All Forum Posts by: Matthew Coltrin

Interesting idea! Pre-marketing your listing with staged photos can help you build up wishlists, save spots on Airbnb, and even start collecting pre-bookings or interest through social media.

That said, a few things to consider:

Photos: If you’re doing a full shoot before moving in, make sure the place is staged exactly how it will look for guests, next year!  You will want the photos to match the future guest experience.

Storage: Think through where you’ll store the furniture while living there, especially if it's bulky or easily damaged.

Wear & Tear: If you'll be using any of the STR items while living there, try to keep them in like-new condition for the relaunch.

Soft Launch Options: You might also consider listing it as a “coming soon” or “launching [X month/year]” property on your website or Airbnb with blocked dates. Some hosts even collect emails from interested guests ahead of time.

 Hi Matthew! 

It's exciting that you and your wife are considering a blend of house hacking and short- to mid-term rentals (STR-MTR), especially as newcomers to both the area and real estate investing. This strategy can be a powerful way to offset your own housing costs while building equity and learning the ropes of property management. Since you're new, the first step is to nail down your financing options. For a primary residence, consider low down payment loans like FHA (3.5% down) or conventional loans (as low as 3% down for first-time buyers). These options can help you get started without tying up too much capital, especially important if you plan to make improvements or furnish for STR/MTR.

Next, get familiar with local zoning laws, HOA rules, and STR/MTR regulations in the area you're targeting—these can vary significantly by city and even by neighborhood. Some areas may prohibit STRs altogether or require specific licensing, while others may welcome them. Once you've narrowed down a target location, partner with a local real estate agent who understands investor-friendly properties and the nuances of STR/MTR regulations. This professional can also help you evaluate potential deals not just on purchase price, but also on projected rental income and occupancy trends.

When it comes to running your property, start thinking like a small hospitality operator. For STRs, platforms like Airbnb and VRBO can get you visibility quickly, but good photography, guest communication, and reviews are everything. For MTRs, especially in markets with a traveling nurse or corporate housing demand, websites like Furnished Finder can help. Set aside a realistic operating budget—furnishing, utilities, cleaning, and maintenance all add up. Start small, stay flexible, and treat your first property as both an investment and a learning experience. With time, you’ll refine your systems, understand what works in your market, and gain the confidence to scale.

Note: This information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, financial, or investment advice. No attorney-client, fiduciary, or professional relationship is established through this communication.

@Matthew Coltrin I love to hear that you have some personal connections to the areas you're targeting for your investment. I'm going to predict that the financial advisor is going to try to steer you away from real estate and towards stocks/bonds and other "market" investments. One of the great things about REI is that most of the financing is based on the cash flows of the properties rather than your personal income.

As for a fourplex in Branson, would something like this be of interest to you: 121 Toni Ln Unit 1-4, Branson, MO 65616?

Welcome @Matthew Coltrin!

One of the smartest early moves you can make is to connect with a real estate agent who’s also an investor in your target market. They’ve already vetted lenders, contractors, and property managers, and can help you avoid the usual beginner headaches.

In Branson, there aren’t many house-hack opportunities that are also vacation rental approved. However, there are some solid options for house-hacking residential properties as long-term rentals. I’m happy to share what’s working for me in Branson or point you in the right direction if you’re looking elsewhere. Just shoot me a message anytime.

Hi, @Matthew Coltrin!  

I think that is a great way to get started! I live in Utah. I wish I had started that way when I was newly married or when my kids were a lot younger! The first place my husband and I lived in (as renters) was a duplex. A few months after living there, we came home from vacation to find that the duplex was up for sale! We freaked out and quickly began searching for a new place to live (rent). If I had known what I know now, I would have found a way to buy that duplex and live in one half of it and rent out the other half. House hacking is the way to go! It also helps to pay the mortgage. If you are going to live in the 4-plex, you can get an FHA loan and you only need to put down around 3.5%. That makes it so much easier to get into a deal! Send me a message if you want to chat further.

Hey @Matthew Coltrin, welcome to the BP Forum! What is your price range/down payment amount? Are you looking for turn-key properties or something along the lines of a "fixer upper"?

do you have a personal connection (other than just living in UT) to any of the areas you're targeting (lived there before, have family/friends that live there now)?