STR Markets based around college sports?

Question

Does anyone have any successful STRs in college football/sports towns? I've always been curious about a few markets, but I figured the vacancy might cause some issues. I would assume an STR mixed with an MTR strategy is the best move for something like this. Thoughts?

Andrew Steffens · Answer

Not quite the same but I manage some by USF in Tampa which is about 30 mins north of downtown Tampa.  It is HQ of Moffitt and also a big VA hospital and also has Busch Gardens.  It does well as it attracts medical, academic, athletic, and entertainment.

Michael Baum · Answer

Hey @Garrett Brown, there is a lot of opportunity in college towns. Especially in addition to sports stays.

A lot of universities have teaching hospitals so you could attract MT stays from visiting faculty or specialists.

Jon Martin · Answer

I'm a big fan of college towns and mid-size cities. They tend to attract big companies, hospitable systems, cool downtowns with good restaurants, lots of events, and are usually a 1-2 hour drive from a major metro and airport. Many are also underserved by hotels. While I wouldn't center a STR around 5 home games in the fall and a graduation, there is usually a lot more going on in these types of towns to keep it busy. I grew up in a major football town, and a close family friend rents his personal home out for $3K a weekend.

While many were clawing over the Smokies, Joshua Tree etc and saying that you should only invest in vacation destinations I was quietly investing in a midsize city and enjoy great occupancy 10.5-11 months of the year. The high season highs aren't nearly as high, but the income is steady and reliable, and you also have more exit/pivot options.

Jorge Vazquez · Answer

Hi Garrett, The area around the old University Mall in Tampa is a bit of a hidden gem, with a lot of exciting transformations happening. I’ve been managing and investing in properties here for over 20 years, and I recently sold an apartment complex I flipped for $1M. When it comes to college towns, I’ve found a mix of STR and MTR strategies works best. Sports seasons and university events can drive STR bookings, while MTRs help cover the slower times. It’s all about timing, but if you nail it, the returns can be solid. Happy to share more if you're interested!

KiKi Chase · Answer

I think this could be great!! I would make sure you really lean into a theme if you're going to do it, because that is what is going to attract guests. I would also make sure you get professional photos that showcase your property and its amenities. Best of luck, I bet it would be great!

Eli Kantor · Answer

Hey Garrett! I have experience with STRs in a college town. The issue with this kind of market is that it is very seasonal. With that in mind, a sports-centered college town potentially presents a good opportunity as the school will often have visitors attending games who need places to stay. However, when picking a market it is important to choose one that isn't totally dead in the slow months. I think the idea of an STR/MTR hybrid is great!

STR Markets based around college sports?

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