I am looking to buy a property out of state and run it as an Airbnb assuming the financials make sense (Poconos Mountains Area). Does anyone know if there are typically local Real Estate agents that specialize in helping to find these types of properties?
@Aaron Kerzner yes there are plenty of agents that can help you find these properties. I've commented on a few threads with some best practices on airbnb in the Poconos:
https://www.biggerpockets.com/topics/977087
https://www.biggerpockets.com/topics/912864
https://www.biggerpockets.com/topics/854243
https://www.biggerpockets.com/topics/971711
Where out of state are you located?
Maybe you can give us some insight on your budget and what you're expecting out of this investment?
@Aaron Kerzner yes there are plenty of agents that can help you find these properties. I've commented on a few threads with some best practices on airbnb in the Poconos:
@Aaron Kerzner FL is great for STRs. Is there a reason you'd be looking hundreds of miles away in the Poconos instead of closer to your current area? I do know that the barrier of entry may be lower in PA, however, that also comes with lower overall occupancy and revenues.
the area is a few hours drive from family and we take road trips into the mountains a couple of times per year. It’ll serve two purposes-income and a getaway for my family
I have a very portable job if I need to stay in the local area to get everything set up
@Aaron Kerzner got it! I figured it was something of that nature. I'd say look over those posts and you'll have some direction in starting. Also, consider properties with a bit of work needed so you can get in at a lower price point since everything right now in thr Poconos is way overpriced
Hey Aaron! We've used the realtors at Vrolio before and I have to say they are the most knowledgeable about STRs. Especially in Florida. Its very rare to find a realtor that knows the short term rental market and how to buy a profitable one. Good luck!
Correct me if I'm wrong @Luke Carl, but I think when you're managing a business of that size you don't really have time to write in-depth forum posts on BP. While it may have come off the wrong way to you @Rebekah Hitt, the advice is legit. People waste a lot of time and money on STR courses from "gurus" when they could find answers to 99% of questions right here in the forums.
@Aaron Kerzner to answer your original question, it shouldn't be too hard to find realtors with local knowledge of the STR market. That's just the tip of the iceberg, as post-acquisition you'll also need a solid photographer, handyman, cleaning crew, and pricing tool/PMS or property manager depending on how you want to manage the property. Good luck in your quest and DM me if you have any questions!