Looking at purchasing a STR in Big Bear, CA

[Joshua D.]

Hello Everyone,

I'm brand new to investing in real estate, or at least, buying a property strictly as an investment. Just last month I bought my first home, which I'll actually get to move in March here in LA.

I'm not brand new to running a business.. I own a small business here in Los Angeles, and we do pretty well.

I'm familiar with the process of buying (especially in high competition area's - like here in LA)..

Now, I'm eyeing another purchase in Big bear, and running it as a short term rental. But I have my doubts..

I wanted to hear from perhaps some folks/investors/brokers/prop managers whom may have a STR in Big bear, and have an idea of what it's like during the summer/spring months.. and can give me some pointers or list of things I may run into..

Have been looking at a few properties on the market single family cabins, 1000-1400sqft ($400-$600K) Probably will put 20-25% depending on what the lender will require.. (Properties I genuinely really like and are ready to go - less of fixer opportunity, etc.)

I personally would be happy with breaking even, as I need the depreciation to offset tax burdens from other business.. I guess where my concern lies, is that I'm going to buy one of these places and sit dead in the water for the next 4-6 months.. Or spend, every weekend in big bear trying to fix an issue..

Does anyone have any thoughts/comments/, or links to more information.. Also, if someone has a realtor who's familiar with the area that would be helpful as well..

Thanks,

Josh