Question 1

How many Airbnb and VRBO listings are in Damascus?

Accepted Answer

Over the 12 months ending September 2026, the Damascus market averaged 1,217 active Airbnb and VRBO listings, up 8% from a year earlier and up 58% over two years.

Question 2

How much do Airbnbs and VRBOs make in Damascus?

Accepted Answer

An average Damascus listing earns $24K/year. High-performing listings earn $51K, while low-performing listings earn $9K.

Question 3

How much does it cost to buy an Airbnb or VRBO property in Damascus?

Accepted Answer

Median Damascus home prices by size are 1-bedroom $111K, 2-bedroom $137K, 3-bedroom $204K, and 4+ bedroom $275K.

Question 4

What is the occupancy rate for Airbnb and VRBO in Damascus?

Accepted Answer

Average occupancy in Damascus is 29%, producing RevPAR of $51 per available night.

Question 5

Are short-term rentals legal in Damascus?

Accepted Answer

Rules vary across Damascus. Damascus, VA: Lenient. No specific STR regulations or permit requirements. Operates under general zoning. Minimal enforcement.
Abingdon, VA: Lenient. No dedicated STR ordinance. Business license recommended. Light enforcement, mostly complaint-driven.
Bristol, VA/TN: Moderate. Business license required, zoning compliance needed. Some enforcement through complaints and tax collection.
Boone, NC: Moderate. Occupancy tax registration mandatory, zoning rules apply, parking requirements. Moderate enforcement focused on tax compliance and neighbor complaints. Verify requirements for the property's jurisdiction.

Question 6

Is the Damascus Airbnb and VRBO market oversaturated?

Accepted Answer

The Damascus Airbnb and VRBO market is becoming more competitive. Supply has grown 8% year-over-year, while RevPAR has decreased 2%, suggesting supply is outpacing demand.

Question 7

When is peak season for Airbnbs and VRBOs in Damascus?

Accepted Answer

RevPAR is highest in July and September; it is lowest in January and February.

Question 8

Which Airbnb and VRBO amenities matter most in Damascus?

Accepted Answer

The most common amenities are Air Conditioning (98%), Heating (97%), Kitchen (97%). The strongest positive revenue associations are Lake Access (+45%), Hot Tub (+43%), Washing Machine (+35%).

Question 9

What is the average nightly rate for Airbnbs and VRBOs in Damascus?

Accepted Answer

Average daily rate in Damascus is $205, up 17% year-over-year. Rates peak in September and are lowest in January.

Question 10

How far in advance do guests book Airbnb and VRBO stays in Damascus?

Accepted Answer

Guests in Damascus book an average of 31 days in advance. Booking windows range from 29 days for 2-bedroom listings to 37 days for 4+ bedroom listings.

Question 11

Which days of the week perform best for Airbnbs and VRBOs in Damascus?

Accepted Answer

Booking demand is highest on Saturday and lowest on Tuesday. Nightly rates peak on Friday and are lowest on Tuesday. Weekend occupancy is 70% higher than weekday occupancy.

Question 12

How is gross yield calculated?

Accepted Answer

For each eligible home, annual room-revenue potential is divided by a ZIP- and bedroom-matched home-value estimate. Groups show the median of those yields. Cleaning income is excluded. Gross yield is before expenses and financing.

Neighborhood	Revenue (potential)	Gross yield
1.Marion & Smyth Valleys	$27.1K 20 listings	19.3% 20 listings
2.Damascus & Laurel Valleys	$29.5K 40 listings	14.6% 40 listings
3.Galax & New River Country	$24.1K 37 listings	14.3% 37 listings
4.Abingdon & Washington Valley	$27.6K 62 listings	12.6% 62 listings
5.Bristol & Surrounds	$26.1K 109 listings	11.6% 109 listings
6.Western Grayson & Highlands	$22.5K 30 listings	11.1% 30 listings