All Forum Posts by: Ruth Blue

@Bree Happ

We have vacation rentals. We have had our HVAC contractor recommend and install. Honeywell thermostats. It has a max high and max low lockable with password. We had to install these in a few cabins because when its was really hot the guests would lock up our ac units turning temps to 60. It has been great.

@Dan A.

We work with Debbie Hill here in Pigeon Forge, TN and she has a program where they use STR income. There are requirements and restrictions. We have used the program twice and I believe your required to have 2 years investor history.

@Jason Muth

We are about 15% increase for income over last year so far on our personal cabins and ones we manage for other owners. Everyone is ready to get out of the house and come to the Smoky Mtns. Especially after they announced Dollywood is open Jun 15th! Plus the new wster park announced to open mid July. I hope it does.

@Mindy Jensen

BP reviews sounds interesting.

How local would you go and how would the list of companies/ products/ services reviewed be fair. There is potential for some venders agencies to take advantage.

A review system where 3 or 4 like items reviewed with comparables could be interesting.

We did have a client who welcomed the bookings that were already set for the winter months. NOV and Dec. It was negotiated between seller and buyer that the seller kept their listing active and managed it for the last 2 months and added the buyer on as cohost to view the transactions. It was not the preferred method but because they both communicated well it worked and all the guests went through the holiday season not knowing any different and not having an issue. Then during the process the buyer learned the online booking system and had the new listing up and running from January onward. Only time this was done. Usually bookings are canceled due to sell and the guests are referred to new listing. 

HI Benjamin

There is a ton of misinformation in this thread. Seems to be so much anger with some investors towards other Investors who are just seeking a little help! Asking a few questions!  Bigger Pockets started with the idea for investors to have a safe space to ask questions. My mom @Rhonda Blue Self Manages her 5 cabins and we partnered on her sixth, my first! 

Property Management companies in this area charge anywhere from 10%  to 40% full service. Be sure to ask what all is included and covered? 

Most investors who do use Property Management companies have taken to doing it on the down low because of all the harassment that is tossed around on these forums. Self managing is a great option but not the only option! Keep asking questions and be sure to use all of BP to private message people you read about who do courageously post even though the negative comments are so toxic. 

This is a beautiful part of the country and there are some absolutely awesome investors who do business here! As well as Some excellent property management teams! 

@Beth Matherne

I would go with your gut and make sure you have all your insurance in place. See if there are any restrictions or licenses required. If it doesnt work out it is not to hard to bring in new management.

@Ben Pierce

Have you thought about the area in Sevierville, TN. There are so many options available for long term rentals and short term rentals. For a house hack definitely a buy low market definitely research and visit potential areas. Some areas will be more fun then others.

@John C.

Florida is known for 3 to 6 month leases. Snowbirds who come down from MA or VT or CT. I know I had an aunt who would rent the same STR villa every year. She never used a service but dealt directly with the owners.

Some people are definitely getting scammed over facebook so please be careful.

@Kerrie Dare

I love Huntsville, AL. I was born there and have family there. My Mom @Rhonda Blue has 4 rentals there also. She uses Carolyn Dietrich as her PM and they have been totally great.