Narrowed it down to Joshua Tree/Yucca Valley/29 Palms area

[Daksh Raheja]

Hi,

We are planning to get our first STR and have narrowed it down to high desert area as it will be close enough for us to manage by ourselves.

I am looking for any inputs from current or aspiring STR owners in the area for the insight on how is the market these days? Are there a lot of vacancies. While doing the research I have seen most of the properties have all the dates open, which doesn't bode well. Are the rentals booked last minute in the area? ADRs are also compressing it seems from the data.

Which cities are best to deal with when it comes to STR rules and regulations? Should I be staying away from certain arears?

Also looking for a local realtor who has dealt with STRs in the area or have current STRs? Any and all help is appreciated.

It is scary to get into this without knowing if it would be a good investment, but I want to jump right in now as I have had analysis paralysis for almost 5 years.

Thanks,

Daksh