Co-owning

These articles explain the basics of co-ownership and real estate, giving you the confidence to make smarter, more informed decisions.

A luxury timeshare with a patio, pool and lush greenery.
What is a timeshare and how does it work?
Timeshares have been around since 1969, and continue to grow in popularity, with sales increasing an average of 7.2% each year. Today, millennials make up a significant portion of timeshare owners. With more disposable income and a desire for flexible, experience-based travel, they’re helping to reshape the market. This steady growth proves that vacationers are still drawn to this model, especially now that ownership options are more diverse, catering to a wide range of travel styles and preferences. How do timeshares work? A timeshare is a shared vacation property ownership model, most often connected to hotels or resorts. Instead of one buyer owning the property outright, the ownership is divided among multiple people (typically up to 52) so each person has the right to use it for a set number of days or weeks per year. Think of it as purchasing time rather than the property itself. Owners don’t hold full real estate ownership but instead secure the right to stay in the same accommodation at recurring intervals. For example, if a unit is divided among 52 owners, each person usually gets one week of use annually. This arrangement makes vacation homes more affordable while guaranteeing consistent access to popular destinations. However, it’s important to note that timeshares generally tie you to a single property, unlike Real-world timeshare example Let’s say your family buys a timeshare property in If you vacation there for ten years straight, you’ll have spent $38,000 ($25,000 initial cost + $1,300 annual fee x 10 years) plus any additional maintenance fees. Divided across 140 nights (14 per year), that adds up to $271 per night, which may be cheaper than the cost of the room if you book on the resort’s website. The potential savings via a long-term contract are why some people find timeshares so appealing. The success of the timeshare model depends on each unit being owned by multiple parties, often dozens at a time. Owners don’t always live nearby either— the average distance between a timeshare and an owner’s primary residence is over 1,000 miles. According to a With so many options available, it helps to understand the different types of timeshares and how each one works. There are many types of timeshares, but most fall into two main contract structures. Deeded timeshares Deeded timeshares divide ownership of a property into smaller shares that reflect how long you can stay. For example, a property split into two-week intervals would have 26 owners. The most common model is a 52-part split, one for each week of the year. With a deeded timeshare, you hold real ownership that can be sold, willed to family, or transferred. Most timeshares in the U.S. are deeded. Right-to-use (lease) timeshares Right-to-use (RTU) or leasehold timeshares operate more like a long-term rental. Instead of owning a portion of the property, you lease the right to stay for a set number of years—commonly 20 to 99. Once the contract expires, your usage rights end. Like deeded models, you’ll still share the property with other owners, often up to 52 families. With an understanding of the two main types of timeshare contracts, let’s explore the three primary ways vacation time is divided among owners. To avoid a Ultimately, ask yourself: "Is this a place I want to stay year after year?" This can help you determine if a timeshare is right for you. Fixed-week timeshare Fixed weeks mean you’re locked into the same week every year (say, the third week in April). While this offers the predictability of always having your vacation secured at a specific time, it also means your travel dates are rigid. Changing your fixed week usually comes with a hefty price tag in the form of an upgrade fee, if it's even possible, making it less flexible for those whose schedules vary from year to year. Floating-week timeshare Floating weeks let you choose your week seasonally. This offers more flexibility than a fixed-week model, since you're not tied to the exact same dates every year. However, that flexibility comes with a trade-off: floating week systems are very competitive among timeshare owners, and the best slots during high season get snatched up quickly.  You'll often need to book far in advance to secure your preferred dates. If keeping your Points-system timeshare Some timeshare properties operate with a points system where you “pay” for your stay with points, giving you greater flexibility in how you travel. This means you're not restricted to a single property or a specific time slot each year.  Choosing an off-season, weekday stay or downgrading to a smaller room may cost fewer points overall, allowing you to stretch your points for more frequent, shorter getaways or save them up for something bigger.  By contrast, you can also use points to upgrade components of your vacation, such as getting a bigger room or a better view — or even enjoy another How much does a timeshare cost? A timeshare's cost involves two main components: an initial purchase price and ongoing annual fees. In addition to the upfront payment, you'll be responsible for Be sure to check the terms of your timeshare contract before signing. This document should outline all of the one-time and ongoing costs, including: Financing a timeshare Banks typically do not offer loans for timeshares, leaving buyers with limited financing options outside of the timeshare company itself. With little competition, some companies rely on high-pressure sales tactics and may charge interest rates between 14% and 20%—significantly higher than most second-home loans on the open market. These factors can greatly increase the overall cost of a timeshare, making it crucial for buyers to carefully review the full financial commitment before signing any agreements. Using a What are the pros and cons of a timeshare? However, there are downsides to consider. Annual fees and special assessments can be costly, and selling a timeshare on the secondary market can be challenging if it’s no longer the right fit. The industry has also gained a reputation for high-pressure sales tactics. Additionally, timeshare ownership typically does not provide the financial benefits of traditional real estate, such as equity growth, What does exiting a timeshare look like? If a buyer eventually decides to sell their timeshare, recouping the initial investment and yearly maintenance fees can be difficult. While new timeshare sales continue to grow, the resale market is flooded, with While exiting a timeshare is notoriously challenging, there are six Learning each strategy’s associated costs and understanding which strategy works best for you will help streamline the overall process. What are some timeshare alternatives? With the high costs and limitations associated with timeshares, it’s recommended you first From second home co-ownership and vacation home ownership to vacation rentals, travel clubs, and resorts, each timeshare alternative comes with its own set of features. Options differ in flexibility, ownership structure, fees, and overall cost, allowing vacationers to choose what best fits their needs and lifestyle. What’s the difference between fractional ownership and timeshares? When comparing The benefits of fractional ownership become clear across factors like the number of owners, scheduling flexibility, equity, management, maintenance, building type, cost, and resale value. Fractional ownership generally means fewer owners, more flexible scheduling, and a share that can appreciate over time. Owners also enjoy the comfort of luxury vacation homes rather than individual units within hotels or resorts. What’s the difference between vacation clubs, timeshares, and second homes? The main Owning a second home — usually a vacation property separate from your primary residence — offers you the freedom to visit multiple times per year, potential property appreciation, and the ability to avoid the challenges of reselling a timeshare. How does Pacaso differ from timeshares? And should you decide to sell, you can sell at any time, at the price you set. Learn more about how co-ownership of a second home works with Pacaso and Benefits Pacaso offers
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A group of woman hanging out on an outdoor terrace
7 reasons why Pacaso beats hotels and vacation rentals
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.  — Nkem, owner in Malibu 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!).  — Doug, owner in Palm Springs 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 — Stuart, owner in Palm Springs 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.  — Tim, owner in Telluride 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
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An image of a luxury home helps underscore the topic of what qualifies as a second home for tax purposes.
What qualifies as a second home for tax purposes?
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 tax benefits from the IRS, but they depend on two key factors: whether you’re living in your second home more than you rent it out and how much money you’re taking in income from tenants. Let’s dive into the specifics: 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
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Exterior of Meadows home during the winter with snow on the ground at dusk with interior light illuminated through the windows.
Why mountain property management is essential for remote vacation homes
Mountain property management is essential for keeping mountain vacation homes in top condition year-round. These properties offer a stunning backdrop for any getaway thanks to towering pine trees, sparkling mountain lakes, and endless outdoor adventures. But their unique challenges, from harsh weather to seasonal maintenance, require specialized care and support. What makes managing mountain vacation homes different? Mountain vacation homes have unique needs that set them apart from second homes in other destinations and require a bit more of These factors make specialized mountain property management crucial. Owners benefit from professionals who understand the unique demands of mountain living and can handle everything from seasonal preparations to ongoing mountain home maintenance, ensuring the home stays safe, comfortable, and ready for every visit. What are the seasonal responsibilities of mountain property management? Managing a mountain vacation home requires careful planning, local expertise, and proactive care throughout the year. Mountain home property management goes beyond Winter Winter is often the most demanding season when it comes to Spring As snow melts and temperatures rise, homes need careful attention to transition from winter to the warmer months. Key tasks include: Summer Summer brings longer days and more opportunities to enjoy a mountain vacation home, but it also requires maintenance to keep the property in top condition: Fall As temperatures drop, preparing mountain vacation homes for winter is crucial to avoid costly damage: By addressing these seasonal tasks, mountain property managers ensure that these mountain vacation homes remain safe, functional, and ready for use year-round. What makes Pacaso property management unique? Every Pacaso home comes with a dedicated Home Manager—a local expert who goes above and beyond In destinations like the Here’s what you can expect from your Pacaso Home Manager:  Comprehensive property care Personalized service and thoughtful touches Financial and vendor oversight With Pacaso’s dedicated home managers, mountain property management is effortless, with exceptional service and the peace of mind that comes from knowing every detail is expertly handled. Why should I own a mountain vacation home with Pacaso?  Mountain homes highlight both the rewards and the challenges of second home ownership in mountain destinations. From snow-packed winters to festive summer seasons, each shift in weather demands attentive care.  With Pacaso’s dedicated home managers, owners enjoy all the beauty of the mountains without the burden of constant upkeep. And the best part? This service is fully included with co-ownership, so there are Instead of managing seasonal checklists or coordinating vendors, Pacaso owners arrive at a home that is well-maintained, stocked, and personalized to their preferences. It’s an approach to mountain property management that turns the dream of
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Wildfire resilience
Wildfire resilience is one of the most urgent challenges facing Napa Valley, but solutions are taking root through collaboration and community action. In this webinar, Pacaso Co-founder and CEO Austin Allison and Napa Firewise CEO Joseph Nordlinger discuss the Valley Stewards Initiative. A groundbreaking program developed with Napa Communities Firewise Foundation and CAL FIRE that is already delivering insurance benefits for property owners. You’ll also hear how Pacaso supports resilience as both a founding donor of the initiative and a property manager, ensuring every home in our portfolio is thoughtfully maintained so owners can focus on enjoying their time in wine country. Watch the full conversation below to learn how stewardship, innovation, and community partnerships are shaping a safer future for Napa Valley. If you’d like to get involved or support these efforts, visit
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Pool area of luxury vacation home in Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Vacation home management that gives you peace of mind
Your second home should be a place to relax and unwind—not a source of stress. Yet too often, homeowners find themselves weighed down by the realities of vacation home management, from routine maintenance and bill payments to scheduling repairs. While some properties offer basic vacation home management services to handle these tasks between visits, Pacaso takes it further with fully managed co-ownership and turnkey property management.  Here’s a closer look at what vacation home management typically involves, and how Pacaso’s approach goes above and beyond traditional solutions. Here’s what professional Property maintenance and upkeep Routine maintenance is at the heart of vacation home management. This includes landscaping, inspections, and repairs to keep the property in top condition year-round. Proper upkeep not only preserves your home’s value but also ensures it’s always ready for a relaxing stay. Many vacation home management companies will also be responsible for seasonal upkeep like leaf removal and snow clearing to keep the home in pristine condition year-round. Vacation home cleaning services Between stays, homes require thorough cleaning and preparation. Cleaning and turnover services make certain that every visit feels relaxed and welcoming, from fresh linens to spotless kitchens and bathrooms. Financial management and bill handling Managing a vacation home involves more than upkeep. The best property managers often include handling utilities, taxes, HOA fees, and insurance—freeing owners from the administrative burdens of property ownership. Guest and owner access coordination Scheduling stays, managing keys or smart locks, and coordinating arrivals and departures is another critical component of vacation home management services. Effective access coordination ensures that both owners and guests have a smooth, stress-free experience. Security and home monitoring Finally, professional vacation home management services often include monitoring the property to safeguard against issues while the home is unoccupied. This can range from smart home alerts to routine inspections, giving owners peace of mind no matter where they are. The challenges with vacation home management companies Even with professional management, many homeowners face challenges that can make vacation home ownership stressful. Understanding these common pain points helps find the best vacation home management solution for you. High costs and hidden fees Many traditional vacation home management companies charge steep service fees, often with extra costs for maintenance, turnover, or concierge services. These expenses can add up, cutting into the enjoyment and financial value of owning a second home, so it’s important to consider Impersonal interactions Some vacation home property managers operate like faceless service providers. Owners may find communication transactional, with little personalized attention or understanding of their preferences and lifestyle. Difficulty reaching support Getting timely help can be a challenge, especially when urgent maintenance issues arise or last-minute scheduling changes are needed. Limited responsiveness can leave owners feeling frustrated or unsupported by their vacation home manager. Limited flexibility Traditional management companies may not accommodate unique homeowner needs, whether that’s last-minute bookings, customizing interior touches, or coordinating with family schedules. Inconsistent standards Not all vacation home management companies maintain the same level of quality across cleaning, maintenance, and upkeep. This inconsistency can affect the guest experience and the property’s long-term condition. Turnkey vacation home management with Pacaso When you co-own a luxury vacation home with Pacaso, you gain true freedom from the burdens of traditional home ownership and the hassles of managing a second home. Pacaso’s fully managed approach ensures every detail is handled, delivering a seamless ownership experience crafted for your relaxation and enjoyment. Stylish interior design and furnishings Outfitting a second home can be time-consuming and costly, which is why Pacaso’s turnkey property management ensures your home is ready for comfortable living from day one. Our goal is to provide you with a second home that is both beautiful and functional.  Our team of interior designers gives each home a thorough makeover, selecting custom furnishings, artwork and accessories that complement the home’s architectural style and layout, making your vacation home interior design feel effortless.  We balance modern design with comfort to create livable luxury. Pacaso owners should feel as comfortable — or more comfortable — in their second home as they do in their primary residence. In addition to furnishings, homes are fully equipped with Design Certified Our top-tier vacation home management services begin before you even walk through the door. Our team of in-house interior designers works tirelessly to create a beautiful space that is unique, inviting, and functional. Every Pacaso home is part of our Impeccable turnover services and maintenance Maintaining a second home from afar can be a challenge, and once you’re there, you want to focus on relaxing—not spending time on vacation home cleaning and upkeep, or a pesky After each owner’s stay, the home is thoroughly inspected and cleaned, and any maintenance issues are logged and resolved. Preventive vacation home maintenance services are scheduled to address potential problems early, and reserves are set aside for long-term or unexpected issues, like replacing an appliance that stops working.  We also supply items like light bulbs and batteries so owners can easily take care of minor issues without needing to run to the store. Pacaso’s vacation home management team also makes sure the property looks great year-round, with regular landscaping and region-specific upkeep like snow removal, so your home stays pristine and ready for every visit. Streamlined bill management When you co-own a home, you need a fair and centralized system of billing. Pacaso property management makes this aspect of ownership simple. For each home, we create an annual Ongoing dedicated support Your relationship with Pacaso doesn’t end with your purchase. You’ll have a dedicated Home Manager to support you before, during, and after your stays.  Your Home Manager or our 24/7 Central Support crew handle any maintenance issues, so you’ll never have to worry about second home management, finding service providers, or scheduling repairs. We also check in with owners to see if their needs are being met and provide an opportunity for feedback. Our number one priority is ensuring Pacaso owners have a The Pacaso property management team Meet some of the Pacaso Home Managers and get an inside look at their day-to-day work as vacation home property managers. Lindsey Harden (Tahoe) In the Tahoe region is Senior Home Manager, Lindsey Harden, who shares the care and service owners can expect. Aaron Olthoff (Colorado) If you’re an owner in Colorado, you’ll get to know Aaron Olthoff. He shares how he keeps every Pacaso home in the iconic Rocky Mountain towns in top condition all year long. Discover the ease of turnkey property management with Pacaso and take the next step toward second home bliss.
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Short-notice stays: flexibility at your fingertips
Pacaso is known for delivering an effortless ownership experience for those seeking a second home with ease and flexibility. Owners may hold up to six advance stays at a time per 1/8 share owned, and advance stays can be booked up to two years in advance, allowing you to plan ahead for holidays, school vacations, and more. But sometimes the best memories come from spur-of-the-moment plans — a surprise long weekend, an unexpected day off, or a simple urge to escape. And other times, you just want to linger a little longer. With Pacaso, owners can not only book last-minute getaways but also easily extend their stays, giving you more time to relax, recharge, and enjoy your home away from home. The Pacaso app shows availability in real time, making it easy to find and book dates in the short-notice window.  Already have a stay booked? If the days before or after your reservation are available in the short-notice window, you can add them on at no additional cost, giving you more time to enjoy your home away from home. With Pacaso’s SmartStay™ system, flexibility is always just a tap away, whether you’re planning a last-minute getaway or simply not ready to head home. “I think the ability to look far to the future but also have the flexibility for last-minute stays is really awesome with the app, because it enables you to make the most of the time you have and really enjoy the property.” — Dan, Pacaso owner “I think the app is super easy to use, and I can just look and see what’s available and we plan our trips around it.” — Elizabeth, Pacaso owner “The app is so ridiculously easy. You can do your scheduling, you can cancel and change — it’s really flexible, and if there are extra nights, you can just book it on the spot.” — Gayle, Pacaso owner This flexibility reflects Pacaso’s commitment to redefining second home ownership by creating an experience that’s effortless and designed with owners in mind. Plan your next getaway today and make the most of every moment in your Pacaso home.
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Design spotlight: Inside a Kiawah Island Pacaso
Before any Pacaso owner steps inside their new home, our team has already spent hours perfecting every detail– rearranging the layout, curating furniture, and fine-tuning the in-home experience. The result is a space that doesn’t just look beautiful, it We call this expert touch, Nestled in Kiawah Island’s lush wetlands, this home exudes Southern charm and hospitality. Light-filled interiors and refined design create a sophisticated retreat, while expansive living spaces and nearby nature trails offer room to connect and explore. But what makes this home truly exceptional is that every design choice is intentional, with details that elevate it from the inside out. We asked a few Pacaso team members who helped bring Blue Heron to life what stood out most to them: 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 Ready the moment you arrive The beauty of owning a Pacaso isn’t just the destination, it’s the ease. When you arrive at Blue Heron, everything is in place: fresh linens, a fully stocked kitchen, plush seating, and welcoming spaces for everyone to unwind. It’s not just a second home in Kiawah Island, it’s a second home where the hard work is already done for you. All that’s left to do is enjoy.
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Inside Fallridge
Before any Pacaso owner steps inside their new home, our team has already spent hours perfecting every detail– rearranging the layout, curating furniture, and fine-tuning the in-home experience.The result is a space that doesn’t just look beautiful, it We call this expert touch, Tucked in the heart of Vail, Fallridge is just minutes from world-class skiing and a short walk to the heated outdoor pool, perfect for unwinding after a day in the mountains. But what truly makes this home shine is the level of intention behind every detail. We asked a few Pacaso team members who helped bring Fallridge to life what stood out most to them: 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 At Fallridge, that meant reimagining the downstairs living area for après-ski gatherings, curating custom artwork for the dining area, and layering textures like soft gray Phillip Jeffries wallpaper to add warmth and dimension to the primary suite. Ready the moment you arrive The beauty of owning a Pacaso isn’t just the destination, it’s the ease. When you arrive at Fallridge, everything is in place: fresh linens, a fully stocked kitchen, plush seating, and welcoming spaces for everyone to unwind. It’s not just a second home in Vail, it’s  a second home where the hard work is already done for you. All that’s left to do is enjoy.
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Arterra offers a private valley setting with a pool and outdoor kitchen, ideal for relaxing after BottleRock festivities or entertaining guests during Napa Valley festivals.
Pacaso partners with Cakebread Cellars to elevate the Napa Valley experience
Beginning this summer, Pacaso owners and investors visiting the “Partnering with a Napa Valley icon like Cakebread Cellars enhances every stay for our owners,” said Pacaso Co‑Founder & CEO, Austin Allison. “Exceptional wine, warm hospitality, and a true sense of place are cornerstones of the Napa lifestyle—and the types of experiences Pacaso is designed to deliver.” “We’re excited to launch this partnership with Pacaso. Cakebread Cellars has been committed to creating memorable authentic wine experiences over the past 53 years and together with Pacaso, we look forward to bringing these same luxury wine experiences to Pacaso home owners around the country,” said Laura Webb, Vice President of Sales, Marketing & DTC at Cakebread Cellars. From vineyard‑view estates in Napa to coastal retreats worldwide, Pacaso curates and manages luxury homes so owners can focus on what matters most: creating lasting memories. The Cakebread Cellars partnership underscores Pacaso’s commitment to pairing turnkey ownership with authentic local experiences and benefits that bring each destination to life. To learn more about owning a Pacaso in Napa Valley, visit
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Modern single family house
What is fractional ownership in real estate? (+ pros and cons)
If you invest in a fractional ownership of a holiday home, you'd have the right to use that property for a predetermined number of days or weeks annually. This approach allows individuals to enjoy the benefits of owning premium assets without bearing the full financial burden alone. In this post, you’ll learn what fractional ownership is, explore its pros and cons and get answers to some frequently asked questions. Understanding fractional ownership You’ll typically find fractional ownership for real estate like vacation homes. However, fractional ownership can also come into play for art, stocks and fashion. When owners purchase real estate assets with fractional ownership, they’re issued deeds representing their fraction of the property.  How fractional ownership works It may sound complicated, but fractional property ownership is pretty cut and dry. Here’s how it works: Types of fractional ownership There are two main types of fractional property ownership structures: an entity, like an LLC, and tenancy in common. Fractional ownership through an entity Some properties split ownership by using a structural entity like an Tenancy in common Tenancy in common (TIC) means each tenant holds an individual deed for a fraction or percentage of a commercial or residential property. However, no one person or company is in charge. With a TIC, individuals can own different percentages of the property but share it equally. Some TIC agreements are self-managed. Fractional ownership vs. timeshares Timeshares may be shared by as many as 52 owners (one person or group for every week of the year) while fractionally owned properties can have as few as two owners.  Benefits of fractional ownership Fractional ownership has many benefits, including shared maintenance costs and upkeep, among others. Here are some of those benefits: Expanded opportunity to own Fractional real estate investments allow you to own a portion of Deeded ownership Unlike a timeshare, fractional home ownership gives you a deed to a fraction of the property itself (sometimes called a Usage rights Unlike short-term Shared upkeep and maintenance costs Using the fractional ownership model, you're also responsible for only a fraction of the property's upkeep and maintenance. This includes taxes, HOA fees, repair bills, landscaping, utilities, Lower upkeep and maintenance burden Most fractional real estate ownership agreements include provisions for long-term property management, with owners deciding how to handle any issues. Maintenance of When you have fractional vacation home ownership through an entity, it will include preventative and Cons of fractional ownership Though fractional ownership has advantages, there are a few drawbacks to consider.  Fewer financing options Fewer banks provide mortgages for those looking to buy properties fractionally. You may need to shop around or consider other ways to Less flexibility and freedom All decisions about maintenance, repairs and decor must go through all ownership partners, which can be a hassle. If you want to sell a fractional property, the other fractional owners must approve the sale, depending on your agreement.  Some fractional property ownership clubs also require you to maintain an agreement with the club or property management company associated with the home, with no option for self-management or management outside the company. Limited travel opportunities While it's not unheard of to own shares in multiple fractional ownership properties in different locations, investing in fractional ownership also means investing in the location you’re going to revisit. Of course, you can still vacation elsewhere, but it's something to factor into your travel plans and budget.  Similar alternatives to fractional ownership Where fractional ownership falls short, Pacaso steps up. Pacaso's professionally managed LLC co-ownership model gives you all the perks and lower co-ownership costs with key differences that set it apart from fractional ownership resort clubs. Unlike fractional ownership resorts, Pacaso offers LLC
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Two people with suitcases head to their short-term rental.
What is a short-term rental?
You’ve probably seen vacation home listings on Though you can book most vacation rentals for a few nights or weeks, each state has its own qualifiers for short-term rental properties. We’ll share the pros and cons, and additional considerations potential owners should bear in mind. Understanding short-term rentals Over the last 10 years, vacation rental brands like Seasonality, however, can also play a part in whether a rental will be in demand — meaning owners might have to give up personal stays during the most popular times of the year. Owners are also responsible for cleaning, coordination and maintenance to keep the short-term rental property in guest-ready condition. How short-term rentals work Many people who Because people on vacation will most often use short-term rentals, stays might vary from a few nights to several weeks. Sometimes, renters may lease them for as long as a month. Anything under six months is generally considered a short-term rental. Ultimately, your local jurisdiction defines what a short-term rental is for your area. What’s considered a short-term rental in each state? Local restrictions are a critical factor for anyone considering Owners should verify local regulations, zoning, taxes and licensing with their city or state government website for specific details about what qualifies as a short-term rental in their area before leasing their property. Types of short-term rentals Many The type of short-term rental you operate can affect how you operate your vacation rental business. It’s important to correctly categorize your vacation rental so that you pay the appropriate taxes and apply for the right zoning permits. Entire homes Airbnb and Accessory dwellings Accessory dwellings are sometimes known as in-law suites because they often take the form of cozy detached studios complete with an en-suite bathroom and comfortable furnishings — perfect for when the parents are in town. An ADU is generally on the same property as the primary residence and can potentially include a private entrance. Rooms Some jurisdictions allow homeowners to rent out a room in their primary residence as a short-term rental. The room can serve one or multiple guests at a time and can potentially include access to shared spaces like a kitchen or yard. Like an accessory dwelling, private rooms can sometimes include private entrances. Comparing long-term to short-term rentals Both short-term and long-term rentals are investment properties that homeowners can use to generate rental income. The length of the lease between owner and tenant often determines which type of rental agreement both parties will abide by. A long-term rental is generally a lease agreement for tenants who live at a rental property for at least 90 days, although some landlords require a minimum of 180 days or a full calendar year.  A short-term rental, however, is generally available to lease for less than 30 consecutive days. Compared to a long-term rental, owning a short-term vacation has its fair share of unique Considerations before investing in short-term rentals Short-term rentals require homeowners to abide by local vacation rental rules and regulations. There are several factors to consider before investing in a vacation rental. To operate a short-term rental, owners need to: A short-term rental investment property generates income from short-term leases. Short-term rentals can take the form of entire homes, ADUs or rooms within your primary residence.  Although vacation rentals can potentially yield rental income, they also come with a fair share of property management and tenant communication. If you’re more interested in relaxing than running a business, consider becoming a Co-owning a luxury second home has never been easier. Unlike vacation rentals, a
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