Ready to Buy an Airbnb In the Hudson Valley or Catskills in NY ? Your STR Regulations Guide to Airbnb Investing

Unlocking Short-Term Rental Success in the Hudson Valley & Catskills: A Guide for New & Seasoned Investors.

The Hudson Valley and Catskills continue to attract strong interest from both first-time and experienced short-term rental (STR) investors—and for good reason. With their close proximity to New York City, four-season appeal, and growing demand for unique, experience-driven stays, these regions present a compelling opportunity for investors looking to build or expand an STR portfolio.

That said, success in this market requires more than simply buying a property and listing it on Airbnb. Understanding market dynamics, guest expectations, and—most importantly—local regulations is essential. This guide will walk you through what makes the Hudson Valley and Catskills attractive for STR investment and how to approach the opportunity strategically.

Why the Hudson Valley & Catskills Are Prime STR Markets

One of the biggest advantages of the Hudson Valley and Catskills is accessibility. Just one to three hours from New York City, these areas have become a go-to escape for weekend travelers, couples, families, and small groups seeking nature, privacy, and a slower pace of life.

Unlike strictly seasonal vacation markets, this region benefits from year-round demand:

• Fall brings leaf peepers and weekend getaways

• Winter attracts skiers, snowboarders, and cozy cabin retreats

• Spring appeals to hikers, wellness travelers, and wedding guests

• Summer draws lake-goers, families, and longer stays

This diversity helps stabilize occupancy and allows well-positioned properties to perform consistently throughout the year.

Airbnb Investing: Market Trends and Revenue Potential

Over the past several years, the Hudson Valley and Catskills have seen a steady increase in short-term rental demand and Airbnb investing. Travelers are no longer just looking for a place to sleep—they want an experience. Properties that offer character, privacy, and thoughtful design tend to outperform generic listings.

Key trends investors should be aware of:

• Unique properties outperform standard homes (cabins, A-frames, historic houses, homes with views)

• Strong peak-season pricing during fall foliage, summer, and holiday periods

• Guests are willing to pay a premium for amenities like hot tubs, fire pits, scenic decks, and pet-friendly policies

• Professional photos, branding, and pricing strategy play a major role in booking performance

With the right strategy, many investors are able to achieve attractive average nightly rates while maintaining healthy occupancy.

What to Look for When Buying an STR Property

Not all properties perform equally as short-term rentals. When evaluating potential investments in the Hudson Valley or Catskills, consider the following factors:

Location & AccessibilityProperties within reasonable driving distance to NYC, near popular towns, hiking trails, ski areas, or waterfront locations tend to perform best.

Property TypeCabins, cottages, A-frames, and homes with architectural character or views often stand out in search results and marketing.

Guest ExperienceModern travelers expect fast WiFi, comfortable furnishings, clean design, and thoughtful touches. Outdoor amenities and pet-friendly policies can significantly boost bookings.

Operations & ManagementSelf-managing can work for some owners, but many investors choose professional co-hosting or management to optimize pricing, guest communication, and operational efficiency—especially if they don’t live locally.

Understanding Short-Term Rental Regulations (Critical!)

One of the most important—and often overlooked—parts of STR investing in this region is local regulation. While the Hudson Valley and Catskills remain attractive markets, rules can vary significantly from town to town.

Depending on the municipality, you may encounter:

• Permit or registration requirements

• Zoning restrictions

• Primary-residence rules

• Occupancy limits

• Local taxes and reporting obligations

Regulations can change, and non-compliance can result in fines or forced shutdowns. Doing proper due diligence before purchasing—and staying informed after you begin operating—is essential to protecting your investment.

Download the Free Hudson Valley & Catskills STR Regulations Guide

To help investors navigate this complexity, I’ve created a free Short-Term Rental Regulations Guide specifically for the Hudson Valley and Catskills. This resource breaks down key considerations and helps you understand what to look for before you buy or list a property.

Whether you’re exploring your first STR or expanding an existing portfolio, this guide will help you:

• Avoid costly mistakes

• Understand local compliance requirements

• Invest with greater confidence

👉 Download the free STR Regulations Guide and take the next step toward a successful short-term rental investment. CLICK HERE