All Forum Posts by: Blair Russell

@Thomas Bouchereau I don't think anywhere in the Valley is going to be "too far" Vegas is not that big a place. :) 

I would look at the center of town though where you'll find some lower cost, little less stellar neighborhoods but that you wont feel scared walking through (depending on your stomach) Near Downtown, UNLV and east, and on the westside from Chinatown on...

It can be so specific to the property/location sometimes you have to go in depth. There's no real number one rule to vacation rentals except trust your gut with the renters, there is nothing worse than thinking someone was going to be an issue but taking them because of the money and then finding out it just wasn't worth it...learned that one the hard way multiple times.

@Aundrea Newbern Get a good person you can trust on the ground to handle turnover, cleaning, calls, and emergencies on a per rental basis. Normally someone who works a flexible job, or from home can fill this role.

Keyless entry is a must, and I would also suggest security systems and cameras if possible on the exterior. Sometimes all three of those can be integrated together if you choose the right system. 

Other than that just make sure you give people EXTREMELY detailed instructions for arrival and departure and on how to use everything (even things that seem self explanatory).

Best of luck! 

 @Micki M hit it on the head. I found someone with a very flexible schedule who wants extra work on the side, discussed what I could offer and then just let them know changeover days. It's quite simple if you find the right person. 

Keyless is the best! Lockboxes work but they are a hassle and a half. With keyless there are many types  out there but most allow you to change the code from you computer or smartphone, limit time, dates etc. Plus it means you don't need keys for the guest, cleaner, handyman, or whoever... and you can just add or remove people as you need to. You can also lock or unlock remotely. 

Outside of condos or apartments, I have to say it just doesn't work that way. Do you have any personal experience with Airbnb> 

 Check you exceptions! Umbrella policies can really screw you when it comes to exceptions. Look out for a "Commercial clause", I imagine something like that is in there. You may want to look into renter's insurance instead of a traditional policy.

The problem is like most new things people are getting it all wrong..."constant inflow of noisy people" As if all renters come into town music blaring, kids hanging out the window screaming, ready for a huge party. This is just not true, in fact that is the very very tiny exception - like airplane crashes and yet we still ride around in those things. Business travelers, tourists, families, couples, people traveling on a budget, snow birds, all kinds of people use Airbnb. 

Don't rent out your personal space if you're not comfortable with someone using you stuff (I don't rent out any spaces with personal stuff because, that's not in my comfort level). Do your due diligence, and it will be the same as a traditional rental. 

I don't know about you but if I had to deal with some loud person in the neighborhood I'd rather they be there for a week than have a 12 month lease or worse...own the place. 

I don't think it's all that weird, lots of middleman business do it, and in face I prefer it to the VRBO, FK system, because price wise for me, it's more practical, rather than paying for a service you might not actually use. I used to get one or two rentals a year on FK...

It's a lot of work in the beginning to do it well. But once it is up and running it can be a very easy and lucrative way to fill the space.  Make sure your location allows it,  Try not to get too  emotional, and lock up your valuables in a safe, and very important things in a safe deposit box.

I should be able to finally get to one!