From the scenic lakefront cities along Lake Michigan to the woodsy retreats of the Northwoods and popular destinations like the Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin offers a variety of short-term rental opportunities. Whether you have an urban condo in Milwaukee or a cozy cabin near a popular fishing lake, partnering with a professional property manager can ease the day-to-day workload and boost occupancy. Below, we profile four top Airbnb management companies, cover local rules, and share best practices for success in the Badger State.
Best Airbnb Management Companies in Wisconsin
- Awning – Best Overall Airbnb Manager
- RedAwning – Best Half-Service Airbnb Management Solution
- AvantStay – Best Luxury Short-Term Rental Management Company
- Spring Brook Resort – Best For Local Presence
These companies offer a range of services, from full-service property management to marketing and booking optimization, catering to various property owner needs.
City-Specific Airbnb Management in Wisconsin
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Wisconsin Dells & Central Wisconsin
The “Waterpark Capital of the World” draws families, groups, and off-season event attendees. Cabins or condos near the Dells see strong summer demand, with winter weekends also attracting indoor waterpark enthusiasts and holiday travelers.
Company
Number of Listings
Review Score
Spring Brook Resort
25+ (Local Focus)
4.6
RedAwning
10+
4.5
Door County
A popular peninsula destination for scenic lakeshore, wineries, and small-town charm, Door County properties flourish during summer and fall foliage season. Quaint cottages or waterfront homes can command premium weekly rates in peak months.
Company
Number of Listings
Review Score
Awning
10+
4.7
AvantStay
8+ (Luxury)
4.6
Selecting the Best Wisconsin Airbnb Property Manager
When evaluating your options, consider:
- Service Scope: Full-Service vs. Half-Service; Awning handles most hosting tasks, while RedAwning gives hosts more direct control of on-site responsibilities.
- Location & Property Type: AvantStay’s upscale branding suits properties near lakefronts or city centers targeting affluent guests. Spring Brook Resort’s knowledge of the Wisconsin Dells region can be invaluable in a competitive tourist market.
- Reputation: Check online feedback (Google, social media, Airbnb host forums) to gauge communication, occupancy success, and conflict resolution.Focus on companies demonstrating consistent performance in your specific area or property style.
- Pricing & Fees: Typical management fees range 10%–30% of monthly revenue. Compare expected occupancy rates, average nightly prices, and local demand to find a cost-value sweet spot.
For property owners looking for passive income, working with an experienced management team can significantly enhance profitability.
Wisconsin Airbnb Regulations & Legal Considerations
Regulations can vary by city or county, especially in prime tourism zones:
- Short-Term Rental Permits & Zoning: Cities like Madison or Milwaukee may require special permits or business licenses, imposing occupancy limits or noise regulations. Suburban developments or HOAs might also restrict short-term rentals.
- Taxes: Wisconsin imposes a 5% state sales tax plus local sales taxes (often 0.5%–1%). Many municipalities also charge a room tax (often 4%–8%). Airbnb and Vrbo usually collect these automatically, but confirm compliance.
- Insurance & Safety: Short-term rental insurance is critical, particularly for properties near lakes or subject to harsh winters. Fire/smoke detectors, CO detectors, and local building codes must be followed diligently.
- Penalties for Non-Compliance: Hosts who ignore permit laws or HOA rules face fines, forced listing removal, or legal action. Keep up with local government channels or community newsletters for changes in STR policies.
Failing to comply with these regulations can result in fines or even a suspension of rental operations. It’s essential to stay informed about legal requirements in your specific location.
Maximizing Your Airbnb Investment in Wisconsin
1. Seasonal & Event-Based Pricing
- Summer: Peak for lake destinations (Door County, Lake Geneva) and Wisconsin Dells.
- Winter: Skiing and indoor waterpark travel can boost occupancy in certain areas.
- Year-Round: Milwaukee and Madison see consistent traffic from sports, festivals, and business travel.
2. Tailor Amenities for Guest Demographics
- Lakefront Homes: Offer kayaks, canoes, fire pits, or BBQ grills.
- City Rentals: Modern décor, workspace, reliable Wi-Fi, and convenient check-in.
- Family-Friendly: Extra bedding, streaming services, or safe play areas for kids.
3. Leverage Multiple Booking Channels
- Major OTAs: Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, plus direct listings on local tourism or event sites.
- Local Collaborations: Work with wedding venues, brewery tours, or “Travel Wisconsin” boards for niche traveler exposure.
4. Focus on Guest Experience
- Rapid Communication: Quick responses regarding check-in times, local dining suggestions, or issue resolution fosters positive reviews.
- Professional Cleaning: Essential for high guest turnover during peak seasons like summer or holiday weekends.
- Personal Touches: Welcome baskets featuring Wisconsin cheese, local craft beers, or orchard apples can charm visitors.
5. Stay Compliant & Prepared
- Local Ordinances: Monitor updates in key tourist towns, as regulations can evolve quickly with resident feedback.
- Winterizing: Properties in snow-prone areas need robust heating, insulating, and possibly snow removal services for guest safety.
Final Thoughts
From the vibrant urban centers to picturesque lakes and woodlands, Wisconsin offers varied and profitable short-term rental markets. Understanding local rules, curating memorable guest stays, and partnering with the right manager can help your listing shine among the competition.
By selecting Awning (full-service coverage), RedAwning (half-service model), AvantStay (luxury segment), or Spring Brook Resort (local presence in key tourist zones), you can match your property’s needs with each company’s specialty. With dynamic pricing, thorough compliance, and top-notch hospitality, your Wisconsin Airbnb can flourish in every season of the Badger State.