Hosts are caught in an amenities ‘arms race’

As the short-term rental industry grows increasingly competitive, amenities can help a property stand out.

But hosts are increasingly relying on standout amenities – like pools, hot tubs and even mini golf — to beat the competition.

Mark Lumpkin, head of marketing and sales for STR Cribs, a company that installs high-end amenities at short-term rentals, says guests “want that property to be part of their experience, it’s not just a place to rest their head.”

It’s leading to an “amenities arms race,” Lumpkin said, with hosts in an ever-escalating battle for guests. Additions can be as simple as full-length mirrors in bedrooms and as unique as themed pools and golf simulators. 

The post-pandemic travel boom is partly responsible for the shift in traveler expectations, said David Krauss, co-founder and CEO of Rent Responsibly.

And the type of guest can also be a factor, with Rent Responsibly finding that families and “wellness or adventure travelers” are the top two audiences for short-term rental marketing. Krauss noted both groups can expect high-end amenities, from on-site activities for kids to meditation rooms. 

With a new pressure to understand the target audience, including what amenities travelers may expect, smaller short-term rental operators can find it challenging to compete.

Below, please find Property Guard's weekly short term rental regulation round-up, highlighting state and local news regarding short term rental regulations to regulate (or prohibit) Airbnbs and other STRs. If you want a comprehensive data solution on STR regulations in all 20,000 state and local jurisdictions, contact us here.

New and Proposed Regulations:

• Albuquerque, New Mexico: Two city councilors are proposing a limit on the number of short-term rentals available in certain parts of the city. (link) 
• Kansas City, Missouri: As fines on unauthorized Airbnbs and VRBOs mount, some hosts are tapping out of the short-term rental market. (link)
• Monterey, California: The Board of Supervisors voted to start amending short-term vacation rentals rules, including instituting a new $965 licensing fee. (link)
• Ocean City, Maryland: City council members are weighing a possible minimum stay of seven days for short-term rentals and changes to the occupancy restrictions. (link)
• Indian Rocks Beach, Florida: City officials rejected a proposed settlement in a lawsuit brought by vacation rental companies challenging tighter rental restrictions. (link) 
  

Other Noteworthy News:

• Liability handoff: City officials in Wichita, Kansas are looking into adding laws to make Airbnb and Vrbo renters liable for disruptive parties, instead of owners. (link)
• Mountain high pushback: As short-term rental owners and managers lobby against increased regulation and taxation legislation, Colorado House Speaker Julie McCluskie said the legislation “is highly likely” in either the special session or next year’s session. (link)
• Breaking point: The New York Times takes a look at the growing pressure tourism is placing on European cities. (link)