Smoky Mountain Vacation Rental

[John Craven]

Hello BP Members,

I hope everyone is staying safe, healthy and sane in these crazy times.  I am currently under contract on a vacation rental in the Smoky Mountains (approx. 10 min from Pigeon Forge), with a closing date set for the end of April.

My plan has been to move forward with the purchase despite the current environment. However, with Gov. Lee's decision this week to extend the 'safer at home' order through the end of April, I'm becoming hesitant to step in to a property that I can't use or rent when I take possession.

I have sufficient reserves set aside, and I am otherwise able to support the expenses of the property with my W2 income.  So, riding out a few months of no to low revenue wouldn't be a problem, but obviously would result in using up some of my reserves.

I'd like to get y'all's take on how you see the Smokies' vacation rentals doing over the next 3-6 months.  Any thoughts or insight would be much appreciated.