possible vacation rental

[Alfonso Velazquez]

been a while since I posted something. I have a option one that I never really thought about until now, my family (meaning my mother father and i ) own an apartment in morocco and for 10 months out of the year it does nothing but sit there. now the apartment isn't In the tourist section but near the train that takes you to all those areas. 

I'm toying with the fact that I should work something out with my parents to where we can rent it out on airbnb. My concern is I don the know how everything works out there. Meaning how can I maintain the property from here in NY. 

Any advice on what steps I should take. And advice on how to manage a property and ocean ride away.?

As always Thanks 

[Account Closed]

Managing from a distance isn't as hard as you would think. It is very common. I do it. To get an idea search as if you wanted to go on vacation to the same spot on websites like VRBO and Homeaway as well. Look at similar listings see if they are professionally managed, how they do cleaning and stuff like that. Talk to a local realtor to find a local manager if needed. A conversation with a local vacation rental manager can be very educational. 

I highly HIGHLY recommend reading Christine Karpinski's book How to Rent Vacation Properties by Owner. It will put you ahead of most people. It is really step by step and covers the distance stuff. She even tells you what sheets to buy.

Also check out homeexchange. This might be a good place to start for getting the place for others to stay. Exchangers are less picky and won't freak out that they paid $300 a night and saw an ant on the table. I recommend only doing non-simultaneous exchanges. It is cleaner and easier. I bank a week at yours to use later and you at mine. In this process you can put together info and find a cleaner, and score some awesome travel!

I have regular rentals as well and it is surprising how different the game is. It really is a totally different business.