Looking for Seasonal Rental Advice

[Susan Kelly]

Hello all. This is my first post. I jumped into a 3BR 2 bath fixer-upper in Cape Coral in initially thinking I would flip it. And then I discovered BP, and the BRRR strategy. So, now I think I'd like to do a seasonal rental for a few years to pay the expenses. I am in the throes of demo, and just starting to put it back together, but am wondering what tenants want (I do have a dock. I don't have a pool), and at what point should I start advertising for this next upcoming winter? Does anyone know of a realtor in the Cape Coral area that would be willing to give me some advice?

[Peter Davis]

Hi Susan,

Congrats on the flip turned rental.  It wouldn't hurt to start advertising it now and explain it'll be available for sometime in the coming months when you've completed the rehab.  If you go the seasonal route there are renters who are already looking for next winter due to the high demand for seasonal rentals.  Having a pool is must for many seasonal renters but you're looking at a minimum $35-$40K with a pool cage and that might not pay for itself.  But if you're on a canal that may suffice for a number of potential renters.  If you need a recommendation for a property manager, let me know; I have one that's good and reasonably priced.

Good luck with the rehab!