As Boulder prepares to host the globally recognized Sundance Film Festival, short term rentals are becoming a meaningful opportunity for homeowners. With demand surging and inventory limited, those who plan ahead are in a strong position to benefit while also embracing Boulder’s “hosting with heart” philosophy.
Understand Local Regulations
Short term rentals in Boulder follow specific rules and licensing requirements that are actively enforced. Homeowners should confirm their license is current, understand occupancy limits, and be prepared to collect and remit applicable taxes. It is also worth reviewing HOA guidelines, if applicable, and neighborhood considerations to avoid surprises. Taking care of these details early ensures a smooth, compliant rental experience.
For the Sundance Film Festival, Boulder has introduced a Festival Event License with specific parameters homeowners should understand:
- The license is limited to 29 days per year
- Any property ownership type is allowed to hold the license
- Non primary resident property owners are eligible, meaning properties do not need to be owner occupied
- A safety affidavit and local contact information are required
- Properties must comply with existing occupancy standards for safety
- Usage is limited to the period when the city issues the Festival Event License, plus 10 days before and nine days after official festival dates
- There is a $190 application fee, and the license remains valid for four years
- Annual recertification is not required
Understanding these guidelines upfront allows homeowners to plan confidently and take full advantage of the opportunity while staying fully compliant. Apply for your short term rental license here.
Price Strategically with Heart
Festival demand creates an opportunity for premium pricing, but Boulder continues to emphasize fairness and long term thinking. Competitive, guest conscious rates tend to drive stronger occupancy, better reviews, and repeat bookings. Consider tiered pricing for peak days, flexible minimum stays, and incentives for longer bookings. Thoughtful pricing not only maximizes income, it reinforces Boulder’s reputation as a welcoming, community minded destination.
Prepare Your Home to Truly Stand Out
Presentation goes beyond a clean space. Guests attending a major festival are looking for comfort, convenience, and a memorable stay.
Focus on:
- Comfort essentials: high quality linens, extra pillows, blackout shades, and reliable climate control
- Kitchen readiness: coffee setup, basic cooking supplies, and a few local touches such as snacks or a welcome bottle
- Work and recharge spaces: fast Wi Fi, a small desk or workspace, and comfortable seating
- Hotel level cleanliness: professional cleaning between stays is often expected at this price point
Professional photography, a well written listing, and clear, responsive communication will significantly impact both booking speed and nightly rate.
Plan for Logistics and Guest Experience
The behind the scenes details can make or break the experience for both you and your guests.
Consider:
- Check in and check out flow: smart locks or lockboxes for seamless, flexible arrival
- Parking clarity: clearly communicate available spaces and local restrictions
- House manual: Wi Fi info, appliance instructions, local recommendations, and emergency contacts
- Noise and neighbor awareness: set expectations early to protect relationships and avoid issues
Guests value ease. The more friction you remove, the better your reviews and your likelihood of repeat bookings.
Budget for Incidentals
Beyond the obvious, successful hosts plan for the smaller costs that add up:
- Restocking consumables such as toiletries, paper goods, coffee, and cleaning supplies
- Increased utility usage during peak occupancy
- Maintenance or last minute repairs
- Cleaning and turnover costs between guests
Building these into your pricing ensures your returns remain strong without cutting corners on the guest experience.
Consider Professional Management Support
For homeowners who prefer a more hands off approach, professional property managers can handle everything from marketing and pricing strategy to guest communication and turnover coordination. This can be especially valuable during a high demand event like Sundance, where timing and responsiveness directly impact revenue. Below is a list of property management companies that the city of Boulder has vetted and partnered with:
Fox Property Management
Email: info@foxpropertymgmt.com
Phone: 720-583-4369
Home Host Concierge
Email: Sundance@HHCTravel.com
Phone: 303-817-6668
SkyRun Vacation Rentals – Foothills
Email: foothills@skyrun.com
Phone: 720-330-3490
Kickback Properties
Email: info@kickback-properties.com
Phone: 504-232-4999
Luxury Home Rentals – No Public Listing
Visit Boulder has also partnered with VelareLX to provide premium home accommodations for VIP guests. VelareLX places visitors discreetly, through trusted industry relationships — not public listing sites.
VelareLX
Email: inquiries@velarelx.com
Phone: 983-213-2111
Quick Checklist for Short Term Renting During the Festival
- Secure your license and confirm compliance with local regulations
- Set a thoughtful, competitive pricing strategy
- Deep clean, declutter, and fully stock your home
- Invest in professional photography and a strong listing description
- Streamline check in, parking, and guest communication
- Plan for restocking, cleaning, and incidental costs
- Decide whether to self manage or partner with a professional
What This Means for Homeowners Right Now
For homeowners in Boulder, short term renting during the Sundance Film Festival represents a clear, time sensitive opportunity. Preparation is happening now, and those who are ready will be best positioned to capture peak demand.
Even if you are unsure about renting, understanding your options puts you in control. With the right approach, this moment offers not only immediate income potential, but also the chance to establish your home as a go to destination for future visitors.
The Sundance Film Festival is not just bringing visitors to Boulder. It is creating a defined opportunity for homeowners to generate income, build meaningful guest relationships, and contribute to the city’s welcoming reputation, proving that thoughtful hosting is both good for business and for the community.