All Forum Posts by: Andrew Street

Hey there William - The 14-day personal use requirement applies as long as the loan is classified as a vacation home. Paying down 20% of the principal doesn’t change that—it would still be subject to the original terms. If you want to remove that requirement, you’d need to refinance into a different loan type, like an investment property loan.

Hope that helps!

Hey there Josh - That sounds frustrating! Allowing pets definitely brings in more bookings, but some guests don’t manage them well. Adding a rule that pets can’t be left unattended is a great idea—it helps minimize damage and keeps things cleaner. Some hosts also require pets to be crated if left alone. You might also consider an additional pet deposit or a stricter cleaning fee for excessive mess. Hopefully, this was just a one-off, but setting clear expectations upfront should help!

Hey Pooja - It sounds like you’re handling this situation well by trying to balance your tenants’ concerns with your need to find a new renter. Since your lease allows showings, you have the right to proceed, but keeping things amicable is always best. You might try scheduling as many showings as possible before or after their trip to work around their availability. Another option is to record a video tour before they leave so potential tenants can get a good look without needing to visit in person. If in-person showings are necessary, reassure them that everything will be scheduled in advance and that their belongings will be respected. If they continue to push back, you can gently remind them of the lease terms and try to find a reasonable compromise before taking any further steps. A little flexibility on both sides can go a long way in keeping things smooth.

Hey Todd - Buying an STR in Maui can be a great investment, but there are a few key things to keep in mind. Strict zoning laws mean only certain properties are eligible for short-term rentals, so check local regulations carefully. The market is competitive, with high prices but strong demand for well-located properties, especially oceanfront or resort-zoned areas. Factor in high operating costs like property management, maintenance, and taxes. If you're financing, expect stricter lending requirements. Overall, Maui can be a solid STR market if you do your homework and run the numbers carefully!

Hey Anthony - That's awesome you're getting started! One thing I wish I knew early on is to always run the numbers conservatively—unexpected costs will come up. Also, building a solid local team (agent, lender, contractor) makes a huge difference. Since you're using a VA loan, take full advantage of the zero down, but keep in mind that some properties might not qualify due to condition. If you're thinking about house hacking, it's a great way to cut living costs and start building wealth. Most importantly, focus on long-term appreciation and cash flow, not just getting in fast. Excited for you!

Hey Hailey - I hear you—analysis paralysis is real! If your goal is long-term appreciation and you see yourself moving back to WA, it could be worth the higher upfront investment. But if getting started sooner and building momentum is important, Chattanooga/Nashville might make more sense. A solid local cash-flowing property could help you scale faster, making it easier to buy in WA later. Maybe start where it’s easier, then pivot when you have more capital? Either way, you’re making a smart move—just pick a lane and go for it!

Hey Josh - It really depends on your guests, but a lot of people prefer seeing an all-in price upfront instead of getting hit with extra fees at checkout. Simplified pricing can make your listing more appealing and might help with bookings. That said, if most hosts in your area are still using the standard model, your price could look higher in search results. Might be worth testing to see if it makes a difference! Have you noticed any changes since switching?

Hey there Kyle - You’re definitely not alone! I’ve been there too, researching everything but not actually pulling the trigger. What helped me was setting a deadline and reminding myself that no deal is perfect, just good enough to move forward. At some point, you just have to take the leap and figure things out as you go. You got this!

Hey Kenzer! Renovating an Airbnb kitchen is always a balancing act between cost and impact. Butcher block looks great and adds warmth, but it does require regular maintenance. If your current countertops are in good shape, a simple refresh might be the more budget-friendly option. 

Guests usually care more about cleanliness and functionality than specific materials. That said, if the aesthetic upgrade aligns with your brand and can justify the cost, it could be worth considering. Happy to connect!

Hey there Tom - For temporary co-hosting, you can hire a local co-host, use a professional co-hosting service, or find a virtual assistant who knows OwnerRez. For backup planning, designate someone to manage your STR, document everything they'd need to know, and include it in your estate plan. You might also consider a property management company as a fallback. Have you thought about who could step in for you?