It is the best way to break into REI IMO.VA financing is about as good as it gets in the financing world right now; generally better terms and rates and you can take advantage of 0% down.

Long story short.

Hi Everyone,I'm looking into purchasing a short term rental in South Lake Tahoe.

If not, its iffy, have seen it go both ways, but the long time that it has been verifiable (1972) speakes strongly in your favor.

For a property like this, even in California, I would anticipate at least a +7% CR.Additionally, betting on appreciation is speculative and not the best approach to long-term investing.

A squatter is not on your lease or subject to its terms.

There's no good strategy without an objective. 

The opportunity for outsized profits versus LTR always exists, because it requires much more work in terms of marketing, maintenence, cleaning.

I think as long as you let them know you are providing services and will get paid for it.

If you plan on staying long term lower down payment is not as meaningful as it is if you only plan on staying for a few years.