The Benefits of Choosing Long-Term Rentals Over Short-Term Options

Are you dreaming of a winter wonderland? Imagine waking up to snow-capped mountains, fresh powder, and the thrill of skiing right outside your door. Long-term ski home rentals offer the perfect solution for those who want to immerse themselves in the beauty of winter sports. Whether you are a seasoned skier or a beginner, finding the right rental can enhance your experience. In this post, we will explore the benefits of long-term ski home rentals, how to find them, and what to consider before making a decision.

Why Choose Long-Term Ski Home Rentals?

Long-term ski home rentals provide a unique opportunity to enjoy the slopes without the hassle of frequent travel. Here are some reasons why you might consider this option:

• Cost-Effective: Renting a home for an extended period can be more economical than booking multiple short-term stays. You can save on accommodation costs and enjoy the comforts of home.

  
  

• Convenience: Having a dedicated space allows you to store your ski gear, cook meals, and relax after a long day on the slopes. You can create a home away from home.

  
  

• Flexibility: Long-term rentals often come with flexible lease terms. You can choose to stay for a season or even longer, depending on your needs.

  
  

• Community: Staying in one place for an extended period allows you to connect with the local community. You can make friends, discover hidden gems, and enjoy the local culture.

• Short-Term rentals come with a number of restrictions:

  
  

  What is a Short-Term Rental (STR)?

  
  

  A Short-Term Rental, also known as a vacation rental, means a legally registered dwelling unit constructed with a building permit, rented for the purpose of continuous overnight lodging for a period of not less than one night and not more than thirty (30) consecutive days. A Short-Term Rental Registration is required prior to advertising and renting your property.

  
  

  Who needs to apply for a STR Registration?

  
  

  Any owner/operator renting a property for a period of 30 consecutive days or less is required to obtain a Short-Term Rental (STR) Registration Certificate. To obtain an STR Registration Certificate, you will have to apply for the waitlist application process. As registrations become available under our registration cap of 1,255, we will lend the available registrations to the waitlist in the order in which the applications were received. For more information on the waitlist application process, waitlist standing and how to apply go to www.townoftruckee.com/STR.  

  
  

  What property types are prohibited from joining the waitlist and registering as an STR?

  
  

  Property types that will be unable to apply for the waitlist and no new registration certificates will be issued:

  - Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU’s): An ADU is an attached or detached residential dwelling which provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons on the same site as a single-family or multifamily residence (e.g. second unit, granny unit). Refer to Town of Truckee Development Code Section 18.58.025 for further standards associated with ADU's. 

  
  

  - Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADU's): A JADU is a smaller type of attached dwelling unit that is no more than 500 sq. feet in size. For further details on JADU’s please reference Town of Truckee Development Code Section 18.58.025(N).

  
  

  - Multi-Family Dwelling Units: Two or more attached/detached dwelling units (e.g. condo, apartment, townhome). 

  
  

  - Mobile Homes or Manufactured Homes: Attached to a chassis and is in a mobile home park or in a mobile home subdivision. 

  
  

  What other regulations would prevent me from being able to join the waitlist and register as an STR?

  - If your property isunder Construction or yet to be constructed/vacant land.Only proceed with the waitlist application process, should you have obtained your Certificate of Occupancy (property is safe to inhabit). 

  
  

  - There is a 365-Day waiting period after a home sale before the new owner may apply for the waitlist. Even if the purchase date was prior to the regulation going into effect the waiting period would still apply. 

  
  

  -Active Code Case: Should there be an active code case on the property staff can deny the waitlist application until the violation is resolved. If there is an active code case on a registered property, the short-term rental registration can be suspended or revoked. 

  
  
  
  
  
  

  What if I do not obtain a STR Registration?

  
  

  It is unlawful for any person to advertise, maintain, operate, or use a short-term rental within the Town of Truckee without a STR Registration Certificate. Any person violating the provisions of this chapter, including without limitation guests, operators, and local contact persons may be subject to administrative and/or judicial remedies as set forth in the Town of Trucke Municipal Code Chapter 5.02.

  
  

  What are the STR Registration fees?

  
  

  - Waitlist Application Fee:$100 non-refundable deposit will be due at time of application submission.

  
  

  - Registration Fee: When a Registration becomes available the Waitlist Applicant will be notified to register for a transient occupancy registration certificate for which the applicant will have 30 days to register their property as an STR.

  
  

  - Registration Fee $381: 

  
  

       - Remaining Registration Fee Balance: $245

  
  

       - Annual Fire Fee: $136

  
  

  - Annual Renewal Fees:Between November 1^stand December 31^stactive registration holders will be able to renew their STR Registration Certificate for the following calendar year. The fees are based on the expected staffing and operation resources needed to run and enforce the program. Fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.

  
  

  - Registration Renewal Fee $481:

  
  

       - $345 - Annual Registration Fee

  
  

       - $136 - Annual Fire Fee

  
  

How to Find Long-Term Rentals

Finding the perfect ski home rental can be a fun adventure. Here are some tips to help you in your search:

1. Online Platforms: Websites like Airbnb, Vrbo, and local real estate listings are great places to start. You can filter your search based on location, price, and amenities.

   
   

2. Local Real Estate Agents: Contacting a local real estate agent can provide you with insider knowledge about available rentals. They can help you find properties that may not be listed online.

   
   

3. Social Media Groups: Join local Facebook groups or forums dedicated to skiing and snowboarding. Members often share rental opportunities and tips.

   
   

4. Word of Mouth: Ask friends or family if they know of any available rentals. Personal recommendations can lead you to hidden gems.

   
   

5. Visit the Area: If possible, visit the ski area before committing to a rental. This allows you to get a feel for the community and see the property in person.

   
   
   
   

What to Consider Before Renting

Before signing a lease, there are several factors to consider to ensure you make the right choice:

• Location: Proximity to ski lifts and amenities is crucial. Look for rentals that are close to the slopes, restaurants, and shops. In the Tahoe/Truckee Basin consider the commute times to resorts, taking into account drivetimes delayed by Ikon or Epic pass holders

  
  

• Amenities: Consider what amenities are important to you. Do you need a hot tub, fireplace, or a fully equipped kitchen? Make a list of must-haves.

  
  

• Size: Think about how many people will be staying with you. Ensure the rental has enough space for everyone to be comfortable.

  
  

• Pet Policy: If you plan to bring your furry friend, check the rental's pet policy. Some properties may not allow pets, while others may have specific rules.

  
  

• Reviews: Read reviews from previous guests to gauge the rental's quality and the host's responsiveness. This can help you avoid potential issues.

  
  
  
  

Popular locations for Long-Term Rentals

Here are some popular areas around the Tahoe Basin where you can find long-term rentals:

1. Truckee, CA

Truckee is a railroad town, established in 1866. Its location is ideal for anyone looking to ski, snowboard, or recreate in the Tahoe area. It is also convenient to get to—30 minutes from Reno, 30 minutes from Lake Tahoe, and 75 minutes from Sacramento.

Northstar, California, Palisades, Sugar Bowl are all close. Donner Ski and Tahoe Donner resorts are great options for beginners to learn at a much lower price.

2. North Lake Tahoe, CA

Nothing compares to being at the Lake, the views, and the history. Access to all the previously described resorts and on the West Shore, Homewood Resort (which will be available to the general public) and Granlibakken, a great old resort for beginners and snow play.

A beautiful ski home nestled in the mountains, perfect for long-term rentals.