Maximizing ROI: 3 Key Features to Focus on in Short-Term Rental Properties

Maximizing ROI: 3 Key Features to Focus on in Short-Term Rental Properties

Real Estate Broker 路 Bend, OR 路 Member since 2024 路 2 posts 路 2 votes

Hi everyone! 馃憢

I work with a lot of investors who are diving into short-term rentals, and I wanted to share a few tips I've picked up over the years that can really help maximize ROI. These are the top three features I always keep in mind when evaluating a potential property:

1锔忊儯 Location Matters: Properties near attractions, with great walkability, or offering something unique鈥攍ike a waterfront or mountain view鈥攖end to perform better. It鈥檚 all about what will draw guests in and make them choose your listing over others.

2锔忊儯 Standout Amenities: Rentals that offer something extra, like a hot tub, game room, or eye-catching design, often attract more bookings and higher rates. The little touches can make a big difference!  I have noticed that properties that allow pets in outdoor based communities perform great as well!

3锔忊儯 Local Regulations: Before you invest in a short-term rental, it's essential to understand the local rules and licensing requirements. Choosing an STR-friendly area can save you significant hassle and protect your investment in the long run. One key factor to confirm is whether the STR permit is transferable, as regulations can change. I've heard too many stories of investors purchasing homes for STR use, only to find that they lose their permit or the ability to transfer it when they sell. This can drastically reduce the property's value and cause unexpected headaches.

I鈥檓 curious鈥攚hat features do you prioritize when looking at short-term rentals? Are there any strategies you鈥檝e used to stand out in the market?

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!

- Alice

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Collin HaysBusiness Member
Property Manager 路 Gatlinburg, TN 路 Member since 2020 路 3k+ posts 路 4k+ votes
1y

The biggest key to a good ROI is getting a good deal when you buy. You can have a mansion fronting the Mediterranean, but if you pay too much for it, you're done.

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  • Investor 路 OR 路 Member since 2020 路 62 posts 路 32 votes
    1y
    Quote from @Alice Fairbairn:

    Hi everyone! 馃憢

    Good thoughts Alice. Where are most of the better STR returns in Central OR right now? Nd what housing is currently attracting the highest CoC and total returns potential - studio - 1bd, 2 - 4bd, or 5+bd? 
  • Collin HaysBusiness Member
    Property Manager 路 Gatlinburg, TN 路 Member since 2020 路 3k+ posts 路 4k+ votes
    1y

    The biggest key to a good ROI is getting a good deal when you buy. You can have a mansion fronting the Mediterranean, but if you pay too much for it, you're done.

  • Real Estate Agent 路 Tampa Florida 路 Member since 2013 路 630 posts 路 303 votes
    1y

    A couple of things I like to tell my newbies-

    Owning a short-term rental property can offer significant financial benefits. Firstly, it often generates higher rental income compared to long-term leases, particularly in desirable locations or during peak seasons. Secondly, short-term rentals provide flexibility for owners, allowing them to potentially use the property themselves when not rented out. This can be especially appealing for those who enjoy traveling or seeking occasional getaways. Finally, short-term rentals can offer potential tax advantages, as many expenses associated with the property may be deductible.

  • Andrew SteffensBusiness Member
    Tampa, FL 路 Member since 2022 路 3k+ posts 路 3k+ votes
    1y

    Having reasonable expectations, hiring a local professional (Realtor or PM), doing your research, and doing everything right (i.e. pro photos, professional design, good renovation, proper amenities and location, etc) are the keys to success in 2025.

  • Real Estate Agent 路 Emerald Coast, FL 路 Member since 2016 路 820 posts 路 486 votes
    1y
    Quote from @Tom Dieringer:
    Quote from @Alice Fairbairn:

    Hi everyone! 馃憢

    Good thoughts Alice. Where are most of the better STR returns in Central OR right now? Nd what housing is currently attracting the highest CoC and total returns potential - studio - 1bd, 2 - 4bd, or 5+bd? 

    Personally (as a STR-focused REALTOR), I would never give you numbers and tell you you can hit them. You'll have to run them yourself according to your goals, timeline, and financial situation. CoC can be easily manipulated, for example.

    A great REALTOR will help you gather rental history and the cost to own and show you good sites for pulling rental projections, but you will need to do your own calculations.

    Everyone's mileage varies.

  • Real Estate Agent 路 Long Island 路 Member since 2018 路 88 posts 路 38 votes
    1y

    Hi Alice, I think you brought up some great suggestions. Location and amenities are the two most important factors that bring potential renters to an STR. I will also strongly encourage accessibility for pets as well. I have an STR and previously did not allow pets on our property out of fear that they would destroy it. I was wrong. When I had to switch Property Management companies, they suggested that I do include pets in my rental listing. Just adding pets alone really helped boost renting. Fortunately, we have not had any issues on the property that were caused by any pet.

  • Drew SygitBusiness Member
    Property Manager 路 Royal Oak, MI 路 Member since 2012 路 12k+ posts 路 9k+ votes
    1y

    @Alice Fairbairn all that's great, but what about marketing?

  • Member since 2023 路 188 posts 路 111 votes
    1y
    Quote from @Collin Hays:

    The biggest key to a good ROI is getting a good deal when you buy. You can have a mansion fronting the Mediterranean, but if you pay too much for it, you're done.


    Can't agree this more. Real estates makes money when you purchase the property. Any location or decor can create a great ROI depends on the purchasing price.

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