Tips for Turning a Summer Camp Into a Four-Season Rental

Turning a summer “camp” (as Mainers call their summer cabins), into a four-season rental is a great idea to maximize your property’s earning potential. However, it requires careful planning and consideration of several factors. These tips for turning a summer camp into a four-season rental will guide you as you improve your property to welcome guests, whether you own a lakeside cabin in the Ozarks or an open stud “camp” on the rocky shore of Maine.

Check Zoning and Building Codes

Before making any modifications to your property, it is essential to check the local zoning and building codes. The local government or planning department can provide information about what changes are permissible or whether they allow short-term rentals. It is crucial to comply with these regulations to avoid penalties and ensure your guests’ safety.

Ensure Road Accessibility

In places like Maine and Vermont, winter weather conditions can make roads inaccessible. You must plan for snow removal and road maintenance if your property is in a remote area that experiences winter snowstorms. Providing clear access to your property throughout the year is essential for attracting guests in all seasons.

Know the Water Restrictions and Utility Requirements

Water restrictions may be in place, especially during dry months, depending on your property’s location. Make sure to understand these restrictions and communicate them to your guests.

Upgrading electrical, plumbing, and septic systems will be necessary to accommodate year-round use. These upgrades not only provide convenience to your guests but also prevent potential issues such as wells running dry or overused septic tanks backing up.

Provide Wood Burning Stoves or Fireplaces

Installing a new or replacing an aging wood-burning stove or fireplace can make your property more attractive to renters looking for a cozy winter getaway. However, it’s important to ensure you or your hired contractor install these features and maintain them correctly to prevent fire hazards.

Install Insulation and Moisture Control

Proper insulation is critical for turning a summer camp into a four-season rental. Good insulation will keep your property warm in the winter and cool in the summer, providing comfort to your guests and reducing energy costs. You may need to close open studded walls with insulation and drywall and add insulation to exposed attics and floors (as with camps that are on pilings for their foundations) to properly turn a summer camp into a four-season rental.

Similarly, for properties located near lakes or the ocean, controlling moisture becomes an essential aspect of turning your summer camp into a year-round rental. Such locations are often subject to high humidity levels, which can lead to problems like mold and mildew if you don’t manage them properly.

Incorporating vapor barriers that resist the diffusion of moisture through walls, ceilings, and floors can provide a crucial line of defense against the dampness that can infiltrate your home.

Consider Increased Property Taxes

Transforming your summer camp into a year-round rental could lead to increased property taxes due to the property’s higher value. It’s important to factor this into your financial planning. However, with the right approach and planning, your summer retreat can help you generate rental revenue all year round.