All Forum Posts by: Denise H.

I'm clearly the odd duck here, we own a STR that we have managed (for 30%), and are very happy with the arrangement. Our manager is amazing, keeps our rental booked year round, and I never have to do a thing. It works for us because we found a property where once we retire we want to spend a lot of time, we enjoy occasional use now, and we turn a small profit each year. Where we have gotten very lucky is that the property has gone up in value drastically since we bought it 2 years ago. I don't really expect it to last, it's California real estate so I'm aware we could be in a bit of a bubble but I know long term it will only go up. Good luck, it can certainly be done, especially if you aren't looking for huge profits.

We pay 30%, we could obviously be doing much better on our own but I don't have the time nor do I want to deal with the headaches. Our management company is amazing, handles absolutely everything, and we are booked almost 100% of the time. 

Big Bear City is making it very difficult to operate without a property manager. I believe you are required to have in-person check-in, must respond by phone call with any complaints/concerns within 15 minutes and in person within 30 minutes If I'm reading this correctly. I would proceed with caution. 

https://citybigbearlake.com/im...

I know this thread is a little old but thought I would chime in on San Clemente. I live here and it's great but I would be very cautious trying to purchase a STR here. The residents have been really pressuring the city to outlaw them completely, as it is the area where they are allowed is pretty small and would be pretty pricey. Here is a map:

https://sanclementeca.maps.arc...

I feel like Oceanside might be worth looking into. Coastal, between San Diego and LA, so much to do within an easy drive.

Good luck!

We've been booked solid since we were able to rent again. 

I agree with Camille, I think it is very important that everything gets washed between guests. I am not a germaphobe by any means but I get really grossed out by bedspreads and comforters that I think have not been washed. 

We have several sets of Ikea duvet covers that are very inexpensive but actually look quite nice. The cleaners swap them out and then bring the laundry home to do later, makes the cleaning process pretty quick on same-day turnovers. 

I think Ken has great advice on how to respond but I agree with Brook that duvets should be cleaned between each guest, especially in the current environment. 

One more thing, a huge hurdle for us has been insurance. We are only able to be covered under California Fair Plan and it's pretty limited what they will cover and very expensive. 

We have a STR in Lake Arrowhead, we've owned it about a year and a half and have been very pleasantly surprised with the occupancy. I would guess we are at about 90% with almost 100% of weekends booked. Covid has slowed us down considerably but we are seeing bookings pick back up. The only thing to keep in mind in Big Bear is I do believe you need face to face check in. Good luck!