STR for the high season and mid term for the off season.

An 8-week stay could be a great opportunity, especially during your slow season, but a few things to think about:Since your guest has no reviews, maybe ask for a reference or just have a quick chat to feel things out.

Can I even break even if Summer rental season is a max of five months, and more likely three?  

Focus on understanding the path of progress, identifying rental properties with the most potential, learning the seasonality trends, and figuring out which upgrades will really move the needle in that area.

Short-term rentals can offer higher returns but often come with more management complexities such as higher turnover and seasonality.

Side note: My husband and I are currently funemployed (we both have seasonal jobs) until October, so not sure if we could qualify for traditional re/financing options at this time.

Not just a change of seasons. - Your investor idea......

I am in NY state now, in my small cottage that is my primary residence, and I rent for summer season.

I’m wondering compared to the return from the equity market I’m hoping to hear and learn from seasoned investors what are your buy matrix and mindset to cross that bridge and sign the PSA.

However, there are some challenges to keep in mind:Regulatory Variations: Regulations can vary widely between locations and are constantly evolving.Active Management: STRs require more hands-on management for guest turnover and communication.Additional Costs: Don’t forget about expenses for furnishings, cleaning, and possibly hiring a property manager.If you’re looking for STR-friendly areas, consider these locations, as others can be too expensive to consider, such as Snowmass Village or Aspen:Breckenridge: The most visited ski resort in North America, attracting around 3 million tourists each year.Steamboat Springs: A popular year-round destination for winter sports and summer activities.Keystone: Great for those wanting a less crowded resort experience.Divide & Florissant: Charming mountain towns close to Colorado Springs.Fairplay: Just 30 minutes south of Breckenridge, with an impressive 82% Airbnb occupancy rate.Cripple Creek: A former mining town now known for casinos and outdoor activities.Park County: Very Airbnb-friendly, though regulations may change.Here are some strategies to help you succeed in the STR market:Hybrid Model: Consider using some units for STRs and others for long-term rentals to balance income.Research Local Regulations: Always check the current rules in your target areas before investing.Year-Round Appeal: Focus on locations that attract visitors in all seasons.Quality Furnishings: Invest in quality to justify higher nightly rates and attract better guests.Dynamic Pricing: Use pricing strategies to maximize revenue during peak seasons while maintaining occupancy in the off-season.Stay Flexible: Be ready to adapt your strategy as the market and regulations change.While Colorado’s STR market offers exciting opportunities, it’s essential to approach it strategically.