Making offers on houses to use as Short-Term Rentals

[Amy McArthur]

I am looking for advice on making offers on houses to use as short-term rentals. I currently own 2 vacation rentals in the beach town in Florida where I live and have a good record regarding income and consistent 5-star reviews.

Now I want some properties in a college town where I have 2 sons in school. I’d like to rent them out on Airbnb throughout the year and also have as a place for my husband and I to stay when we visit. I am looking at a few houses that are listed on Craigslist as long-term rentals. Ideally, I’d love to buy them instead of rent them to re-rent (I would be completely upfront with the owner about my intent.). I am looking for advice on offers to make to the owners. I’d love to be able to rent-to-own if possible. I’ve never done that though. How can I make a rent-to-own offer that would be very appealing? And what approach should I take if they are not open to rent-to-own?