How to find an existing rental property to purchase?

[John Williams]

I'm interested in buying a waterfront property at a nearby lake so I can stay there a few weeks a year and rent it out (short-term) for the rest of the year.

Lots of homes on this lake don't allow short-term rentals, so ideally, I'd like to find a home which is already being used as a vacation rental. But how can I go about making an offer on these properties when they're not on the market? Any suggestions? Should I just consider reaching out to the owner directly to inquire about whether they're interested in selling?

[Collin Hays]

Do it the old fashioned way: Go online at the local tax authority website, copy down names and addresses of homes you are interested in, and snail mail a personal letter stating your interest. I bought my first STR this way. I wanted a creek/river front cabin and all the realtors basically laughed and said "you and everyone else" and blew me off.

No one is as concerned about your investment as you.  Take control and get what you want.  You don’t need anyone’s help.  Good luck.