Best places to invest in the Lake of the OZarks for STR's.

[Eric Ullmann]

I have been getting some conflicting information and hoping someone in the group has some insights. I have been looking in Osage Beach, Mo and Lake Ozark,Mo becuase I was told that Sunrise Beach, MO while it will rent it would not rent that much. However, when I look at Airdna the data shows it will. I know Airdna is just a data scrape so want to know from the group if Sunrise Beach, Mo would still be a good area. I do know it is primarily a VRBO market in LOZ.

[Travis Timmons]

Occupancy rates on services like AirDNA, etc. will be inflated. Many listings are shut down/blocked off in January and February, and are counted as booked days on occupancy rates. I have loads of family in the area, grew up going there, and kicked the tires on that market myself. You are correct - It's a VRBO market primarily. As I've mentioned in our prior dialogue, my cousin runs a 20-something cabin resort there, and he was told that Airbnb is a liberal company that folks there don't want to support. Your guests will also have strong opinions on the latest Bud Light marketing and advertising activity. So there's that. 

March and April have big fishing weekends and competitions, so factor that in to your location. Anything to try to get a second peak season in the spring or fall will feel like free money. The reason why I ultimately chose a different market is because there wasn't enough of a second season outside of the summer. You can certainly do well there, though. As mentioned above, get as many bedrooms as you can for your budget. It's the same amount of work for you as a host whether you are hosting a group of 2 or a group of 12.