Why Short-Term Rentals Are a Smart Play in Bergen County
Short-term rentals are one of the most attractive real estate investment strategies today. Unlike traditional rentals, they offer higher income potential and greater flexibility.
Bergen County, New Jersey, is uniquely positioned for this type of investing. With its close proximity to New York City, thriving tourism, and strong demand for temporary housing, investors can find solid opportunities here.
According to Tourism Economics, which is the state’s independent research partner, New Jersey Tourism visitors “increased more than 5% year-over-year in volume to 120.5 million from 2022’s level of 114.6 million visitors, registering 4% higher than the 2019 record level of 116.2 million.”
Bergen County benefits from this influx due to its location, attractions, and easy access to the city. This demand creates a consistent stream of guests seeking short-term accommodations.
Using Property Records to Identify Short-Term Rental Opportunities
Every successful investor knows that information is power. Property records are one of the most reliable ways to uncover investment opportunities. In Bergen County, these records are publicly available and include details on ownership, sales history, taxes, and assessed values.
By analyzing this data, investors can spot properties that are undervalued, in prime locations, or recently transferred and may be ripe for short-term rental use.
Here’s how property records can help you:
- Ownership details: Identify absentee owners who may be open to selling.
- Tax history: Spot distressed properties with unpaid taxes.
- Sales transactions: Track neighborhoods with frequent sales activity that may indicate growth.
- Assessed values: Compare property values to rental income potential.
Where to Access Bergen County Property Records
You can start at the Bergen County Clerk’s Office, which maintains property deeds, mortgages, and ownership transfers. The Bergen County Board of Taxation also provides access to tax records that reveal fiscal history.
For convenience, Bergen County offers an online property search portal, allowing investors to research from anywhere.
For a more streamlined process, investors often turn to real estate investing tools like DealMachine. With DealMachine, you can:
- Build targeted property lists.
- Access ownership and tax data instantly.
- Call owners directly using the built-in dialer.
- Send direct mail marketing to property leads.
These tools save time and give you an edge when searching for profitable short-term rentals.
Key Locations in Bergen County for Short-Term Rentals
Bergen County’s appeal goes beyond its proximity to New York City. The area offers historic sites, shopping destinations, and scenic outdoor attractions that draw visitors year-round. Properties near these attractions are more likely to stay occupied:
- Ridgewood: Known for its walkable downtown and vibrant dining scene.
- Fort Lee: Just across the George Washington Bridge, perfect for visitors commuting to Manhattan.
- Hackensack: A growing hub with shopping centers and healthcare facilities.
- Englewood: A cultural hotspot with theaters and arts venues.
Tourist demand and corporate travel both support high occupancy rates in these areas.
Short Term vs. Long Term Rentals in Bergen County
Investors often weigh the pros and cons of short-term versus long-term rentals. In Bergen County, both strategies can work, but short-term rentals often yield higher returns due to strong tourism and proximity to NYC. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Short Term Rentals:
- Higher nightly rates.
- Flexible use of property.
- Strong demand from tourists and business travelers.
Long Term Rentals:
- Consistent monthly income.
- Lower turnover and management needs.
- Tenant stability.
A balanced portfolio may include both, but if your goal is higher cash flow, short-term rentals often outperform.
How to Identify the Best Short-Term Rental Properties
When evaluating Bergen County properties for short-term rentals, focus on these factors:
- Proximity to attractions and transit: The closer to NYC or popular local sites, the better.
- Zoning and local regulations: Verify that the area allows short-term rentals.
- Property condition: Updated and furnished properties attract more bookings.
- Market data: Use platforms like AirDNA to check occupancy rates and average daily rates in the area.
By combining property record data with market insights, you can identify the highest-yielding opportunities.
Final Takeaway
Bergen County is one of the strongest markets for short-term rentals in New Jersey. With high demand from tourists and commuters, investors who use property records to find opportunities gain a real advantage. By focusing on ownership data, tax records, and prime locations, you can uncover properties that generate strong returns.
If you’re ready to take the next step, start by searching Bergen County property records online or through investing software. Pair this data with knowledge of local demand, and you’ll be on your way to building a profitable short-term rental portfolio.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are short-term rentals legal in Bergen County?
Regulations vary by township. Some areas allow them freely, while others may require permits or restrict stays under 30 days. Always check with local zoning offices before buying.
2. What is the average income potential for short-term rentals in Bergen County?
Income depends on location, property size, and amenities. Tools like AirDNA report that New Jersey short-term rentals can generate thousands per month, especially near NYC.
3. How do I find properties suitable for short-term rentals?
Start with property records to identify motivated sellers, then analyze location demand using short-term rental data platforms.
4. Should I work with a real estate agent to find short-term rentals?
Yes. A local agent with experience in investment properties can help you navigate zoning laws, pricing, and neighborhood demand.
