In late December 2023, Vancouver adopted an ordinance to manage Short-term Rental (STR) properties in the area. Under this ordinance, permits will be required to operate rentals under 30 days by February 15, 2024 or face code compliance citations. They have offered the following guidance to impacted hosts. 

Before applying for a permit:

• Secure a Washington State and City of Vancouver business license from the state Department of Revenue and click “Get licensing requirements” to access the state’s Business Licensing Wizard. Enter the keywords “Real Estate Rental – Short Term Residential”.

• Obtain at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance for the property.

• Send notification letters to your neighbors on both sides, in front, and behind your property. The notification letter should include a brief description of the operation, the number of bedrooms to be rented to overnight guests and a phone number for the owner or operator. It will be helpful to send the notices via certified mail or otherwise obtain proof of mailing.

Once you have completed these tasks, it’s time to apply for your permit. Under this initial permit pilot program, the total number of authorized STRs will be limited to no more than 870 units or 1% of the City’s current total housing stock - so start the process today!

The winter storm the Pacific Northwest just experienced was a doozy! Give yourselves a pat on the back for making it through. While we’d love to pretend this kind of storm won’t hit the area again anytime soon, the reality is that it just might happen again next year or even in the next few weeks. 

It's true that a blanket of snow and a crisp chill in the air can create a picturesque setting for your short-term rental, they can also bring unique challenges. As a host, your goal is to ensure your guests have a safe, comfortable, and memorable stay, regardless of the weather outside. While it might be a little late for this round of snow, hopefully these tips will help you create a more positive experience for you and your guests the next time winter weather hits hard.

Proactive Communication

Communication is key! Before your guests arrive, inform them about the potential weather conditions and what they should expect. Setting the right expectations upfront can significantly enhance your guests' experience.

This could include:

• Road conditions and the need for snow chains or 4WD vehicles to access properties at elevation.

• Recommendations for warm clothing and snow gear.

• Information on local services such as emergency contacts, nearby hospitals, and availability of access to groceries and dining options in inclement weather.

Property Preparation

A little preparation can go a long way in ensuring guest comfort:

• Snow Removal: Keep driveways and walkways clear. Apply salt or sand to walkways to prevent slips and falls. If you can’t do it yourself, find a reliable local contact who can be deployed when you experience accumulation.

• Heating and Insulation: Check that your property is well-insulated and the heating system is in top shape. A warm and cozy environment is essential. 

• Emergency Supplies: Stock up on essentials like flashlights, batteries, blankets, a first-aid kit, and basic non-perishable food items.

Power Outage Readiness

Winter storms can sometimes lead to power outages. Be prepared by:

• Consider a backup generator or alternative heat sources like wood-burning stoves.

• If you have a fireplace, consider an annual chimney cleaning to ensure the safety of your property and the health of the guests using it.

• Maintain a good supply of wood if your property has a fireplace and ensure you have appropriate tools for creating and managing a fire.

Local Resources and Support

Create a list of local resources for your guests and keep that information readily available in your guest handbook and maybe even visible on the refrigerator. Don’t make guests search for the information. Resources might include:

• The phone number to call in case of emergency. Some international travelers may not be familiar with 9-1-1.

• The location of the closest emergency service providers like the nearest hospital.

• The location and normal operating hours of the closest grocery stores and pharmacies.

Being prepared and proactive is the key to successfully managing your rental property during the winter months. Not only does this ensure the safety and comfort of your guests, but it also presents an opportunity to provide a unique and memorable experience.

For the past several months, Airbnb and the City of Portland have been in ongoing negotiations about the best pathway forward to ensure fair and responsible hosting can continue to take place in the city. As a result, there’s just one very important detail that hosts should be aware of if they want to remain listed on the Airbnb platform. Registration Number Visibility If you haven’t already, you MUST indicate a valid permit number in the listing field. Check to make sure your permit number is displayed. Click on your listing then the tab Policies and Rules and scroll down to Regulations. Click through that tab to ensure your permit number is visible. Find Your Permit Number You can find your permit number by going to PortlandMaps.com and entering your home address. All permits pulled for your home will be listed on the front screen. Copy the permit number from here and drop it directly into Airbnb. Non-Compliant Listings Will Be Removed Listings without a valid permit number will be DELISTED from the platform in coming weeks. Take action NOW to ensure your listing is in compliance. For more information, you can read about the requirements for Type A and B permits here. If you think your listing falls into a category of exceptions to the rules for renting a short-term rental in Portland or if you cannot locate the place to make that change in your listing, reach out to Airbnb (chat here or call 415-800-5959).

As we step into 2024, the short-term rental industry continues to evolve, shaped by technology, consumer preferences, and global trends. For short-term rental hosts, staying ahead of these changes is crucial for success. Here are some of the key trends to watch for in 2024:
1. Sustainability Practices
Environmental consciousness is no longer a choice but a necessity. Guests are increasingly seeking eco-friendly accommodations. In 2024, expect a surge in demand for rentals that offer sustainable practices such as solar energy, recycling programs, and eco-friendly amenities. Hosts who adopt these practices will not only appeal to a growing segment of environmentally conscious travelers but also contribute to a greener planet.
2. Tech-Enhanced Guest Experiences
Technology continues to revolutionize the guest experience. From smart home systems that allow for self-check-in and personalized climate control to AI-driven personal assistants that can provide local recommendations, investing in technology will be a game-changer for hosts.
3. Local Experiences and Personalization
Travelers are increasingly looking for unique, local experiences rather than the generic tourist attractions. In 2024, hosts who can provide personalized experiences, such as local culinary classes, guided tours, or partnerships with local businesses, will stand out. This trend not only enhances the guest experience but also fosters a deeper connection with the local community.
4. Dynamic Pricing Strategies
With the market becoming increasingly competitive, dynamic pricing strategies will be key. Utilizing software that adjusts prices based on demand, season, and local events can maximize revenue and ensure competitive pricing.
5. Regulatory Compliance and Community Relations
As short-term rentals become more prevalent, regulatory scrutiny is increasing. Staying informed about local regulations and maintaining good relationships with neighbors and the broader community will be vital for hosts. That's part of the reason Host2Host is so important. We hope you'll continue to be a part of our community of thoughtful, responsible hosts.

Watersheds are defined by ridge lines. The path rainwater takes depends on mere inches—where it falls on either side of that ridge. Similarly, our community now stands on a kind of metaphorical ridge, teetering between an old worldview and an emerging new one.

It's clear we're in what many call a "watershed moment." No one needs to remind us that the events of recent years have rattled us, pushing us beyond our comfort zones. The challenges we've faced aren't just about wildfires, droughts, floods, or even a pandemic anymore. We're grappling with broader global conflicts, economic uncertainties, climate change, and a deeper understanding of social injustices. While they may seem beyond our ability to fix, we do have the power to work together to address those issues that affect our own neighborhoods.

As this year turns over, while we commemorate the events of 2023, let’s refrain from pining for the “old normal”. Let’s commit ourselves to working together to forge a new path. 

We can work together to stay vigilant to challenges.  As a community of hosts we have the tools to create places where comfort, integrity, and care flourish—not just for our own families, but for our neighbors, and, of course, for those guests we warmly welcome into our homes.

In this season of reflection, let's embrace this new watershed moment. It's an opportunity to rebuild, to rethink, and to rekindle the spirit of welcome we know holds us together.

On December 13th, a warm and welcoming community of Host2Host members gathered together at the scrumptiously inviting restaurant, Emerald Line, to celebrate one another’s success and provide moments of uplifting support.  Tasty Treats and a Bevy of Beverages In addition to the absolutely stunning and delectably delicious bites on offer, a range of tasty beverages was also completely free for members including an assortment of signature cocktails and mocktails, as well as the best wines, craft beers that Oregon and Washington can offer. Giveaways Galore Attendees had the opportunity to participate in several giveaways, including gift bags filled with Host2Host merchandise and Starbucks gift cards. There was also a 50/50 raffle at the event with the BIG winner - Kristy Olsen - taking home half of the donations and splitting the remainder with Host2Host. Thanks, everyone, for participating! Winning is as Easy as 1-2-3! If you wanted to play but missed the opportunity, there’s still time to join in the online 50/50 raffle. The lucky winner of that raffle will be automatically picked the evening of 12/31/23 - winning is as easy as 1 - 2 - 3! And the winner could be you, but only if you play!

Winning is as easy as 1-2-3! This year we're trying something different with an end of year Host2Host 1-2-3 50/50 raffle which gives you a chance to WIN BIG while supporting an organization that provides educational opportunities and advocates for YOU!

In this online raffle, 50% of the contributions will go to just ONE lucky winner and the remaining 50% will be contributed to Host2Host. That big winner could be YOU! 

To play, just buy your chance to win here and wait for the winner to be drawn at 11:30pm on December 31, 2023. Notifications will go out automatically to all contributors just before the bell drops on 12/31/23.

This is an online raffle, so invite a friend or two - you don't need to be a Host2Host member to play!

The charm of a short-term rental lies in its ability to provide a home away from home. With the holiday season upon us, many property owners are contemplating whether to add a festive touch to their rentals. This blog explores the pros and cons of decorating short-term rentals for the holidays, helping you decide what's best for your property.

Pros of Decorating for the Holidays

1. Enhanced Guest Experience:  Decorating your rental for the holidays can significantly elevate the guest experience. A well-adorned space not only looks inviting but also creates a festive atmosphere that can be quite appealing to guests seeking a special holiday getaway. This attention to detail often translates into glowing reviews and repeat bookings, making your investment worthwhile.
2. Marketing Appeal:  Holiday decorations can make your rental stand out in a crowded market. When potential guests are scrolling through dozens of listings, eye-catching holiday-themed decor can be the deciding factor. Professionally photographed rooms featuring tasteful decorations can enhance your listing's appeal, potentially increasing bookings during the holiday season.
3. Higher Rental Rates:  The holiday season often brings the opportunity to charge premium rates. A beautifully decorated space can justify a higher price point, as guests are willing to pay extra for a unique and festive experience. This factor can be important specifically for larger, whole house rentals in a vacation destination.

Cons of Decorating for the Holidays

1. Additional Costs:  Decorating a rental property involves additional costs, including purchasing, maintaining, and storing decorations. It’s important to consider whether the potential increase in bookings will offset these expenses. Opting for timeless and durable decorations can be a cost-effective strategy in the long run.
2. Risk of Damage or Theft:  With decorations come the added risks of damage and theft. Fragile ornaments or high-value items could be broken or go missing. Use decorations that are durable and not too expensive to replace and for goodness sake, no family heirlooms.
3. Diversity and Inclusivity Concerns:  Considering the cultural diversity of your guests is crucial. Not everyone celebrates the same holidays, so overly specific decorations might make some guests feel uncomfortable. A safer approach could be to opt for neutral, winter-themed decorations that celebrate the season without aligning with a specific holiday.

Best Practices for Decorating Short-Term Rentals

When decorating, aim for a balance between festive cheer and understated elegance. Safety should be a priority—avoid anything that could be a fire hazard. Also, consider storage solutions for your decorations in the off-season.

Decorating your short-term rental for the holidays can be both rewarding and challenging. Weighing the pros and cons in the context of your specific property and clientele is key. Ultimately, the decision should align with your business goals, your target audience, and the expectations of your guests.

An exciting new resource for visitors to Portland has recently opened in downtown’s vibrant West End: the Portland Visitor Center. A team of friendly, professional Portland experts are on-site to assist you and your guests — they can help plan a visit, answer questions, offer recommendations and so much more. Don’t forget to stock your rental with local maps and brochures from over 200 area attractions.

Located at 1132 SW Harvey Milk St., Suite 104 — just a few blocks from Powell’s City of Books and steps away from hotels, shopping, dining and attractions — the Portland Visitor Center is easily accessible. 

Amenities include cell phone chargers, a water-filling station, and complimentary Wi-Fi so it’s the perfect place to recharge your batteries. The center is an ADA-compliant, KultureCity-certified Sensory-Inclusive space, and there are even on-call translators and ASL interpreters available. 

It’s open Monday thru Saturday, 9a – 5p and Sunday, 10a – 3p. Can’t make it downtown? Visitors can call 503-427-1372 or 1-888-503-3291 (toll-free) to speak to a knowledgeable travel expert about whatever assistance they may need, whether they’re planning their next visit or if they’ve arrived in town. Either way, the good folks at Travel Portland’s Visitor Center are here to help!

The big meetup event in November was the Tax Time Gotchas panel discussion with local tax preparers! We’ve been offering this opportunity for hosts in the community to connect with expert advisors for several years and this one did not disappoint!  Hosted by Host2Host founding member and Education Chair, Debi Hertert and H2H Board Member, Anthony Rallo, this event provided a chance for tax advisors, Stephanie Solomon of Block Advisors, Eve Davis or In or Out Tax Services, and Jaydra Perfetti of Paper Investigators to offer specific and timely information about changes in tax law.    Once the speakers were done, hosts on the call were invited to ask questions about their specific tax situations. Members - don't miss the awesome information exchanged in the chat and the special offers for the Host2Host community! If you weren’t able to attend but want to check out the information that was exchanged, watch it on our Youtube channel at your convenience.