill. Don't miss the zip line courses and aerial adventure park.
• Cannon Mountain Ski Area: Another top ski resort with excellent slopes and the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway.

Family-Friendly Fun

• Story Land: An amusement park with themed rides, shows, and storybook characters. A must-visit for families.
• Whale's Tale Water Park: New England's favorite water park with waterslides, a wave-side stage, and plenty of fun for all ages.

Unique Experiences

• Mt. Washington Cog Railway: Experience the world’s first mountain-climbing cog railway, offering panoramic vistas and a unique winter adventure.
• Polar Caves Park: Features self-guided cave tours, a glacial boulder maze, and animal exhibits.

Local Culture

• Woodstock Inn Brewery: Enjoy a beer tasting or tour, along with a good meal or an overnight stay in this local favorite.
• Cascade Park: A tranquil spot behind Main Street to relax, take a dip in the Pemigewasset River, or enjoy a picnic lunch.

Insider Tips

Seasonal Activities

• Summer: Don't miss the live music nights at Soldier’s Park on Saturday evenings and the bathing suit-friendly Cascade Park.
• Winter: Take advantage of the Ice Castles, snow tubing at Loon Mountain, and the Mt. Washington Cog Railway for a unique winter experience.

Local Favorites

• Chutters Candy Shop: Known for the world's longest candy counter, a great place to visit for a sweet treat.
• Authentic General Store: Visit the family-owned general store in downtown North Woodstock for maple syrup products and local groceries.

Scenic Drives and Hikes

• Kancamagus Highway: One of the most scenic drives in the region, offering stunning fall foliage and access to several waterfalls.
• Franconia Notch State Park: Home to numerous hiking trails, including those leading to the summit of Mt. Lincoln and other peaks in the Franconia Ridge.

Additional Tips

• Covered Bridges: Explore the over 50 unique covered bridges in the area, perfect for a romantic stroll or a quick shelter from the rain.
• Local Events: Check the Western White Mountains Chamber of Commerce for upcoming festivals, concerts, and special events in the area.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short-Term Rental Business in Woodstock, New Hampshire

To ensure a successful and stress-free short-term rental business in Woodstock, New Hampshire, several practical tips can be implemented. First, it is crucial to inform guests about noise regulations and quiet hours to maintain a peaceful environment and comply with local standards. This can be done through clear communication in the listing and a digital or physical house manual that outlines all the essential rules and instructions.

Creating a comprehensive house manual is vital; it should include Wi-Fi passwords, operating instructions for appliances, and any specific rules or regulations of the property. This manual helps guests navigate the property easily and reduces the need for frequent host interventions.

A simplified check-in process can significantly enhance the guest experience. Utilizing smart locks eliminates the need for physical key exchanges and allows guests to check in at their convenience. Additionally, providing detailed parking instructions accompanied by photos can help guests find and use the parking facilities without confusion.

By implementing these strategies, hosts can ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay for their guests, leading to positive reviews, increased bookings, and higher rental income. Moreover, adhering to local regulations, such as the new ordinance capping the number of short-term rentals and associated fees, is essential to avoid any penalties and maintain a good standing with the local community.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning, repair, or maintenance providers in or near Woodstock, New Hampshire:

House Cleaning Services

• A Clean Vision: Offers residential cleaning services, including areas around Woodstock. They are based in West Lebanon, NH, but serve the Upper Valley area.
• Top Priority Cleaning Services: Based in North Woodstock, NH, providing various house cleaning services.

Property and Maintenance Services

• Homerun Property Services: Located in North Woodstock, NH, offering cleaning services along with other property services such as maintenance and repairs.

These providers cover a range of cleaning and maintenance needs in the Woodstock area.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Woodstock, New Hampshire

In Woodstock, New Hampshire, the management fees for 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 starting at around 20% of revenue.

Basic services, which may only include booking management and minimal support, can be less expensive. Additionally, property owners may incur extra fees for cleaning, repairs, or design services. For instance, some management companies charge a consumables fee to cover items like linens, toiletries, and other essentials, and there may also be administrative processing fees associated with permit applications and compliance with local regulations.