All Forum Posts by: Mark Futalan

@John D.

Haha. It’s probably far fetched but one can only hope that in time things may get to some sort of normalcy. Crossing our fingers. Hope you’ve been surviving this Covid storm.

@William Shropshire

It definitely picked up after the initial covid shock earlier this year but here in California, we have a stay at home order that went into effect in early December for a few weeks. I hear some people are still renting out during this time so I don’t know..

@Daniela Sangello

As you described, there are changes to the STR program here in La Quinta coming. What those will be remain to be seen but we should have a better idea what those look like in the next 2 months. A couple changes that are being proposed are density, occupancy changes, increase fines etc. With that said, there is a demand for seasonal, month to month rentals. Due to covid, monthly stays and longer term stays are in demand and we've incorporated that demand in our rental strategy approach. I would think that once things get back to normal, that demand would increase, as La Quinta has become a year round destination.

As soon as that order came out and it was confirmed by the city, we cancelled everything and provided guests full refunds. Didn’t think twice. Crazy how we’ve become numb to this kind of thing this year. The order is pretty clear. Now my family and I plan to use the place and get some much needed R&R. Helps that kids are off on winter break soon. So there are positives in it all and things could’ve been worse. We count our blessings each day.

@Jeff Purl

I wouldn’t say it provides extra income. I would say it broadens your rental pool as most guests like to travel as a family (including pets). This would be most beneficial for longer stay guests. Typically people charge $50-$100 per cleaning fee per stay. We personally don’t allow pets but have made exceptions for small ones in the past.

@Nicholas Aja

We only have outdoor cameras facing the driveway and a doorbell camera at the front door. These are common security items that most STR owners use to monitor/manage their properties remotely. We disclose this to our guests in our listing and don't have any problems. Most guest understand it. I would definitely shy away from invasive cameras like ones in the house or facing a pool area etc. Privacy is important for guests and they will let you know in your reviews! Best of luck.

Following this post. I invest close by but have been interested lately in buying acreage land with a tiny home near JT, Yucca Valley, 29 palms area. The privacy, off grid, natural setting near JT seems to be very popular right now for short term rental. Curious to know the logistics involved...utilities, cleaning, trash especially for those locations not easily accessible.

@Lorraine Patterson

I wouldn’t say it’s a deal breaker but your definitely limiting your rental pool if unable to rent under 30 days. We’ve utilized a hybrid approach of both short term and month to month. Both strategies have worked well for us especially with everything going on with the travel industry.

@Mark Pedroza

Yes I saw that. That will further complicate/strain the process. In any case, I’ll keep on trying. Looks like there won’t be any availability until at least early to mid next year!

@Andre M.

Nextdoor is pretty helpful as well as Yelp and referrals from other STR owners in the area.