How to Know If a Vacation Rental Property Is Worth the Investment

Before buying a vacation rental property, you should have equity to put into the home. Are you dreaming of having a rental property but aren’t sure what to look for?

This article teaches exactly what you should look for to ensure the property will be an investment and not a flop. Read on to discover the secrets to homeownership on your future rental property and how to make sure it’s a profitable investment.

Is Buying a Rental Property a Good Investment?

While there are benefits to buying a rental property, there are cons. When you buy a rental property, you can customize it based on your preferences. You’ll also have the option to rent it out when you’re not there.

If it’s a popular destination, you could easily make a nice profit while also paying toward the monthly expenses. You might be able to get property tax and mortgage interest tax breaks. Speak with your accountant to see if you’d qualify.

Remember that since you’re the owner, if something breaks, you must fix it (or hire someone to). Real estate prices can go up and down, so depending on the location, it can be more difficult when you want to sell.

Along with paying the mortgage, you’ll also have to pay for utilities, insurance, property taxes, and other additional expenses. If you’re looking at one of the best places to buy a vacation rental property, while it might be beautiful there, your mortgage can be very expensive.

What’s Your Stage of Life?

Are you single? Do you have a partner? Do you have children? If you have children, you might want to consider the sell resale DVC (Disney Vacation Club).

This might be a great option if you and your family travel to your chosen location quite often. Consider why you’re considering buying a vacation rental property to narrow down your options.

Can You Rent Out the Property?

While you can rent out your rental property, keep in mind it can affect taxes. Certain rules must apply to get tax breaks. Your best option is to sit with your accountant about all potential taxes and tax breaks with a rental property.

You must report the sales on your tax returns when you have a rental property and make money off it. Any expenses can be deducted from that amount as well.

Where Is the Location?

When you decide on the location, make sure that it’s a place you and your family will want to travel to often. If you decide to rent it out, you’ll want to make sure it’s an appealing place for potential vacationers/renters.

Choosing a location you’re familiar with and enjoy is a good idea. If you rent it out, will the rental property only sell during certain times or year-round?

Insurance Needs to Be Factored In

If it’s an area that sees floods, you might be required to obtain flood insurance. Flood insurance can get quite pricey depending on the location. Insurance is there in case any damages happen to your property.

If you’re planning on renting the property, you’ll need to see what insurance you qualify for. You can consider business or commercial liability if that’s the case.

Things to Consider

If you don’t live close by to check on the property, you might need to pay for property management and other expenses. The property manager can take care of maintenance issues and guests’ problems.

Also, if you’ll be renting during the on-season, will you be able to lose that extra income you could be renting it out for? You’ll also want to make sure you can legally rent the property out in the area.

Keep in mind that vacation properties don’t always make a profit. Real estate can be a gamble since properties can depreciate over time. If this occurs, will you be financially stable?

Marketing Options

Before buying your property, you’ll want to ensure you can market the property well. You’ll need to consider what will attract potential visitors to your property.

Consider the cost and maintenance of a rental website, along with paying for ads on social media. Your property manager can also help with day-to-day tasks such as taking pictures, managing your website, etc.

The Potential of a Profit Over Time

Over time, especially in popular areas, you can see an increase in the value of your property. Right now, in the United States, the value of homes is increasing partially due to inflation.

Convenience

It’s a great way for you and your family to escape day-to-day life and relax at your rental property. It’s also an option for other friends and family to come and spend a trip with you.

There’s also the fact that it’s convenient to have your own home to stay away from your main home. No having to worry about finding a place that’s safe, clean, and meets your expectations. It’s a great place just to relax and unwind.

Exploring If Buying a Vacation Rental Property Is Right for You

Now that you’ve explored if buying a vacation rental property is right for you, you should be on your way to making a decision. Would you like to read more about traveling? Check out our other articles today for everything from finding travel deals to finding the best place to get a loan.


Diana Muniz
Diana Muniz

With over 20+ years of experience in a variety of corporate and entrepreneurial environments, Diana has developed a great understanding of Marketing Strategy, Brand Development, Customer Success, Public Relations and Management. Her internal drive for developing others and external brands, has allowed her to work in some of the largest cities in the world including Milan, Paris, NY, Mexico, and the Middle East. This experience has been fundamental to Diana’s success and ability to communicate cross-culturally.

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