All Forum Posts by: Lisa Graesser

I started one on WordPress but abandoned it, I found Houfy.com which is free for guests and owners, I can just add the link to inquiries where they can either book with credit card, check or venmo. This has eliminated my need for a website. I haven't gotten an organic booking off of Houfy yet because it is so new, but I refer all inquires there to book because it includes my rental agreement and payment options, so it has all I need outside of VRBO. I have never listed on Airbnb and I am so hesitant to do so because of all the negative owner responses. I do have an older rental audience so Zillow and VRBO seem to be the most comfortable for them. But I am tempted to list on Airbnb to see if I get any booking from there.

Since you posted in the short term forum, I'll assume you will rent short term. 

Are you buying it turn key, all furniture. If not depending on the size it will run you about $10,000-$20, 000 to furnish and stock with all essentials.  

Are you going to manage it yourself, paying a management company can cost 20-25% of income. 

Are utilities included, cable, internet, wifi, heat, a/c.

Ugh, It is so tempting, but good reminder. I hope this is all over soon, it's such a burden on so many. Stay Well everyone!

First off, I do allow dogs(max 2) and I do charge a non-refundable pet fee. In 5 years I have never had any damages as a result. Allowing pets, especially in an area like where you are, where guests often drive to the destination, is a big draw. 

You should make them aware that you know about the dog and send the guest a message, that states that you do not allow dogs, which was stated when they made the reservation and agreed to, and that you will be deducting the cost from the security deposit as stated in the agreement for omission of the house rules. 

I don't know what you security deposit is, but you may let them think they are getting away with a warning by charging them an amount less then the total security deposit, which may result in a favorable review, but definitely charge them something.

Read this before you buy a property, so you are prepared. Especially the info on start up costs and deductions. "Tax guide for short term rentals" by NOLO

@Nancy Bachety my rentals are in The Villages, there are no regulations against STR's, The Villages corp. promotes their own STR's to give people "The Villages experience". I don't foresee there being a change in that any time soon. I generally have 3-4 month stays Jan-April and then will accept rentals 3 days-1 month the rest of the year.

Zillow...I get the majority of my inquires from there. They only give you one listing for free now, with addition listings being 9.99/week. I just list one now and use it as a feeder for my other listings. I also list on Houfy.com which is a new, growing #bookdirect site.

Love your heading!! My pick is a vacation rental. I recently read NY'ers retire to Florida more than any other state(not any new news but..) cost of living, no state income tax, easy commute to large Hubs and cheaper flight costs. My rentals are in Central Florida about and 1 1/2 hr from either coast, but is a big draw for retirees and growing quickly. 1 hour from Disney and all the Orlando attractions. Enough to command year round interest. My area will not get you the return you will get from being on the coast, but I also do not have the worry of hurricaine damage or elevated insurance costs.  I look forward to someday making The Villages. FL my Retirement Home!

I pay per booking and catagorized it as commisions

@Collin H.   Hahaha...1st I've seen this. Well he definitely knows our song!