How to calculate the real return on a Laurentides Airbnb chalet

Airbnb chalet profitability is measured across four metrics: gross revenue, net revenue after platform fees, cash-on-cash after mortgage, and break-even occupancy. Below the method applied to a $600,000 all-in Heritage chalet in Sainte-Adèle.

Step 1 — Gross annual revenue

Per AirDNA and partner data on 24 comparable chalets, a well-equipped 3-bedroom in Sainte-Adèle posts: ADR $320/night, occupancy 65%, so $320 × 365 × 65% = $75,920 gross lodging revenue.

Step 2 — Platform + tax deductions

• Airbnb host fee (3%): -$2,278
• Airbnb guest service fee (14.2%): excluded from the figure above
• Québec lodging tax (3.5%, collected by Airbnb): neutral
• GST/QST collected and remitted: neutral

Net platform revenue: $73,642.

Step 3 — Operating costs

• Cleanings (24 stays × $180): $4,320
• Electricity + heating: $4,800
• Internet + TV: $1,800
• Maintenance and repairs: $4,000
• Municipal + school taxes: $3,800
• Short-term-rental insurance: $2,400
• Concierge / self-managed: $0 (vs ~20% of gross if managed)

Total operating costs: $21,120. Net operating income: $52,522.

Step 4 — Real cash-on-cash

With 20% down ($120,000) and a $480,000 mortgage at 5.4% over 25 years ($29,760/yr debt service), post-debt cash flow = $52,522 - $29,760 = $22,762. Cash-on-cash $22,762 / $120,000 = 19.0%. Add the chalet's appreciation (Laurentides historical 4–6%/yr) and principal pay-down (~$8,500 year-1).

When does the investment turn negative?

Break-even occupancy (cash flow zero) sits at 47% at $320 ADR — 24% below the observed Sainte-Adèle median occupancy. Comfortable margin of safety.