Short Term rentals, Airbnb or VRBO, at Lakes north Houston

[Robert Youngquist]

I have SFR on Lake Livingston outside of Huntsville, TX. This would be a great lake house to just enjoy for us and any family. I was looking on the short term rental sites and see a few rentals in the area. Anyone have experience with short term rentals at Texas lakes? Right now the how needs about 20k in rehab and is just sitting vacant. I'm thinking if we can get ready for summer and see how it works?? We can get $1000 to $1200 p/month rent, but if I can get close to $12k a year from short term then I cover any expense from refi, recoup my investment and have a lake house to visit when not occupied or just when we block it (is that a thing?? Just considering the short term rentals)

[Brian Nel]

The upside to STR is higher income potential and yes you can block time for personal use. Check to ensure there are no regulations in your area that preclude STR. The laws are changing all the time.

Be aware as well that STR has a significantly larger "hospitality" component than long term rentals. Some guests will expect niceties as if they're staying in a four star hotel and rate you poorly when you can't or are unwilling to provide. You will also need to coordinate or automate the check in/out and turnover process.