The Short-Term Rental Investor Series
How to Buy an Airbnb
The Short-Term Rental Buyer's Guide — a step-by-step framework for buying a rental that actually makes money, from picking the market to closing the deal. Free, instant download.
Get the Free GuideBuying a short-term rental is buying two things at once: a property and a business.
Most buyers analyze the property and forget the business. They fall in love with a cabin, a beach condo, a downtown loft — then discover the city caps permits, the season is three months long, or the numbers never worked.
This guide keeps you from making that mistake. Inside, you'll work the same seven steps a seasoned STR investor uses — in order, so each step kills bad deals before you spend money on the next one.
The 7 Steps to Closing
Work them in order. Each one kills bad deals before the next.
Decide if an STR fits your goals
Be honest about capital, time, risk tolerance, and what you actually want the property to do.
Pick the right market (rules first)
Start with regulations, then demand. The best-looking market is worthless if the city bans new permits.
Run the real numbers
Revenue, occupancy, expenses, and reserves — modeled on realistic occupancy, not best case.
Clear the regulations
Permits, zoning, HOA rules, and caps. Confirm you can legally operate before you write an offer.
Line up financing
STR loans, down payment, and reserves. Know your terms before you shop.
Choose a property that performs
The right floor plan, location, and amenities for the guests your market attracts.
Make the offer & do diligence
Inspect, verify your income assumptions, and close with your eyes open.
You're Ready If…
Four things to have in hand before you shop.
Down payment + furnishing budget + 6-month reserve in hand
A plan for daily operations (self-manage or hire a co-host)
Income that doesn't depend on best-case occupancy
A clear, written investment goal
Get the Free Guide
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