Mastering the Crescent City: Top 5 Mistakes STR Owners Make in New Orleans (and How to Avoid Them)

New Orleans. It's a city that gets under your skin, a place where history whispers from every wrought-iron balcony and the scent of jasmine hangs heavy in the air. For STR owners, it's a goldmine of opportunity—but also a minefield of potential missteps. Let's talk about the five most common mistakes I see, and how to steer clear of them.

1. Tangling with the Tangled Web: Ignoring Local Regulations and Missing the Authentic NOLA Vibe

New Orleans isn't just a backdrop; it's a character in its own right. And it has rules.

• The Mistake:

  • Thinking a quick Google search will suffice for understanding STR ordinances. Honey, those regulations are as intricate as a second-line parade route.

  • Furnishing your place with generic, big-box store decor that could be anywhere. Guests want that NOLA magic!

  • Forgetting that your neighbors are your first line of defense—or your biggest headache.

• The Fix:

  • Dive Deep into City Hall: Don't just skim the ordinances; understand the nuances. Zoning, permits, occupancy limits—it all matters. And those rules change, so stay updated!

  • Embrace the Local: Antique markets, local artists, vintage finds—fill your space with pieces that tell a story. Create a guide to your favorite hidden gems, the best live music, the po'boy spots the tourists haven't found yet.

  • Be a Good Neighbor: Introduce yourself. Share your contact info. Let them know you're committed to responsible hosting. A little goodwill goes a long way, especially when a late-night jazz session spills out onto the street.

  • Example: Instead of a generic welcome basket, provide a small bottle of local hot sauce, a bag of Community Coffee, and a list of nearby music venues.

2. The Hospitality Hiccup: Skimping on the Guest Experience and Communication Breakdown

In a city known for its "joie de vivre," a lackluster guest experience is a cardinal sin.

• The Mistake:

  • Providing threadbare towels, a lumpy mattress, and a kitchen with bare-bones supplies.

  • Ignoring guest messages or taking hours to respond.

  • Letting minor maintenance issues fester until they become major headaches.

• The Fix:

  • Invest in Comfort: High-quality linens, a comfortable bed, and a well-stocked kitchen are non-negotiable. Think of it as investing in your reputation.

  • Be a Responsive Host: Prompt, friendly communication is key. Use a reliable messaging system, and be available to answer questions and address concerns.

  • Proactive Maintenance: Don't wait for a guest to complain about a leaky faucet. Conduct regular inspections and address issues promptly. Have a trusted handyman on call.

  • Example: Leave a handwritten welcome note with a personalized recommendation based on the guest's interests.

3. The Pricing Puzzle: Underestimating Market Dynamics and Special Events

New Orleans's market is a roller coaster, with peaks and valleys driven by festivals, events, and seasonal fluctuations.

• The Mistake:

  • Setting a fixed price and sticking to it, regardless of demand.

  • Ignoring competitor pricing and market trends.

  • Underestimating the surge in demand during events like Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, and French Quarter Fest.

• The Fix:

  • Embrace Dynamic Pricing: Use pricing tools to adjust rates based on real-time data.

  • Stay Informed: Monitor competitor rates and market trends. Subscribe to local event calendars.

  • Capitalize on Events: Adjust your rates strategically during peak seasons and special events. But remember, don't price yourself out of the market.

  • Example: Create a special package for Jazz Fest, including tickets to a local music venue.

4. The Visual Void: Neglecting Professional Photography and Listing Optimization

In the online world, visuals are everything.

• The Mistake:

  • Using blurry, poorly lit photos that don't showcase your property's best features.

  • Failing to highlight the unique charm of your rental and the surrounding neighborhood.

  • Not using keywords that people search for.

• The Fix:

  • Invest in Professional Photography: Hire a photographer who specializes in real estate or interior design.

  • Showcase the Charm: Capture the natural light, the unique architectural details, and the cozy ambiance of your rental.

  • Highlight the Neighborhood: Include photos of nearby attractions, cafes, and parks.

  • Optimize Your Listing: Use keywords that people search for, highlight all your ammenities, and write a compelling description.

  • Example: Include a 360-degree virtual tour of your property.

5. The Cleaning Conundrum: Overlooking the Importance of Impeccable Cleanliness and Turnover

In a city known for its vibrant—and sometimes messy—celebrations, cleanliness is paramount.

• The Mistake:

  • Rushing cleanings between guest stays, leading to missed spots and lingering odors.

  • Neglecting deep cleaning and sanitation, especially in high-traffic areas.

  • Relying on unreliable cleaning services or inconsistent cleaning practices.

• The Fix:

  • Develop a Thorough Cleaning Checklist: Include all the details, from sanitizing high-touch surfaces to laundering linens.

  • Partner with a Reputable Cleaning Service: Choose a service that specializes in STR turnovers and has a proven track record.

  • Conduct Regular Inspections: Don't just rely on the cleaning service. Do your own inspections to ensure that standards are met.

  • Example: Provide guests with extra cleaning supplies, such as hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes.

By mastering these five areas, you can transform your STR into a thriving business and a welcoming haven for visitors to our beloved Crescent City.