🔥 Say Goodbye to Click-Bait STR Data—Geo-Spatial Dynamic STR Analytics Coming Soon!

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Mortgage rates are falling. Curious to know if you can apply to get STR financing for your investment property in your area? Click here to get your STR loan quote in 60 seconds.

Hello STR Scout Members,

In this issue:

💡Click-Bait ROI Data: Too many investors are being drawn data providers sharing misleading ROI figures that are complete B.S. We’re working on a better solution.

🏠 Orlando’s market is shifting fast—could this be the calm before the storm? Dive into the latest insights on why 2025 might bring significant opportunities for STR investors.

📉 STR Mortgage Interest rates—are heading in the right direction. Experience matters when finding a STR lending partner.

🏡 Discover 19 new STR deals across 11 markets. Some hot deals this week!

📰 Catch trending news nuggets to stay informed and ahead of the game.

Thank you again for being a valued member of our STR investor community.

Warm regards,

Andy Thoms
STR Scout

😎 Patient investing pays off—money is made when you buy smart not fast. Buy at the right time in your local market cycle. If your market area is cooling, waiting for the right moment can turn patience into profit.

Quick Update:

We’re incredibly humbled to share that our STR Homes for Sale Facebook group is on the verge of reaching 100,000 active STR members! What started in 2017 as a small initiative to sell our own STR spec home builds has grown into a vibrant FB community that’s successfully connected thousands of STR buyers with sellers - for free.

Building this community has taken countless hours of dedication, and we couldn’t have done it without your support. Reaching this 100k member milestone means the world to us, and we’d be deeply grateful if you could help us cross this threshold by sharing our group with your network.

If you have an STR property to sell, post it on the largest online FB group marketplace of STR investors—completely free.

Coming Soon - a New STR Data App & Portal

Over the years, we’ve noticed that many STR data sources fall short. While some provide decent insights, many others are flawed, offering inaccurate information, flawed methodologies, and click-bait ROI figures that promise a quick fix but deliver little real value. As active and experienced investors ourselves, we understand how crucial it is to have reliable tools and data integrity, especially in a dynamic market.

That’s why we’re working hard on developing a new STR data app that leverages geo-spatial analytics, AI language learning capabilities, and spatial visualization to help STR buyers and sellers make smarter decisions.

No more click-bait ROI projections that lead nowhere. You define what you’re looking for (your buy box), and we’ll show you precisely where to find the best STR zones and properties using advanced (dynamic) spatial analytics.

Our goal is to provide you with accurate, dependable information to help you find the right STR opportunities, with 12-month trailing revenue data from active and relevant Airbnbs.

We’re here to support you with STR tools, data, and connections every step of the way—stay tuned!

Happy scouting,

Andy

TOGETHER WITH HOST FINANCIAL

A STR Lending Company Built by Real Estate Investors

We’ve experienced first-hand how frustrating it can be to secure financing for short-term vacation rentals when traditional lenders just don’t get it.

That's why we founded Host Financial. Our team of real estate investors spotted a gap in the system, and knew exactly how to solve it. Are you ready to expand your real estate empire with investor-friendly short-term & long-term rental financing?

Partner with the Host Financial team. STR lending experience matters…….

360 Degree Mountain Views from this Stunning Flathead Valley Acreage Estate!

🏡 $1.89M | Kalispell, MT: Expansive 6BD, 6BA estate, 4,737 sqft, luxury mountain retreat.

• Sprawling Mountain Estate featuring a Gourmet Chef's Kitchen & Luxury Finishes throughout!

• Perfect for Large Families & Groups with multiple Master Suites & En-suite Bathrooms!

• Ideal SUPER STR with Game Room, Movie Theatre, Hot Tub & Amazing Private Back Yard!

• AirDNA projects $291K in annual revenue!

View Property Details 
STR Agent: John Hayes
Text or Call: +1 850-375-4113
Website

Want to see your property here? Learn more

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FSBO | OFF-MARKET STRs

$625K | Kissimmee, FL: 4BD, 3 full BA, 2 half BA home with pond view. Fully furnished STR with strong revenue history. Located 15 mins from Disney World. View Post

ACTIVE STR LISTINGS 

$219K | Angel Fire, NM: Great value for a cozy 2BD/1BA ski condo steps from Angel Fire Resort ski slopes. Stunning Wheeler Peak views, updated interiors, and a spacious deck. Turnkey rental with established history. Includes laundry, mudroom, and ample storage. View Post

$289K | Parma, OH: 3BD, 2BA fully remodeled ranch with 2240 sqft. Modern kitchen with large island and newer appliances. Refinished wood floors, basement rec room, fenced backyard near parks and shops. View Post

$325K | Bartlett, NH: 2BD, 1BA garden-style condo on Linderhof Golf Course. Fully furnished with updated interior. Strong STR history. Features patio with privacy screen. Close to ski resorts and outdoor activities. View Post

$355K | Montgomery, TX: 3BD, 2BA home in Walden on Lake Conroe. Features saltwater pool with waterfall, outdoor shower, and high ceilings. Nearby boat ramp, lake access, and community amenities. View Post

$389K | Tracy City, TN: Upgraded 2BD/1BA tiny home on nearly 1 acre at The Retreat at Water's Edge. STR approved, with lake views and public dock access. Features Bosch appliances, extensive landscaping, and lighted walkways. Includes a 16x20 building with electricity. Room to add another home! View Post

$465K | Branson, MO: 4BD, 4BA condo with mountain view. Great STR income in its first year. Features game room, bunk room, and two living areas. Built in 2023. View Post

$472K | Cerritos Beach, MX: 2BD, 1.5BA fully renovated ground floor condo near Cerritos Beach. Features a large terrace with outdoor bar, luxurious furnishings, and a modern kitchen. View Post

$475K | Panama City Beach, FL: 2BD, 2BA beach house just blocks from the shore. Strong rental history. Features new Tiki Bar, fire pit, and patio area. Updated interior. View Post

$489K | Hilo, HI: 2BD, 1BA oceanfront condo with STVR license. Located in Maunaloa Shores, adjacent to Carlsmith Beach Park. Features ocean views, pool, and onsite management. View Post

$645K | La Quinta, CA: Turnkey rental in La Quinta Cove. Features heated pool, new appliances, and instant hot water heater. Sold furnished. Close to Old Town and Joshua Tree. View Post

$675K | Kissimmee, FL: 5BD, 5BA vacation home near Disney in Windsor Hills Resort. Features private pool and spa, game room, and modern amenities. STR with strong revenue history. View Post

$700K | Lake, MI: 5BD, 3BA lakefront home on 8 Point Lake with private beach. Features two kitchens, wrap-around deck, and indoor pool with hot tub. New A/C, furnace, and septic. View Post

$730K | Kissimmee, FL: 6BD, 4BA home with private pool and spa in Sonoma Resort. Turnkey property ideal for STR or long-term rentals. Gated community with resort amenities. View Post

$799K | Townsend, TN: 3BD, 3.5BA home in gated Laurel Valley community. Features modern kitchen, vaulted ceilings, and two wood-burning fireplaces. Mountain views from multiple decks. View Post

$849K | Branson, MO: 4BD, 4BA STR with Table Rock Lake views. Fully furnished, new construction. Live on Airbnb/VRBO since May 2024, with $65K in bookings. View Post

$1.15M | Broken Bow, OK: 4BD, 4.5BA modern rustic cabin on 1.69 acres in Hochatown. Features high ceilings, 2 king suites, game room, 1800 sqft deck, and EV plug. Near Broken Bow Lake and Beavers Bend State Park. View Post

$3.659M | Park City, UT: 4BD, 3BA historic home on a corner double lot, one block from Park City Mountain Resort. Sleeps 8-10. Features a private hot tub and expansive deck. Perfect for STR. View Post

MARKET INSIGHT

Florida Homebuyers on Strike: The Untold Opportunity Lurking in Orlando’s Market.

Hey there, fellow investors! If you’ve been keeping an eye on the Orlando housing market, you’ve probably noticed that things are starting to shift.

We’re coming off the peak buying season, and it’s becoming clear that 2025 could bring some significant changes. Let’s dive into what’s going on and what it means for you.

Jared Jones of Orlando Living just did a deep dive on the data, and it’s packed with valuable insights. Let’s unpack the key points and explore how they might impact your short-term rental (STR) investment strategy in Orlando.

Orlando’s Market: The Calm Before the Storm?

The latest data from the Florida Association of Realtors gives us a lot to think about. Builders in the Orlando area are pulling out all the stops to move inventory, offering big incentives like buying down interest rates to as low as 4-4.99% on 30-year fixed mortgages.

Despite these efforts, homes aren’t flying off the shelves like they used to. In fact, the number of unsold newly built homes in the South has reached levels we haven’t seen since 2009. This tells us one thing: buyers are holding back.

Two Ways to Look at the Market

There’s a split in how people are viewing the market right now. On one side, some are worried that the massive price increases we’ve seen over the past few years—up to 100% in some cases—have created a bubble that’s just waiting to burst. Homes that were going for $400,000 not too long ago are now listed for over a million. The big question is, can this last?

On the other side, there’s a belief that the market is cooling off in a controlled way—a “soft landing” if you will. This camp thinks we’re seeing a natural adjustment, not a crash. But here’s the thing: no matter which side you’re on, it’s clear that the market is changing.

What the Numbers Are Telling Us

Let’s look at some of the key indicators from July, typically the peak of the home-buying season in Florida:

• Sales Volume: Home sales in Orlando barely budged compared to last year, with only a 1% increase. We sold around 2,600 homes—hardly a robust market.

• Cash Sales: These are down 8%, which is significant because cash buyers are usually less sensitive to interest rates.

• Median Home Prices: Nationally, home prices are up by 3.6%, but Orlando is only seeing half of that. More concerning is that asking prices in Orlando have been dropping steadily over the past four months.

Inventory Is Piling Up

Here’s where things get interesting. The number of unsold homes in Orlando has shot up by 61% compared to last year, which is way above the national average. Most of this unsold inventory is in the $300,000-$400,000 price range, a sweet spot that’s now looking a bit overcrowded.

Even though interest rates are lower than they were a year ago, buyers aren’t exactly rushing in. Pending home sales—a leading indicator of future sales—are down by 6.2% in Orlando, worse than the national trend.

Impact on Your STR Investment Strategy

So, how does all of this affect your STR investment strategy in Orlando? Here are some key takeaways:

1. Wait for Better Deals: With inventory rising and sales slowing, patience will be your best strategy. The longer you wait, the more likely you are to find motivated sellers willing to negotiate. This could be your opportunity to pick up properties at a discount, especially as the market adjusts.

2. Focus on Value Over Speed: In a cooling market, rushing to buy could mean overpaying. Instead, focus on finding properties that offer long-term value. Look for homes in areas with strong STR demand, and don’t be afraid to negotiate hard on price and terms.

3. Monitor Market Trends Closely: Keep a close eye on inventory levels, price reductions, and days on market. These indicators will help you gauge when the market might be hitting a bottom, signaling a good time to buy.

4. Leverage Financing Wisely: With interest rates showing some flexibility, consider using financing to your advantage. However, remember that rates alone won’t drive the market—focus on the overall deal and whether it makes sense in the current environment.

Bottom Line: Hold Tight for Better Deals

For those of you considering selling, now might be the time to make your move. With inventory levels rising and buyer activity slowing down, getting ahead of potential price drops could be a smart play.

But if you’re on the buying side, it’s worth holding off a bit longer. The market is cooling, and the longer you wait, the better the deals you’ll likely find.

Remember, in real estate, timing is everything. By staying patient and keeping an eye on the data, you can position yourself to snag a great deal when the time is right.

📉 Fed Chair Powell Hints at Upcoming Interest Rate Cuts. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell signaled that the time has come to adjust monetary policy, with potential interest rate cuts on the horizon. Powell highlighted the need to respond to evolving economic conditions, suggesting that the era of aggressive rate hikes may be ending soon, giving a nod to the economic pressures and uncertainties that have prompted this shift. Read more.

🏠 Mortgage Rates Expected to Decline Following Fed Announcement. Following Powell’s indication of potential interest rate cuts, mortgage rates are predicted to decrease, offering relief to homebuyers facing historically high borrowing costs. This anticipated change could rejuvenate the housing market, encouraging more people to pursue homeownership amidst easing financial conditions. Read more.

📈 HOA Fees Skyrocket Across Florida Amid Rising Costs. Homeowners in Florida are facing steep increases in HOA fees as communities grapple with rising maintenance costs, insurance premiums, and other expenses. This surge in fees is adding another layer of financial strain on residents already dealing with high property taxes and insurance rates. Read more.

🌴 Costa Rica Shines as Top Vacation Rental Destination. Costa Rica has emerged as a standout destination for vacation rentals, outperforming other countries in terms of occupancy and revenue growth. The country's appeal is driven by its rich biodiversity, strong eco-tourism industry, and the rising popularity of sustainable travel experiences. Read more.

🏨 Playa del Carmen and Akumal Lead Mexico’s Hotel Occupancy Rates. Playa del Carmen and Akumal are leading Mexico with the highest hotel occupancy rates, according to recent government reports. These popular tourist destinations continue to attract visitors with their pristine beaches and vibrant culture, driving significant economic growth in the region. Read more.

💼 U.S. Economy Braces for Potential Recession with Job Losses Looming. The U.S. could be on the brink of a recession, with reports suggesting that up to a million jobs may have been lost. This troubling trend highlights the growing economic instability and the challenges ahead for policymakers as they navigate these turbulent times. Read more.