Buying A Short Term Rental Property? Here are 5 Things you Should Keep In Mind

Thinking about investing in a short-term rental property? While it can be a lucrative way to generate passive income and diversify your portfolio, there are a few key things you should consider before taking the plunge. In this article, we'll explore the top factors to consider before buying a short-term rental investment property, including location, property type, regulations, marketing and management, and financing options.

So, why invest in a short-term rental property? For starters, the demand for short-term rentals is on the rise. With more and more travelers opting for a more authentic and local experience, the market for short-term rentals is hot. And with the right property in the right location, you can generate a steady stream of passive income.

But before you start shopping for the perfect short-term rental property, it's important to do your research and understand the potential risks and rewards. Here are a few things to consider:

Location:

When it comes to investing in a short-term rental property, location is everything. The location of your property will largely determine the demand for your rental, as well as the price you can charge. Things to look for when deciding the location of your newest short term rental property include:

1. Proximity to attractions: Short-term rental properties that are located near popular tourist attractions, such as beaches, theme parks, and cultural landmarks, will generally have a higher demand and fetch a higher price.
2. Access to transportation: Properties that are located near airports, public transportation, and major roads will be more attractive to travelers, as they will have easier access to the rest of the city or region.
3. Desirability of the area: The overall safety and desirability of the area can also affect demand for your short-term rental. Properties located in desirable neighborhoods with low crime rates and plenty of amenities will generally have a higher demand and higher price point.

Property type:

Short-term rentals come in all shapes and sizes, from apartments and condos to houses and villas. Consider the following to decide the type of property that will best meet your investment goals.

1. Target market: The type of property you choose should be tailored to your target market. For example, if you are targeting families, a house with a yard and multiple bedrooms may be more appealing than a small studio apartment.
2. Maintenance and upkeep: Different types of properties require different levels of maintenance and upkeep. For example, a house may require more frequent maintenance and upkeep than a condo, which may have a homeowners association to handle these tasks.
3. Rental rate: The type of property you choose can also affect the rental rate you are able to charge. For example, a luxury villa may command a higher rental rate than a standard hotel room.

Regulations:

Short-term rentals are regulated by local laws and ordinances, so it's important to understand the rules and regulations in the area where you are buying a property. This may include the following:

1. Zoning laws: Short-term rentals may be subject to specific zoning laws that dictate where and how they can operate. For example, some areas may only allow short-term rentals in certain parts of the city or require that the owner reside on the property.
2. Occupancy limits: Many areas have occupancy limits that dictate how many people can stay in a short-term rental at one time. It's important to understand these limits and ensure that you are not exceeding them, as it can result in fines and penalties.
3. Licensing requirements: Depending on the area, short-term rentals may be required to have a special license or permit to operate. This may involve paying fees and meeting certain safety and maintenance standards.

Marketing and management:

Marketing and managing a short-term rental property requires a different set of skills than traditional property management. For some investors, it may make sense to hire a professional property manager. To make this decision, consider the following:

1. Marketing: Marketing is essential for attracting guests to your short-term rental. This may involve listing your property on popular vacation rental platforms, such as Airbnb or VRBO, and utilizing social media and other online marketing channels to reach a wider audience.
2. Property management: Property management is key to ensuring that your short-term rental runs smoothly and efficiently. This may involve tasks such as cleaning and maintenance, guest communication, and handling any issues that may arise.
3. Time and expertise: Marketing and managing a short-term rental property requires a different set of skills than traditional property management. If you do not have the time or expertise to handle these tasks yourself, it may be necessary to hire a professional property management company to handle these tasks on your behalf.

Financing:

Financing a short-term rental property may be different than traditional financing options, so it's important to understand your options and the costs involved. This may include traditional mortgage loans, short-term loans, or alternative financing options.. When financing your short term rental, keep the following in mind.

1. Funding the purchase: Financing can help you fund the purchase of your short-term rental property. This may involve securing a traditional mortgage loan or exploring alternative financing options, such as crowdfunding or peer-to-peer lending.
2. Operating costs: Short-term rentals come with a range of operating costs, including cleaning, maintenance, and marketing expenses. Financing can help you cover these costs and ensure that you have the funds to operate your property effectively.
3. Return on investment: By choosing the right financing option, you can maximize your return on investment and ensure that your short-term rental property is profitable. This may involve shopping around for the best rates and terms, or exploring alternative financing options that offer more favorable terms.

By considering all of these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether a short-term rental property is the right investment for you. With careful research and planning, a short-term rental property can be a lucrative and rewarding addition to your portfolio.