If you’re a homeowner in Brunswick, GA, considering a different approach to selling your house, you might be contemplating the idea of turning it into a short-term rental property instead. Short-term rentals, often referred to as STRs, have gained popularity as an alternative to hotels.
While the idea of a short-term rental can be appealing, it’s crucial to recognize the challenges that come with it. Managing a short-term rental property requires a significant investment of time and effort. You’ll need to handle tasks such as managing reservations, coordinating check-ins, and taking care of cleaning, landscaping, and maintenance responsibilities. Each of these tasks can be demanding on its own, but when combined, they can become overwhelming.
Short-term rentals tend to experience high turnover rates, with guests checking in and out frequently. This constant influx of visitors can result in increased wear and tear on your property. Consequently, you may find yourself needing to make more frequent repairs or replace furniture, fixtures, and appliances more often.
Before deciding to convert your Brunswick home into a short-term rental, carefully consider your ability to commit to this level of responsibility. If you plan to advertise your rental listing on a platform, be aware that most platforms have specific requirements that hosts must meet. In an article by Bankrate, they explain:
“Managing a rental property can be time-consuming and challenging. Are you handy and able to make some repairs yourself? If not, do you have a network of affordable contractors you can reach out to in a pinch? Consider whether you want to take on the added responsibility of being a landlord, which means screening tenants and fielding issues, among other responsibilities, or paying for a third party to take care of things instead.”
Converting your house into a short-term rental involves careful consideration and research. If you’re not prepared for the work and responsibilities it entails, selling your house may be a more prudent decision.
Regulations surrounding short-term rentals have increased as the industry continues to grow. Many cities, particularly larger urban areas and popular tourist destinations, have implemented restrictions to address concerns such as overcrowding and housing shortages for permanent residents. These regulations often include limits on the number of vacation rentals allowed in a specific location and may also impose restrictions on the types of properties eligible for short-term rentals.
In addition, many cities require homeowners to obtain licenses or permits before renting out their properties as short-term rentals. Nick Del Pego, CEO at Deckard Technologies, points out:
“Renting short-term rentals is considered a business by most local governments, and owners must comply with specific workplace regulations and business licensing rules established in their local communities.”
Before even considering renting out your home in Brunswick as a short-term rental, it’s crucial to thoroughly research and understand the regulations imposed by the local government and your homeowners association (HOA).
In conclusion, converting your Brunswick home into a short-term rental is a decision that should not be made lightly. It’s important to conduct thorough research and analysis. To determine whether selling your house is a better alternative, it would be wise to consult with a local real estate agent today.
