Known for its undisturbed natural grandeur, classic whaling centers and tranquil island atmosphere, Martha’s Vineyard is a highly sought-after island getaway.
Getting to the Vineyard is a bit more complicated than a regular seaside break, but it is absolutely worth it. Martha’s Vineyard is situated six miles south of Cape Cod in Massachusetts and can only be reached by ferry or plane – there are no bridges or tunnels. There are a variety of ferry choices that vary based on the season and if you are taking a car with you. There are various ways to reach the island, including traveling by car, ferry, or plane.
But if you are traveling with a car, it’s very important to remember these travel tips!
Bringing a car to Martha’s Vineyard? Take note of this!
The Steamship Authority is the only ferry service that operates for cars throughout the year, departing from Woods Hole on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and it takes about an hour for a single journey.
You must make a reservation for your car in advance either by visiting their website or calling 508.477.8600.
Take note that due to being the only car-ferry provider, the Steamship Authority service sells out even earlier than the passenger-only ferries!
Traveling to Martha’s Vineyard without a car
The Steamship Authority, leaving Woods Hole, also transports people without vehicles and gives more than twelve voyages per day.
During the time period between the start of May and Labor Day, ferry service for passengers only is offered from New Bedford, Hyannis, Falmouth, and Nantucket in Massachusetts, as well as Quonset Point in Rhode Island, New York City, and Northern New Jersey.
The ports that offer service to Martha’s Vineyard and the ferry service providers include the following:
- Woods Hole, MA to Martha’s Vineyard (Vineyard Haven) via Steamship Authority – 45 minutes
- Hyannis, MA to Martha’s Vineyard (Oaks Bluff) via Hy-Line Cruises – 1 hour
- New Bedford, MA to Martha’s Vineyard (Oaks Bluff) via Seastreak – 45 minutes
- Falmouth, MA to Martha’s Vineyard (Oaks Bluff) via Island Queen – 35 minutes
- Nantucket, MA to Martha’s Vineyard (Oaks Bluff) via Hy-Line Cruises – 1 hour
- New York City, NY to Martha’s Vineyard (Oaks Bluff) via Seastreak – 5 hours 15 minutes
- New Jersey to Martha’s Vineyard (Oaks Bluff) via Seastreak – 6 hours
- Rhode Island to Martha’s Vineyard (Oaks Bluff) via Vineyard Fast Ferry – 1 hour 45 minutes
- Falmouth, MA to Martha’s Vineyard (Edgartown) via Falmouth-Edgartown Ferry – 1 hour
Travel to Martha’s Vineyard by plane
Year-round flights to Martha’s Vineyard Airport from Logan International Airport in Boston (BOS) can be taken with Cape Air or Private Air Charters. During the summer months, travelers can get direct flights to this location from JetBlue at both Logan Airport in Boston and JFK in New York City, Delta Air Lines from LaGuardia Airport in New York City, and American Airlines from Washington, D.C.
When you arrive at Martha’s Vineyard Airport
When you arrive at the Martha’s Vineyard Airport, you can utilize various transport services such as renting a car from Avis, Budget, or Hertz, using a taxi, employing a private car, or taking the bus.
Booking a car rental ahead of time is particularly suggested if you plan to visit the Vineyard during summertime. The Vineyard Transit Authority provides seasonal and reliable bus routes between Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, Vineyard Haven, Aquinnah, Chilmark, and West Tisbury; the frequency of service depends on when you visit. If you are a cyclist, touring the island by bicycle is an amazing choice, and the Martha’s Vineyard taxis are ready to transport your bike, so you don’t have to take your car.
When you’re booking a vacation rental in Martha’s Vineyard, it’s wise to think about whether you’ll need a car. Many of our properties are in Oak Bluffs and there are plenty of places to hire bikes. However, we usually suggest renting a car so that you can take advantage of the stunning beaches that the island is known for.
New York City is an incredibly vibrant and exciting city, filled with unique experiences that you can’t find anywhere else in the world. From the bright lights of Broadway to the incredible skyline views, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the city that never sleeps. But if you want to really make the most of your time in New York, there are some experiences that you just can’t miss. From checking out the city’s many landmarks to enjoying a performance at the legendary Apollo Theater, here are 10 unique experiences in New York City you shouldn’t miss out on!
Food: Order from a bodega or a local deli
A deli is one of the quintessential New York City experiences, and if you visit one of the many delis around the city, you’ll understand why. From the authentic New York deli cheeses to the sandwiches that are stacked high with enough meat to feed an army, delis are a slice of New York culture that you can’t miss out on. You can find delis all across New York, but if you want to really experience the deli culture, you’ll want to check out some of the most authentic delis in the city, such as Katz’s Deli and the 2nd Avenue Deli. Ordering a pastrami sandwich or a reuben from a deli is the best way to experience New York culture while enjoying a delicious meal at the same time.
Another New York City food experience you don’t want to miss out on is ordering from a bodega. Bodegas are small convenience stores found throughout New York City, with the highest concentrations located in East Harlem, the Lower East Side, and the Financial District. You can find just about anything in a bodega, from food to toiletries to everyday household items. Best of all, they are a lot cheaper than getting food from a regular restaurant. An egg & cheese breakfast sandwich is only $3.99 at a bodega but would cost as much as $10-15 in a restaurant.
Food: Grab a slice of authentic New York City Pizza
Pizza is one of the most iconic foods in the world, found in almost every country around the globe. But the pizza you’ll find in New York City is unique to the city and one of the best experiences New York has to offer. New York City has many different styles of pizza, with each pizza place having their own unique take on what makes a great New York slice. You can find pizza places all across New York City, but if you want to get a taste of what New York City pizza is all about, you’ll want to check out some of the most authentic pizza places in the city, such as Di Fara Pizza, Lombardi’s Pizza, and John’s Pizzeria at Times Square. Like with the delis, a few of the pizza places in New York City have been around since the 1950s, and even though they have been around for decades and have had many different owners, their pizza recipes have remained the same, making them some of the most authentic and New York-like pizza places in the city.
Food: Get the full New York experience by ordering a hotdog from a street vendor
New York City is known for its street vendors, especially when it comes to hotdogs. You’ll find hotdog stands all throughout New York, and while you can enjoy a hotdog anywhere, there’s something unique about eating a New York City hotdog. There are plenty of different types of hotdogs in New York, everything from your usual hotdog to a more fancy footlong hotdog, but one of the most authentic New York City experiences is ordering a plain hotdog, known as a New York Dog.
When ordering a New York Dog, you’ll want to remember the cardinal rule: always get it with everything. Everything means ketchup, mustard, chopped onions, and a few other secret ingredients, making a New York Dog one of the most authentic New York City experiences you can have.
Visit: Spend some time in Central Park
Central Park is one of the most iconic landmarks of New York City, and it’s also one of the best places to experience the city’s beauty and culture. There are plenty of things to do in Central Park, whether you want to go for a hike, enjoy some time admiring the city views, or visit one of the many landmarks found in the park. But visiting Central Park is truly the best way to experience New York City. There are so many iconic landmarks in Central Park, such as the famous Bethesda Fountain, the Central Park Fountain, the Shakespeare Garden, and of course, the Central Park Zoo that you can’t visit New York City without visiting Central Park.
Visiting Central Park is the perfect way to experience New York City without feeling too overwhelmed or underwhelmed by the city’s culture and beauty.
Visit: Take advantage of Free Museum Days
Most museums in New York City offer free admission one day each week, making it easy to experience the city’s culture without breaking the bank. If you want to go to New York’s popular museums that sometimes have high admission charges, you may want to take advantage of museums that offer free admission on certain days. The Museum of Modern Art (MoMa) offers free admission every first Friday of the month from 4PM to 8PM (website reservation required). The Guggenheim Museums offers free admission Saturdays 4PM to 6PM, and New Museum of Contemporary Art ‘pay what you wish for’ at Thursdays 7PM-9PM.
There are also a few museums in New York City that are free every day, such as the New York Public Library, the New York City Hall of Records, and the New York City Fire Museum. Visiting a New York City museum on a free day is the best way to experience New York City culture without having to pay an entry fee.
Visit: Catch a show on Broadway
New York City is known around the globe for its Broadway theater, with some of the best shows and productions in the world being performed on the famous Broadway stage.
Watching a Broadway show is an experience you can’t have anywhere else in the world and is one of the best ways to experience the city’s culture. There are dozens of different Broadway shows being performed in New York at any given time, making it easy to find a show that interests you. Whether you’re a Broadway newbie or a theater aficionado, there are Broadway shows for everyone. If you only have time to visit one Broadway show while visiting New York, you should make it one of the city’s most iconic shows, such as Wicked, The Lion King, or Hamilton.
Trip: Take a trip to Governor’s Island
If you’re looking for an exciting and unique New York City experience, then you can’t miss out on a trip to Governor’s Island. Governor’s Island is an island located between Manhattan and Brooklyn that is part of the city’s parks department. The island is open to the public for a few months each year, making it a must-visit New York City experience for tourists. During Governor’s Island’s open season, you can visit the island and enjoy incredible views of Manhattan and Brooklyn while enjoying a variety of free activities, including visiting the island’s art installations and museums, hiking the island’s trails, or enjoying a picnic on one of the island’s many lawns.
Trip: Go for a hike without leaving NY in Fort Tryon Park
Fort Tryon Park is one of the most beautiful and scenic parks in New York City, making it the perfect place to go for a scenic hike without actually having to leave New York. Located in Upper Manhattan, just north of the George Washington Bridge, Fort Tryon Park is home to a stunning waterfall, incredible views of the city
Trip: Take advantage of free tours with Big Apple Greeters
If you’re looking for an easy way to explore some of New York City’s most famous spots, then you can’t go wrong with Big Apple Greeter. This organization pairs tourists up with locals who are more than happy to show off their city. As a Greeter, you’ll get to enjoy a personalized tour of the city, visiting some of your favorite spots and learning more about New York City. Greeter tours are completely free, making them perfect for tourists on a budget. You can also book tours for specific interests, so you can find a tour that’s perfect for you, no matter what you’re interested in.
Tip: Don’t forget LinkNYC for tourist assistance
If you get lost or need help while exploring New York City, you can always rely on the city’s free WiFi hotspots. These hotspots, often referred to as LinkNYC, are installed across the city and are perfect for getting online while you’re on the go. You can also use the WiFi to connect to the city’s iAdvize app, which gives tourist information, including directions and nearby attractions. You can even use the app to call for help, or to report unsafe or suspicious activity in the area. So, if you’re ever in need of assistance while exploring New York City, you can rely on these useful WiFi hotspots.
Martha’s Vineyard is a stunning island; it’s just off the coast of Cape Cod and has plenty to offer visitors. From its beautiful scenery to its charming villages, there are many reasons why people flock there every year. One way you can get more out of your trip is by staying at a vacation home rather than in a hotel.
The best time to visit Martha’s Vineyard is during summer months between June to September, but if you have school holidays then visiting this place at any time of the year will be great for your family and friends.
Martha’s Vineyard has many wonderful attractions like hiking along trails, visiting historical sites including a lighthouse on Edgartown beach that was built in 1798 by George Washington’s uncle Captain John Trevett, learning about whales and dolphins at a marine science center on Oak Bluffs harbor where you can even go swimming with them! There are also ferry rides that take you all around this island so you never have too much walking unless it is just too sunny out there!
Here are some options that will give your family or group plenty of room to spread out:
Cottage by the Lagoon
Grassy yard and mature plantings enhance the truly beautiful views of the Lagoon, Hines Point, and Vineyard Haven harbor beyond. Perfectly sited to take advantage of this unique setting. Direct access to the Lagoon waterfront beach by way of a sturdy, large timber staircase. Look no further – you’ve found Home Sweet Vineyard Home!
The main great room leads to water views, sliders & a deck across the entire grassy back, and generous space for parking. With an open-style kitchen, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms & superb amenities, treat your family/friends to a dreamy retreat & sunny adventure. The patio area comes with an outdoor dining area and BBQ grill. Perfect for celebrating little victories or enjoying homemade burgers!
The home has 4 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms and a fully equipped Kitchen 2 Miles away from Flying Horses Carousel and Ocean Park The home comes with high speed WiFI Smart TVs dishwasher dryer.
Burkshire Manor
Berkshire Manor sits on a spacious land with lots of outdoor space that offers exclusivity and calming ambiance. This 4 bedroom home can comfortably accommodate up to 10 guests with a large master bedroom on the first floor and more rooms on the second floor. We especially love our entertainment room in the basement! There’s plenty of space for everyone to play cards or poker, ping pong, or watch movies together after dinner.
You can still stay fit and in shape even on vacay with your family and friends with the new Peloton Bike! With its state-of-the-art design, this bike will help you achieve your fitness goals at home whether you want to lose weight or build muscle mass. At the end of your day climb into any one of our memory foam mattress topped beds for a peaceful and comfortable night’s sleep before heading out again tomorrow!
Stewart Cottage
The quintessential waterfront property: a beautiful home with breathtaking views nestled in a quiet, serene cul-de-sac.
Located in Oak Bluffs, the newly renovated 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom has a cozy, modern charm that will make you feel at home in the Vineyard. From the kitchen or living room and along the surrounding patio areas, you can take in the panoramic views of Brush Pond, the Lagoon, and the Drawbridge and indulge in its picturesque sunsets.
The home has two bedrooms, 1 full bathroom, a fully stocked and equipped kitchen (includes butler’s pantry), dining area with table seating for four people; there is also free parking available for 2 cars within our premise on East Chop Drive. The additional amenities include laundry room/office space; spa quality and bathroom essential.
Fresh Pond Chateau
Unwind at this stunning newly renovated home with modern furnishing!
The home is on a quiet, well-maintained private road and a perfect location for those seeking peace. Just a short drive to beaches and downtown shopping in Oak Bluffs, Vineyard Haven, and Edgartown. The home has a newly renovated 3 bedroom cottage and 2 full spa bathrooms. The spacious living room with a large window refreshes the outside view. There is also an outdoor deck that wraps around the home with outside furniture for outdoor dining or family BBQing while watching your children play in the yard below you.
InkWell Beach is just a 7 minute drive away as well as Martha’s Vineyard Camp (a summer camp), which offers programs for kids during school breaks throughout the year!
Conclusion
These are just a few of the amazing vacation homes that you can find on Martha’s Vineyard. If you’re planning your next trip, check out our website and see what we have available! We’ll help make sure you have an unforgettable vacation at one of these beautiful properties.
With its wild coastline and rolling hills, it’s easy to see why people flock to Martha’s Vineyard year after year. If you’re planning a trip to Martha’s Vineyard this summer, there are plenty of things to do that aren’t on any other island in the region. Here are 10 unique attractions on Martha’s Vineyard that will make your trip even more memorable:
1) Take a Ride on Flying Horses Carousel
If you’re looking for something a little more traditional than the other Martha’s Vineyard attractions, this carousel is the perfect choice. Originally built in 1884 and operated at Coney Island Amusement Park, it was moved to Oak Bluff in 1895 and has remained there ever since. Now over 100 years old and still going strong, this carousel is considered one of the longest running continuously operating carousels in existence today! Be sure to check out their schedule because it varies in the summer months.
2) Be closer to nature with Japanese Garden of Mytoi
Located on the island of Chappaquiddick, the Japanese Garden of Mytoi is a privately owned botanical garden featuring native flora and exotic plants. The garden has a peaceful atmosphere that allows visitors to relax and enjoy the scenery.
While you’re there, be sure to check out nearby Polly Hill Arboretum as well! It’s another botanical reserve that contains rare trees and shrubs around the world.
If you’re not interested in visiting either one, don’t fret—there are plenty of other ways to get closer with nature on Martha’s Vineyard!
3) Discover your inner film buff at Martha’s Vineyard Film Festival
A film festival on an island in Massachusetts? Why not? In fact, Martha’s Vineyard Film Festival is celebrating its 23rd year this summer. It runs from March to September, and you can find out what’s showing on their website. The annual event includes screenings of independent films at the Island Cinema in Vineyard Haven (and sometimes off-island), as well as events such as the family-friendly Summer Film Series. This year’s lineup features several full length and short films that showcase the culture of many different countries—it’s a great opportunity to learn about other cultures while enjoying some movies!
The Martha’s Vineyard International Film Festival has been screened since 2001 and was founded by local residents who wanted to celebrate local talent and bring international cinema to their island home. It’s held every year in early spring through late fall, with selections ranging from documentaries about social issues like immigration to horror flicks centered around fear of technology taking over our lives.
4) Visit the 300-year fishing village of Menemsha
When you visit Martha’s Vineyard, you will notice that the island is home to many beautiful towns and villages. One of the lesser known yet equally beautiful places on Martha’s Vineyard is Menemsha.
Located just 15 minutes north of Oak Bluffs, Menemsha is a picturesque fishing village away from the bustling scenes of Oaks Bluff and Edgartown. This quaint hamlet has been honed into perfection over time by fishermen who call this place home and visitors who are drawn to its natural beauty. It is also a popular destination for kayakers as well as windsurfers, who come here to enjoy its strong tides, clean water teeming with tasty bonito, bluefish and monster striped bass; all while taking advantage of its naturally sheltered coves that offer protection from winds off Nantucket Sound or Vineyard Sound depending on their location within Menemsha Bay itself!
Menemsha has become synonymous with seafood thanks to its long history as one of the most famous fishing villages in New England – dating back over 300 years! Its rich heritage includes being home to some of America’s oldest families including those descended from Native Americans who lived here long before Europeans arrived aboard ships like the Mayflower.”
5) The five lighthouses of Martha’s Vineyard
You’ll often hear Martha’s Vineyard referred to as “the island that time forgot,” and there’s no better way to see firsthand how true this nickname is than by visiting the five lighthouses of Martha’s Vineyard. The town contains more lighthouses in one area than any other place,, so if you’re into maritime history or can appreciate stunning scenery, this is a great place for you to visit.
West Chop Lighthouse was built in 1817 as a wooden structure, but rebuilt as brick in 1838 after suffering fire damage. It sits at the entrance of Vineyard Haven Harbor and was one of America’s most important stations during its heyday; today it is still an active beacon for sailors.
East Chop Lighthouse was built in 1869 and burned down soon after construction due to faulty design; it was rebuilt again in iron form in 1878 (this one stands today). Located at Oak Bluffs that overlooks Nantucket Sound, this lighthouse still guides ships safely past dangerous shoals into Edgartown Harbor each night when lit with white light flashes every ten seconds.
Edgartown Lighthouse stands on an island within Martha’s Vineyard harbor near downtown Edgartown—it was built in 1828 and raised on man made island for more accessibility through footbridge access over time; now it sits at the edge of town (Edgartown Harbor).
Cape Poge Lighthouse (aka “Cape Pogue Light Station”) – also known as “Pogue Light”; located at north end Chappaquiddick Island with views east across Vineyard Sound toward Boston skyline area & Gay Head Cliffs where Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe lives today .
Aquinnah Lighthouse also known as “Gay Head Light” or “Gay Head Light Station” was built in 1799 on the westernmost point off Lighthouse Road.
6) Explore Farm stands
Martha’s Vineyard has a long history of farming and agricultural tradition going back to its earliest days. Today, the island is home to over 40 farms that provide scenery to the local community. These farms have been the source of the growth of so many farm-to-table restaurants and catering options on Martha’s Vineyard. Nearly all these farms operate a Farm Stand where the public can directly purchase fresh produce as well as value added items such as jams, jellies, honey and pickles made from their crops.
Farmers’ markets are a great place to meet local farmers and learn about the island’s food culture. Some of our favorites are Grey Barn Farm, Morning Glory Farm, Ghost Island Farm, Allen Sheep Farm, 7A Farm , Mermaid Farm , Bakehouse Farm .
7) Browse a gallery of hand blown art glasses at MV Glassworks
The art of glass blowing has been around since ancient times and is still used by modern artists to create remarkable pieces. MV Glassworks, located on State Road in West Tisbury, has been creating art glass for more than twenty years. Bring your friends or family with you to watch these masterful creators work their magic as they blow and shape glass into beautiful pieces that you can take home with you! You will have the opportunity to learn about a new craft while taking in an amazing vista from their studio windows.
8) Try the lobster ice cream at Ben and Bill’s Ice Cream Emporium
This ice cream shop on the west side of Martha’s Vineyard has a wide selection of flavors, with over 20 to choose from. If you’re looking for something new, try their lobster ice cream! The recipe is based on Ben and Bill’s homemade butter, which gives it a sweet flavor that pairs well with the creaminess of traditional vanilla ice cream. You can also order it in a cup or cone with chocolate or rainbow sprinkles added on top!
9) Hiking Trails or Biking tour
You can also try hiking or biking tours. Martha’s Vineyard is a weekend hiker’s dream with wildlife, beaches, forest, and relatively flat terrain. Another way to explore Martha’s Vineyard is through a bike tour! The north side of the island is sheltered and relatively flat. It is the perfect spot for a family bike ride between Oak Bluffs and Edgartown. If you are a serious bike rider, conquer the island by riding the whole 62-mile circumference (which takes most people 2-3 days).
10) Stay in a Vacation Home
If you are looking for a unique way to experience Martha’s Vineyard, consider staying in a vacation home. An Elevate Vacation Home is the best way to stay on the island. A vacation home lets you experience Martha’s Vineyard like a local and provides all of the comforts of home with breathtaking ocean views from every room. There are four beautiful houses available when visiting: Cottage by the Lagoon, Berkshire Manor, Stewart Cottage, and Fresh Pond Chateau
The most popular time of year to visit Martha’s Vineyard is during the summer months (June-August). You can search for homes that fit your needs by checking out their website or calling them directly!
Conclusion
It’s time to plan your trip to Martha’s Vineyard and escape from the daily grind. We have put together a list of 10 unique attractions that you can visit during your stay on this special island. There are plenty of things to do in Martha’s Vineyard, but there is nothing better than experiencing nature up close with all its natural beauty!
Guests are looking for more than a place to sleep when they rent their next vacation home. They want the latest and greatest in amenities, including high speed wifi, smart TVs, and access to Netflix. But beyond those basics, what else do guests look for?
Here’s a list of the top 5 things that guests look for in their next vacation rental:
High speed wifi
WiFi is a must for vacation rentals. It’s a standard that guests expect, and it’s something they want to feel connected to even if they are on vacation. Guests want to be able to connect multiple devices at once, especially in the kitchen and living area of your rental home—this way you can have dinner parties or game nights with friends and family!
There is nothing worse than slow internet when you’re trying to catch up on work or keep up with your favorite shows.
Smart TV, Netflix
Guests love to watch TV. It’s a top amenity for vacation rentals and when guest are on vacation, they want to unwind in front of the TV with their family or friends.
Netflix is available on most smart TVs, so it can be one of the best options for your guests who want to watch movies and shows while they stay at your rental property.
Full size kitchen
The kitchen is the heart of the home, and many renters want to be able to cook their own meals while they’re staying in your property. A full-size kitchen is a must for most guests. If you have an apartment or condo with a small kitchen, consider adding a microwave and mini-fridge so that your tenants can prepare simple meals and snacks without having to eat out every night.
Pool/ Hot tub
The pool or hot tub is always an attractive amenity for guests. Pool owners enjoy the fun, carefree atmosphere that a pool creates. Hot tub owners love to relax in their hot tubs while they unwind from work and enjoy the quiet sounds of nature.
Pool owners often host family parties with their friends so they can cool off, play games and have fun with others in the same age group. Hot tubs are great for entertaining adults because they allow you to relax after a long day at work while taking in the outdoors or watching television by yourself.
Porch or balcony
For guests, the porch or balcony is often a second living room, great for relaxing and enjoying a drink or meal. If you have pets, it’s also the perfect place to let them roam free without worrying about them getting into trouble. And if you’re smoking cigarettes, the porch or balcony is where you can do just that (assuming your host has given you permission).
Washer and Dryer
If you like to travel for extended periods of time, washers and dryers are something you can’t do without. They are perfect for those who would like to pack light, or who spend more than a few days in one location.
For families staying in vacation homes, this can be very useful for them as they will not have to worry about carrying their dirty clothes with them or having their children wear the same outfit every day. A property manager can also offer laundry service for guests at their request; this is especially helpful if you need someone else to do it instead of doing it yourself or having your child do it by themselves.
Pet friendly amenities
Pet friendly amenities are a great way to attract a larger audience and make sure you’re in line with the lifestyle of many of your guests. With this in mind, it’s important to understand what pet-related amenities might be right for your property.
The first step is deciding whether or not having pets across the board is something that would work with your vision as an owner. You then need to have rules in place when guests bring their pets along on vacation with them so that everyone can enjoy their stay together.
The next step is whether or not there will be any kind of cleaning fee charged for small pets that aren’t allowed inside the home (such as cats). Many owners choose not to charge anything more than a modest fee for this type of oversight because it’s so easy for pet owners who travel with their animals on vacation to clean up after them (allowing them access into certain areas without paying extra fees)
Conclusion
Whether you’re a guest or a host, it’s important to know what amenities your guests are looking for when they come to stay. They may not always be able to find them and therefore, will be forced to look elsewhere. With all that being said, it is up to us as hosts to make sure we keep up with the trends and provide our guests with what they want so that we can continue having a successful business!
Are you looking for a new way to travel? Why not consider staying in a vacation home instead of a hotel? You’ll get more space, be able to cook your own meals, and save money on all the extras. Plus, with so many people living in cities these days, it’s nice when you can travel like a local and take advantage of all that suburban life has to offer!
More space for you and your family
Let’s face it: hotel rooms are small. And when you’re staying in one for an extended period of time, you’ll want space to stretch out and relax. You also want a place where your kids can play—a hotel room isn’t exactly the best place for that.
A vacation home offers much more space than a traditional hotel room, so you can spread out and get some peace from each other (and maybe even from yourself). It also means there are more options if you want to cook or entertain friends at home rather than going out every night like so many people do on vacation
Travel with a bigger group
One of the biggest advantages of staying in a vacation home is that you can bring more people with you.
When it comes to traveling with friends, couples, or families, it’s important to have enough space. Some hotels may not be able to accommodate everyone in your party and this could lead to uncomfortable situations down the road. A vacation home provides more privacy than a hotel room because there is no one else living above or below you so there are no worries about noise levels affecting your stay! Another great reason why traveling together as a group can be beneficial is because they allow all members of your party to spend quality time together while on vacation which creates memories worth making for years to come!
Cook at home with a full size kitchen
Let’s start with the obvious: When you cook your own meals, you save money. Especially in New York City, eating out is expensive! The average family or group spends about $100 per day on food when they’re away from home, which adds up quickly if you’re paying for multiple people and eating at restaurants every night.
Live more like the locals do
When in Rome, do as the Romans do!
When you stay in a hotel, you’re living in their world, not your own. You rarely get to know the local community because there is no incentive for them to share it with you. But when you stay in a vacation home, you can live as if you were really a resident of a city or the community. You can learn about what’s important from the people who actually live there – not just from some concierge who works for the hotel.
Save more money
When it comes to traveling, you always want to save as much money as possible. And the best way to save money on your vacation rental is by booking it early, so that you have the best selection available. In addition, the longer you stay in a vacation home, the more money you can save!
More amenities
Vacation rentals have access to amenities that hotels simply can’t provide. A common feature of vacation homes is a pool and/or hot tub, which are great places to relax after a day of sightseeing or playing on the beach. Many vacation homeowners also provide games rooms with pool tables, arcade games and even football tables.
Vacation homes also come with private balconies where guests can enjoy their morning coffee or evening wine without disturbing anyone else in the house; many even offer outdoor amenities such as grills and a heated pool!!
Easier to travel with pets
One of the biggest perks of staying in a vacation home is that you can bring your pets. Most hotels have strict rules about pets, but if you’re staying in a vacation home, there’s usually no issue with bringing them along (with the exception of some timeshare properties).
Pet owners know how difficult it can be to travel without their furry friends by their side. Fortunately, most vacation homes will permit dogs and cats (and sometimes other pets) as long as they are well-behaved and don’t damage property or cause problems for other guests. You should always check with your host about their specific pet policy before booking your stay!
If traveling with a dog or cat sounds like something you’re interested in doing on your next trip, consider bringing along one of these:
Parking access
Parking access is a convenient feature of many vacation homes. You can park your car in front of the house so that you don’t have to carry luggage through the city or up flights of stairs. Or, if there is ample space, you can park your car in a garage or parking lot. Some properties also offer driveways and curb cuts for easy access to and from the street.
Conclusion
When you stay at a vacation home, there are more things to do than just lie on a beach or go swimming in the pool. You can cook meals for your family, play games together and even save money by cooking in the kitchen. With so many benefits to staying at a vacation home instead of a hotel, it’s no wonder why so many people choose them!
Elevate Properties is all about building long-term relationships with guests and owners, which is why we only work with people who are serious about going into the short-term vacation rental industry. We are committed to helping you maximize the real property investment you worked hard to have!
We are proud to offer an easy-to-use website where you can manage your rental homes from anywhere, anytime. We keep our clients informed about their properties through regular email updates and phone calls, notifying them of anything from maintenance issues to tenant concerns. Here are some of the things our clients love about us:
We make them more money! (versus other property managers)
Our team has been in the industry for more than a decade and we’ve earned a reputation for being one of the property management companies that provide the best returns to owners. We’re not going to tell you that our services are affordable (because they aren’t), but we can guarantee that our rates are among the most reasonable on the market.
We know what it takes to manage your property more efficiently—and more effectively—than other companies do because we offer data driven insights that helps us identify areas where owners can improve their revenue streams.
We have 24/7 guest and owner support
Our 24/7 guest and owner support ensures that guests always have someone to call if something goes wrong. We also provide local and international access numbers for our owners, so they can easily get in touch with us at any time. This means that no matter where you are in the world or what time it is, we’ll be available to answer your questions and help with any problems you may have.
We employ a lot of smart home technologies
As a technology-driven company, we are always looking for ways to be more efficient and provide better service. We feel that smart home technologies are the best way to do this by allowing us to connect with tenants quickly and easily in order to make sure they have everything they need.
Smart home technologies help us keep properties in good condition because we can monitor energy usage from anywhere at any time. If a light bulb is burned out or if the air conditioning isn’t working properly, we can notify the homeowner immediately so that maintenance staff can fix it right away (or vice versa). This saves money on electricity bills and provides great customer service for our clients.
Finally, smart home technologies allow us to maximize revenue from each property by making sure all appliances are working properly before renting it out again after turnover periods like lease renewals or new tenants moving in. This helps ensure that all systems work effectively so there’s nothing standing between potential renters having access when they want it most (and paying extra money!).
We’re present in several vacation marketplace places such as airbnb
Most vacation rental owners are familiar with sites like Airbnb and Booking.com. These popular platforms help travelers find accommodations online, making the process more convenient for both parties.
However, there are many other booking sites out there that you may not be aware of, such as HomeAway or VRBO. By listing your property on these additional marketplaces, we’re able to boost your bookings significantly!
We make sure the property is well maintained
As a full service property management company, Elevate Properties offers our clients everything from cleaning to landscaping. The best part? We have a dedicated maintenance team to take care of any problems that may arise. Our staff knows their way around every part of your home and can help with anything from changing the air filters to replacing light bulbs.
We understand that you’re busy running your business—that’s why we aim to make sure the property is well maintained so you don’t have time for it!
We pay on time.. sometimes earlier!
Whatever your needs are, we are committed to making them happen. We pay on time—sometimes even earlier than expected! If you need an income advance, and will only advance funds on a case to case basis.
We have a dedicated revenue manager for dynamic pricing
One of the most important aspects of our business is dynamic pricing. We use actuarial science, forecasting, and competitive research to price properties accurately according to market conditions.
For example, if you list your property with us on September 1st and we have a 4-month window for rent collection, we will wait until January 1st before setting your online rent price. This allows us time to analyze seasonal trends and ensure that your property has been properly priced so that there are no surprises when it comes time for our clients (your tenants) to pay their rent each month.
We provide customized solutions
We provide customized solutions for each client. No one-size-fits-all approach here! We take into consideration your property’s unique needs, budget and timeline to create a custom solution that will maximize the value of your property and help you get the most out of it.
Our technical expertise helps us provide the best solution for every property. We have built an extensive network of suppliers who have been carefully selected based on their expertise and reliability, so you can be confident that we’ll only recommend products and services that meet your standards.
Conclusion
We are a technology company that just happens to be in the hospitality real estate business. We have built our platform from the ground up and utilized every bit of data available to maximize our clients’ ROI through better pricing and optimization. If you’re looking for more information on how we can help your property perform at its best, give us a call today!
In a highly competitive industry like short-term vacation rentals, technical expertise and market knowledge in running this business is essential.
Unless you have the time and bandwidth in managing the property yourself, it’s best to let a vacation rental management company manage the property for you.
When considering hiring one, here are ten questions you should ask to help you ensure you find the best management company that fits your needs.
1. What is the scope and fee for their services?
Homeowners should have due diligence in knowing what the property management company will be responsible for and how much they will charge you.
Some may have a monthly fee or setup fee, while others might charge an annual fee. Additionally, some may charge an additional percentage on top of their fees (for example: 10% of rent).
The scope and fee should be clearly outlined in the contract you know exactly what you are paying for and when. It can vary depending on the property, the location and how long it will be rented.
2. What happens when guests break or damage property?
As a property owner, you want to make sure that your investment is protected. One of the main reasons why many people choose to rent out their homes instead of selling them is because they have such strong sentimental value. It’s important to know how your property will be handled in case something happens during your absence or when you’re traveling with guests who might not be as respectful and careful as you would like them to be.
The best way to ensure that your home is well taken care of is by hiring a property management company. Whether you want to rent out your property on a short-term or long-term basis, this can be a great option for you and your family.
3. What is the potential income of the property?
You may have a great location, but if no one wants to pay for it, then you’re not going to make any money. The best way to find out how much money a vacation rental can make is by checking other properties in your area. This gives you an idea of what properties are renting for and how much money they generate per month.
A good sign that a vacation rental property management company has local knowledge and technical expertise in the market is that they will be able to provide you with a comprehensive financial analysis of potential income of your property. They should be able to show you a snapshot of a potential revenue stream depending on location, season, and size of the property.
4. How do they handle guest-related issues and concerns?
Part of managing a vacation rental property is anticipating that guests will have issues and concerns. From the smallest of issues like a broken light switch to more serious concerns like home security, you will need to know that your property management company has their act together and can handle any situation that comes up. How do they handle it? Do they have a 24/7 call center (or at least someone who can be reached at any time)? Do they have a team of property managers on call? Do they have a team of maintenance technicians on call?
A typical property management company should have a dedicated guest service team, maintenance technician, and housekeeping team.
5. Who takes care of the taxes?
Taxes are paid by you, the owner. Some owners pay them directly, while others hire a property management company to do so. When hiring one, ask if they will be responsible for filing the necessary tax filings. If not, how will they help with the paperwork? Remember that the goal of hiring a property management company is making it easy for you to go into this ‘business’… not harder.
6. What other properties do they manage?
A good property management company however, will have a diverse portfolio of vacation rental properties. You’ll want to know how many other properties your potential property management company has. If they manage properties similar to yours, that’s a great sign. It means they understand the market, and it indicates they have the technical expertise with the type of property you have.
7. What’s the season length of my property?
The length of the vacation rental season depends on the property. Some properties such as those in the Hamptons and Martha’s Vineyard have a season length during the summer while properties in New York city are typically available for rent throughout the year.
The answer to this question will help you determine if there is a chance for you (the owner) to stay in your property. The property management company should also provide you insights about season-based demand of your property – e.g. winter as off-peak and summer as peak season.
8. How do they help with home automation?
Home automation is a hot topic in the vacation rental industry. When you hire a vacation rental property management company, they should provide recommendations on how to use technology to help you manage your home. From automated check in, smart door locks to a home security system, smart home technologies will save you and the guests the hassle of manually addressing guest-related concerns.
Don’t forget to ask the property management company for the list of home automation technologies they currently use to manage their portfolio.
9. Do they charge additional fees for advertising?
One of the first things to ask a property management company is if they charge additional fees for advertising. Some companies will charge a flat fee that covers all of their marketing services while others may charge per listing and/or per booking. The cost and benefit of the advertisement will depend on how much traffic gets directed to your property as well as its reputation within the area.
If they do charge additional advertising fees, ask them what those charges will be and how much they’re saving you in terms of revenue. If they aren’t saving you more than 10-20% of your income from ad revenue, then it might be worth considering other companies who charge less but bring in more money on overall sales than just one flat fee each month.
In addition to managing reservations from guests, some vacation rental management companies offer additional services such as marketing support for boosting occupancy rates during slow periods or helping owners understand how they optimize profits from short term rentals.
10. How and when do you receive income from your property?
Most companies will use one of the two methods: fixed income or demand-based income. Fixed income streams means that the owner receives a set amount per month or period based on their contract agreement with the property management company. Demand-based income means that an owner receives money whenever their property is rented out, but can also be charged retroactively fi there are any issues with tenant complaints or damages to the unit during the rental period.
Both methods have pros and cons – fixed income may mean more security for an owner, but this security comes at a cost since most companies also charge management fees that will be deducted from your potential revenue. Demand-based income can allow you more flexibility in deciding whether renting your property out might make sense financially – but as we’ve discussed above, there’s also a risk involved around accounting discrepancies and stress if things go wrong with tenants during their stay at your home.
Conclusion
If you’re ready to go into the vacation rental industry, it’s important to choose a property management company that can provide the right service. A good way to determine is by asking these questions and researching more about the company.
Elevate Properties Management Group is a vacation rental company that can help you succeed in today’s competitive rental market. Book a free consultation today and learn more about how we can help you!
There is a lot of money to be made in the short-term vacation rental market. In fact, according to a research done by Airbnb, an average host can earn $30,000 a year by listing their property in vacation marketplace platforms such as Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com, or a property manager’s direct booking site like Elevate Properties.
While it has huge potential, it’s important for homeowners to understand what they’re getting themselves into before jumping into the industry. As anyone who has ever rented out their home knows, there are many factors that need to be considered before investing in this type of venture (and many more after).
Not every home is a fit for the vacation rental market, and you need to make sure that yours meets the criteria before you take the leap and try it out. Here are five things you should know before deciding if this route is right for you:
Identify if your home is suitable as a vacation rental property.
Before turning your home into a vacation rental property, consider the following:
Ask yourself. If it was listed as a vacation rental property, would you stay in it? If the answer is no, then chances are that someone else won’t either. Ask yourself why you wouldn’t stay there. Is the room too small? Do you have all the necessary amenities that make guests feel at home? Answers to these questions will help determine if your home has potential as a successful short-term rental property.
Check if there is demand in your area for vacation rentals. If you live in New York City, Florida, or Martha’s Vineyard and have been thinking about taking advantage of this growing trend by converting your home into a vacation rental listing, then chances are good that there will be demand for such properties within driving distance from these destinations. Even more so if you live near restaurants and places of interest that attract tourists from around the world!
Be prepared for the investment needed
A vacation rental property is an investment. And there are typical investments expected in maintaining your home but it’s another when you list it as a vacation rental.
Invest in high quality furniture that can stand wear and tear, home automation technology that lets guests automatically check in or control lights, and home security systems that protect guests and hosts from theft.
Additionally, maintaining a vacation rental property can also require additional investments throughout the year. Fixing any property damages that may arise during guests’ stay (such as spills or broken windows), fixing appliances if it breaks down, cleaning carpets, changing bulbs and other unforeseen costs along the way.
Comply with the legal requirements
Before you start renting out your home, it’s crucial to check the legal requirements that may apply to your city and state where your property is located.
If you live in a community association or condominium complex for example, a homeowners association could have rules about vacation rentals or other short-term rentals. Your city may also have some regulations about such issues as noise levels, parking spaces and garbage disposal that affect guests staying at your property during their stay.
Also, keep in mind that many cities have enacted ordinances requiring potential rental properties to obtain business licenses, which means paying taxes on income generated from short-term rentals. In addition, most cities require businesses offering short term accommodations through web platforms such as Airbnb and VRBO (Vacation Rental By Owner) provide proof of insurance coverage when they register with local municipalities before listing their properties online
Understand the business you’re going into
As a homeowner, you need to make sure you have an understanding of the vacation rental business before jumping in. It’s a market that’s constantly changing. Keep in mind that there are ups and downs in the market, off peak and peak seasons, and guests that may cause issues along the way.
While there are property management companies like Elevate Properties that can help manage and market the listing for you, this doesn’t mean they will be able to cover all aspects of the process. Homeowners have to secure the proper legalities, insurance and documents before they can list it.
Lastly, homeowners should acknowledge that listing their home will affect their ability to use it when they want to. And this may mean booking their property as a guest themselves!
Have a property management partner
Having a reliable property management partner is crucial for making sure your guests have a pleasant and memorable stay, managing daily upkeep – and not to mention helping you address potential property damages.
A good property management partner will guide you through everything from marketing your property to ensuring it will be priced competitively. They can help you set up the necessary licenses, requirements and additional documents before you can list your home.
Technical expertise and local market knowledge of your property management partner can also help you make the most of your vacation rental property. So this is why choosing an experienced property management company like Elevate Properties can help you manage your property on your behalf, unlocking the full value and potential of your home as a vacation rental property!
If you want to know more about how to list your home as a vacation rental property and the potential income it can make, book a call with one of our Elevate advisors!