All Forum Posts by: Ravi Ramu

I'm currently dealing with an issue regarding my STR permit in Tobyhanna Township. I've obtained all the necessary clearances except for the septic system. Although I conducted a basic septic inspection during the closing, and the system is in good working condition, it still failed the STR inspection. As a result, I had to move forward with a septic replacement. Unfortunately, the septic company is taking their time, and I'm still waiting for the replacement to be completed. Hopefully, this will be resolved soon, and I can get the permit. If the permit wasn't required, I wouldn't have pursued the replacement at this time. In short, securing an STR permit isn't easy unless you fulfill all the township's requirements

I used CrossCountry Mortgage to purchase my second home out of state, putting 10% down.

Unfortunately, I'm still waiting for a permit from the township to replace my oversaturated drainfield. I've contracted with Allstate Septic for the replacement. Due to the urgent situation, I have no choice but to proceed with the septic work in order to obtain the necessary permit

@Michael Baum  I included a septic report with my application, which shows the system is undersized. However, the township only requested a drainfield inspection at this time, not a septic tank upgrade. I'll proceed with the drainfield inspection as they requested. Thank you for your advice.

Hello Everyone,

I'm hoping to get some advice on obtaining a short-term rental (STR) permit in Tobyhanna Township. I recently applied and submitted all the required documents. Everything seemed good until the township requested proof of a recent septic system pump-out.

I contacted a septic company, and they recommended doing an STR inspection alongside the pumping. While the township didn't initially ask for this inspection, they advised it "better to do" when I called to check. So, I paid $650 for both the pumping and inspection.

Unfortunately, the inspection revealed an undersized septic system (500 gallons) – they recommend a system larger than 1,000 gallons. Since the township didn't request the spetic inspection, I asked the septic company for a receipt only for the pumping. However, they provided a receipt with these concerning observations.

Now, the township wants additional information about the drain field's working condition. I contacted the same septic company again, but they're asking for an additional $800 to locate and report on the drain field's condition.

- How can I navigate this situation and get the permit approved?

- Has anyone else in Tobyhanna recently obtained an STR permit? If so, what was your experience with the septic system inspection?

- With talks of a cap on STR permits, I need to act fast. Any advice on how to proceed efficiently?

Thanks in advance for your insights!

@Merritt Harris Thank you for the insights. Very helpful !

Thanks everyone for your responses . I really appreciate all the insights and advice !

Considering adding a hot tub to my Poconos short-term rental property and wanted to get your thoughts on a few things:

1.Patio vs. basement installation for the hot tub?

2.How to run the hot tub without guests for a few winter months (avoid headaches)?

3.Hot tub maintenance for short-term rentals: cleaning & water changes?

4.Hot tub: value-add or headache for Pocono STR?

@Tyler Winget  

Thanks for your valuable insights! I appreciate you taking the time to share them.

I'm currently under contract with an agent for a house in LLV. I planned to use it as a short-term rental for better cash flow. However, based on my revenue projections and factoring in a 25% commission for professional property management, it seems unlikely to generate significant cash flow unless they can significantly boost revenue.

I'm open to working with a professional PM if they can guarantee decent cash flow. I understand the learning curve and time commitment involved, but I have a demanding day job and might not have the bandwidth for self-management.

I haven't yet reviewed the outcome of the 20th meeting on STR ordinance. Please let me know if you have any information on that.

I'm currently busy with the closing process, but I'll reach out privately soon to discuss this further.

@ Michael Baum  Thank you for your insightful perspective. I will definitely explore the options you suggested