Thinking about turning your property in Muskoka, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Blue Mountain, Prince Edward County, or the Kawarthas into a short-term rental? These destinations are among Ontario’s top vacation spots, drawing thousands of visitors every year.

While Airbnb hosting in these high-demand areas can be incredibly profitable, many property owners underestimate the hidden costs that come with running a vacation rental. From cleaning fees and guest damages to seasonal demand fluctuations, these expenses can cut into your profits if you’re not prepared. However, with the right strategies—and the right Airbnb property management service—you can maximize your earnings while reducing hassle.

5 Hidden Costs of Running an Airbnb in Ontario & How to Reduce Them

1. Cleaning & Turnover Costs 🧼

The Reality: In high-turnover vacation spots like Niagara-on-the-Lake and Prince Edward County, your property must be deep cleaned and reset after every checkout. Cleaning fees in popular tourist destinations can range from $100–$300 per turnover.

How to Reduce Costs:
✅ Charge a cleaning fee so guests cover the cost.
✅ Work with a short-term rental management company that negotiates lower cleaning rates with trusted professionals.

2. Maintenance & Unexpected Repairs 🔧

The Reality: In seasonal destinations like Muskoka, Blue Mountain, and the Kawarthas, properties endure harsh weather conditions that can lead to costly repairs—from winter pipe bursts to summer wear and tear.

How to Protect Your Investment:
✅ Schedule regular inspections to catch small issues before they become major expenses.
✅ Partner with a vacation rental management service that handles emergency repairs and routine maintenance at discounted rates.

3. Guest Damages & Airbnb Reimbursement Delays 💰

The Reality: Accidental spills, broken decor, and missing items are common in busy rentals. While Airbnb provides AirCover for hosts, claiming reimbursements can take weeks—or get denied entirely.

How to Avoid Out-of-Pocket Costs:
✅ Use smart home technology (e.g., noise monitors, security cameras) to prevent damage before it happens.
✅ Work with an Airbnb property management company that handles guest damages and reimbursement claims for you.

4. Seasonal Income Fluctuations 📉

The Reality: Many property owners overestimate their annual revenue by only looking at peak-season earnings. In Muskoka and the Kawarthas, demand drops in winter, while Niagara and Prince Edward County see fewer visitors outside of wine and festival seasons.

How to Maintain Steady Income Year-Round:
✅ Use dynamic pricing software to adjust rates based on demand.
✅ Offer long-term stays or off-season discounts to attract snowbirds, business travelers, or remote workers.
✅ List your property on multiple platforms (Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com) to increase visibility and occupancy rates.

5. The True Cost of Self-Managing an Airbnb ⏳

The Reality: Managing an Airbnb is a full-time job. Answering guest inquiries, coordinating cleaners, scheduling maintenance, and optimizing pricing can take 15+ hours per week.

How to Earn More While Doing Less:
✅ Hire an Airbnb property management company to handle everything for you—guest communication, bookings, maintenance, and revenue optimization.

Maximize Your Airbnb Profits With Sora Stays

At Sora Stays, we provide full-service Airbnb property management across Ontario’s top vacation destinations, helping property owners increase bookings, reduce expenses, and maximize revenue—without the stress.

✔ Professional listing creation & pricing optimization
✔ 24/7 guest communication & booking management
✔ Cleaner coordination & maintenance support
✔ Airbnb Superhost-level guest experience services