The Pacaso blog

Turnkey homes: Guide to effortless London living For many buyers, the pace of life in London makes time the ultimate luxury. That is why turnkey homes are so compelling. These fully finished, beautifully furnished residences let you step into the city and start living right away. For those considering luxury homes in London as a second address, Pacaso co-ownership offers a straightforward path to a turnkey home in prime neighborhoods without the workload of sole ownership. What turnkey means in London today In London, turnkey describes homes that are fully designed, furnished and equipped to a high standard, so you can enjoy the space immediately with no additional work. Demand has climbed notably in Prime Central London, where convenience is paramount. Recent analysis notes that 17 percent of London buyers now prefer homes that require no additional work, with the figure rising in prime and super prime segments ( The market has even embraced a super turnkey standard that layers designer furnishings, curated art and finishing touches onto already completed residences, offering immediate enjoyment with minimal decisions for the buyer Tucked in Mayfair, Benefits of turnkey homes you feel from day one Turnkey homes for sale in prime London neighborhoods If you are shortlisting turnkey homes for sale, focus on essentials that enhance daily life in the city. Use this quick checklist to keep your search efficient and on point. On Mayfair's only gated street, How Pacaso co-ownership makes London effortless Pacaso curates and designs fully furnished homes, manages care and simplifies scheduling so you spend time enjoying London, not maintaining a second address. Co-ownership gives you access to beautifully finished spaces in exceptional areas, with ownership structure and professional management that keep everything running smoothly. In Chelsea, Design details that define luxury homes in London Great turnkey design blends British character with modern ease. In luxury homes in London, look for details that feel considered and practical for daily use. In Belgravia, How to choose your London base Make London yours without the work Turnkey homes align perfectly with how buyers want to experience the city. Explore Pacaso turnkey homes for sale in prime neighborhoods and see how co-ownership can simplify your London life. Start with our

Nothing tests a home like a full house, especially occasions like family getaways and holiday gatherings. But with the right luxury home features, hosting can be smooth instead of stressful. Here’s a look at standout features in Pacaso homes that make a house full of people feel like an experience everyone actually enjoys. A chef’s kitchen built for large-scale hosting Pacaso home: Nothing derails a gathering faster than a sink full of plates and a host stuck rinsing instead of relaxing. Holidays like Thanksgiving practically guarantee an avalanche of dishes — but a chef’s kitchen with dual dishwashers changes the equation. With room to spare and twice the cleaning power, you can serve, reset, and get back to the fun instead of living at the sink. A rooftop with panoramic mountain views Pacaso home: This is the kind of space that defines luxury home layouts. Residents can enjoy morning coffee with magnificent views of the Tetons, pre-dinner happy hours lit by a vibrant sunset, al fresco meals, or even a game night under the stars. With panoramic mountain views from the heart of downtown Jackson, it’s the kind of setting people remember long after the trip ends. Resort-style amenities Pacaso home: This home is built for outdoor living: an infinity pool and jacuzzi overlooking the water, a palapa-shaded lounge for long, lazy afternoons, and a fire pit made for late-night conversations. In addition to these luxury home features, owners also receive a complimentary first-year membership to the exclusive Palmilla Dunes Beach Club — with resort pools, a state-of-the-art fitness center, spa, tennis and pickleball courts, and oceanfront dining. It feels like checking into a five-star resort, just with the added comfort of home. Indoor–outdoor living Pacaso home: Just steps from the sands of La Jolla Shores, this home blurs the line between inside and out – a popular feature of luxury home layouts. An open floorplan flows out to dual-level decks with ocean views, a poolside terrace, and a fire pit — the perfect setting for entertaining, hosting events, or winding down after a day at the beach. The outdoor kitchen, complete with pizza oven and BBQ, makes it easy to serve a crowd without ever leaving the breeze.  A guest house for flexibility and breathing room Pacaso home: On 30 acres in Napa Valley, this property includes a separate one-bedroom guest house — a hosting luxury that solves countless scenarios. It gives family or friends a quiet place for longer stays, lets grandparents turn in early, or offers teenagers a bit of independence without being truly “away.” Everyone is together, just not on top of each other — the key to repeat visits. A game room and wine room for after-hours hosting Pacaso home: At this South Lake Tahoe home, the fun doesn’t end when the day does. A spacious loft-style game room sets the stage for billiards, cards, or a friendly rematch after time on the slopes. Just steps away, a dedicated wine room makes it easy to pull a favorite bottle and settle in for a night of good company and conversation. It’s the kind of space where people stay up too late swapping stories, pouring “just one more,” and turning a regular night into a memory. Sometimes the best luxury home features are the ones that bring people together. Private suites with kitchenettes for true guest independence Pacaso home: This Palm Springs home takes hosting events or family gatherings a step further with five individual casita-style guest suites. Each one is thoughtfully appointed with its own kitchen, bathroom, and dining nook — giving visitors the freedom to brew their own coffee, make a quiet breakfast, or settle in without waiting on the host. A shared courtyard brings everyone together when it’s time to socialize, but the privacy in between is what keeps guests happy to return. Ensuites and balconies for every guest Pacaso home: In Park City, this three-level, five-bedroom home gives every visitor a true suite experience. Each of the four guest rooms includes an en suite bathroom and access to outdoor decks, so no waiting for a hot shower after a day on the slopes, and no competing for space in the morning. Guests get comfort and autonomy, while the host gets peace of mind. Luxury home features, built in and ready to enjoy When you own with Pacaso, the

When you’re traveling, where you Enter another option: a Pacaso second home. Here’s why co-owning a second home is a better option for your vacations than a The unexpected value of a Pacaso People have compared Pacaso to a hotel, Airbnb or a While Pacaso offers a unique form of co-ownership through an LLC, traditional co-ownership models like But it's not just about these practical advantages. A Pacaso offers valuable benefits that can only be experienced as an owner. Here’s what our owners have to say.   1. You can just show up and enjoy your home While hotels and short-term rentals can vary widely in quality, you can expect your Pacaso to be fully appointed and pristine — every time you return. Your home is taken care of by a 2. It’s easy to host your favorite people Making memories with friends and family is one of the most life-enriching parts of a vacation. And with your Pacaso, it’s easy to do just that. From outdoor kitchens and al fresco gathering spaces to open grand rooms and game rooms, Pacaso has the space, features and details to help the ones you love feel comfortable and enjoy quality time together.  — 3. You have the whole place to yourself (and your guests!) At your Pacaso, you always have the whole space to yourself. Your home belongs to you. Our homes feature large gathering spaces, and many also have spacious outdoor areas, patios, balconies and decks. Whether you want to relax, work from home or throw a celebration, you’ll have plenty of space for your whole crew. And it’s not just about space — unlike hotels and Airbnbs, all your guests are welcome at your Pacaso (even your dog!).  — 4. You get to live like a local When you own a Pacaso, you become part of a community. You’re not bouncing through different hotels, homes and places — you return to a neighborhood where every aspect is familiar, from your favorite place for breakfast to local museums. Being able to call a place you know and love home makes for a seamless (and special) vacation every time.  5. You won’t have to stress about your vacation Staying at your own Pacaso offers a different experience from the typical vacation. Rather than having to plan things to do and places to eat at, you have all the — 6. You have all the conveniences of home When you come to your Pacaso, there’s no need to pack the small things. Bathrooms are stocked with towels, hair dryers, a scale, magnifying mirror and basic toiletries. Your home has high-speed WiFi and 7. Every detail is luxurious One of the standout things about owning a Pacaso is having luxurious touches throughout your home, allowing you to vacation in style. In addition to our standard amenities and features, you’ll find high quality linens, Turkish towels, premium kitchen products (including Cuisinart, Le Creuset, Ninja and more), porcelain tableware and a Peloton in select homes. These are the small details that make your vacation special.  — Vacations (and memories) made better When you co-own a Pacaso, you enjoy hassle-free time at a place that feels like your home (because it is). You have the amenities and convenient experiences of a hotel, the wow factor of a luxury Airbnb, and the space and privacy of a vacation home — plus, all the benefits of home ownership. This is what sets Pacaso apart.  Ready to shift into vacation mode and start making lifelong memories? Check out our

Thinking about buying a second home but not sure where to start? Our Pacaso 101 webinar breaks it all down. Hosted by Pacaso sales expert Braeden Cobb, this session walks you through how our modern co-ownership model works, from choosing your ideal home to understanding financing, scheduling, and swap. Watch the full webinar below to learn how Pacaso simplifies second-home ownership, so you can spend less time managing and more time enjoying the places you love.

Many dream of What makes beachfront property management different? Owning a beachfront property comes with unique demands that set it apart from other types of property care. In addition to the standard responsibilities of property maintenance, guest management, vendor coordination, and preventive care, Homes along the shore face year-round exposure to salt air, humidity, storms, and the daily wear of sand and sun. These elements can quickly erode finishes, corrode metal, and cause structural damage if not properly managed. That’s why beachfront properties require more frequent inspections, specialized materials, and proactive upkeep to preserve both their beauty and long-term value. Beachfront vs. coastal property management At first glance, beachfront property management and coastal property management may sound interchangeable as they both deal with homes near the water. But there’s a world of difference between a property that sits on the beach and one located a few blocks or miles inland, and each requires a different level of Key distinctions: What are common challenges of beachfront property management? Beachfront homes face constant exposure to the elements which brings a unique set of maintenance challenges. Owning a beachfront home demands a proactive approach to protect both the home’s structure and long-term value. While every beachfront property faces these challenges, the severity and focus of care vary by location. A home in Maine, for instance, faces different risks than What does beachfront property management look like by region? Every coastline has its own unique characteristics, weather patterns, and environmental factors that can impact coastal homes. While all beachfront homes share common upkeep concerns, the day-to-day realities of managing them differ across the East Coast, West Coast, and Southern beaches. Northeast beachfront property management From the Jersey Shore up through Cape Cod and Nantucket, Northeast beachfront properties face harsh winters, nor’easters, and the year-round effects of salt and moisture. Management here focuses on protecting homes from cold, storms, and coastal wear. In Cape Cod and Nantucket, for example, winter prep is essential. This includes protecting pipes from freezing, servicing heating systems, and sealing gaps to keep the cold out. Every property requires attention to seasonal rhythms to stay safe, comfortable, and well-maintained. Key focus areas: West Coast beachfront property management Along the Pacific, weather is generally milder, but erosion, salty air, and strict environmental regulations create their own set of challenges. Beachfront homes in California, like this Key focus areas: Southern and Gulf Coast beachfront property management In the South, where humidity, heat, and tropical storms dominate the forecast, maintenance revolves around moisture control and weather resilience. Beachfront homes in Florida, along with those in Texas, Louisiana, and Alabama, face long summers, heavy rainfall, and intense sun exposure that can quickly wear down exterior finishes. In Miami Beach, for example, it’s important to keep a close eye on king tides, which can bring flooding even on sunny days. Homes with water access or docks require owner education on tide levels, timing, and safety. The same is true for popular destinations like South Carolina beachfront vacation homes, where consistent upkeep is key to comfort and longevity. Key focus areas: Why do many owners choose professional beachfront property management? Owning a beachfront home is rewarding but maintaining one is rarely simple. Between constant exposure to salt air, unpredictable coastal weather, and high guest expectations, the demands can quickly overwhelm even experienced homeowners. That’s why many choose to work with a professional Key advantages: Many owners find the How Pacaso elevates beachfront property management Every Pacaso home comes with a dedicated local Home Manager who supports owners and cares for the property before, during, and after each stay. Acting as a centralized point of contact, they coordinate all aspects of beachfront property management, from maintenance to day-to-day tasks, ensuring an easy and enjoyable experience for owners. In coastal destinations, where salt air, humidity, and storm exposure add extra layers of complexity, Pacaso Home Managers provide invaluable support. They keep homes well-maintained, secure, and always ready for owners to simply arrive and enjoy their oceanfront retreat. Here’s what you can expect from your Pacaso Home Manager: Comprehensive property care Personalized service and thoughtful touches Financial and vendor oversight Why co-own a beachfront home with Pacaso? Beachfront living should be about enjoying the view, not worrying about upkeep. With Pacaso, homeowners benefit from a full-service approach to beachfront property management that protects their investment, preserves the home’s beauty, and ensures every visit is effortless.  Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or sharing ownership year-round, Pacaso provides the peace of mind that comes with professional oversight — so you can focus on making memories, not managing the property.

Is owning a second home starting to feel more like a hassle than a joy? Consider selling it with Pacaso. If you own an amazing second home but use it less than 16 weeks each year, Pacaso might be right for you. You can maintain partial ownership for your use. Make your second home work for you With our co-ownership model, you have the option to keep the portion of your second home while no longer bearing the full responsibility of having a whole home. You leave maintenance and hassles behind, while still enjoying the home you love and the benefits of ownership. When you So, whether you want to tap into your equity or finally have a hassle-free retreat, let us make your second home the right fit for you. How the program works Selling with Pacaso is easy and streamlined. We sell your home share-by-share until you have your preferred amount of equity or are completely divested. Here’s how it works: "Selling with Pacaso has enabled us to sell a few shares and have money in our pockets, but hang on to the house a little longer too," says Jay, an owner who sold part of his second home to Pacaso. "We could still have time in the home but without the headaches of maintaining it." Which homes does Pacaso buy? Every Pacaso is different, but these are some of the features we look for in a If your second home sounds like a match, take advantage of our co-ownership program today.

A Understanding property managers Owners typically Property managers specialize in all operational aspects of ownership Every property will come with unique needs, and the property manager’s responsibilities are outlined in their contract with the owner. Owners with multiple properties might seek out a property management firm to coordinate all operations and oversight.  Because property management involves adherence to housing laws, some states require a license to manage a property, either as a real estate broker or as a licensed property manager. Property managers enforce federal, state and local requirements dealing with screening tenants, evictions, lease terminations and handling deposits.  Takeaways Property managers share these characteristics: In more detail: There are three primary kinds of property managers: commercial, multi-family and single-family. Some property management firms work with a blend of property types. Commercial property management focuses on office buildings and industrial spaces.  Multi-family property managers specialize in spaces with many units, most commonly apartment complexes. Similarly, single-family property managers work in residential housing, but they focus on renting out single-family homes versus large-scale complexes.  Every property has different needs, but generally, property managers: No, property managers do not own the property they manage. Property owners outsource the daily operations to a property manager because they specialize in finding new tenants and know the legal specifics of leasing.  Most property managers work for a property management firm that coordinates the needs of several individual properties. In turn, the property firm works directly for the property owner.  Pacaso's in-house team of experienced, local property managers to handle the day-to-day needs of each home, including: With Pacaso, you own the home, and we manage everything — it’s that simple.

A property is viewed as a How the IRS defines a second home for tax purposes The IRS defines a second home based on how much you use it personally versus how much you rent it out. For a property to qualify, your personal use of it needs to be more than the greater of either 14 days or 10% of the days you rent it out at a fair market price.  While the tax rules are key, lenders also have their own requirements. They often look for things like the property being a single home (not a Here are other common characteristics of second homes: Tax implications when your second home is a personal residence Second homes come with a host of possible Mortgage interest deduction If you rent out your home for less than 15 days a year, it’s considered a personal residence and you’re eligible for itemized deductions like any other homeowner.  For properties purchased after December 15, 2017, you can deduct mortgage interest on up to $750,000 of qualifying home acquisition debt across both your primary and second homes. Under Home equity interest deduction In addition to deducting mortgage interest, you may also be able to write off interest paid on a This means you can't deduct interest on a home equity loan if you use the money for other purposes, like consolidating credit card debt or paying for a child's college tuition. This deduction is also subject to the same $750,000 combined mortgage debt limit that applies to your primary mortgage. Property tax deduction You can This limit, which was recently increased by H.R. 1, applies to the total of these taxes paid on all of your personal residences if you Tax implications when your second home is a rental property If you rent out your second home for more than 14 days per year, the property is considered a rental for tax purposes. This changes the tax rules significantly, as the property can no longer be classified as a personal residence. What about capital gains when selling? When you sell a second home, any profit you make from the sale is generally subject to capital gains tax on a second home. This is a key difference from selling a primary residence, which may qualify for a significant tax exclusion. Where the Pacaso model fits in The Once you understand the tax rules, it’s easy to maximize the financial benefits of your second home. Pacaso allows you to enjoy a luxury property and its tax benefits without the stress of managing it all on your own. Check out our

Hosting loved ones should be joyful, not stressful. But most hosting tips barely scratch the surface when it comes to managing the entire event and still enjoying yourself. Between planning the food for a holiday party, coordinating travel, navigating family dynamics, and keeping the kids entertained, the holidays can quickly shift from festive to frantic. Beyond side dish recipes and seating charts, these holiday hosting tips will help make your holiday party feel easy, enjoyable, and truly memorable. How to host like a pro 1. Plan ahead Set your holiday party up for success by giving yourself the gift of time. Create a simple timeline for shopping, cooking, and setting up so you’re not scrambling at the last minute. Double-check that you have all the essentials, from tableware and linens to serving dishes, napkins, and that all-important wine opener, so when guests arrive, you’re relaxed, present, and ready to mingle. 2. Create an impressive (but manageable) menu Don’t rely solely on family favorites or untested online recipes. Choose a menu that feels special yet manageable, with dishes that can be prepped or finished ahead of time. Food for a holiday party 3. Leave room for guests to contribute Hosting a holiday party doesn’t mean doing it all yourself. Encourage guests to bring something special to share — a favorite side dish, dessert, or bottle of wine — which lets them feel part of the celebration. Even if you tell them their presence is enough, many will still want to contribute. Make sure to leave a dedicated space in the kitchen or on the dining table to showcase their thoughtful additions. 4. Set the mood Décor, music, and lighting do more than fill a room, they create an atmosphere that makes your guests feel instantly welcome. A curated playlist, a few candles, and fresh florals can transform any space into a warm, inviting setting. It’s one of those simple hosting tips that delivers the biggest impact with the least effort. 5. Create cozy gathering spots Beyond the dining table, set up inviting spaces where guests can gather before and after the meal — on the patio, around the fire pit, or in a cozy corner with plush chairs and blankets. These little retreats encourage conversation, laughter, and connection, helping your holiday party feel relaxed, warm, and welcoming. 6. Keep the little ones entertained Often overlooked, this simple hosting tip 7. Keep the fun going Once the meal is done, consider adding a light game or activity if the mood strikes. A simple trivia round, a festive card game, or a conversation starter can spark laughter and friendly competition, keeping energy high and the evening memorable for everyone. The most important hosting tip Once everything is in motion, take a deep breath and be present. The best holiday party gatherings aren’t about perfection — they’re about connection, laughter, and creating memories that last long after the last guest has gone. When you co-own with Pacaso, hosting a holiday party is easy. Beyond spacious and beautifully designed interiors are

If you’re thinking about investing in real estate, you might be considering forming a real estate LLC. A property investment company with this structure could help you diversify your portfolio with tax benefits and asset protections.  A limited liability company (LLC) is a private, limited company made up of individual members who have the advantage of personal liability protections, tax benefits and adaptable management options. A real estate LLC will have pros and cons, so let’s explore all of them below.  What is an LLC in real estate? An LLC formed for real estate, also called a real estate holding company, is an entity created to purchase, own and manage property. A single LLC can own one property or several.  Just like any other LLC, a How does an LLC work? Say you’re renting out an investment property, and the tenant files a lawsuit because a pipe broke and damaged their furniture. If your LLC owns the rental home, there’s a buffer between your assets and what’s at risk. If you personally own the property, your own assets are up for grabs — including your primary residence.  Pacaso provides the safety and ease of co-ownership through a professionally managed LLC, so you get the As the manager of your home’s LLC, Pacaso will assume financial responsibility if an owner defaults on payments, which means each individual owner is protected. This is one of the benefits of What are the pros and cons of real estate LLCs? Real estate LLCs have been around for years because of the benefits they bring to buyers. Investment in property through a real estate LLC provides the protection of an outside entity — you can buy and sell property with the assurance of avoiding significant personal liability. And yet there are both pros and cons of real estate LLCs — let’s look at the main ones. The benefits of an LLC for real estate Starting a real estate LLC can provide you with some serious benefits, protections and flexibility. Here’s an overview: Potential real estate LLC drawbacks to consider Despite all its pros, there are also some disadvantages of an LLC for a rental property. Here’s what to be aware of: How to start a real estate LLC in 9 steps So, how do you start a real estate investment company? We’ll walk you through each basic step. 1. Pick a business name Decide on a distinct, unique name for your LLC. Do some research on your state’s business name directory and make sure yours is unique. Also, if you create a website for your business, make sure the domain name is available.  2. Register with the state Next, you’ll need to register with your state’s relevant agency, which will involve paperwork and fees. You’ll also need a registered or statutory agent — someone you designate to be available during regular business hours to conduct business in the state.  3. File the articles of organization When you register with your state, you’ll file the articles of organization for your LLC. This is a legal document that overviews your business. You must fill out the articles of organization, which include your business name, starting date, business address and all members of the LLC.  4. Create an operating agreement An 5. Get an Employer Identification Number (EIN) An Employer Identification Number (EIN) serves as a Social Security number for an LLC, and it’s crucial for tax purposes. You will need to get an EIN to file taxes and open a business bank account. Apply for an EIN online through the IRS. 6. Open a business bank account Open a business bank account to keep business finances separate from your personal finances. Along with maintaining limited liability protections, a business bank account will help you keep clear records of your business’s finances. 7. Transfer property title to the LLC Legally transfer the property title from your name to the new LLC’s name. This will make sure that the legal liability protection is activated and the LLC is the legal owner of the property. 8. Get proper insurance Once you’ve transferred the property title, you’ll need to update your insurance. You may need a commercial insurance policy to protect the real estate LLC against potential lawsuits.  9. Maintain compliance After setting up a real estate LLC, it’s important to maintain compliance with your state’s regulations. Keep detailed records, renew required permits and licenses and file the necessary annual reports. Your state’s government website can keep you updated on maintaining compliance.

There are far better vacation options, including: Let’s explore each alternative and explain how it differs from the typical reasons not to 1. Second home co-ownership  Second home co-ownership is when a property is jointly owned by multiple people. Buying a vacation home is a greater upfront expense than a timeshare, but you don’t have to be the sole owner. With this timeshare and Whether you’re buying with a group of friends or buying a Pacaso second home, you still have true real estate property ownership. You’re not just buying the right to use a hotel or condo-sized space for a set period. Timeshares are notoriously difficult to sell due to the many rules and limitations owners must abide by. The timeshare is also one of many identical units, creating an imbalance between supply and demand. On the other hand, unique homes attract buyers who must compete against each other in the whole housing market.   Browse a plethora of luxury co-ownership options all over the world with Pacaso’s 2. Vacation rentals Vacation rentals are furnished spaces that are rented out on a short-term basis. Airbnb is as popular as ever, with 265 million users and over 7.7 million listings, according to Lighthouse. People choose vacation rentals because renting a property from a private owner is often cheaper than comparable hotel rooms, and they often give travelers added perks like kitchens and convenient locations. However, vacation rentals can come with charges like cleaning fees, sometimes making them even more expensive than hotels.  Vacation rentals are considered preferable alternatives to timeshares because they give greater flexibility in where and when you can vacation. You’re only paying for specific days, so you aren’t on the hook for yearly fees on top of the purchase price of a timeshare.   Timeshare owners often sell their timeshare days when they can’t use them, giving vacationers the option to visit the same timeshare facility without the long-term commitment.  3. Hotels Although Hotels often provide discounts to certain groups (like the military and AAA) or offer discounted rates throughout the year, making them even more affordable. Some hotel chains offer rewards programs, so the more you stay there, the more you get back. 4. Hostels  A hostel is a budget-friendly alternative to hotels with dormitory-style rooms and communal areas. They’re ideal for backpackers and young travelers seeking a social vacation where they might meet people from all walks of life.  Hostels are typically sparse in accommodations compared to timeshares, but the trade-off is worth it for people who enjoy different locations every year. You can find various types of hostels on apps and sites like Booking.com. In a budget hostel, you may stay in a room with six or more people. A boutique or luxury hostel may offer more upscale vibes and cleaner amenities, while party hostels host social activities and late active hours.  5. Resorts Resorts offer an all-inclusive appeal of many of the best timeshares, such as private beach access, live entertainment, gourmet food and guided tours. You’ll spend less time planning all the details of your vacation, leading to less stress and more time enjoying your break.  Just like hotels, resorts give you the flexibility to stay for longer or shorter durations than a timeshare. You won’t be boxed into traveling at predetermined times of year, and you can visit whenever you want. One example of a famous luxury resort is the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai in Hawaii, which boasts many amenities like spas, pools, beach access, multiple restaurants and exceptional customer service. 6. Travel clubs Travel clubs offer group travel rates to various destinations. Travel clubs operate similarly to timeshares and vacation clubs, while being slightly more affordable. Travel clubs require yearly membership fees, and some clubs also charge maintenance fees. These combined costs are often lower than those of vacation clubs. The benefit of travel clubs is that they arrange for group rates, making your stay cheaper while giving you the benefit of travel companions. Oftentimes, the club is centered around a shared trait, like a hobby or age group.  Aside from the social aspect of travel groups, travel clubs also free you from long-term commitments. Even the cost of an inexpensive timeshare begins to add up over the years if you aren’t able to sell it. Since membership in a travel club is yearly, you’ll only lose what you’ve already spent.  7. Vacation home ownership One big draw of owning a timeshare is the dependability of returning to the same destination year after year while avoiding the rising costs of accommodations. Buying a second home in a vacation destination gives you those same benefits and more.  Unlike a timeshare, buying a vacation home gives you real equity in the property, so you have the potential to recoup the money you put into it over the years. Timeshares rarely appreciate in value, and due to the many When you have your own vacation home, you have the freedom to use it as much as you want. In contrast, most timeshare options only allow you to use them once per year and have fixed scheduling limitations.  8. Vacation clubs Vacation clubs are travel services that offer members access to different vacation locations and amenities within their network of affiliated properties. For example, a Holiday Inn Club membership works by purchasing credits. However, many clubs have blackout dates that restrict your ability to travel unless you pay more money. Depending on the club you join, it could cost more per year than even luxury timeshares, but you’ll have easier access to multiple destinations. 9. Fractional ownership Fractional ownership is a collaborative investment where multiple parties share ownership of a vacation property. Each investor maintains specific ownership rights and entitlements to the asset based on their contribution. Fractional ownership is similar to vacation home co-ownership in that you can schedule specific usage times and/or access to different parts of the property.  Splitting the costs of a vacation home comes with benefits like owning a home in a luxury location that you might not otherwise be able to afford. You also share upkeep and maintenance costs. However, it also means all major decisions must go through all ownership partners. You’re also splitting benefits, leading to potential disagreements between owners. How to resell your timeshare?  As you browse timeshare exit vacation alternatives, you may wonder how to best get out of a timeshare. Though it can be difficult, there are a few ways to resell your timeshare. Here are some options: Consider second home co-ownership These timeshare alternatives may help you avoid a major scam and stick to your original goal of enjoying a beautiful vacation with your loved ones.  Unlike a timeshare,

Whether you're applying for a mortgage for your first or second home, a letter of explanation can be vital to qualifying for home loan funding. If an underwriter requests a letter of explanation, welcome it as an opportunity to clarify your financial situation and clear up any confusion about your credit history or assets. A letter of explanation is particularly useful when an underwriter has concerns during the loan or mortgage application process. It addresses issues such as past bankruptcies or gaps in employment, ensuring a transparent and comprehensive understanding of the applicant's financial standing. Underwriters examine your financial history and determine if you qualify for the home loan you’re applying for. Since loan applications don’t include space for explanations, an underwriter may request that you submit a letter of explanation as evidence that you meet the funding criteria. Why do you need a letter of explanation? There are several reasons why an underwriter or mortgage lender may request a signed letter of explanation, particularly when it comes to a Here are some of the most common reasons you may need to write a letter of explanation. 1. You have a poor credit history Your credit history helps lenders know how you’ve handled debt in the past. The following red flags can potentially indicate poor debt management and may require a letter of explanation: If your credit score is low, it may be in your best interest to have a letter of explanation on standby. Share how you got negative marks on your credit history, and explain why you are still a good candidate for the loan. 2. You don’t have rental history Ideally, lenders want to see that you have a consistent rental history for the last 12 months. This reassures them that you will be able to handle regular mortgage payments.  If you have a gap in your rental history, explain the cause. Caring for a family member or recovering from an accident are possible explanations for a rental hiatus. 3. You have employment gaps Similar to your rental history, lenders prefer to see consistent employment in the year before your loan application. This shows the lender that you have the income to make regular mortgage payments. A lender can be flexible when they know more about the circumstances that led to an employment gap. Being laid off or raising children are possible explanations for the lack of recent work experience. 4. You report different addresses If the address on your driver’s license does not match the address on your loan application or credit report, a lender may ask you to explain the discrepancy. 5. Your income is inconsistent Underwriters will carefully review your income. If it fluctuates often, they may request a letter of explanation. If you are self-employed, your accountant may also have to write a letter of explanation to verify how you generate your income. You might also find it helpful to use a 6. You work remotely If your remote career is tied to an address in a city or state that is different from where you are buying a home, especially if that home is intended to function as a second home office, a lender may request that your company provide a letter of explanation verifying that your job (and income) will not be affected by your move. This situation is becoming increasingly common with the rise of “ 7. You have substantial losses on your tax return If you are a self-employed business owner or independent contractor, it’s normal to file losses on your first few tax returns. A lender may request a letter of explanation to ensure that these losses will not be recurring or affect your ability to make regular mortgage payments.  8. You cosigned a loan In the event that you cosigned a loan, a lender will want a letter of explanation stipulating that you are not the one making the payments. This can apply to student loans, auto loans and mortgages, even for a 9. You opened a new credit account If you open a new credit account while applying for a mortgage loan, a lender may suspect that the debt could affect your ability to repay your loan. Remember that the underwriter will also review your finances during closing, so hold off on opening new lines of credit until the sale is complete, if possible. 10. Your family members are on your bank statements If multiple people appear on your bank statements, like parents or children, you will need to write a letter explaining that you’re in control of the funds being used to pay for your new home. Anyone who helps you with the down payment of the home will also be responsible for writing a gift letter of explanation. 11. Your accounts are under fraud alert A lender will want to know that you’re aware of any suspicious activity on your credit report. If your accounts are under fraud alert or your credit is frozen, prepare a letter of explanation that outlines how you will regain control of your finances. How to write a letter of explanation step by step Before you write a letter of explanation for a mortgage, you’ll need some information first. Some of this you’ll have readily available (like your name), but you might have to gather or research other details, such as specific dates or documentation related to the situation you're explaining. Some of the common pieces of information you’ll need include:  Once you have your personal information on standby, you can construct a thoughtful letter of explanation detailing your circumstances and readiness to be a homeowner. Here is how to write a letter of explanation: Tips for a stronger letter of explanation Writing a letter of explanation can get you one step closer to Letter of explanation sample Keeping your explanation letter short and sweet is key. If you're struggling to write a concise letter of explanation, here is a letter of explanation sample to use as a guide and point of reference Letter of explanation template To make the process even easier, download this free letter of explanation template. Just fill in your information and personalize as needed. Why is a letter of explanation needed for a vacation home mortgage? Lenders may request a letter of explanation to better understand certain aspects of your financial or credit history before approving a vacation home mortgage. This helps them assess your ability to manage the new loan responsibly. Common situations include: If managing multiple mortgages or a high loan balance feels daunting, you may want to explore How does Pacaso help with vacation home financing? Refer back to our free template if you need help preparing an explanation letter for your next real estate purchase. And don’t forget to

Owning a second home is more attainable than ever, thanks to a variety of financing options, moderate interest rates and the new model of LLC co-ownership. But before you take the leap, it's important to know what you're getting into when it comes to financing a second home.  From budgeting for the unexpected to differences between loan requirements, doing your research helps you make the right financing decisions so you can enjoy your second home with no regrets.  What are the hidden expenses in a second home?  When shopping for your ideal second home, it can be tempting to focus only on a property's list price and monthly mortgage payments. However, owning a second home comes with other financial responsibilities. Crunch those numbers, too, before you look into financing. Budget for:  What's different about Pacaso's LLC co-ownership model With What do I need to know about financing a second home? If you own your primary residence, you're probably familiar with the process of financing a home. While many of the steps are the same, there are a few important things that are different when getting a home mortgage on a second home. Here's what you need to know.  Financing options for second homes The good news is there are multiple ways to pay for a second home, including combining more than one strategy, including these: How is taking out a mortgage on a second home different? Once you've calculated the costs and you know how much you're ready to spend for your second home, it's time to think about financing. Your first thought might be a traditional mortgage — after all, that's probably how you financed your first home.  However, while a mortgage for a second home has all the same elements as a traditional first mortgage — a down payment, credit score checks, debt to income ratio calculations — the qualification criteria isn't quite the same when it comes to financing a second home.  Here are a few things to know about financing your second home with a mortgage: How long it takes to get a second home mortgage Once you've found the Differences between a second home and an investment property People often use the phrases "second home" and "investment property" interchangeably, but practically speaking, they're To qualify as a second home, it must be used by you at least 14 days each year. And, you can't earn rental income on it more than 180 days of the year. The home also must be Alternatively, an investment property is occupied by you fewer than 14 days each year. It may generate short-term or long-term rental income, and it can be within 50 miles of your primary residence. These distinctions can make a big difference in affording a second home. A home mortgage for an investment property often requires a higher down payment, better debt to income ratio and a higher interest rate than a second home, as it's seen as a riskier investment. Pacaso's integrated financing options In addition to the cash and credit options discussed above, Pacaso works with partner banks to offer competitive-rate

What is empty nest syndrome? Empty nest syndrome occurs when parents report the feelings of grief, a loss of purpose, and loneliness after their children move out. While empty nest syndrome isn’t classified as an official health condition, it’s well documented — and very common. It may take some time for parents to adjust to the new normal of no children in the home. For most people, these feelings pass over time as they learn to navigate their new lifestyle.  While entering the empty nest phase of life represents the closing of one chapter, it also ushers in the beginning of another — one with more time to focus on other parts of life, like relationships with partners and friends, hobbies and travel. It also offers an opportunity to get to know grown children as adults, which can be a very rewarding experience in itself. What are the symptoms of empty nest syndrome? While the experience is different for every parent, it’s common to have a variety of emotions during this time:  What is the average age of empty nesters? The average age of empty nesters is typically late 40s to 60s. Unsurprisingly, downsizing homes or moving to a new destination are common real estate activities for people who are no longer actively raising children. Collectively, people in this age range make up 40% of home buyers and sellers, according to the What are the main characteristics of empty nesters? There are over 22 million so-called ‘empty nesters’ in the United States. Many still work full time and often find themselves in a time of financial transition. Some may no longer be financially responsible for the everyday expenses of their children — things like food, clothing and activities — and may find themselves with more disposable income. Others may be responsible  for college tuition, housing, and food while others may be managing increased taxes if they no longer have dependents to claim. What are some tips for empty nesters to make most of this stage of life? Once the dust has settled on the initial transition, usually after two to three months, you may find yourself ready to dive into a new routine. Here are a few tips for transitioning into and enjoying the empty nest stage of life. 1. Practice self care Dedicate time to a new self-care routine. With a newly open calendar, shortened to-do list, and new emotions, now is the time to focus on taking care of your physical and emotional needs. Exercise, sleep, 2. Invest in yourself You likely spent many years prioritizing your kids’ needs over your own, with their activities dominating the family calendar. Once the kids have flown the nest, you might find yourself with more free time than you’re used to. This is the perfect opportunity to 3. Connect with friends An abundance of free time means you can now expand your social horizons. You may want to reconnect with old friends you’ve lost touch with over the years, or seek out new relationships for this new era. Volunteer activities, affinity groups, and community organizations can be great places to find new friends who may be in the same season of life. 4. Get to know your kids as adults Your kids may not be little anymore, but part of the beauty of watching them grow up is the opportunity to know them as adults. This transitional period offers the chance to redefine your relationship and establish new roles and communication norms. 5. Reconnect with your partner In dual-parent families, it’s easy to slip into a routine where your daily and weekly routines revolve around caring for your children. Once your kids move out, it’s an ideal time to rediscover your partner and focus on spending quality time together. Consider 6. Talk to a professional This can be a hard transition for many. If your empty nest syndrome seems to last longer than expected or seriously affects your day-to-day life, it may be time to seek out a therapist or counselor. As an objective third party, a therapist or counselor can provide coping strategies and connect you with helpful resources. 7. Find a change of scenery When the kids have flown the nest, many empty nesters decide it’s the right time to reconsider their living situation. This might include downsizing the family home, renovating or What are some hobbies for empty nesters? Having an empty nest is the perfect opportunity to Why should empty nesters co-own a second home? Co-owning a second home is an ideal next step that fits seamlessly into many house plans for empty nesters ready to embrace freedom and flexibility. Shared ownership provides a practical way to enjoy a luxury vacation home without the full-time responsibilities of maintenance or management. If a second home is on your empty nester bucket list, Pacaso makes it easy to turn that dream into reality with a portfolio of

What does "property ownership" entail? Property ownership goes beyond merely acquiring real estate and registering it under one's name. It encompasses various forms and structures, each with its unique practical, financial and legal implications. Depending on the chosen type of ownership, individuals may encounter different estate planning challenges and tax liabilities. It's essential to understand these nuances, as they can significantly impact future events, including inheritance or tax assessments. Keep in mind that these are just suggestions, and your situation might call for something else. If you’re unsure which property type will work best, explore your options with a real estate attorney. 1. Sole ownership Type of owner: individuals As the name implies, sole ownership is when an individual is the only property owner. Since they are the only owner, they don’t require anyone’s consent to sell, lease or transfer the property to another person. Property owned by a sole owner is sent into probate when the owner dies until the will is validated. 2. Joint tenancy with rights of survivorship (JTWROS) Type of owner: married couples The most common form of property ownership for married couples is joint tenancy with rights of survivorship, which awards both parties undivided ownership. Both parties have equal liability and financial responsibility for the property, including the cost of upkeep and repairs, as well as equal rights to access the property. In JTWROS, one owner may sell or transfer their portion of the property without the consent of the other owner.  3. Tenants by the entirety (TBE) Type of owner: married couples Married couples may instead opt to own property as tenants by the entirety, which is the same as JTWROS, except an owner can do nothing with their ownership portion without consent from their spouse, since the couple is legally considered one entity. Divorce will automatically change the ownership agreement to tenants in common. 4. Community property Type of owner: married couples Only 10 U.S. states are community property states. This real estate ownership type classifies any property obtained by a spouse during marriage as “community property” — that is, owned by both spouses, even if the property is only listed in the name of one spouse. This includes all real estate purchases made during the marriage.  The states that recognize community property include Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington and Wisconsin. In Alaska, residents can opt in to a community property agreement. The same community property laws apply to registered domestic partnerships in California, Nevada and Washington. 5. Owning trust Type of owner: minor children or adult with disabilities An owning trust entrusts the care and management of a property to a trustee acting on behalf of someone else, usually a child or an adult with special needs. A living trust is established while the original owner (also called a trustor or grantor) is still alive. The trustor names the beneficiary as the owner of the property, but until the trustor’s death, they also serve as the trustee. The property remains in the beneficiary’s name, but a new trustee is selected (usually named by the trust) to keep the property out of probate. 6. Tenancy in common (TIC) Type of owner: unrelated multiple owners of a single property When owning property as a Each tenant is allowed to sell, will or otherwise transfer their ownership share without the permission of the other owners since they lack survivorship rights. When a tenant dies, their ownership passes into probate before being transferred to any named heirs. 7. Owning partnership/LLC or co-ownership Type of owner: unrelated multiple owners of a single property Properties can be organized into a Owners can create the LLC by What’s right for you? Different types of ownership in real estate can offer different benefits to owners. If you’re still not sure which type of real estate ownership is right for you and your situation, it’s a good idea to consult a legal professional.  How to become a co-owner of a second home Pacaso makes it possible for individuals to become co-owners of a In Pacaso’s ownership model, an LLC ensures true property ownership for each member. Unlike a timeshare when you only pay for time to use a property, Pacaso ensures you enjoy the many benefits of second home ownership

When you think about owning a second home, co-ownership is a great way to lower costs and increase access to potential properties. There are a wide variety of co-ownership structures to choose from, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages. Let’s break it down. The common structures for co-ownership include: limited liability companies (LLCs), Pacaso has modernized LLC co-ownership, improving on the proven model to maximize the positives. Offering owners increased protection, Want to learn more about the benefits of The basics A limited liability company (LLC) is a legal business entity composed of individual members that acts to protect its owners from personal liability. Multiple-member LLCs, like those created by Pacaso, are a unified front that represent and protect a group of buyers. A blend of partnership and corporation, LLCs have their own bank account, tax ID number and assets, conducting real estate investment and transactions under their own name, and transforming the way buyers purchase and own a second home.  The beauty of LLC property ownership comes from its simplicity. Whether the entity is made up of two members or many, the LLC pays for real estate purchases using its own funds, making it crystal clear where the ownership lies. With Pacaso, buyers purchase owner membership interests in a property-specific LLC.  Financing a LLC property is simple. Buyers can use a The top advantages of LLCs include: The cons The Pacaso solution Navigating the ins and outs of property ownership can be a complicated process, but Pacaso is here to help: Pacaso helps you leverage all the benefits of LLC property co-ownership of fully managed second homes. It’s true ownership with less expense and stress, and all the joy.   (As with all major investments, it’s smart to consult your certified public accountant.)

Maybe you want to achieve your dream of For many, the most challenging part of purchasing a second home is finding the time to make it happen, especially when juggling the demands of a busy life. It's not just about the hours spent house hunting — it also includes the effort involved in securing financing, managing paperwork, and potentially overseeing renovations. The following nine strategies can help streamline the process and make your dream of a second home a reality, and the best one for you depends on what you plan to do with your first home. Option 1. Get approved for another mortgage Perhaps the simplest and most familiar strategy for how to buy a house when you own a house is to apply for a new mortgage. In this strategy, a bank approves you to hold two separate mortgages simultaneously. You’ll need to have enough cash on hand to cover a down payment and the closing costs for the new mortgage. Option 2. Become a landlord Similar to getting approved for two mortgages, as a landlord you are still responsible for two monthly mortgage payments, but the rental income can help cover your payments.  If you plan to rent out your second home, read your mortgage agreement carefully. Some mortgage agreements prohibit you from renting it out or require you to get the lender’s permission.  Once you’ve confirmed you can rent out your home, get it appraised to determine how much to charge for rent. The amount you charge should cover your monthly mortgage payment on the property. Your lender may also require you to have at least 2% of the mortgage value in investments, cash, etc., to cover the mortgage if you cannot get a tenant. Option 3. Take out a bridge loan A bridge loan is a temporary loan (usually six months to a year) intended to cover the cost of purchasing a new home while waiting for your current home to sell. Also called a swing loan, a bridge loan can finance up to 80% of the value of both your new and current home. When your current home sells, you use the profits to pay back the entirety of the bridge loan and apply for a traditional mortgage for your new home. Option 4. Borrow from your investments Generally, you cannot withdraw from your retirement investments without paying a penalty (usually 10%) and potentially taxes on the amount you withdraw. However, you may be able to You must repay the loan with interest within five years. Some employers may also prohibit you from contributing to your account while repaying a loan. If you have a Roth 401(k), you can withdraw any contributions from your retirement account without penalty. If you borrow any earnings that your contributions accrued, however, you will have to pay a 10% early withdrawal penalty. Option 5. Get a home equity loan A home equity line of credit allows you to borrow against the equity in your home, but it’s not a full balance loan like a home equity loan. Instead, it’s a line of credit you can draw from over time, like a credit card limit. If you have enough equity in your home, you can use your HELOC to cover the entire Option 7. Raise a down payment with a cash-out refinance With a cash-out refinance, you refinance the entire value of your home up to 80% of its equity. Whatever you don’t owe on the mortgage, you’ll receive in cash. For example, if you have $100,000 left on your mortgage but the home has $500,000 in equity, you’d be able to refinance up to $400,000. You would walk away with $300,000 in cash to put toward the purchase of your second home. Option 8. Consider a reverse mortgage If you are 62 or older, you may qualify for a reverse mortgage. Also known as a home equity conversion mortgage (HECM), a reverse mortgage allows you to borrow from your home’s equity without making monthly payments — with the expectation that you will pay back the loan when you sell your home.  Option 9. Explore other types of ownership There are other Get the best of both worlds with co-ownership For those dreaming of that perfect vacation retreat,

A You might consider Understanding second homes vs. primary residences Although you might visit a second home for weeks on end, it’s only a personal residence for part of the year. It may be vacant or rented out to others the rest of the time. By contrast, lenders expect your primary residence to take priority because it’s where you live and sleep. You can also own more than one “second” home; a second home is a property Can you have two primary residences? Generally, no, you can't have two primary residences at the same time for tax or mortgage purposes. Even if you split your time between a couple of places, only one can be your official "main" home. This is where you spend most of your time, get your mail, register your car and list on official documents. Lenders offer better interest rates on primary residences because they assume you'll always prioritize paying the mortgage on the home where you actually live. Can a second home be a primary residence? In short, no. Why does occupancy status matter? Your occupancy status matters significantly because it directly influences your financing options, interest rates and how lenders assess risk. Lenders carefully consider how you plan to use a property, as this dictates your financing options. Your primary residence, where you live and sleep, is generally easier to get a mortgage for and typically comes with lower interest rates. Lenders see these loans as less risky, understanding you're highly motivated to keep the roof over your head. It’s crucial to be truthful about your intended use when applying for a mortgage, as misrepresenting your occupancy can lead to serious consequences, including your lender demanding immediate full repayment, additional penalties and even bank fraud charges. You can also own more than one "second" home, as it's defined simply as a property secondary to your primary residence. Can you convert a second home into your primary residence? It's worth noting that a property's occupancy status isn't necessarily permanent; you can change a secondary residence into a primary one if it meets the necessary criteria. For instance, a retired couple might choose to downsize and sell their primary home to make their long-time second home their new primary residence.  Since your property's occupancy type directly impacts the specifics of your financing, it's always wise to consult your mortgage lender before making any such changes. Understanding the difference between a primary residence and a second home is important. Knowing the difference helps plan your long-term financial planning, property management responsibilities and even lifestyle choices.  For those seeking a luxury second home without the hassle and expense, let Pacaso make it simple with

If your dream is to We’ll share the top seven financing differences between investment properties and second homes to better understand both options. Plus, we’ll cover the tax considerations that may affect the type of second home you choose. What is a second home? A second home is a dwelling you own in addition to your Note that the way lenders classify second homes, vacation homes and investment properties can vary. What is an investment property? An investment property is an asset you buy with the intention of generating income through rent or value appreciation. A Are you considering buying a house to use as a second home and investment property? Although possible, you may need to choose a primary intent for your purchase to satisfy financing and tax regulations. 7 second home vs investment property financing differences When it comes to financing, investment property and second home requirements can differ greatly. Here’s an overview of how each To better understand how to begin financing investment property and 1. Mortgage interest rates Even with the same amount of money down and the same home loan length, a mortgage for an investment property will almost always carry a higher mortgage interest rate than a loan for a second home.  2. Down payments According to the 3. Debt-to-income (DTI) ratio According to 4. Closing costs Lenders often charge higher origination fees (or closing costs) for investment properties than for second homes.  5. Income reporting Because an investment property can earn you additional income through rental or resale, mortgage lenders will often include potential future profits when calculating your DTI for a rental property. You won’t have that perk with 6. Number of units For a second home, you are only allowed a mortgage on a single-unit property. For an investment property or rental property, you can get a mortgage on a property of up to four units.  7. Cash reserves A mortgage for a second home will require you to have a minimum of two months of cash reserves on hand. For an investment property, you will need a minimum of six months’ cash reserves.  Tax considerations Aside from having a firm grasp on investment property and second home mortgage rules, it’s important to understand the tax implications of both options. It’s also smart to consult with your tax adviser. Let’s break down the tax considerations.  1. Mortgage interest While mortgage interest on a second home is often deductible for personal use, it can also be claimed as a business expense for an investment property, potentially providing 2. Property taxes You can potentially deduct the property 3. Rental income Income you earn from your 4. Home equity loan interest Interest on a home equity loan for a second home may be deductible. In contrast, interest on a home equity loan for an investment property is generally deductible as a business expense. Now that you’re aware of the major differences between a second home vs. an investment property, it’s time to decide which option best suits your needs. If you decide that

Sometimes, you just need to get away.  But how often, and for how long? And where do you like to stay? The answers are different for everyone. Maybe you think of time away from home as an opportunity to explore new and unknown destinations. Or perhaps nothing feels more comfortable than returning to a familiar place where you know what to expect, and you don’t have to search for the things you need. Examining your travel preferences and budget can help you choose accommodations that meet your needs. Three housing options to consider are Here are five questions to ask yourself when comparing your second home options. 1. What’s my budget? Money will likely be an important factor in your decision. The upfront costs associated with a home purchase are much higher than Am I willing to spend time on homeowner tasks? Do you get excited about home improvement projects and bill-payment spreadsheets? Or, when you’re away from home, are utilities and lawn care the last things you want to think about? Below, you'll see how the estimated operating costs of a Pacaso compare to a whole second home, along with the cost of renting a similar rental. Co-ownership can provide a significant cost advantage long-term over both options. *This estimate is based on the typical operating costs of a Pacaso and a similar whole home and is intended for comparison purposes only. How much will I use the home? Do you typically take one vacation a year? Or maybe you’re a Do I plan ahead? Do you sometimes wake up on a Saturday morning, hop in the car and figure you’ll find a place to stay once you reach your destination? Or are you most comfortable making plans weeks or months in advance? When you co-own a Pacaso, a maximum of seven other owners enjoy the home, meaning far less competition for dates. Plus, the SmartStay™ Am I looking for a ‘home away from home’? Are you just looking for a comfortable place to sleep? Do you think of a second home as a blank slate, ready for your artistic vision? Or do you want an always-ready gathering place where you make memories with family and friends? There’s no one right choice for everyone. But if you plan to use your second home several weeks a year, you don’t want the hassles and responsibilities of whole home ownership, and you want your second home budget to go further,

Seeking a luxury second home in 2025? You’re not alone. From ski-in/ski-out mountain retreats to breezy coastal escapes, Pacaso owners are choosing co-ownership in some of the most desirable locations in the country. We’ve rounded up the most talked about Pacaso homes of 2025 so far, including sun-soaked coastal escapes and  year-round mountain getaways. Combining luxury, location, and lifestyle, these exceptional homes offer turnkey design and professional management for a smarter way to own a second home. 10. This newly renovated end-unit townhome offers year-round luxury with stunning forest views, updated finishes, and easy access to world-class skiing, golf, and mountain village charm. 9. Perched in Napa Valley’s coveted Coombsville region, this modern estate offers sweeping views, seamless indoor/outdoor living, and the perfect setting for memorable gatherings. 8. A striking example of desert modernism, this retreat offers seamless indoor-outdoor living, bold architecture, and stunning mountain views — all in a private, design-forward setting. 7. Located on Lake Tahoe’s west shore, this warm and welcoming retreat offers panoramic lake and mountain views, and the perfect homebase for year-round adventure and easy entertaining. 6. In the heart of Old Town, Timberline blends historic charm with high-end modern living, complete with mountain views, walkable access to dining and skiing, and a rooftop deck made for après-ski or summertime gatherings. 5. Set in the exclusive South Palm Desert hills with panoramic mountain views, a resort-style backyard, and seamless indoor-outdoor living this home is just minutes from El Paseo, top golf clubs, and endless desert adventure. 4. Nestled among towering pines near Lake Tahoe, Wood Creek is a fully remodeled mountain retreat with expansive living spaces, a wraparound deck for entertaining, and easy access to Incline Village’s year-round activities. 3. Located in the exclusive gated community of Punta Ballena, this stylish Cabo retreat offers ocean views, private beach club access, and effortless indoor-outdoor living with a pool, spa, and spacious entertaining terraces. 2. This retreat blends indoor-outdoor living with refined style for poolside afternoons, dining under the stars, and plenty of room to host the people who matter most. 1. Enjoy your private Palm Springs resort with five fully equipped casitas surrounding a saltwater pool and chef’s cabana, made for time with friends while still enjoying space of your own.

Before a Pacaso owner ever steps inside their new home, our team has already spent hours perfecting every detail — rearranging layouts, curating furniture, and fine-tuning the in-home experience. The goal is to create spaces that pair beauty with comfort, so they’re a joy to both look at and experience. Every design element is chosen with purpose, drawing inspiration from the culture, climate, and lifestyle of the destination. The result is intuitive comfort, spaces that feel instantly familiar, where owners can take a deep breath and feel at home from the very first moment. This is the essence of our Nestled in the mountain community of Snowmass, this end-unit luxury townhome offers unobstructed mountain views and coveted ski-in/ski-out access. But what truly sets it apart is the intention behind every design choice. We asked the Pacaso team members who brought Alpine Ridge to life to share their favorite details:   Every Pacaso home is part of our Behind the scenes, our team works through a detailed process, from architectural walk-throughs to virtual design boards, to ensure every space is not only aesthetically stunning, but highly functional.  Because your second home should support the The beauty of owning a Pacaso isn’t just the destination, it’s the instant sense of belonging. At Alpine Ridge, you’ll arrive to fresh linens, a fully stocked kitchen, plush seating, and spaces designed for everyone to unwind. It’s not just a second home. It’s a second home where every detail is already taken care of so all that’s left for you to do is enjoy.

Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer and is a chance to bring friends and family together, and most importantly, and most importantly, make time for reflection and remembrance. Here’s how to throw a celebration that feels easy, looks polished and keeps the spirit of the day intact. Whether it’s a classic backyard BBQ or a coastal-chic pool party, pick a theme that will anchor your celebration. It doesn’t have to be over-the-top, but subtle touches like red, white and blue linens or nautical accents go a long way. Even little nods to Americana like striped napkins or vintage Coke bottles can elevate the scene without being kitschy. If you’re cooking, keep it simple and seasonal, but never boring. Gourmet burgers with brioche buns or slow roasted meats with an assortment of sides. Always include plenty of fresh salads and fruit to keep things cool and be sure to have a few gluten-free, vegetarian and kid-friendly options so everyone leaves happy (and full). Add in a DIY ice cream sundae bar for a sweet finish that everyone will love. Not a fan of manning the grill? No shame in outsourcing. Just be sure your caterer matches the vibe. Your favorite sushi place may not scream “holiday weekend,” but a smoked brisket platter with artisanal fixings? That’s a win. Activities are optional but appreciated, especially if you’re hosting a mix of ages. Set up lawn games like cornhole or bocce or even an arts and crafts table for kids. Organize a casual pool volleyball match or hilarious float race. Set the tone with a curated playlist, or even screen a classic American movie under the stars. No one wants to be frantically chopping herbs or hiding delivery boxes when guests start arriving. Prep what you can in the days leading up to your party, like the tablescape, playlist, guest towels, and make a checklist to stay on track. Even in sunny locales, May can throw curveballs like May Gray in SoCal or unexpected showers in the Hamptons. Make sure you’ve got an indoor space ready or a stylish tent setup that doesn’t feel like an afterthought. Have extra throws or pashminas on hand for your guests on cooler evenings. Thoughtful gestures make a big difference. It’s easy to get swept up in the rosé and ribs, but don’t forget the real reason we gather. Bring out an American flag and keep it at half-staff until noon and consider observing a moment of silence to remember the men and women who gave their lives in service. You could even include a small table with a framed photo or tribute for a meaningful touch. You don’t need fireworks or fanfare to host a beautiful Memorial Day get together. Just good food, great company and a touch of thoughtful planning.

At Pacaso, we believe that a home is more than four walls, but where your best memories are made, and special moments unfold. Our curated selection of vacation homes is designed to be the backdrop for everything from family memories to romantic escapes, steamy getaways and unforgettable celebrations. From cozy nights by the fire to sunrises over scenic views, champagne toasts to game nights, these spaces offer the perfect setting to honor the many forms love can take. After all, home is where the heart is, and we’ve got the perfect one waiting for you. Homes for gathering

A second home is a place to enjoy a break from your everyday routine. Comfortable furnishings, standout amenities and beautiful surroundings are key parts of this experience. Transforming a home into a relaxing Pacaso takes a lot of hard work and dedication by our talented team. How do we do a home makeover? The work begins before the owner sets food inside their home — during a process we call onboarding. Where the magic happens Onboarding a home means getting a home completely stay-ready for its owners. The process involves multiple members of our Crew, from the design team mocking up designs and procuring the right decor to the home operations team placing furnishings, amenities and supplies where they need to be.  Making a home Pacaso-worthy is their singular objective. Pacaso-worthy means a second home that is modern and comfortable — a  place where owners don’t feel the need to add anything to feel at home. We accomplish this both through our The transformation Once all the finishing touches are in place, we want every owner to feel like they belong. When owners walk into their second home, we want it to take their breath away. They should feel relaxed, comfortable and instantly at ease, knowing all they have to do is show up and enjoy their Pacaso. See how a Palm Springs second home was transformed into a wow-worthy Pacaso in this video. Find your own beautifully designed second home and experience the Pacaso lifestyle for yourself. See our

A Luxury home office ideas 1. Great lighting A thoughtful lighting scheme can make all the difference in how you feel in your office space, how much you’re able to get done and how you look on your video calls! Say goodbye to the terrible fluorescent lighting of the office and experiment with a combination of ambient and task lighting until you find the right blend for your needs. Natural light is also great for home offices. Just be sure to position your desk so you get all the benefits of sunlight coming through the windows without the harsh glare on your computer screen or too much back light for video calls.  2. Quality furnishings  A home office presents the perfect opportunity to ditch standard-issue office furniture and invest in quality pieces that are both beautiful and functional. Why spend your day in a clunky rolling office chair when you could instead take your calls from a stylish, supportive leather armchair? Surround yourself with upscale furnishings like a statement desk, a distinctive lamp and built-in bookcases. Stylish office furniture is available in a wide range of design styles, whether you like a more traditional look, contemporary design touches, a sleek modern desk or something entirely unique. Since the space is just for you, it’s the perfect place to show off your unique design aesthetic. 3. A distraction-free setup One key to home office success is making sure your space is purpose-built for productivity. Space allowing, resist the temptation to make your home office do double-duty as a guest room, a media room or a storage closet. Having a Another easy but effective way to defeat household distractions? A door. It sounds simple, but having a separate, closed-off area for work helps others in your household know when you’re busy and shouldn’t be distracted. A door also helps you mentally “close up shop” at the end of the day — simply turn off the light, shut the door, retreat to your living space and leave work behind until tomorrow. 4. Luxury touches  You spend a lot of time in your home office, so it should be aesthetically pleasing. Thoughtfully selected accessories like framed photos, artwork and tasteful memorabilia can give your office space a warm, personal feel that’s unique to you. A few 5. Serious storage When you are hopping between calls or spending the day heads-down on an important project, it’s easy for your workspace to get messy. From notepads and pens to charging cords to printers, there are a lot of must-haves in a home office, and everything needs a place. Further complicating the issue is the fact that, if your home office isn’t a repurposed bedroom, you may not have a full closet or dedicated storage space at your disposal. Invest a bit of time and money into some organizational solutions. Think floating shelves, a filing cabinet, desktop organizers or a series of baskets — whatever you need to have a clear desk…and a clear mind. 6. All the tech For a home office to be truly functional, you need all the technology solutions you rely on in a traditional office setting. For most people, this means a computer monitor that gives you more working space than your compact laptop screen, reliable data storage, a printer and scanner and a strong router (along with super-fast WiFi, of course). You may want to up the ante by adding some creature comforts, like a coffee maker, a mini-refrigerator for snacks and an air purifier or humidifier. 7. A stylish background For many work-from-home professionals, Zoom calls have replaced in-person meetings. And if you’re the “camera on” type — or if you are required to be — it’s nice to have a professional-looking backdrop. Think through where you can place your desk to give you the best setting, then decorate with a carefully curated bookshelf, artwork, houseplants or some combination.  8. A great conversation piece  Whether you meet clients in your home office or your office is your private sanctuary, every home office benefits from an inspiring focal point. This could be a stunning art piece, a stately fireplace, a gorgeous accent wall, a piece of antique furniture, or a floor-to-ceiling window. Whatever you choose, it should inspire you and spark conversation. A word on workcations While there’s no substitute for a work-free vacation, many professionals are taking advantage of the ability to work from anywhere by planning workcations (or working vacations). The best scenario for a workcation is having a job where you can work remotely and a destination with reliable internet and a distraction-free home office. Another option is a hybrid workcation/vacation. In this scenario, you might take a two-week trip to really immerse yourself in a destination with one week spent unplugged from work followed by one week of workcation before you head home. This arrangement gives you ample time to explore, without sacrificing all of your vacation time. Best of all, you still have evenings and weekends to take full advantage of the lake, city, Work from anywhere in your Pacaso  While you can surely work from a hotel room or vacation rental, doing your job from your dream second home is a best-case scenario. You’ll have all the creature comforts from home (a fully furnished, professionally designed and decorated home) but in a crave-worthy vacation destination. We’ve even curated a collection of As the co-owner of a Pacaso second home, you’ll have ample opportunity to enjoy your retreat throughout the year. Our app makes scheduling fast, easy and equitable, and when availability allows, you can book a stay with as few as two days’ notice. 

Go from “someday” to “today” — co-ownership can help you stretch your second home budget. See what’s possible with these five incredible Pacaso properties, each available for less than $700,000. West Shore —  $558,000 for ⅛ ownership A light-filled home with an expansive deck, Sparkling Creek —  $547,000 for ⅛ ownership Desert Haven —  $600,000 for ⅛ ownership Discover expansive, open-concept living and chic contemporary architecture at Las Flores —  $619,000 for ⅛ ownership Wake up to Pacific Ocean views and the sounds of crashing waves. Wood Creek — $663,000 for ⅛ ownership For summer fun on the lake or winter days on the slopes,

Stop dreaming and grab your piece of paradise. These four tropical second homes offer luxury living in sunny destinations. Don’t forget your sunglasses! Stunning South Maui  Located on iconic Wailea Beach, Pacaso listing: Baja bliss  Spend sunny days exploring everything the Los Cabos area has to offer, from watersports and golf to shopping and dining. Then, come back to Pacaso listing: Balboa Island charms  With a unique combination of French-inspired design and an enviable location on Newport Beach’s exclusive Balboa Island, Pacaso listing: Cruisin’ in Santa Cruz  Embrace Santa Cruz’s laid-back surf vibe at Pacaso listing: Sonoran sunsets  A gated mountaintop retreat, Pacaso listing:

Will and Julia live in the Bay Area, just south of San Francisco in the communities of Redwood City and Menlo Park, respectively. They each have two teenage children, and they enjoy spending time with their combined family in the quieter, more verdant Napa Valley.  “We both have a love of Napa, and we were going up there five or six times a year,” said Will. Over time, we started talking about getting a place there — we were spending a fortune on hotels.”  Even though hotels weren’t cheap, a second home in the Working through the details Julia had some initial concerns and questions about the Will said that Pacaso’s level of service was an important factor in their purchase, giving him and Julia the confidence to move forward. “From the start to today, working with Pacaso at all levels, everyone has been fantastic. If there’s been an issue, they’ve consistently worked through it and found equitable solutions.”  The joy of shared home ownership From their first stay, Will and Julia knew they’d made the right decision. “It was a ‘pinch me’ moment,” said Julia. “I remember thinking, ‘Is this real? Did we really do this?’ And then I said, ‘We’re home!’” Since trading up hotel stays for time at their Pacaso, they can attest to the difference that ownership brings. “Having a piece of something, somewhere, that you can come to and call your own is a wonderful feeling. It’s easy to fall in love with the home and the community,” said Will. And, unlike a hotel, it’s a special gathering place for their loved ones, said Julia. “Being able to come together and make memories with family and friends is one of my favorite parts of owning our Pacaso.” Plus, said Julia, it’s always ready for them when they arrive. “It’s such a benefit being able to come in and have our home be clean and set up with everything we need, and then not having to worry about doing a bunch of cleaning before we leave.” Life at their Pacaso Whether they’re spending time at their second home with family, friends or just each other, the experience is one of ease, pleasure and joy. “We live differently when we’re there,” said Will. “We’ll walk downtown to get croissants, then come back and open up the doors to the backyard and the sun will be streaming in — it’s something else.” Julia added, “Whenever we arrive, Will always says, ‘I can feel my blood pressure drop.’ It’s such a good feeling.”  They like to walk around the neighborhood, strolling through the forest to enjoy the magnificent redwoods, or walking downtown to have dinner or pick up groceries. “The neighborhood is really friendly. Everyone says hello and good morning — it’s a nice, small-town feel.” And if they’re not up for a walk? “Sometimes we just stay at the pool all weekend to relax and rejuvenate,” said Julia. It was during one of those poolside moments that Will realized how fortunate he and Julia were to have this experience of owning a second home: “I brought a lawn chair down to the pool, put the umbrella up, and was reading an Agatha Christie book, drink in hand — it was beautifully sunny, and Julia was next to me, and I was thinking to myself, ‘If this ain’t why we’re living, I don’t know what is.’ It was just a wonderful moment.” Find your second home in California wine country Ready to enrich your life with a second home in Napa Valley? Explore

Before becoming Pacaso owners, frequent travelers Byron and Elizabeth hadn't thought much about buying a second home — at the time, they didn't own their primary residence, and they enjoyed seeing new places. While they liked exploring different towns along the Northern California coast, it took planning. "We were spending a lot of time and energy finding places to stay," said Elizabeth.  They had several friends in St. Helena, a Napa Valley town within an easy drive of their Bay Area home, and they visited the area fairly often. They had toyed with the idea of buying property there, but it didn't seem like a realistic option. "It's really hard to find properties in St. Helena, and a full-time second home wasn't in the cards," said Byron. But then an interesting opportunity presented itself: Some friends of theirs, Jay and Michael, had decided to "sell down" part of their St. Helena home to Pacaso. The home, known as the Poolhouse, was Pacaso's first property, and Byron and Elizabeth had fond memories of the times they'd spent there in the past.  Seizing the opportunity  Being able to buy a share of the Poolhouse seemed like a stroke of good fortune. "Owning a whole second home was a barrier financially, and it didn't make sense for us when we considered the maintenance and upkeep for a place where we wouldn't spend that much time," said Byron.  Co-ownership with Pacaso seemed like an ideal option — they already knew and loved the home and the area, they wouldn't have to worry about any maintenance headaches, and the ability to right-size their ownership provided the flexibility they craved. "We like to travel a lot and didn't want to have to spend all of our vacation time at a second home."  Most importantly, it was financially attainable, with the help of Pacaso's financing option. "Financing made it possible and kept costs down to a reasonable amount. It balanced out to about what we pay for the average weekend a month we spend on a short family trip, or less than what we would spend on a vacation rental." Still, it was a new model, and they needed to feel assured that it worked for their needs. " "Once we understood the transaction and how everything worked, we felt comfortable and it was really a no-brainer at that point,"said Byron. Time in their Napa home Having young children — 3-year-old twins — hasn't dampened Byron and Elizabeth's interest in travel, but it has changed their perspective on second home ownership. "We really like the feeling of ownership over a vacation rental because we get to spend time in a place where we can make memories together. The kids look forward to coming here, and they understand that it's our Napa house and they get to play in the pool and see friends who live up here," said Elizabeth.  And that sense of connection and consistency is unique to ownership, said Elizabeth. "We feel like we're part of the community even though we're part time. You don't get that familiarity and memories at a rental or a hotel. You have a nice time, but there's nothing sentimental or special."  Sometimes those memories are part of the flow of daily life, like meeting up with local friends to watch their son's Little League game at Crane Park. Other times they are moments to cherish, like celebrating the twins' birthday at their Pacaso with both sets of grandparents who they hadn't been able to see in over a year.  And best of all, creating memories doesn't come with any added stress. "Owning our Pacaso is effortless," said Elizabeth. "We don't have to do any extra planning or work, and we know the house will be the same as when we left it. It's turnkey ownership, and we just show up and enjoy ourselves — we don't have to worry about the details."

Pacaso is more than just a place to stay — it's a gathering place where your extended family can create memories made possible only in a vacation home. This is true for Derick and Karen Ball, who found Pacaso's luxury amenities, dedicated property management and exceptional financing to be the perfect fit for their needs. "The memories that we make here, with family and friends — these are experiences that you can’t buy and you can’t get at a hotel,” said Derick. "It’s quantity time, but also the quality time within it." Watch below to learn more about the Ball family and how they create extended family moments in their Pacaso home. Pacaso makes a second home possible and enjoyable for more people.

Chris and Julie previously owned a second home in South Lake Tahoe, using it for family vacations and as a rental. “We love the idea of having a home, but we didn’t need it full time. The workload that went into renting it out — there was a lot,” Chris said. “We did great with it, but it was a lot of work.” They sold the property in 2020 and started looking for a more manageable home on the north end of Lake Tahoe. During their search, they came across Pacaso’s co-ownership program. Chris and Julie were won over by Pacaso’s price, flexibility and amenities, and the true ownership experience stood out. New, comfortable and impressive The couple loved the idea of owning new construction at a price within their budget. “We figured, the new home aspect would be less wear and tear in the long term,” Julie shared. In addition, since Julie and Chris consider themselves as more “summer people,” a new home in a different area of Tahoe would provide more options for enjoyment.  But it’s not just the newness of the property — the couple is amazed by the home’s design and feel. “I think the most difficult part is having to come home to our main home,” said Julie, who’s a fan of interior design. “I love this house, and it is amazing. I think the design team did a phenomenal job.” As owners who had rented out their second home, the couple also appreciates how Pacaso takes care of the maintenance and adds special touches to make them feel at home. “The hot tub, furnishings, outdoor furniture and fire pits are all comfortable. You have everything you need that you can think of, and that makes me feel really good,” said Chris. “We’re going to impress our family and friends whenever we go there. And we’re always going to have a comfortable stay because of that.” Julie added, “It’s really nice just to be able to walk in and not have to do anything.” Julie and Chris aren’t the only ones who are impressed. On a recent stay, the couple’s daughter and dog didn’t want to leave. “That was a really good sign the Pacaso team did well,” Chris said. The perks of true ownership Simplicity and comfort aside, a massive benefit for Chris and Julie was having true ownership in their second home. “There’s a sense of pride when you own a piece of a home. One thing that resonated with me during our last experience was that we did build a lot of traditions,” Julie said. “And it felt nice to have the same place to go to and make it your own. And it is your own.” This feeling of ownership makes their new Pacaso different from other offerings on the market. “I think there’s a lot of misconception out there with it being a timeshare,” said Julie. “It’s not a timeshare — we’re owning a home with eight people. We are able to have access to Tahoe and a beautiful home that we would not be able to afford on our own.” A second home is a special place With more moments on the schedule and plans to pass the home to their daughter, the couple views their Tahoe home as more than just a second home — it’s about going to a beloved destination that holds special meaning in their family. “I think our second home is an extension of our primary home and an extension of our family,” said Chris. “We can’t say that about our current home as much as we love it, because — at some point — you transition out of your primary home. But with a second home, it’s always going to be a place we go to that matters.” Look forward to coming to Tahoe Looking for a place to make memories in Lake Tahoe? When you co-own a Pacaso, you enjoy hassle-free ownership in a beautiful property that feels like home — because it is. Check out our

For Susan and Jason, Napa Valley had long felt like a home away from home. They live less than two hours away in Burlingame, and wine is Jason’s business — in fact, he owns a wine bar, and frequent trips to Napa and Sonoma Valley are part of the job. But wine country means more than that to the family, said Susan. “Jason is in the wine industry, so Napa is important for that reason, but we also love the community and the change in pace of life it brings while we’re there, so it has a lot of sentimental value for us.” From ‘maybe someday’ to ‘let’s do it!’ They had thought about a second home in Napa, but the idea never went anywhere. “We’d been considering it for years, but the most we ever did was look online, and we always had the same conversation,” said Susan. “It seemed like a lot of upkeep and maintenance considering our busy jobs and lives. How often are we going to use it? Is it worth it? And then this home showed up online and we realized it was partial ownership and we thought that seemed ideal.” Although they hadn’t heard of Pacaso, they understood the concept. “We have friends in Tahoe who own a fractional property, so we were familiar with the idea. Jason was able to tour in person and took me along via FaceTime. We decided that night, and it wasn’t a hard decision! We loved the property and it seemed like a minimal risk for what we would get out of it.”  What they would get was space, true ownership in a home, and an opportunity to put down roots in an area they loved. “When you have a family and go on vacation, you end up cramming four people in a hotel or paying for a suite or multiple rooms each time,” said Susan. “That’s not nearly as appealing as having space for not just family, but also friends, and being able to own it and sell it — those were all the things our friends loved about their Tahoe place, which, in part, is what convinced us to move forward with Pacaso.”  A short drive, a world away Getting out of the city and having a place to relax, with minimal effort, is a dream come true, said Susan. “Being able to just pack up and be there in under two hours is wonderful. You just feel the stress melt away as you get closer to the house.”  Susan and Jason’s Pacaso is situated on an acre and a half in a neighborhood they described as almost farmlike. “It’s close to downtown but you feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere. The kids love to walk down the drive and feed the goats across the street. We live in a city, so having all this space, a pool, playing bocce ball, making s’mores — it’s great, and the kids don’t want to leave.” In addition to making friends with the neighborhood goats, the family looks forward to developing closer connections within the Comfort and ease Leisurely days spent by the pool or exploring local parks are possible in part because Susan and Jason don’t have to invest time and energy in the home itself. “The house is very thoughtfully appointed, and the fact that we don’t have to worry about the maintenance is even better,” said Jason. “From our first stay, it immediately felt very comfortable, and there was clearly a lot of thought put into the way the home was stocked from appliances to glassware and bedding. The personal touches like games are really nice too.” Susan added, “There’s a lot less screen time when we’re there because there’s so much other stuff to do, like playing family games.” The themes of home, ownership and ease have been core to Susan and Jason’s And for Jason, the consistency you can expect from a home you own offers peace of mind — especially when you don’t have to deal with the hassles yourself. “There’s a comfort level in going back to the same place — you know where everything is, you know how to work the TV and the pool and set everything up the way you want it. But we’re not responsible — it’s the actual joys of homeownership.”  Make Napa your second home destination Pacaso puts second home ownership within reach for families, with listings in some of the most desirable destinations. And our Family-Friendly Second Homes™ make it easy to just show up and relax — from cribs and high chairs, to games, pool floaties, streaming services and more, we have you (and your kids) covered. Check out our

Like many couples, Richard and Anne-Catherine thought about buying a second home for years, and they got pretty close a few times. They even did a trial run to see what ownership might be like, renting a home for a season when their children were young, but it ended up being a hassle. “We had to duplicate everything we had in our home to be comfortable, and we were always forgetting something or didn’t have something. There was so much to pack and bring back — it just wasn’t working!” said Richard.  But more than the inconvenience of schlepping things between homes, a feeling held them back: guilt. “Every time we were serious about buying a place, I always felt guilty knowing we wouldn’t use it very much,” said Anne-Catherine. Right-sized ownership with all the amenities Living in the Bay Area, Richard and Anne-Catherine are regular visitors to Lake Tahoe and enjoy the region’s variety of year-round outdoor activities. They never gave up on the idea of owning a second home, and considered buying a condo in Tahoe. Then they learned about Pacaso. “We thought, what a great idea! This is exactly what we need. The cleaning is done, the decorating is done, and there will always be other people using it. We’ll have it for a reasonable amount of time, but it’s not just us — it’s not wasted,” said Anne-Catherine.  Plus, owning a Pacaso meant they didn’t have to deal with all the prep and packing that made their seasonal rental experience so much work. “A big advantage of Pacaso is how well-equipped it is,” said Richard. “You don’t have to worry about what to bring because apart from picking up groceries, everything you need is here.” While they had some initial reservations about taking a risk with a newer company, Richard and Anne-Catherine felt reassured by Pacaso’s thorough operating agreement, and ultimately bought their share A nice price, a very nice home Co-owning a Pacaso also gave Richard and Anne-Catherine an opportunity to own a larger home than they could otherwise afford. “In Tahoe, what we paid for our one-eighth share gets you a one-bedroom apartment. It would be available to us all the time, but it would be very tiny, so I’m not sure it would be worth it,” said Richard. Anne-Catherine noted that it also wouldn’t come with the new, Having stayed at many vacation rentals, the couple says the quality of their Pacaso far exceeds the homes they’ve rented. “Rentals can be shabby,” said Anne-Catherine. “Even high-end rentals can still have cheap cutlery or no baking equipment. I adore baking, and at our Pacaso, everything is there. The decor is very tasteful, and the quality of the bedding and towels is so nice.”  Service at rental properties can be unpredictable as well, but they’ve been pleased with their Pacaso experience. Everything has gone smoothly, from timely door-code notifications to the functionality of the home technology. And the human touch has been a real plus: “The manager is reachable and responsive right away — it gives you confidence,” said Anne-Catherine.  Year-round enjoyment Tahoe’s seasonal activities make it an ideal The couple is also happy to have a place to share with family and friends — something that would have been challenging had they bought a small condo. “We came with two of our (adult) kids and they couldn't believe the place — it was a treat,” said Anne-Catherine. Richard added, “The service, the cleaning and quality of the place that you get for the money is very good. It’s a great deal compared to a one-bedroom apartment where we’d have to do everything ourselves. We can come here and do a bit of work, a bit of skiing — it’s going to be brilliant.” Make Tahoe your second home destination Pacaso puts second home ownership within reach, with listings in some of the most desirable destinations. Check out our

Meghan and Chad had been thinking about buying a second home for their family of five to enjoy quality time together. However, concerns about upkeep, expenses and having enough time in their home held the couple back. “We didn't want to buy ourselves a job,” the couple shared. “We previously owned a second home, and we just felt like it wasn't getting used enough.”  Pacaso’s Ready from the get-go While the couple originally wanted an escape during the pandemic, their Pacaso became much more: A consistent place where they can maximize their time and have everything ready to go. “When we arrive, the gates open and it just feels awesome,” Chad said. “Everything's totally dialed in, and we know how to work everything. The fun, relaxation and enjoyment all start immediately.” This familiarity is the biggest appeal of owning a second home. “Having to discover and troubleshoot a vacation rental, I think, takes 24 hours. With Pacaso, however, we get those 24 hours back to enjoy,” Meghan said about the turnkey experience. Plus, Pacaso’s Reselling their ownership Another advantage of owning a Pacaso is the ability to sell. While Meghan and Chad started off owning 1/4 ownership of their home, they later upgraded their primary residence and adjusted their Pacaso home ownership to 1/8.  “The Family fun, inside and out  For Meghan and Chad, their second home provides everything they need for their family and more — like lemons their son picks from the beautiful trees to make lemonade and the wood-fired oven for baking homemade pizzas. “The home is amazing … it’s been a great place to bring family and friends together,” Chad said. The fun extends to Healdsburg itself where the couple enjoys Saturday evening dance parties in the plaza, shopping at farmer’s markets and delighting in local wine tastings. Their kids attend local camps and swim with local instructors. “I think we're super embedded in the community,” Meghan shared. “One of my goals in being up there was to really take advantage of the place — not as a tourist, but as a local.”  Discover your home away from home When you become a co-owner of a Pacaso home, you enjoy hassle-free ownership at a place that truly feels like home. Check out our

Mike and Rita wanted nothing more than to have a place for everyone in their family to enjoy. From the moment they stepped into their new home, the two grandparents knew immediately they had made the right choice. A Pacaso in Newport Beach was everything they desired in a second home. From the amenities and location to Pacaso’s ongoing support, every detail has made it “feel like home.” Mike and Rita’s calendar is packed with upcoming celebrations, get-togethers and special occasions. “There’s going to be amazing memories made,” said Rita. “As a grandmother, that is my main job. And I think it’s going to be quite easy.” Watch the video to hear what else Mike and Rita love about their Newport Beach second home.

Pacaso owner, Simon Bull made the ultimate romantic gesture when he purchased a beautiful Sonoma home as a Valentine’s gift for his wife of 44 years. He recounts what struck him most about this house and location and offers thoughtful insight into how Pacaso owners fit into the community.

Second home buyer: George, Bay Area entrepreneur George is a long-time Bay Area resident and tech company CEO, and with three kids between the ages of 7 and 12, he felt the time was right for a second home where his family could take a break from their busy lives. He wanted a location that felt like an escape but was still easily accessible by car, and served as a welcome gathering space for his immediate family as well as extended family and friends.  The situation George’s second home vision started as a building project. He had been researching the When George and Anne learned about Pacaso, however, they were intrigued. As a tech entrepreneur with an eye for innovation, George embraces forward-thinking business ideas.  “We are big believers in the shared economy,” said George. “What was compelling about Pacaso was it was ready and available now, and it was clear the team had really thought about what the shared economy looks like for vacation homes, and what would it look like for me and my wife who want to take advantage of a second home but are busy and active in our work lives. We're not retired or close to it, so I'm not going to be occupying a second home more than 15% tops. It's a perfect product for someone like me, and that helped us move forward quickly and become owners of a Pacaso home.” Although Pacaso was relatively new, George was familiar with the co-ownership concept and felt confident in his purchasing decision. In fact, he sees Pacaso as the model for second home ownership: “This is the way the future is going, and the way a vacation home should be leveraged by a person like myself.”  Still, there were a few important details George wanted to discuss before committing to a purchase. “One of the biggest hurdles for any buyer is understanding Another concern was how co-owners might treat the home. “What I liked about the contract was that it made it very clear that every owner is expected to be a true owner,” said George. “It presents a deliberate point of view about how you should think of and value your home, which sets the right tone.” Since purchasing their Pacaso, George and his family have loved staying at their home, and any misgivings about others’ care of the property have been erased. In fact, they’ve referred friends who ended up buying a share. A key factor in their enjoyment? Not having to deal with maintenance or other hassles of ownership.  "We don't have to worry about things like a leaking sink, and when we noticed that the Wi-Fi wasn’t great outside, we talked to Pacaso and they took care of it,” said George. “We get the advantages of using the home in the way we want without all the downsides of owning a second home, and that’s because of the Pacaso team.”  George has also been impressed with the ease of scheduling time at their home. “One of the most positive aspects is how well Pacaso thought about the app — when owners can get access, how much time they can schedule, who can book. We look at the calendar and know what we can plan, and it's been pretty awesome.” Conclusion For George and his family, their Pacaso ticks all the boxes: It’s an escape from the city, a comfortable place to gather with loved ones, and a practical alternative to whole home ownership. “It's your home, but it's also a home that's well taken care of when you're not there. When we come back, everything is ready to go — we don't have to fix or clean anything — and when we’re there, we don't have to worry about all the typical homeowner issues, which allows us to maximize our time there. It’s an incredible thing.” And while the home itself is well matched to their needs, it represents so much more to George. It’s a place where he and his wife can watch their children grow into young adults.  “My kids are at a critical point in their lives, and their memories and the ways they think about family are being created as we speak,” said George. “To have a place that we can call our home and where we can separate ourselves from living and breathing the frenetic pace of Silicon Valley — having that time and memories that are so distinct from the Bay Area, that's huge. These are the formative years for our kids, and having this place for our family is really meaningful.” Find your Napa Valley getaway With gorgeous (and hassle-free) homes available throughout the

Beautiful American cities attract big businesses, and big businesses pay well for top talent, making metropolitan areas flush with million-dollar homes. But which cities lead the high-priced real estate pack? A 1. San Jose, CA Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, San Jose is the hotspot for 2. San Francisco, CA Just north of Silicon Valley, San Francisco has 42% of its homes valued at over $1 million. But the size of million-dollar homes in San Francisco varies widely depending on location and condition, with 700-square-foot condos in popular neighborhoods going for $1 million, and suburban homes with close to 3,000 square feet listed at the same price. The neighborhoods with the highest appreciation in San Francisco are just east of Lake Merced and bordering San Francisco State University.  3. Los Angeles, CA Are you starting to see a California trend? Los Angeles has long been known for pricey real estate, and its selection of million-dollar homes make up 19% of the market. The average size of million-dollar homes in the City of Angels is 1,720 square feet, with 92% of them built before 1999. The priciest neighborhoods include Bel Air, Brentwood, West Sunset Boulevard, and areas along the Pacific Coast Highway.  4. San Diego, CA San Diego continues the trend of expensive West Coast real estate, with 14% of the homes valued at over $1 million. Median home values in San Diego are around $665,000, with the majority of homes in the area priced between $596,000 and $894,000.  5. Seattle, WA Seattle’s 91% white-collar workforce is a contributing factor to having 11% of its homes valued at a million dollars or more. You’ll find the most expensive neighborhoods near Edgewater Park/Broadmoor, Laurelhurst, and East Roy Street at 24th Avenue East. Newer construction dominates the scene, with nearly 24% of all homes built since 2000.  6. New York, NY New York City is known for its expensive real estate, so it’s no surprise that the Big Apple made this list: 10% of homes are valued at a million dollars or more. But unlike many other urban areas in the U.S., New York’s dense population means that 95% of the city’s homes are apartments, not detached houses. One-bedroom apartments make up 39% of those units, and it’s rare to find a home with five bedrooms or more in the city.  7. Boston, MA In Boston 9% of the housing inventory is valued over $1 million. You’ll find Boston’s priciest real estate at Beacon Street near Fisher College and Boylston Street near Presidential Plaza. Boston is known for its history, and it’s not just monuments and museums — in fact, 50% of the city’s real estate was built before 1940. As a college town, Boston also has a high percentage of renters, with only 33% of homes occupied by owners. 8. Washington, D.C. Like Boston, Washington is a hotspot for American history, but with a larger inventory of newer construction homes: 34% of homes in the district were built before 1940. Million-dollar homes make up 7% of the D.C. real estate market, with Dupont Circle’s historic mansions, Georgetown and The Palisades among the city’s most expensive neighborhoods. Typical home values range from about $236,000 to $1.2 million, with no single price bracket cornering the D.C. market.  9. Miami, FL With glamorous mansions lining its waterways, million-dollar homes are part of Miami’s scenery, making up nearly 5% of the city’s homes. Miami also has some of the newest homes, with 27% of its housing constructed after 2000. Up-and-coming Miami neighborhoods include Buena Vista, City Center and Biscayne Boulevard at Miami Dade College.  10. Denver, CO The Rocky Mountain gem of Denver rounds out the list with 4% of its market consisting of million-dollar homes. Home values are pretty evenly distributed between $122,000 and $914,000, with 86% of them falling in this range. The city is also divided nearly equally between owners and renters, at 49% and 51%, respectively.

Time to celebrate—Pacaso is turning five! In just five years, we’ve broken new ground in the second home market and introduced a model that is reshaping real estate. None of it would be possible without our team of innovators, thought leaders, and most importantly, our incredible owners. As we look ahead to the next chapter, we remain grateful to the community that fuels our success and inspires us to keep innovating and raising the bar. Thank you for being part of our journey. Now, let’s take a look back at the milestones that made our first five years so memorable. Here’s to the next five years of memories, meaningful connections, and innovation. The best chapters of the Pacaso story are still to come.

Luxury real estate trends: Paris & London 2025 Luxury real estate trends in Paris and London point to a year of selective growth, more choice at the top end, and faster deal timelines. For a second home, that translates to better access to prime addresses and turnkey quality in both cities. Globally, prime prices rose 2.8% year over year in Q1 2025, underscoring steady demand for high-caliber homes in world capitals. Pacaso makes ownership in these prestigious markets more attainable through fractional ownership. Instead of buying an entire property, buyers purchase a share of a luxury home in Paris or London. This approach lowers costs while preserving the benefits of equity, appreciation, and personal use, making world-class real estate more accessible to second-home buyers. Paris in 2025 market signals buyers should watch Paris rebounded decisively to start 2025. Lower mortgage rates below 3% and stable pricing have doubled the pool of active buyers and shortened timelines, especially for renovated, move-in-ready residences in prime districts. That momentum is also evident on the Left Bank, where Saint-Germain combines classic architecture with updated comforts, a profile exemplified by Beaux Arts. Set steps from galleries and the Seine, London in 2025 pricing, policy and prime demand London is set for modest 2025 gains of about 2%, supported by strong cash-buyer demand and improving choice at the top end. Across luxury segments, inventory is at a two-year high, with single-family listings up 40.4% and multifamily up 42.6% year over year. Price performance is bifurcated: the best-designed, turnkey listings still command premiums, while buyers have more room to negotiate on homes needing updates. For everyday access to Key luxury real estate trends shaping buyer choices Paris vs London lifestyle essentials for a second home Paris offers How co-ownership supports 2025 buyer behavior Today’s buyers value time and certainty. Pacaso co-ownership provides access to high-demand neighborhoods with professional management and streamlined scheduling, so you spend your time enjoying the city rather than handling home logistics. In Paris, that can look like a classic Left Bank address steps from museums, cafes and the Seine, such as What it means for your next move Here is the bottom line for 2025. Paris is accelerating, with faster transactions in top districts and a broader base of active buyers. London should post around 2% annual growth with more inventory at the high end, giving shoppers greater choice. With global prime prices trending higher and considering these luxury real estate trends, selecting a property that is truly turnkey and well-located remains the clearest path to lasting enjoyment. Ready to explore prime addresses in two world capitals? Browse Pacaso listings in

Luxury home buying in a stabilizing market Luxury home buying is entering a more balanced phase across flagship destinations, and the shift is reshaping luxury real estate market trends. In Paris, Q1 2025 transaction values rose 69% as rates dipped below 3% and buyers returned. London’s prime addresses faced sharp price adjustments and rising inventory, creating room to negotiate. Cabo posted one of its strongest quarters on record, while select U.S. resort hubs show more listings and longer decision windows. In Miami, most April sales closed below asking, another sign of cooler conditions and buyer leverage. What market stabilization means for luxury home buying Stabilization is showing up in three ways: more choice, more time and more precision on price. For luxury home buying, these shifts translate to improved selection, pacing and pricing clarity. Prime central London listings rose nearly 16% year over year, stretching time to sell and shifting power to buyers. In Miami, a larger share of sales closed below ask, signaling realistic pricing wins. In Vail, nearly 45% of active listings saw price reductions in the 2025 summer window, reinforcing the value of disciplined offers and well-priced, move‑in ready homes. Signals by destination How co-ownership performs in a cooler market With luxury real estate market trends pointing to steadier pricing and more selection, co-ownership offers a precise way to align use with value. Pacaso provides professionally managed, designer furnished homes in blue chip locations, so you enjoy the lifestyle and avoid the burden of sole ownership. In a market that rewards optionality and speed, coordinated scheduling and local care teams keep your time focused on experiences, not logistics. For Cabo days centered on golf, water and dining, In the Rockies, Next steps for buyers If you are evaluating luxury home buying across stabilized markets, start by shortlisting destinations with clear usage fit and resilient demand drivers. Browse Pacaso listings in

With summer winding down and the year’s midpoint behind us, the luxury real estate landscape looks clearer, and brighter, than it did just a few months ago. Buyers and sellers are navigating calmer waters: prices at the high end have held steady, interest in co-ownership keeps climbing, and industry trends point to more meaningful travel. Here are some key takeaways  as we head into the second half of 2025, and why the outlook for second-home owners has never felt more promising. When we launched Pacaso in 2020, many buyers still assumed “real” ownership meant holding 100% of a home, even if it was rarely used.. That mindset is changing fast. In Cost and ease of management are the main drivers behind co-ownership. Though overall home sales cooled in early 2025, the top of the market keeps defying gravity. High-end properties outperformed every other price segment in 2024 and Q1 2025, according to Realtor.com’s What’s driving demand? A combination of strong stock-market returns, limited home inventory in some markets and the appeal of tangible assets you can Global living isn’t just for digital nomads. London is a prime example. Beauchamp Estates reports U.S. citizens now account for roughly That global appetite is why Pacaso is expanding beyond North America. We’re continuing to focus on adding more Pacaso homes in Europe, bringing our seamless co-ownership model and simplified transaction process to some of the world’s most coveted vacation destinations. Whether you’re traveling or buying a home, experience is quickly becoming the true measure of luxury. This same experiential mindset is reshaping real estate: “The feeling a home delivers matters as much as the address,” observes Tammy Fahmi of Sotheby’s International Realty—a change that’s prompting buyers to pay premiums for properties aligned with their lifestyle ideals ( Luxury real estate is evolving on two parallel tracks: shared ownership is accelerating, and lifestyle-led demand is strengthening at the high end. Together, those forces create an unprecedented opportunity to enrich your life through the purchase of a second home. Pacaso takes the complexity out of second home ownership, giving you effortless access to extraordinary properties around the world. Whether you’re eyeing a Austin Allison CEO and Co-founder of Pacaso

While the real estate market has slowed down after the pandemic-driven surges of 2020 and 2021, many popular luxury vacation destinations across the country continued to see a rise in second home demand in 2022. In this year’s Top Second Home Markets Report, we reveal the top 10 luxury second home markets of 2022. These are the markets across the US that saw the biggest upticks in second home buying activity.  “Despite a national cooling in residential real estate, we’re finding that the To determine the top U.S. markets, Pacaso analyzed second home mortgage rate lock data — an indicator of second home buying activity. Here are the 10 U.S. counties that saw the biggest increases in the share of second home mortgage rate locks for homes priced above $1 million.  “What’s interesting here is that many of the counties that saw the largest year-over-year shift toward second home buying activity this year are already regarded as luxury top second home destinations,” said Austin. “Places like Napa, Kauai, and New York City all made the list this year. In previous years, lesser known Compared to last year, sought-after destinations in Utah, Florida and California saw the biggest gains in the number of people purchasing luxury second homes. In Washington County, Utah, where the average second home price was $1.3 million, the share of luxury second home mortgage rate locks was up 10.3% year-over-year — the largest increase in the country. Home to Osceola County, Florida (6.1%), and Nevada County, California (4.5%), also saw the biggest year-over-year share increases among the top markets. Osceola County is situated just south of Orlando and is in close proximity to Florida’s famous east coast beaches.  Nevada County, home to Truckee, is situated in the Sierra Nevada mountains and is a short drive from the world-class ski resorts of Lake Tahoe. With demand and prices for second homes continuing to rise in many areas, co-ownership offers a smarter and more responsible option for buyers looking to make memories now in a second home. Pacaso has co-ownership listings in over 40 world-class destinations. Browse Pacaso identified the top U.S. luxury second home markets by selecting the 10 counties with the highest year-over-year increases in second home mortgage rate locks between January 1 and December 6, 2022. Counties without at least 50 second home transactions in the period, as well as those with second home mortgage rate lock share below 10%, were excluded from the analysis.  Luxury second homes are defined as homes sold for $1 million or more that are designated for seasonal and/or recreational use. Mortgage rate lock data is an indicator of second home buying activity. When applying for a mortgage rate lock, a home buyer must specify whether they are securing a mortgage rate for a primary home, secondary home or an investment property. Approximately 80% of mortgage rate locks result in home purchases. Mortgage rate lock data was provided by real estate analytics firm Optimal Blue and includes a sizable share of the market that is taken to be representative of the whole. Second home mortgage rate lock transactions and average second home purchase price data were sourced at the county level. 

Second home market trends: Key takeaways Second home market cooled in summer, but still relatively hot Across the nation, second home rate locks — a proxy for second home transactions — increased throughout the pandemic, peaking in summer 2020 and again in spring 2021, but falling 26.6% year over year this past summer. Despite this recent cooling of the pandemic-fueled second home surge, overall market share of second homes is still up from pre-pandemic levels.  From 2017 through 2019, second home transactions averaged a 3.8% quarterly market share of all rate locks. As of summer 2021, that percentage was up from pre-pandemic levels, with second homes comprising a 4.3% market share. “A year ago as Pacaso was preparing to launch, we wanted to better understand the second home market, and quickly realized there was a massive gap in local, timely second home data,” said Pacaso CEO Austin Allison. “It’s estimated that there are nearly 10 million second homes in the U.S., and with pandemic-driven shifts that have allowed people greater flexibility around where they live and work, we expect to see this number continue to grow. The second home housing market represents a significant subset of the market that is critical to watch in order to fully understand the U.S. housing market.”  The Pacaso Second Home Market Report, which analyzes timely and localized data for the top 50 second home markets, is a composite including property use and mortgage rate lock data. It includes counties with a percentage of seasonal homes and median home values at or above the top 20th percentile. Mortgage rate lock data is a leading indicator of consumer second home buying activity. Transaction volumes decreasing, but home prices up across top 50 markets Most of the top vacation destinations are seeing second home mortgage rate locks decline, but prices remain highly elevated and continue to rise. All but one county tracked in Pacaso’s report saw double-digit price growth in second home purchase prices this past summer. Kauai, Hawaii, saw the highest growth, with a median purchase price of $1.25 million, up 83.3% compared to a year ago. The island of Kauai has seen Wasatch County, Utah, and Gunnison County, Colorado, also saw sharp increases in second home purchase prices, up 53.9% and 53.2% respectively year over year. Prior to this spike, Wasatch County historically had a lower median second home price than neighboring Summit County, Utah, which is home to popular resort town Park City. Meanwhile, Gunnison County, located in the Colorado Rockies and home to ski resort Crested Butte, still has a lower median second home price than neighboring Summit County, Colorado, which is home to a number of famous ski destinations like Breckenridge, Keystone, and Copper Mountain.  Of the top 50 second home destinations analyzed, 46 saw a year-over-year decline in transaction activity in the summer months. However, trends in four second home markets stood out as exceptions:  Demand is creating a new wave of second home markets “It’s clear that there’s been a sea change not only in where people live and work, but also where they choose to get away from it all. The market looks completely different than it did two or three years ago,” said Pacaso CEO Austin Allison. “It used to be that major metros were the primary hotbeds of real estate activity, and now we are seeing double-digit price growth across the entire U.S., and intense interest in second homes in places like Boise, Idaho, and Eagle County up in the Colorado Rockies. This widespread demand is creating a new wave of second home markets with more moderate median home prices but the same types of amenities and outdoor recreation options typical of their more famous counterparts.” At the other extreme, El Dorado County, California saw the biggest decline in second home mortgage rate lock volumes, down by 62.5%, which was almost certainly related to this summer’s wildfires in Lake Tahoe. Cass County, Minnesota (-60.7%), Chelan County, Washington, and Beaufort County, South Carolina were just behind, both down 59% year over year. Most of these markets posted extreme growth the year before, which was not sustained.  Methodology Pacaso identified the nation’s top second home markets by compiling census data on counties with a percentage of seasonal homes and median home values at or above the top 20th percentile and by excluding those below the bottom 10th percentile of counties with the fewest households. Counties without at least 20 second home transactions in the period were also excluded from the analysis. Pacaso then analyzed real estate activity in the top second home markets by observing mortgage rate lock data, a leading indicator of second home buying activity. When applying for a mortgage rate lock, a home buyer must specify whether they are securing a mortgage rate for a primary home, secondary home or an investment property. Approximately 80% of mortgage rate locks result in home purchases. Mortgage rate lock data was provided by real estate analytics firm Optimal Blue and includes a sizable share of the market that is taken to be representative of the whole. Second home rate lock transactions and median purchase price data were sourced at the county level with the months June through August 2021 comprising the “summer” period in this analysis. 

Gain insights from industry experts on the latest in capital markets and what’s to come in tech in Pacaso's recent webinar hosted by co-founder and former Zillow CEO Spencer Rascoff. Jane Dunlevie, Global Head of Internet Banking, and Danielle Freeman, Managing Director, Equity Capital Markets, from Goldman Sachs joined Pacaso co-founder, former Zillow CEO, and Goldman alum Spencer Rascoff. Together, they discussed the 2024 capital markets outlook, explore IPO windows, and analyze the current landscape of tech stocks.  A few key takeaways included: Click

More people are buying second homes than ever before. Although the pandemic-induced buying frenzy slowed in 2021, second homes purchases remain historically high. In popular vacation destinations across the country, demand continues to rise, as do prices, with nearly all top markets seeing To determine the “We know that the pandemic fueled a major surge in second home buying demand, and that national demand peaked in the Rural southeast counties had highest rates of growth In addition to revealing the top second home market in every state, the analysis also highlights the percentage of growth each market has seen over the past year. Perhaps surprisingly, Top 10 markets with biggest increases in share of second home rate locks in 2021 High-priced markets more likely to see declines in rate locks Some markets, despite their popularity, experienced significant declines in their share of second home sales. Dukes County, which includes Martha’s Vineyard and 10 other islands off the southeast coast of Massachusetts, is the top second home market in that state. Still, it saw the biggest year-over-year decline in second home share among all top 50 markets that made the list, down 19.4% from last year. With an average second home price of $1.6 million, Dukes County is also one of the most expensive markets.  Price increases and limited inventory may have contributed to the annual decrease, as well as the emergence of other, more affordable markets with more inventory. Teton County, Wyoming — home to the popular Jackson Hole ski resort — has the highest average second home sale price of all the markets on the list: $3.4 million. It also saw a moderate dip in the share of second home mortgage rate locks, down 7.9% from last year.  Find your second home with Pacaso With prices and demand for second homes continuing to rise in many areas, co-ownership offers a more accessible, simpler option for would-be buyers. Pacaso has co-ownership listings in destinations across the U.S. and in Spain, and is rapidly expanding to new markets. Methodology Pacaso identified the top second home market per state by selecting the county with the highest total percentage of second home mortgage rate locks between January 1 and October 13, 2021, in each state. Counties without at least 50 second home transactions in the period were excluded from the analysis.  Mortgage rate lock data is an indicator of second home buying activity. When applying for a mortgage rate lock, a home buyer must specify whether they are securing a mortgage rate for a primary home, secondary home or an investment property. Approximately 80% of mortgage rate locks result in home purchases. Mortgage rate lock data was provided by real estate analytics firm Optimal Blue and includes a sizable share of the market that is taken to be representative of the whole. Second home mortgage rate lock transactions and average second home purchase price data were sourced at the county level. 

I’m Austin, CEO and co-founder of Pacaso. Spring often signals a fresh start in the housing market, and 2025 is no exception. This year, we’re seeing a gradual increase in both inventory and demand. While the year began with lower sales volume, homebuyer demand is gaining traction, and mortgage rates remain below 7%—a welcome trend for buyers. As market conditions evolve, we’ll continue to monitor trends and provide insights. If you have questions about a specific market or are interested in exploring co-ownership opportunities, don’t hesitate to reach out. Some things we’re seeing shaping up this season: While home sales fell 4.9% in January—continuing a broader market slowdown, according to According to the Moreover, Earlier this month, mortgage rates declined for the sixth consecutive week, with the 30-year fixed rate dropping to 6.67%—the lowest level since October 2024. As of Tuesday, March 25, 2025, the current average interest rate for a 30-year, fixed-rate conforming mortgage loan in the U.S. is 6.569%, according to data available from mortgage data company Optimal Blue. While rates have continue to fluctuate, they remain in the 6% range, providing relief to buyers who had been sidelined by above 7% rates and higher borrowing costs. Housing inventory is on the rise, giving buyers more options in many markets. According to However, inventory remains 23.1% below February 2019 levels, meaning buyers in certain regions—particularly parts of the Midwest and Northeast—are still facing tight resale markets with limited options. As we move further into spring, these market dynamics will continue to evolve. Whether you’re considering co-ownership or exploring new real estate opportunities, we’re here to help you navigate the trends. Our team took a deep dive into the latest housing trends across North and South Carolina, and one key insight stood out: North Carolina is leading the way in vacation homebuyer demand, outpacing South Carolina across several key metrics. From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Outer Banks, buyers are drawn to the state’s natural beauty, accessibility, and year-round lifestyle appeal. Explore the full report to see what’s driving the shift—and what it means for the future of second home ownership in the Carolinas. See the report

Planning your holiday vacation but wondering where to go in December? This end-of-year month is filled with festive energy, joyful celebrations, and — depending on where you go — either cozy winter chill or endless sunshine. Some travelers seek out sunny escapes to trade snow for sand, others embrace the season’s magic in cozy, snow-covered destinations. Here are a few of the best destinations to visit this December, whether you’re chasing sunshine or snowfall. Miami, Florida December in Miami begins with Art Basel Miami Beach, one of the world’s most influential contemporary art fairs. The city transforms into a cultural playground with satellite exhibitions, gallery events, and immersive pop-up installations throughout South Beach and the Design District. Beyond the art scene, visitors enjoy warm mid-70s weather, miles of beaches, and a diverse mix of restaurants, entertainment, and nightlife. With its mix of creativity, sunshine, and festive energy, Miami stands out as one of the best warm-weather destinations in December. Los Cabos, Mexico If your ideal December includes golden sunsets, ocean breezes, and leisurely dinners of fresh-caught seafood, Los Cabos is calling. December marks the start of high season thanks to sunny days, cooler evenings, and a calendar full of cultural and outdoor activities. Nature lovers can enjoy whale-watching and swimming with whale sharks, while food enthusiasts can explore the region’s thriving culinary scene. Many resorts celebrate the holidays in grand fashion, with poinsettia-filled décor, twinkling lights, and festive dinners that bring a touch of holiday magic to the Baja coast.   Vail, Colorado Vail is an obvious choice when wondering where to go in December as few places capture the spirit of winter like Vail. One of the best winter holiday destinations, this mountain village transforms into a true winter wonderland, with glittering lights, Christmas markets, ice-skating, and the annual Vail Film Festival. Hit the slopes for world-class skiing by day and enjoy the legendary après-ski scene by night — cozy fires, live music, and gourmet dining. Whether you’re there for the snow, the celebration, or both, Vail in December delivers that storybook winter charm at every turn. Turks and Caicos If you’re looking for warm weather destinations in December, this tropical island destination is the perfect fit. Spend your days snorkeling, paddleboarding, or sailing across the turquoise waters of Grace Bay. December brings a relaxed yet festive spirit, complete with beach bonfires, island-inspired feasts, and starlit celebrations like the Maskanoo parade on December 26 — a colorful showcase of the islands’ history and culture featuring music, dance, and traditional costumes. Whether you’re savoring the season from a private villa or exploring hidden coves by boat, Turks and Caicos is the perfect place to slow down, reconnect, and celebrate the holidays island style. Scottsdale, Arizona Seeking sunshine without the sand? Scottsdale is your perfect December escape. With crisp desert air, mild temperatures, and fiery sunsets, this Sonoran gem delivers a dose of warmth and wellness when the rest of the country is bundled up. Spend your days golfing, relaxing at a world-class spa, hiking scenic trails, or even exploring by hot air balloon. By night, enjoy the city’s arts and dining scenes with festive light displays at the Desert Botanical Garden and seasonal events at local resorts. Whether you’re wandering through Old Town or lounging by the pool, Scottsdale offers a sophisticated and rejuvenating getaway that makes winter feel worlds away.   Still unsure where to go in December? Whether you’re looking for the best winter holiday destinations for a cozy, snow-filled vacation or searching for warm weather destinations in December for sun-drenched relaxation, there’s a place for you. The end of the year is the perfect time to slow down, recharge, and enjoy the spirit of the season in a place that suits your lifestyle best.

Luxury waterfront homes in Lake Tahoe and Newport Beach Mornings on glassy water, afternoons cruising the harbor, evenings gathered by the fire pit with the boards drying nearby. This is the rhythm of life at luxury waterfront homes, where access turns every day on the water into a seamless routine. In Lake Tahoe and Newport Beach, Pacaso connects buyers to coveted shorelines and an active lifestyle, so you spend more time paddling and less time planning. Lake Tahoe access for active days on the water Lake Tahoe luxury homes around renowned shoreline communities offer direct pathways to kayaking, paddleboarding and boating. Tahoe Keys spans roughly 740 acres with more than 1,500 homes, and most residences have private boat docks on an extensive network of inland waterways for quick lake access. For a mountain base with effortless access to the lake's marinas and beaches, consider If you prefer a contemporary alpine setting close to the shoreline, New to co-ownership and how it differs from older models like timeshares? Explore how Pacaso ownership works in this guide: Newport Beach days on the bay On the coast, Newport Beach luxury homes deliver daily access to calm harbor waters perfect for How water access elevates every stay Co-ownership in top markets lets you focus on the experience while Pacaso manages the details. Here’s how access to luxury waterfront homes can reshape your time on the water: Lake Tahoe luxury homes and Newport Beach luxury homes each offer a refined, active lifestyle for buyers who value proximity, privacy, and meaningful time spent in a beautiful setting. Own the shoreline lifestyle Ready to make this waterfront routine yours with Pacaso co-ownership in iconic destinations? Explore current luxury waterfront homes in

P As summer's vibrant energy gives way to the calmer pace of autumn, a unique opportunity emerges for discerning travelers. The shoulder season, particularly in the fall, transforms bustling destinations into peaceful retreats. For those seeking the best places to go in the fall, the sun-drenched landscapes of Scottsdale, Palm Desert, and La Quinta offer an ideal escape. The air is milder, the light is softer, and the usual crowds have thinned, allowing for a more personal and restorative experience. This is the perfect time to explore the desert's beauty and culture at your own pace. Scottsdale: A cultural oasis with a vibrant fall scene Scottsdale in the fall is a blend of outdoor adventure and sophisticated city life. With pleasant temperatures, it’s the ideal season for After a day of exploring, owners can retreat to a secluded mountaintop home. Palm Desert: Sophisticated leisure and outdoor pursuits Palm Desert is synonymous with world-class golf and an elegant lifestyle. The fall season brings perfect weather for teeing off on championship courses without the winter crowds. Beyond the greens, the area offers exclusive shopping on El Paseo and a thriving culinary scene. The Palm Desert luxury real estate market is known for its exceptional homes that cater to a life of leisure and comfort. Exploring this area during the off-peak season reveals its true character, offering a more intimate connection to its natural beauty and refined amenities, making it one of the most inviting places to go in the fall. Fall in the Greater Palm Springs area is an active time. Here are a few activities to enjoy during your stay: La Quinta: Historic charm meets modern elegance La Quinta offers a quieter, more residential feel, with beautiful neighborhoods set against the Santa Rosa Mountains. It’s a destination that balances historic charm with modern luxury. The fall is an excellent time to enjoy outdoor dining in The design of many La Quinta luxury homes emphasizes a connection with the outdoors. For those seeking a private retreat within walking distance of attractions, Experience the desert differently with Pacaso These desert destinations are some of the best places to go in the fall, and Pacaso co-ownership makes enjoying them effortless. Instead of a brief visit, you can return to your own second home, a familiar and comfortable space, season after season. Pacaso handles all the management, so you can simply arrive and enjoy the best of the desert. Discover our listings in

There’s an endless list of things to do in London for families of all ages thanks to its rich history, diverse culture, and wide range of activities suited to the young and young at heart. It’s easy to see why London is one of the best family-friendly destinations in the world. Here are some of the best things to do in London with kids: Top family attractions in London London’s most famous landmarks are even more captivating when seen through a child’s eyes. These historic sites combine royal tradition, cultural heritage, and a great view of the city that's perfect for exploring together. Best family activities in London There are plenty of things to do in London with kids that spark curiosity and imagination. These immersive and entertaining experiences invite families to play, explore, and connect with the city’s creative spirit. Outdoor adventures and parks London’s outdoor spaces offer room to play and let the little ones run wild. Families can picnic in lush gardens, spot wildlife, or enjoy a snack break in one of the city’s bustling markets. Educational experiences London’s world-class museums make learning feel like play. Interactive exhibits and immersive displays offer some of the best things to do in London with kids.  Unique neighborhood adventures Each of London’s neighborhoods has its own personality and hidden gems to explore. Wander local markets, enjoy street performances, and discover local gems for a fun day of exploring. Deciding which things to do in London with your family Deciding what to do in London with your family can be part of the fun. Let your kids help plan the day, follow their curiosities, and mix a little learning with a lot of play. London is full of family-friendly destinations like museums, parks, and hidden corners to explore. It’s easy to fall in love with London when your days are filled with laughter, adventure, and maybe a few extra scoops of ice cream for good measure.

Luxury mountain homes for your spring ski season Spring skiing delivers soft snow, sunny afternoons and lively villages across Aspen, Vail, and Breckenridge. Securing access to luxury mountain homes now means you arrive to slope-side convenience, private gathering spaces and time to focus on the day’s turns. With Pacaso co-ownership, you enjoy the home you want in the location you love, without the full burden of traditional second home ownership. What to look for in luxury mountain homes In luxury mountain homes, focus on features that streamline your days and extend your après. Think true ski access or fast gondola links, gear storage and mudrooms, heated patios and fire features for evening gatherings, and generous great rooms for relaxed dining and conversation. Quiet bedrooms and dedicated spaces for remote work or study help you stay flexible during longer spring stays. A standout among Aspen luxury homes, Aspen luxury homes set the pace for spring Aspen luxury homes are known for high-touch design and coveted access. If Vail luxury homes that keep you close to the action Vail luxury homes deliver swift access to Born Free and Golden Peak, plus lively village energy for apres. Limited inventory and high demand favor buyers who move decisively, and recent showpieces near Your vacation home in Breckenridge near lifts and Main Street A vacation home in How Pacaso co-ownership supports your spring routine Co-ownership concentrates your time and capital on the experiences you value most. Pacaso sources desirable addresses for luxury mountain homes, designs and furnishes each home, and handles ongoing care, so you simply arrive and enjoy. If you are weighing models, this side-by-side guide is helpful reading: Secure your place for spring skiing now Ready to plan your spring on snow in Colorado’s top resorts with Pacaso co-ownership? Start by exploring current availability in

Summer and winter vacation homes for a year round retreat Choosing the perfect mountain escape often involves a difficult decision: do you prefer pristine winter slopes or sun-drenched summer lakes? For those who desire both, destinations like Jackson Hole, Lake Tahoe, and Vail offer the best of every season. These premier locations provide a seamless transition from world-class skiing to vibrant summer adventures, making them ideal for year-round enjoyment. Finding ideal summer and winter vacation homes in these areas means securing a base for endless outdoor recreation, from alpine skiing to mountain biking. This guide compares these three iconic destinations to help you discover which mountain lifestyle is the right fit for you. Jackson Hole, Wyoming: Rugged frontier Jackson Hole is defined by its dramatic Teton views and untamed wilderness. In winter, For those seeking Jackson Hole vacation homes that place you at the center of it all, co-ownership presents a compelling option. Consider a modern home like Lake Tahoe, California: Where mountains meet water Lake Tahoe is famous for its crystal-clear alpine lake, the largest in North America, surrounded by majestic peaks. The winter season brings heavy snowfall, feeding numerous ski resorts like Owning a Pacaso in Lake Tahoe means embracing an active, outdoor-oriented lifestyle year-round. A home such as Vail, Colorado: An iconic alpine escape Vail is synonymous with The Colorado Rockies offer many exceptional winter vacation homes. Comparing your dual season destination Each destination offers a distinct character. To help you decide, here is a look at the pros and cons of each location and how they align with your search for winter vacation homes. The Pacaso approach to mountain living Owning a second home in a premier dual-season destination offers a gateway to a life of adventure, but whole ownership comes with significant costs and responsibilities. Pacaso's co-ownership model provides a smarter way to own. By purchasing a share of a professionally managed home, you can enjoy all the benefits of ownership without the traditional hassles. This approach makes owning exceptional Vail luxury homes or a retreat in Jackson Hole more accessible, allowing you to focus on what matters: creating lasting memories in the mountains. Ready to find your perfect year-round escape? Explore our listings in

Private beach homes live steps from the sand Private beach homes offer a rhythm that revolves around tides and daylight. In Palm Beach, Marco Island and Newport Beach, days start with a barefoot walk and end with sunset dinners at home. Pacaso co-ownership gives you the right amount of time in places you love, with the comfort and privacy you expect from Palm Beach luxury homes, Marco Island vacation homes and Newport Beach vacation homes. Palm Beach grace with direct sand access A standout in Palm Beach luxury homes is Marco Island beach days and bay adventures A favorite on Florida’s Gulf, Marco Island sits as the largest barrier in the Ten Thousand Islands, known for powdery beaches and calm waterways. That setting makes Marco Island vacation homes ideal for days that alternate between shelling at Newport Beach coastal energy and calm coves Newport Beach blends oceanfront vitality with tucked away waterways. Architectural landmarks like the 1926 Lovell Beach House on the Balboa Peninsula show the area’s design pedigree, while private islands such as Harbor Island offer a small enclave of about thirty waterfront homes. The Steps from Lido Marina Village, From Bayside, a relaxed Newport Beach day might look like this: Why private beach homes and co-ownership pair well Pacaso aligns your time with how you live, so the beach is part of your routine, not just a periodic escape. With professionally managed ownership, fully furnished design and easy scheduling, you spend more time outside and less time coordinating details. For buyers comparing luxury homes in Palm Beach, vacation homes on Marco Island and vacation homes in Newport Beach, co-ownership focuses your resources on prime weeks in the places that matter most. Plan your next steps If coastal life is calling, explore Pacaso in these destinations and see how co-ownership fits your routine. Browse

Second homes: Effortless travel and ownership For those who move between continents as easily as they move between meetings, the traditional model of owning second homes can feel restrictive. The constant demands of maintenance, security, and general upkeep often detract from the very reason for owning a second home: relaxation and escape. The lock-and-leave lifestyle changes this dynamic, offering the freedom to travel on a whim, confident that your home is secure and cared for. Pacaso's co-ownership model perfects this experience, providing a seamless way to own a piece of the world's most desirable destinations without the associated burdens. Coastal sophistication in Palm Beach Palm Beach represents a unique blend of classic glamour and coastal ease. Its pristine beaches, upscale boutiques, and vibrant arts scene make it a sought-after destination for those seeking a refined retreat. Owning one of the area's exquisite Palm Beach luxury homes allows you to immerse yourself in this lifestyle. With a managed co-ownership model, the responsibilities that typically accompany such a home disappear, leaving only the enjoyment. You can spend your time on the water or exploring Imagine arriving at a home designed for effortless indoor-outdoor living, like Uncorking convenience in Napa Valley Napa Valley offers a sensory journey through rolling vineyards and world-class Set on more than 30 private acres, Seamless escapes to Cabo San Lucas With its dramatic coastline where the desert meets the sea, Cabo San Lucas is a destination built for A home like A cosmopolitan key to London As a global center for finance, art, and history, London is a city that never ceases to inspire. For the international traveler, having a pied-à-terre provides a consistent and comfortable home base. London vacation homes within a managed framework offer the ultimate convenience. You can attend Located on Mayfair's only gated street, Benefits of lock-and-leave second homes Embracing a lock-and-leave approach to owning second homes through co-ownership provides several key advantages that cater directly to a mobile lifestyle: Find your turnkey second home The lock-and-leave lifestyle is the future for the modern global citizen. Pacaso's fully managed co-ownership model makes it a present-day reality. Instead of being tied down by logistics, you are free to explore the world. Ready to find your key to effortless ownership? Explore our listings in destinations like

Winter events worth traveling for Winter is more than ski slopes and holiday cheer. Cities around the world come alive with winter events that celebrate art, music, fashion, film, and more — experiences designed to enrich your mind and invigorate your spirit. Here are some of our favorite cultural events and winter festivals that heat up the colder months. December Some of the best things to do in winter start in December. Kick off the season with world-class art or a winter wonderland. January Kick off the new year with a glamorous lineup of cultural events that celebrate fashion, film, and creativity in iconic cities around the world. February February brings a mix of sunshine, style, and sport. It’s a month made for design lovers, golf fans, and anyone looking for things to do in the winter with a little warmth.    March The season closes with late winter events that showcase style and athletic excellence. Winter events for all interests No matter what inspires you — art, film, design, or food — there’s a cultural event that fits your style. Some things to do in the winter bring together the world’s creative minds, while others celebrate athleticism and local traditions. When you own a second home with Pacaso, it’s easy to plan your calendar around the events that matter most to you and enjoy each season like a local.

Few places capture Hawaii’s beauty and laid-back lifestyle quite like the Big Island. With rugged lava beds, crystal-clear waters, and quaint beach towns, it offers a slower, more grounded pace than its glamorous sister islands of Oahu and Maui. This itinerary brings all the luxury and adventure of Hawaii, without the rush of island-hopping. Here’s how to make the most of three days in paradise. When to visit Winter (December – March) The Big Island is buzzing with activity in the winter months, when travelers come from near and far to trade snow for sand and the chill for warm tropical breezes. It’s peak season, so be sure to book accommodations and excursions well in advance, especially if you only have three days to explore. Winter also marks the arrival of humpback whales. Witness these gentle giants migrate thousands of miles to Hawaii’s warm, protected waters. It’s one of the most breathtaking sights the island has to offer. Spring (April – June) Spring has that perfect balance of pleasant weather and calmer crowds. It’s a much slower pace following the rush of the holidays and an ideal time for exploring the many things to do on the Big Island like Kona’s coffee farms, snorkeling, or taking scenic drives without the hustle and bustle of peak season. Summer (July – early September) Summer brings warm days, higher humidity, and plenty of families on summer vacation. While busier than spring or fall, the Big Island still feels more spacious than the other Hawaiian Islands. The waters are especially calm and clear, perfect for snorkeling, diving, paddleboarding, or simply soaking in the sunshine. Fall (late September – November) The Big Island’s shoulder season has the best of both worlds—ideal weather and lighter crowds. Expect warm days, gentle trade winds, and a more relaxed pace, great for travelers seeking serenity between the summer rush and winter influx. Where to stay on the Big Island: Kona vs. Hilo While the Big Island offers countless places to rest your head, most visitors gravitate toward two main hubs: Kona on the west coast and Hilo on the east. Each has its own distinct vibe, geography, and appeal—and choosing the right base can shape your entire experience. Kona: Sun, sand, and sophistication Kona is where the island’s sunshine, luxury resorts, and sparkling beaches converge. Located on the west coast, the shoreline is dotted with high-end resorts, five-star amenities, white-sand beaches, and both casual and upscale cuisine. Beyond the resorts, you’ll find some of the best things to do on the Big Island like picturesque beach bars, coffee farms, and easy access to snorkeling, boating, and cultural sites. Hilo: Rainforests and laid-back beach days Hilo sits on the island’s lush east coast, full of waterfalls and tropical forests. The town is less polished but full of authenticity with farmers markets, art galleries, and small inns and boutique hotels that replace big resorts. It’s also the gateway to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, making it perfectly situated for those wanting to explore the island’s dramatic natural beauty up close. The verdict With only 72 hours to visit, where to stay on the Big Island can make all the difference. For a short getaway, Kona is the better choice. It puts you close to the best beaches, restaurants, and upscale resorts. Hilo, on the other hand, is better suited for a day trip or a scenic stop if you have more time to explore the island’s lush east side. However, for those seeking a more luxurious retreat, the Kohala Coast north of Kona stands out. This area boasts some of the island’s most luxurious resorts and offers a vacation that blends luxury, privacy, and proximity to Hawaii's natural wonders. Popular things to do on the Big Island Hawaii’s Big Island is a playground for adventure, culture, and luxury. With diverse landscapes, quaint beach towns, luxurious resorts, and endless shorelines, there’s something for every interest. Here are some top experiences: Hawaii’s Big Island itinerary Day 1 – Welcome to Hawaii: snorkel + Kona + sunset sail Morning Ease into island life by connecting with nature and the ocean on a morning snorkel. Thanks to a coastline dotted with gentle coves, calm waves, and thriving coral reefs, there’s plenty of locations to choose from. After your snorkel, head into downtown Kona for a leisurely stroll and a late morning snack. Stop by Afternoon When hunger strikes, try the award-winning Evening After a sun-soaked day, set sail on a dinner cruise or sunset catamaran from Kailua Pier. Drift along the coastline as the sky turns shades of pink and gold, cocktail in hand, and let the gentle trade winds carry you into the evening. For those with energy to spare, book a night snorkel with manta rays, one of the most enchanting things to do on the Big Island. Watching these graceful creatures glide through illuminated waters beneath the stars is nothing short of mesmerizing. Day 2 – Hilo + sky-high adventure Morning Start early and set out on a day trip across the island to Hilo, a lush, tropical contrast to Kona’s sun-kissed coast. The drive along Saddle Road has breathtaking views of rolling pastures, lava fields, and the slopes of Mauna Kea. Once you arrive, fuel up with a fresh juice or local coffee at From here, the real adventure begins. Board a helicopter tour to witness the Big Island’s diverse ecosystems and volcanic power from above. Companies like Afternoon After your flight, spend a little time exploring Hilo’s natural beauty. Visit Rainbow Falls, or stroll through Begin your return in the late afternoon, retracing your route along Saddle Road. If you prefer to take it slow, detour to Evening Toast to your day’s adventure with sunset cocktails at Day 3 – R&R + luau finale Morning After two adventure-filled days, slow things down and savor the Big Island's luxurious side. Begin your morning at one of the area's premier golf courses— Afternoon After a leisurely lunch at the resort, head north to Kua Bay (Manini‘owali Beach), one of the Big Island’s most breathtaking stretches of white sand. The waters here are impossibly clear, ideal for swimming or simply basking in the sun with a good book. It’s a beautiful final stop before saying aloha to the island. Evening Wrap up your 72-hour Big Island itinerary with a traditional Hawaiian luau, complete with oceanfront seating, torchlight, and a captivating show of Polynesian music and hula. There are several options in Kona and the surrounding areas that all offer an energetic (and delicious) cultural experience. It’s the perfect finale to your Big Island escape. Aloha for now Three days on the Big Island is just enough to fall under its spell. You could come back year after year and still find new things to do on the Big Island. Between the sunlit shores, volcanic vistas, and the island’s unmistakable spirit of aloha, you’ll leave knowing one thing for sure: this won’t be your last visit to Hawaii's Big Island.