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All Forum Posts by: Melissa Wesling

Melissa Wesling has started 3 posts and replied 134 times.

Post: Buying STR in Poconos

Melissa WeslingPosted
  • Investor
  • Chicago, IL
  • Posts 148
  • Votes 97

@Gagandeep Singh There are definitely some great areas for STR near the Poconos. I can connect you with an agent who will help you analyze potential properties there. I'll send you a colleague request!

Post: Are any Positive Cash Flow STR still possible in FL, TN, GA

Melissa WeslingPosted
  • Investor
  • Chicago, IL
  • Posts 148
  • Votes 97
Originally posted by @Kyle Smith:

I guess what I meant to say is there are small pockets that are doing PF/Gat like numbers. The STR owners there haven't necessarily figured out what amenities make these successful. It won't be long before the knowledge from PF/Gat spreads that way.

Yes Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg definitely have figured it out already.  Branson's vibe is a little different than the Smokies, so each market provides a unique vacation experience. The folks around Table Rock Lake seem to have it all with both the nature amenity and entertainment nearby. 

Post: New Chicagoland Investor Looking to Connect

Melissa WeslingPosted
  • Investor
  • Chicago, IL
  • Posts 148
  • Votes 97

@Nicholas Kutsch Thank you so much :) Wishing success to you and all investors here on BP!

I would only shop in the areas where STRs are allowed.  Depending on the area, HOAs in general are tough because the by laws on rental minimums can change.  Be sure to work with a realtor who knows the short-term rental rules and regulations in the area.  You can also look on the city's government website (or call them) to find the short-term rental regulations/zones.  It is usually under "Planning or Zoning."  If a market already has some regulations in place, that can actually be a good thing because it means they've already evaluated the concerns and put some rules in place.  One important regulation to look for is if there is a cap on the number of short-term rentals in the area, find out how many permits are still available.  

Post: Are any Positive Cash Flow STR still possible in FL, TN, GA

Melissa WeslingPosted
  • Investor
  • Chicago, IL
  • Posts 148
  • Votes 97

It is frustrating for investors right now who are looking in markets with high demand and low inventory.  Have you looked at Branson, MO? This market has become very popular and is seeing positive cash flow. 

Post: calculating vacation rentals

Melissa WeslingPosted
  • Investor
  • Chicago, IL
  • Posts 148
  • Votes 97
Originally posted by @Lauren Kormylo:

I am not aware of any calculators that will allow you to put in your gross income month by month. You will have to use Luke's Enemy Method, where you analyze the competition, for that.  You have to add up the fluctuating 12 months and divide by 12 to get the average.  

As far as figuring out COC, etc., there are 2 sites that I use for calculators. Both are free, but you must sign up for accounts. First is Vrolio, a site where STRs are for sale. After making an account, hover over Learn at the top, then click Investment Analyzer.

Second is DealCheck.  This one doesn't have as many categories as Vrolio, but you can save your info on up to 15 properties.  I don't see how to do that on Vrolio.  https://dealcheck.io/

Thank you Lauren! Unfortunately the save function is not yet available on the Vrolio pro forma, but investors find that taking a screen shot of their spreadsheet is helpful. 

Post: minimum night strategy for STRs

Melissa WeslingPosted
  • Investor
  • Chicago, IL
  • Posts 148
  • Votes 97

Yes, I agree, check with the competition.  In my market, it is pretty standard to have a 7 night minimum throughout the summer high season and then we'll have a two or three night minimum depending on holidays, etc.

Post: New Chicagoland Investor Looking to Connect

Melissa WeslingPosted
  • Investor
  • Chicago, IL
  • Posts 148
  • Votes 97

Hi Nicholas! Thanks for connecting! 

Post: Reunion Orlando Owners

Melissa WeslingPosted
  • Investor
  • Chicago, IL
  • Posts 148
  • Votes 97

Hi Thomas! I'm not an owner here but have seen some recent numbers for potential vacation rental properties in this area and the projections are good! 5+ bedroom is a good choice as the Disney area draws in multigenerational guests. You can play around with pro forma tools to find your break even or estimated gross. Of course this will vary depending on the property.  I'll send you a colleague request in case you'd like more information! 

Post: Gulf Shores & Orange Beach STR

Melissa WeslingPosted
  • Investor
  • Chicago, IL
  • Posts 148
  • Votes 97

Gulf Shores, AL is pretty STR friendly. Their city government website has information on short-term rentals and how to register for rental licenses/permits.