The Pacaso blog

For anyone seriously considering a These are the right questions to ask. In most shared-ownership arrangements, especially older Pacaso designed its scheduling system specifically to solve this. It's called SmartStay™ lives inside the Pacaso app, so owners book stays the way they already book travel. No phone calls, no emails to a property manager, no negotiating with other owners. An owner opens the app, sees what's available, and books the dates they want. The calendar updates in real time. That transparency, where everyone sees the same calendar under the same rules, is what makes shared scheduling work in practice. It removes the guesswork and the awkwardness of having to coordinate directly with people you may barely know. SmartStay™ offers two types of stays, and both appear in the same calendar under the same transparent rules: On average, one-eighth share owners stay at their homes about six to seven times per year, for roughly a week at a time. For more on how shares and ownership work, see SmartStay™ opens bookings on a rolling 24-month window. That timeline matters. It gives Pacaso owners an opportunity to think ahead, to plan around school calendars, extended-family trips, international travel, or milestone celebrations, without gambling on last-minute availability. A second home works best when it fits neatly into real life, and a two-year planning horizon makes that possible. Peak season is where most co-ownership models break down. At Pacaso, high-demand dates (major holidays, school breaks, local event weekends) are handled through SmartStay™'s built-in peak-season logic. Each owner is guaranteed one special date holiday per share. SmartStay™ then ensures every owner has the chance to book at least one peak-season stay before any one owner can book a second. That means the most desirable dates aren't fully booked by just one or two co-owners. It's a structural fix, not a hope-for-the-best policy. If you don't get your first choice of a special date in a given year, the rolling 24-month calendar gives you the opportunity to request that date in the future. Plans change. Sometimes the best weekend of the month reveals itself on a Thursday. SmartStay™ allows owners to book short-notice stays as little as two days in advance, whenever the home is open, with no penalty and no extra complexity. That flexibility, on both ends of the planning horizon, is a defining difference between modern co-ownership and the rigid calendar systems that came before it. Pacaso limits the number of co-owners to a maximum of eight, and owners use their home in proportion to their ownership share. With a smaller, diversified group of co-owners, people naturally gravitate toward different date preferences. SmartStay™ then layers in peak-season fairness on top of that, so the most desirable dates are spread across the group rather than dominated by one or two owners. Timeshares often rely on fixed weeks, draft processes, or priority rankings to assign a single stay each year, usually in a hotel room or condo. Pacaso's scheduling is responsive and real-time, lets owners enjoy their home multiple times throughout the year in a fully owned luxury property, and shows availability the moment it opens up. For a deeper look at the structural differences, see For Pacaso owners, scheduling isn't just a feature. It's the mechanism that makes shared ownership feel like ownership. Pacaso allows buyers to purchase a share (1/8 to 1/2) of a Scheduling is usually the invisible make-or-break piece of co-ownership. Pacaso built SmartStay™ to make that piece visible, fair, and flexible, so that the most important decisions about a second home are about when to pack the car and go, not about logistics. If co-ownership sounds like it might fit your travel and family schedule, start by Have more scheduling questions? You can also browse Pacaso's full

What are short-notice stays? Short-notice stays are bookings made 2 to 30 days before your planned arrival date. If your home has any open dates in that window, you can book them on the spot — no waiting, no coordination with other owners, and no deduction from your advance stay count. The feature was built for real life. Plans don't always come together weeks or months in advance. Sometimes an unexpected day off opens up, a last-minute trip with friends comes together, or you simply feel like spending more time at your home than you originally planned. Short-notice stays make all of that easy. How do short-notice stays work in the Pacaso app? The Pacaso app shows your home's calendar in real time. Any dates that are open and fall within the short-notice window (2 to 30 days from today) will be available to book instantly, the same way you'd book any other stay. Here's how to do it: That's it. No approval process, no waiting for other owners to respond, and no phone call required. Once you confirm, the stay is on your calendar just like any other booking. If you're already mid-stay and want to add nights to your existing reservation, the same process applies. As long as the adjacent dates are open and fall within the short-notice window, you can extend your trip directly in the app. Do short-notice stays count toward my advance stay limit? No. Short-notice stays are completely separate from your advance stay allotment. As a 1/8 share owner, you can hold up to 6 advance stays at a time, bookable up to two years out. Short-notice stays sit outside that system entirely, so booking one doesn't affect how many advance stays you have available. This means short-notice stays are in addition to your regular planned time, not a substitute for it. Can I extend my trip using a short-notice stay? Yes, and this is one of the most popular ways owners use the feature. If you're already staying at your home and there are open nights before or after your existing reservation that fall within the short-notice window, you can add them on at no additional booking cost. This is especially useful when you're not quite ready to leave, or when a travel disruption pushes your schedule. Rather than scrambling to rebook, you can simply check the app and extend if dates are available. Keep in mind the back-to-back stay policy: to ensure all co-owners have access to the home, a gap equal to the length of your previous stay is required before your next separate stay begins. However, extending a current stay is different since you're adding nights to an existing booking rather than scheduling a new one. If your stay is within 48 hours of arrival and you want to adjust dates, your dedicated Pacaso Home Manager can also help. Can I send guests to my home on a short-notice stay? Yes. If you've booked a short-notice stay but can't attend yourself, you can invite registered guests to use the home in your place. This works the same way as any other stay. Guests must be registered in the Pacaso app, and the home will be ready for their arrival just as it would for yours. This makes short-notice stays particularly valuable for owners who want to share the home with family or friends, even when last-minute plans prevent them from being there in person. What's the difference between short-notice stays and advance stays? Here's a quick breakdown of how the two types of stays compare: Both stay types are booked through the Pacaso app and are subject to real-time availability. The key distinction is that advance stays let you plan and secure time well ahead of your trip, while short-notice stays give you flexibility closer to the date. Are short-notice stays truly unlimited? Yes. There is no cap on the number of short-notice stays you can book. As long as dates are open within the short-notice window, any owner can book them, regardless of how many short-notice stays they've already taken that year. That said, availability is first-come, first-served. If another co-owner books a date before you, it's no longer available. The best way to take advantage of the feature is to check the app regularly. Because the calendar updates in real time, open dates become visible as soon as they're released or canceled. What if the home has unsold shares? The short-notice booking window is slightly different for homes that still have unsold shares. For these homes, the window is 2 to 7 days before arrival (rather than the standard 2 to 30 days). This narrower window reflects the fact that the home's calendar is less constrained during the sales process. Once all shares are sold and the home is fully co-owned, the standard 30-day short-notice window applies. What are tips for making the most of short-notice stays? Short-notice stays reward owners who stay in the habit of checking their home's calendar. A few practices that help: How do short-notice stays fit into the Pacaso ownership experience? Short-notice stays are one part of Pacaso's broader SmartStay™ scheduling system, which is designed to make second home ownership feel genuinely effortless. The full system includes: Together, these tools give owners both the ability to plan ahead with confidence and the freedom to act on impulse, which is, as Pacaso CEO Austin Allison puts it, "reflective of how people actually live and travel." Here's what current owners have said about the experience: "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 "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 "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 If you're considering

If you are looking to buy a second home, you aren’t alone. According to Yahoo Finance, nearly These shared ownership models help you buy a portion of a property, matching your contribution to your actual usage. Below, we compare Pacaso co-ownership alongside several other notable companies to help you find the perfect fit for your second-home dreams. Pacaso Pacaso provides turnkey designer homes, with everything from high-end furniture to silverware already set up and waiting for you. You will find Pacaso listings located in popular vacation destinations around the world, such as When you buy through Ember, you and up to seven other people own a deeded share of a luxury house through a property-specific LLC. Ember’s major selling point is its Ember Flex option that lets you rent out your unused weeks to offset your costs. Like other premium platforms, Ember has a completely turnkey experience. You simply arrive, enjoy your vacation and leave the typical homeownership duties to their dedicated management team.  Fraxioned operates under the co-ownership model and works well for buyers who want a desert oasis in places like Moab or St. George.   To help offset ownership costs, Fraxioned lets you rent out your space when you’re not using it. The platform also has a dedicated property management team to handle all the guest bookings and maintenance tasks on your behalf. While Kocomo originally launched as a direct property seller, it has since evolved into a global marketplace that aggregates listings from top fractional-ownership and co-ownership providers.  Because it functions as an aggregator, you get the advantage of comparing different ownership rules and financial structures before committing to a specific property.  August offers a different take on fractional ownership by giving you a share in a collection of luxury homes, not just one. When you buy in, you own equity in a group of four to five high-end properties across Europe, so you can split your time between destinations like the French Alps, Tuscany, and the Riviera. August handles everything, from buying and renovating to maintaining each home, so every property meets the same high standards. The result is a consistent, comfortable experience, with each home still reflecting its unique location. Ancana is best for buyers who want ownership in high-demand vacation destinations in Mexico and the U.S. The company takes care of the property maintenance, cleaning and administration so the house is ready when you arrive. If you do not plan to use all of your weeks, the platform lets you rent out your unused days to generate income that offsets your costs. They also integrate with global exchange networks, giving you the option to swap your time for stays in thousands of other properties around the world.  Elite Alliance is an early leader in the private residence club model. Instead of buying timeshare points, you own a deeded share in a specific luxury resort home, combining shared ownership with high-end amenities. A key benefit is its global exchange program, which lets you trade unused weeks for stays at other luxury homes and yachts in its network. The experience is fully managed, with staff handling cleaning, maintenance, and pre-arrival setup. Benefits of co-ownership and fractional ownership When deciding whether co-ownership or fractional ownership is right for you, it is helpful to weigh the Here's a look at the biggest benefits you can expect when buying into a shared property: How to choose which co-ownership or fractional ownership company to worth with Deciding between the various co-ownership and fractional ownership options comes down to what best fits your lifestyle and financial goals. To make the right choice, it helps to narrow down your core priorities before you fall in love with a specific property.  Here are a few essential questions to ask yourself as you compare different platforms: Choose co-ownership with Pacaso Whether you are interested in a domestic mountain retreat or are exploring the unique advantages of

Fractional ownership allows multiple individuals to purchase a second home together while sharing usage rights. To make this purchase even more accessible, buyers can use fractional ownership financing to cover the cost of their specific share.  Unlike timeshares, fractional ownership via a method like Companies like Pacaso have modernized this process by creating a co-ownership model that adds even more benefits beyond fractional ownership. While a lot of factors go into deciding if this route is right for you, one of the most important considerations is how you’ll pay for it, so let’s explore a few options for funding your second home. How fractional ownership financing works When you buy a luxury home using fractional ownership, the property is legally divided into a set number of equal shares, typically ranging from 1/8 to 1/2 of the home. As a fractional owner, you’re buying a legal portion of the real estate rather than just ‘time’ like in a traditional timeshare.  Each person buys the specific amount of the home they intend to use. Your ownership share is typically held within a property-specific LLC. When it comes to paying your share, you can use fractional financing. These specialized fractional ownership loans are unique because they’re secured only for your personal share, meaning other co-owners’ financial situations don’t affect your standing. You also avoid tying up your liquid capital. Beyond the initial purchase, being a fractional owner means sharing the ongoing upkeep costs and usage rights with the other shareholders. Maintenance fees, property taxes and insurance are split based on the size of each person’s share in the home. A dedicated management company usually handles the day-to-day operations, so that the lawn is mowed, the roof is fixed and the bills are paid on time.  Common fractional financing options In terms of how you can finance fractional ownership, you can’t always rely on standard banking products designed for whole-home purchases. Lenders often view these shared assets differently, which means you need to use a few other funding avenues.  The table below breaks down the most common pathways to secure your loans for fractional ownership real estate.  Pros and cons of fractional ownership Before committing to a purchase, weigh the Pros Buying a fractional ownership interest in a top real estate market opens doors that might otherwise remain shut to the average buyer.  Cons While sharing a high-end home sounds appealing on paper, splitting a major asset with other people introduces logistical and financial complexities.  Financing a Pacaso second home Pacaso is a popular choice for co-ownership of a vacation home. Our unique co-ownership model lets you buy a 1/8 share or more of a fully furnished, professionally decorated second home in your Unlike fractional ownership financing, Pacaso offers a few more options, like Buyers can also pay for their co-ownership share in a Want to find your dream vacation home? Explore our

At some point, most second-home owners ask themselves: is this property still working for me? If you're carrying the full cost of a luxury home but only using it a fraction of the year, selling a second home(or at least part of it) could be the best financial decision you make. That said, selling a second home isn't quite like selling your primary residence. There are tax considerations to work through, timing decisions to weigh, and a different kind of buyer to find. This guide walks you through all of it and shows you why Pacaso offers an exit (or partial exit) that a traditional listing simply can't. Before you list your second home, it helps to get clear on what you actually want out of the process. A few questions worth considering: Getting clear on your goals upfront will shape not just whether to sell, but how and whether Pacaso's model makes more sense than a traditional listing. This is where selling a second home gets meaningfully different from selling your primary residence and where a lot of owners get caught off guard. The tax implications of selling a second home are specific to your situation, so it's always worth a conversation with a qualified tax advisor before you do anything. If your second home is in The bottom line: California second-home sellers should be working closely with a tax professional who knows the state's rules well before finalizing anything. South Carolina has quietly become one of the most desirable second-home markets on the East Coast, with destinations like As always, a South Carolina-based tax advisor will give you the most accurate picture for your situation. When you sell a second home for more than you paid, that profit is a capital gain.  With no exclusion available, it's fully taxable. Here's how the math works. One more thing worth knowing: a Pacaso resale involves transferring an It's one of the most common questions second-home owners wrestle with, and the honest answer is: it depends on what you're optimizing for. Rather than choosing between holding the entire home or walking away entirely, Pacaso lets you sell a portion of your second home, freeing up equity and handing off the hassle, while keeping the ownership share that still fits your lifestyle. You get time in the home you love, without everything that comes with owning it outright. For owners who are emotionally attached to the property but tired of what full ownership demands, this middle path may be most satisfying. If you're selling a second home with plans to buy another, there are a few things to keep in mind before you assume the process works like it might for a primary residence. France is home to some of the world's most sought-after second-home markets like the Côte d'Azur, the Dordogne, the most beautiful corners of Paris. If you own property there and are thinking about selling, the tax and legal framework is quite different from a U.S. transaction. When you list a luxury second home on the MLS, you're essentially hoping the right buyer finds you. When you list with Pacaso, that buyer is often already there. Pacaso has completed over 400 resales and maintains an active pipeline of pre-qualified, high-net-worth buyers who are specifically looking for co-ownership opportunities in premium destinations. These aren't casual browsers. They're motivated buyers who have already decided that luxury co-ownership is the right model for them, and who are ready to move when the right property appears. That changes the whole dynamic of selling a second home. Instead of casting a wide net and waiting, Pacaso matches your property with buyers already in their system,  while also listing on the local MLS to maximize reach. You get the depth of a dedicated buyer network plus the breadth of the open market, backed by Pacaso's brand recognition in the luxury second-home space. The numbers speak for themselves: A 99-day average only happens when there's a ready, waiting buyer pool. And 73% of resales closing above the original purchase price tells you these aren't distressed or reluctant transactions; they're competitive ones. For context, research from the Concierge Auctions 2025 Luxury Home Index shows that ultra-luxury homes can take roughly four times longer to sell than the average home. Properties that sit beyond 180 days often close at a significant discount. Pacaso's resale track record looks quite different. On the open market, your second home competes with every other luxury listing in the area. Buyers are weighing all kinds of options: whole homes, vacation rentals, properties across a wide price range. Pacaso's marketplace attracts a different kind of buyer. These are high-net-worth individuals who have specifically chosen the That means: This buyer pool doesn't exist anywhere else. It exists because Pacaso built it. At every stage, Pacaso isn't just waiting for buyers to appear. They're actively matching your property with people from their existing pipeline, leveraging their marketplace and MLS presence, and using their brand recognition in luxury second-home destinations to drive real, qualified interest. Not every property qualifies, but if your second home is genuinely high-end and well-located, it may be a strong fit. Here's what Pacaso looks for: If that sounds like your property, Pacaso's team can assess fit quickly and walk you through what comes next. Right now, there are buyers in Pacaso's pipeline actively looking for luxury co-ownership opportunities in premium markets. If your second home is the right fit, those buyers could be waiting for exactly what you have.

Understanding short-term rentals You’ve likely come across vacation home listings on Over the last decade, short-term rentals have grown immensely in popularity. Brands like Homeowners are drawn to short-term rentals for their income potential, flexibility, marketing automation, and tax benefits. Unlike long-term rentals, these properties can also serve as personal retreats. Seasonal demand may affect availability, and during peak periods, owners might need to adjust personal use. Additionally, keeping a property guest-ready requires attention to cleaning, coordination, and maintenance. How do short-term rentals work? Many people who Short-term rentals typically accommodate stays ranging from a few nights to several weeks, and in some cases, up to a month. Properties rented for longer than six months are usually considered long-term rentals, while anything shorter generally falls under the short-term category. Local regulations ultimately define what qualifies as a short-term rental in each area. When comparing a vacation home vs. short-term rental, the distinction is clear: a vacation home is primarily for personal enjoyment, while a short-term rental is managed as an income-generating investment. Understanding this difference helps potential owners make informed decisions about property use, financial planning, and regulatory compliance. What is considered a short-term rental in each state? Local restrictions are a critical factor for anyone considering What qualifies as a short-term rental by state? 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. What are the different types of short-term rentals? Short-term rentals generally fall into three main categories: entire homes, accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and individual rooms. The type of property you list can influence how you operate your vacation rental business, including tax obligations and zoning requirements, so accurate categorization is essential. Entire homes Airbnb and Accessory dwellings Also called in-law suites, ADUs are often detached studios on the same property as the primary residence. They typically include an en-suite bathroom, comfortable furnishings, and sometimes a private entrance — perfect for guests looking for a cozy, independent space. Individual rooms Some jurisdictions allow homeowners to rent out a room in their primary residence as a short-term rental. The room can accommodate one or more guests and sometimes offer access to shared spaces like a kitchen or yard. Like ADUs, some private rooms can include separate entrances for added privacy. Short-term rental vs. long-term rental: what’s the difference? 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, What should I consider before investing in short-term rentals? Investing in a short-term rental can be a lucrative opportunity, but it comes with responsibilities that go beyond simply owning a second home. There are several factors to consider before investing in a short-term rental. To operate a short-term rental, owners need to: While short-term rentals can generate income, they also demand time, effort, and organization. If your priority is relaxation rather than running a business, Should I buy, co-own, or rent a vacation home? Short-term rental: Buying a whole second home: Co-owning a vacation home: Which option works best depends on… How does Pacaso compare with luxury short-term rentals? Instead of renting a vacation home night by night, Pacaso offers co‑ownership — a way to enjoy a luxury second home while also building equity. Why Pacaso stands out Compared with other vacation home options, Short-term rentals provide flexibility and variety, but they come with unpredictability: changing hosts, inconsistent quality, and no long-term return. Pacaso combines privacy, stability, and a true “home away from home” experience, letting you enjoy the perks of luxury second-home ownership without the full-time operational responsibilities. Co-owning a luxury second home has never been easier. Unlike vacation rentals,

Thinking about a second home, but hesitating because of the math, the upkeep, and the “is co-ownership worth it?” questions?  With fluctuating interest rates, rising insurance and maintenance costs, and the general hassle of owning a property far from your primary residence, The catch is that a lot of people are still evaluating co-ownership through old, misleading mental models: random strangers, timeshare rules, rigid weeks, complicated logistics, and messy exits. That’s not how modern co-ownership works, and it’s definitely not Myth #1: “Co-ownership means sharing your homes with random people.” This isn’t an open-door situation; it’s a limited set of co-owners who each have a real stake in the property. And because everyone owns, the incentives are aligned: owners treat the home like an asset and a retreat, not a revolving rental. Want to see what that looks like in real life? Myth #2: “This is basically a nice timeshare.” The comparison between With Pacaso, each co-owner holds a When it comes time to sell, owners can list their interest on the open market rather than being limited to selling back to a resort company at unfavorable buyback terms. There are no points systems, no resort affiliations, and no sprawling fee structures disconnected from the actual costs of running that specific home. The proof is in the structure itself, and any prospective buyer who wants to understand the legal and practical distinctions in detail is welcome to walk through them with our team. Myth #3: “You’re stuck with fixed weeks every year.” Pacaso is built for real life — plans change, calendars shift, and flexibility matters. Owners use our proprietary Myth #4: “Home management sounds difficult with multiple owners.” You show up to a well-kept, ready-to-enjoy home. When you leave, you’re not stuck coordinating vendors, troubleshooting issues, or worrying about whether the place is being cared for properly. Part of what makes that possible is thoughtful design. Pacaso's co-ownership model is built for people who want the experience of a second home without the complexity of managing shared relationships directly. Most owners choose Pacaso precisely because they value privacy and prefer not to coordinate with co-owners on day-to-day matters, and the model is structured to make that the default. That said, hands-off doesn't mean left out. While Pacaso handles the day-to-day so owners never have to, the decisions that genuinely matter require owner input. Major choices go to a vote, with approval thresholds that scale with the significance of the decision, from a simple majority to unanimous consent.  On the financial side, owners review and must approve the annual budget before it takes effect. It's a structure designed to give owners exactly the right level of involvement: none of the operational headaches, and all of the meaningful control. Myth #5: “Co-ownership can be messy. What happens when someone wants out?” Selling is straightforward. Owners list their shares directly through Pacaso's marketplace, where we provide pricing guidance based on current market conditions; though each owner ultimately sets their own price, just as they would in a traditional real estate transaction.  Pacaso acts as the listing agent, supporting the process and connecting sellers with qualified buyers. When multiple shares in the same home are listed simultaneously, pricing can vary by owner. Buyers have full transparency into all available shares and can choose based on price or preferred calendar availability, so outcomes are driven by a combination of pricing, timing, and buyer demand. The numbers tell a compelling story. Across several hundred resales since inception, Pacaso shares have averaged 99 days on market, a meaningful advantage when you consider that luxury homes in the $5–10M range (the tier most comparable to Pacaso's portfolio) typically take 120–200+ days to sell, with significant variation by market.  Research from the Concierge Auctions 2025 Luxury Home Index found that ultra-luxury homes take roughly four times longer to sell than the average home, and that properties sitting beyond 180 days tend to close at around 20% below their original listing price.  Pacaso shares, by contrast, have averaged 6% price appreciation at resale, with 73% of all completed resales closing above the original purchase price.  That said, Pacaso markets its properties as luxury second homes, not investment vehicles, and we are deliberate about that distinction. Real estate values fluctuate, and we don't represent otherwise. The primary value of co-ownership is access to a high-quality property at a fraction of the cost of sole ownership, and we encourage buyers to conduct their own due diligence and consult independent advisors when evaluating a purchase. So, is Pacaso worth it? How Pacaso simplifies co-ownership Pacaso owners get the second-home lifestyle without the traditional second-home hassle. Instead of “booking weeks” or rolling the dice on vacation rentals, they build real ownership in a luxury home, alongside a small group of co-owners and a scheduling system designed for flexibility. Unlike Our focus has been on improving the fundamentals of the business: driving more efficient sales, maintaining disciplined inventory levels, and expanding our resale marketplace to enhance liquidity and long-term owner value.  We continue to see strong demand across both domestic and international markets, and we're scaling in a way that balances growth with financial discipline. As a Regulation A reporting company, we provide detailed financials through our public filings, and we're committed to ensuring all investors have equal access to information. If you want a place that feels like yours (because it is), with the freedom to use it throughout the year and the confidence that everything is taken care of, co-ownership through Pacaso is the easiest path. If you’re ready to take the smarter path to second-home ownership,

What is a Pacaso resale? A Pacaso resale occurs when an existing owner sells their ownership interest in a Pacaso home to a new buyer. While this differs from purchasing a new Pacaso share at initial launch, the ownership structure remains the same. All Because of this model, selling a Pacaso share is simpler than selling a traditional home. There’s no need for staging, showings, or home prep, no due diligence period, and no title or escrow process. Ownership is reassigned through the LLC, allowing for faster, more streamlined closings. Resales are a built-in feature of Pacaso’s How does the Pacaso resale process work? What does Pacaso’s role in the resale look like? Pacaso facilitates the resale process by helping source buyers, coordinating marketing efforts, and managing the administrative and legal steps required to complete the transaction. This support significantly reduces the friction typically associated with selling real estate. Owners can list their shares directly through Pacaso's marketplace, where we provide pricing guidance based on current market conditions. Ultimately, each owner sets their own price, similar to a traditional real estate transaction. Pacaso acts as the listing agent within our marketplace, supporting the process and connecting sellers with qualified buyers. Owners also have the option to work with a third-party agent if they prefer. Pacaso is the expert in co-ownership. We know these assets inside and out, from the scheduling and property history to the operating structure, and we process the sale on our own documents. That positions us better than anyone to facilitate the resale of shares in these homes effectively and efficiently for all parties. To ensure transparency, Pacaso maintains separate representation on the listing side and the buy side of every transaction. Our operating agreements make the structure of that relationship clear from the outset, and owners are always free to engage their own independent legal or financial counsel. We encourage them to do so. If any owner has a specific concern about a potential conflict of interest, we would absolutely engage with them on it directly. When multiple shares in the same home are listed, pricing can vary by owner. Buyers have full transparency into all available shares and can choose based on price or preferred calendar availability. As a result, outcomes are driven by a combination of pricing, timing, and buyer demand. How long does a Pacaso resale take? Pacaso homes typically close much faster than traditional home sales.  Factors such as buyer financing and market demand may influence the exact timeline. How has Pacaso resale performed? According to RCLCO’s findings, from 2021 through 2024, shares of Pacaso homes achieved an average Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 9.7%—4.7% higher than traditional luxury homes in the same markets. In several luxury destinations, from California to the Carolinas, Pacaso resales have consistently outperformed regional averages. From 2021 through 2024, Pacaso share appreciation exceeded market benchmarks in each destination, with Pacaso resales averaging a 10% overall gain. From inception through the end of 2025, Pacaso has completed over 400 resales. Across those transactions, the average time owned was 2 years, the average time on market was 99 days, and the average resale share price appreciation was 6%. 73% of all over 400 resales appreciated in value. Pacaso shares sell faster and perform better than comparable luxury homes. While the widely cited luxury median of 78 to 89 days on market includes homes starting around $1M+, isolating the $5M to $10M tier where Pacaso homes compete shows 120 to 200+ days as more typical.  What are the fees and costs associated with a Pacaso resale? Compared to traditional real estate, resale-related costs are streamlined. Overall, the Pacaso resale process eliminates many of the unpredictable expenses associated with selling a traditional home. What are tax considerations for Pacaso resales? Selling a Pacaso share may result in capital gains, depending on your individual situation. Because Pacaso resales involve the transfer of an LLC membership interest rather than a traditional deeded sale, tax treatment may differ from a standard home sale. This information is provided for general guidance only. Owners should consult a qualified tax professional to understand how a Pacaso resale may impact their personal tax situation. What are other options for Pacaso owners? If your needs change, selling your entire share isn’t your only option. Owners who find they’re using less time than anticipated can right-size their ownership by selling a portion of their interest. A selldown follows the same process as a resale, allowing you to retain partial ownership while freeing up capital and flexibility. Is Pacaso a good investment? On average, Pacaso homes have appreciated in value, often outperforming traditional luxury homes in their markets. With a built-in resale marketplace and streamlined ownership transfer through the LLC, selling a Pacaso share is faster and simpler than a traditional second home, providing liquidity and flexibility. Beyond potential financial gains, owners enjoy a Pacaso markets its properties as luxury second homes, not as investment vehicles, and we are deliberate about that distinction. Our materials focus on the lifestyle value of co-ownership, access to a high-quality property at a fraction of the cost of sole ownership, rather than projecting financial returns. Real estate values fluctuate, and we don't represent otherwise. We encourage buyers to conduct their own due diligence and consult independent advisors when evaluating their purchase. A flexible, transparent way to sell Pacaso gives owners an exceptional level of flexibility, control, and peace of mind when it comes time to sell. With a built-in marketplace, professional marketing support, and a simplified transaction process, reselling Pacaso shares is designed to be as effortless as ownership itself.

You’ve decided it’s time for a second home — a private retreat where you can escape, recharge, and make memories with loved ones. But traditional ownership can be overwhelming, with high costs, maintenance, and scheduling challenges. Short-term rentals are often impersonal, and timeshares can feel restrictive. So, how does Pacaso work? Pacaso reimagines second-home ownership through fully managed What is Pacaso? Pacaso, Each Pacaso home is held in a How does Pacaso work? Owning a second home can be expensive and stressful, with unpredictable maintenance and scheduling conflicts. Pacaso simplifies the process by combining true property ownership with Here’s how Pacaso co-ownership works at a glance: One of the most common questions prospective co-owners ask is: what exactly am I paying each month? The short answer is that Pacaso monthly fees cover everything it takes to maintain a luxury second home at the standard you'd expect, and then some.  There are no mystery line items, no surprise invoices. Just a clear, shared cost structure designed to make ownership as effortless as it is worthwhile. Pacaso budgets for each home's operating expenses annually, then breaks the total into 12 monthly payments. Costs are shared among co-owners on a pro rata basis, meaning you pay only for the share you own. Those payments are deposited directly into the property's LLC account, and Pacaso uses the funds to cover expenses as they arise. Every budget is fully customized for the property and grounded in actual spend, not estimates pulled from thin air. Each budget is reviewed and approved by the homeowners themselves before taking effect, so it always reflects the true cost of maintaining the home. And every quarter, expenses are reconciled. If a home comes in under budget, owners receive credits back. Pacaso monthly fees typically cover: Like any real estate market, operating costs for luxury second homes have evolved. Since 2021, the broader cost of owning and operating a second home in the markets where Pacaso operates has risen roughly 40–50% on average, driven by inflation and rising costs for insurance, labor, and services, particularly in high-demand destinations where skilled vendors are harder to source for large luxury properties.  Across the Pacaso portfolio, actual operating expense increases have tracked closer to 30% over that same period, generally in line with, but slightly below, broader market trends. The biggest individual drivers have been rising insurance premiums and property taxes. Insurance in particular has seen steep increases over the past five years, especially in states like California, Florida, and Colorado, where many Pacaso homes are located.  Carriers have exited markets, reduced coverage, and raised premiums across the board for residential properties, a well-documented industry-wide trend that has affected second-home owners everywhere, not just Pacaso co-owners. That said, Pacaso's property insurance costs have stayed essentially flat in the most recent renewals, even against the backdrop of significant industry losses, including those from the Malibu wildfires. This is a direct result of the strength of the Pacaso portfolio and the disciplined way homes are managed. As Pacaso's track record as a proven property manager has grown, that reputation has been reflected in more competitive coverage and pricing. Pacaso owners were already paying market-rate property management costs from day one. What has changed over time is not the total cost of managing a home, but where those fees go.  In Pacaso's early years, management was handled by third-party vendors whose rates varied and increased annually. As Pacaso scaled, it built an in-house property management team covering property management, accounting, legal support, and full home and vendor coordination, replacing those external providers with a consistent, comprehensive service. During the transition, Pacaso's internal fee was kept intentionally low and has since been gradually brought in line with market rates: approximately 20% from 2022–2023, 8% from 2023–2024, and 14% from 2024–2025. These adjustments represent a reallocation of existing costs from variable third-party vendors to Pacaso at consistent, market-rate pricing, not a net increase in what it costs to run your home. Now that the portfolio is fully transitioned, Pacaso has not raised property management fee tiers over the past two years, and the goal going forward is stable, predictable pricing, a meaningful improvement over the variable annual increases owners experienced under third-party management. Monthly owner expenses may be adjusted to reflect real changes in home costs, whether insurance, taxes, or other market-driven increases. When adjustments are necessary, they are communicated proactively, with backup documentation available upon request. Because the budget process requires owner approval on an annual basis, owners see and vote on cost changes directly. There are no surprises hidden in the fine print. Owners also have meaningful input into the significant decisions affecting their home. While Pacaso handles day-to-day property management on behalf of the LLC, major decisions require a vote of the owners, with thresholds that vary depending on the nature of the decision, ranging from a simple majority to unanimous consent.  On the financial side, Pacaso prepares a proposed annual budget and presents it to owners for review, and that budget must be approved by a majority of ownership interests before it takes effect. Owners aren't involved in routine operational matters, which is by design since that's much of the value Pacaso provides, but they retain real governance rights over the decisions that matter most. It's the kind of financial clarity and owner control that's rare in traditional second-home ownership, and one of the reasons co-owning with Pacaso simply makes sense. What makes Pacaso homes special? Pacaso homes are intentionally designed to feel like true retreats — not just places to stay, but places you genuinely look forward to returning to. Every detail is thoughtfully curated to deliver a consistent, high-end ownership experience across locations. Together, these elements create a second-home experience that is polished, predictable, and easy, so owners can focus on enjoying their time rather than managing the property. How do Pacaso alternatives compare? Many buyers unfamiliar with the Pacaso business model ask the same question: is Pacaso a timeshare? The short answer is no. But to fully understand how the Pacaso business model works, it helps to compare it to the most common second-home options available today. By combining true property ownership with professional management, flexible access, and financial transparency, Pacaso homes offer a modern, stress-free alternative to traditional second-home models — without the limitations of rentals or timeshares. Why is Pacaso the smart way to buy a second home? If you’re wondering, “how does Pacaso work for second home buyers?” The answer lies in its modern approach to luxury second-home ownership — one that blends the rewards of owning a vacation home with professional management, flexibility, and peace of mind. Rather than purchasing a second home on your own, Pacaso allows buyers to co-own a luxury property, sharing costs and responsibilities while still enjoying true, deeded ownership. Being a Pacaso owner is about more than just time in a house — it’s about enjoying a vacation home without the work. Owners benefit from: Owning a Pacaso share isn’t just about a property — it’s about creating a personal getaway filled with memories, comfort, and freedom.

If you're considering flexible travel to different resort communities, However, Pacaso The comparison to What is Pacaso? The Pacaso second home ownership model is a revolutionary way to buy, own and Pacaso owners enjoy all the benefits of second home ownership without the hassle of maintenance, scheduling or resale. All of our homes are professionally designed, fully furnished and impeccably maintained, offering a consistent and luxurious experience every time.  Qualifying buyers can also take advantage of competitive What is a timeshare? A Timeshares are often sold through high-pressure sales meetings and have drawbacks, such as difficulty in reselling and exposure to scams.Timeshare owners also have little to no control over the underlying asset — they cannot replace management, and costs are not as transparent. Pacaso vs. timeshare: 5 key differences If you are looking for a way to own a luxury vacation home in a desirable location, you might be wondering about the differences between a Both options allow you to share the cost and use of a vacation property with others, but there are some key distinctions that make Pacaso a better alternative for many buyers. Here are five reasons to consider LLC co-ownership of a second home. 1. Each Pacaso listing is a one-of-a-kind second home Not just any home can be a Pacaso home. We seek out the best homes in the best locations — each one is different, and all have plenty of wow factor. Then our professional interior designers A Pacaso home is a luxurious home away from home. A timeshare is almost always a unit at a hotel or condo complex. Think cookie-cutter floor plans and typical hotel-style furniture. 2. A small group of co-owners enjoy the home Because we limit the number of shares per home to eight, you and (at most) seven other owners will have access to the home. (Only one owner will occupy the home at a time, of course.)  Plus, Pacaso homes are reserved for the exclusive use of owners and their guests — rentals aren’t permitted. We vet potential owners who agree to a common sense code of conduct to ensure they will treat the home as their own — because it is! Plus, you won’t feel like you’re “sharing” your home. We conduct a thorough inspection and cleaning after each stay so your home is pristine when you arrive.   A 3. You own real estate, not time With Pacaso, you own a real estate asset, not simply a block of time. Each owner holds their interest in an LLC that holds title to the home. That's real ownership, with the governance rights, transferability, and equity exposure that come with it. And because it's a real estate asset, its value will move with the market. With timeshares, you typically own the right to use the property for a period of time, not the property itself. There are no points systems, no resort affiliations, and no sprawling fee structures unconnected to the actual costs of running that specific home. Financing is offered through the timeshare company, often at a high interest rate, and some buyers secure funds through a personal loan or home equity loan. Since even the best timeshare property does not function like a real estate asset, you are likely to see the value depreciate, much like a new car begins to lose value once it’s driven off the lot. 4. You can use your home year-round Pacaso’s When you purchase a timeshare, you’re often locked into a fixed week or block of time, year after year. You may have a “floating week” option, but your choices may still be restricted to certain unit configurations or seasons. With either option, you can only check in on certain days, and you typically must book a full week.  There are exchanges and point-based systems that allow you to choose different resorts, but you’ll often pay extra for more desirable locations, and availability can be limited. If you have a fixed-week schedule, you may never get a particular holiday week if another owner already locked it in. 5. The resale process is streamlined You set the price you want for your Owners can list their shares directly through Pacaso's marketplace, where we provide pricing guidance based on current market conditions. Ultimately, each owner sets their own price, similar to a traditional real estate transaction. Pacaso acts as the listing agent, supporting the process and connecting sellers with qualified buyers. Owners also have the option to work with a third-party real estate agent if they prefer. Pacaso is the expert in co-ownership. We know these assets inside and out, from the scheduling and property history to the operating structure, and we process the sale on our own documents. That positions us better than anyone to facilitate the resale of shares in these homes effectively and efficiently for all parties. To ensure transparency, Pacaso maintains separate representation on the listing side and the buy side of every transaction. Our operating agreements make the structure of that relationship clear from the outset, and owners are always free to engage their own independent legal or financial counsel. We encourage them to do so. If any owner has a specific concern about a potential conflict of interest, we would absolutely engage with them on it directly. When multiple shares in the same home are listed, pricing can vary by owner. Buyers have full transparency into all available shares and can choose based on price or preferred calendar availability. As a result, outcomes are driven by a combination of pricing, timing, and buyer demand. Because our homes are thoughtfully selected and located in some of the most desirable second home markets, we've experienced strong buyer demand. By contrast, selling a timeshare can be extremely difficult, with an entire industry of timeshare exit companies charging fees to help owners exit. Pick the right choice for you Keeping your second home goals in mind while comparing Pacaso vs. timeshare opportunities can help you find exactly what you’re looking for. If you’re specifically looking for a luxury getaway and a place to make memories together with your family, browse through our

Buying a holiday home in the UK, a buy-to-let or a city pied-à-terre comes with one cost most buyers underestimate: stamp duty on Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) is the tax HMRC charges when you buy a residential property in England or Northern Ireland above a minimum threshold. When the property you are buying is not your only home, you trigger the Higher Rates for Additional Dwellings, commonly known as the second home stamp duty surcharge. In plain terms: stamp duty on a second home is the standard SDLT bill plus a 5% surcharge on top of the whole purchase price. The surcharge applies whether the property is a holiday home, a buy-to-let (a British phrase meaning the purchase of a property specifically to let out), a flat for a family member or a second residence in town. It is also payable even if the home you already own is overseas. Scotland and Wales operate their own equivalents (Land and Buildings Transaction Tax in Scotland, Land Transaction Tax in Wales). The rest of this guide focuses on SDLT in England and Northern Ireland, which is what most international and London-based Pacaso buyers will pay. How much is stamp duty depends on three things: the purchase price, whether the property is your main home or an additional property, and whether you are a UK or non-UK resident. The 5% surcharge for additional homes that took effect on 31 October 2024 is unchanged, so the totals below reflect what UK-resident buyers will pay this year. Here is a quick view of how much is stamp duty on second homes at common UK price points: The stamp duty rates UK buyers pay on a second home are banded: each portion of the purchase price falls inside a band, and you pay the rate that applies to that slice. For an additional property, every band is 5 percentage points higher than the standard residential rate. Non-UK residents pay an additional 2% on top of every band, so the highest effective rate of stamp duty on a second home for an overseas buyer is 19% on the portion above £1.5 million. A UK stamp duty calculator does the band-by-band maths for you. To get an accurate figure, plug in the agreed purchase price, tick the box for "additional property" or "second home," and select your residency status. Most reputable tools, including If you prefer to sanity-check the result, the manual approach is straightforward: Run the same calculation for a Pacaso share size (for example, 1/8 of the home value) and you can see at a glance how much smaller the SDLT bill becomes when you only buy the portion of the home you actually plan to use. You will owe the stamp duty UK second home surcharge if, at the end of the day you complete the purchase, you own (or part-own) more than one residential property anywhere in the world worth £40,000 or more. That includes: You can typically reclaim the surcharge if you sell your previous main residence within 36 months of buying the new one, but you have to pay it up front at completion. A handful of exemptions and reliefs can reduce or remove the tax on a second home in the UK: These reliefs are nuanced and the wrong assumption can be expensive. Always confirm with a UK conveyancer or tax adviser before banking on a relief. Stamp duty on a second home is calculated on what you actually buy. With full ownership, that is the entire property. With The example below assumes a £2,000,000 home in the UK and shows the gap between full ownership and a 1/8 Pacaso share: In this scenario, a 1/8 Pacaso share trims the stamp duty bill from £253,750 to roughly £15,000 — a saving of more than £238,000 — while still giving the buyer a deeded interest in a luxury, fully managed home. The exact figure for any specific Pacaso listing is confirmed in writing during the offer process. Pacaso allows buyers to purchase a share (1/8 to 1/2) of a fully managed luxury home through a property-specific LLC, giving them a true real estate asset for a fraction of the cost. New to the model? Our explainer on On top of the lower stamp duty bill, Pacaso UK ownership also includes: Ready to see what your real cost of ownership looks like? Browse our

What is a workcation? A workcation sits squarely between a full vacation and your regular workday. Unlike a traditional vacation, where you completely disconnect, a workcation keeps you on the clock. Unlike a regular workday, your surroundings are anything but ordinary. The concept is simple: you relocate your work setup to a more desirable location for a period of time, typically a week or more, and enjoy the lifestyle benefits of that destination during your evenings and free time. You still answer emails, hit deadlines, and join meetings. You just do it with better scenery. A few things that set a workcation apart from similar concepts: Is the workcation trend here to stay? The workcation trend has moved well beyond a pandemic-era novelty. Remote work became a permanent fixture for a large portion of the workforce, and the flexibility it provides has fundamentally changed how people approach travel. An estimated one in four Americans now works remotely at least part of the time, creating a growing population of professionals who can genuinely choose where they work. Employers allowing workcations have become increasingly common as companies recognize the morale and retention benefits. Rather than risking talent burnout or resignations, many organizations now support temporary remote work from alternate locations, particularly for employees who already work from home. In parallel, a growing number of countries have introduced a What are the benefits of workcations? The benefits of workcations extend beyond simply enjoying a prettier view while working. Research and widespread experience among remote professionals point to several concrete advantages: Which jobs are a good fit for a workcation? Not every role is suited to a workcation. The strongest candidates are people whose work is primarily computer-based and internet-connected. This includes: Professionals in technology, marketing, finance, design, consulting, writing, and other knowledge-worker roles are generally well positioned. The same applies to self-employed individuals, freelancers, and anyone who already works from home regularly. Roles that require frequent in-person interaction with clients or colleagues, hands-on equipment, or physical presence at a specific facility are harder to adapt to a workcation setting. If your job falls in that category, even a short workcation may require creative planning or partial compromise. For hybrid workers, a workcation during a stretch of remote-only weeks is often the easiest option, since no policy change or special approval is required. What are the best workcation destinations? The best workcation destinations share a few core qualities: reliable high-speed internet, a comfortable workspace setup, enough space to separate work and leisure, and compelling things to do once the laptop closes. Here are some of the top options across different vacation styles. Aspen, Colorado Jackson Hole, Wyoming Miami, Florida Sonoma and Napa Valley, California San Diego, California Park City, Utah International workcation destinations For those with the flexibility for an international workcation, a number of cities have risen to the top of global rankings for remote workers. What should you look for in a workcation home? Choosing the right accommodation makes or breaks a workcation. A workcation hotel can work for a few days, but most remote professionals find that purpose-built homes offer a far more productive and comfortable experience for stays of a week or longer. Here's what to prioritize when evaluating any workcation home, whether that's a short-term rental, a workcation Airbnb, or a co-owned second home. Workspace setup A dedicated workspace is the single most important feature to look for. Ideally, this means a separate room with a door, somewhere you can close yourself off from family members or guests and maintain focus during work hours. At minimum, look for a home with a proper desk, an ergonomic chair, and enough desk space to run a full work setup. Workcation Airbnb listings and short-term rentals vary widely in this regard; always check listing photos carefully and ask hosts about their workspace setup before booking. Internet speed and reliability Reliable, fast internet is non-negotiable. Before confirming any workcation accommodation, ask the host or property manager for the actual internet speed (not just "fast WiFi"), and confirm whether the connection is fiber-based or cable. For video-heavy workdays with frequent calls, a minimum of 100 Mbps download and strong upload speeds are the baseline. Some workcation hotel packages and short-term rentals now advertise their speeds upfront, which is a useful signal. Space to separate work and leisure One of the underrated advantages of staying in a full home versus a workcation hotel room is the ability to truly separate your physical work environment from your living and relaxation space. When your desk is in the same room as your bed and couch, the psychological separation between "work time" and "off time" breaks down quickly. A home with at least a dedicated office, guest house, or private den resolves this. Amenities that support recovery The best workcation destinations and homes offer amenities that make after-work time genuinely restorative: a pool, outdoor deck, proximity to hiking or beach access, a quality kitchen for cooking your own meals, and outdoor entertaining space. These features matter more on a workcation than a standard vacation because you're spending more time in and around the home itself. Proximity to essentials Consider the home's distance from a grocery store, coffee shops, and good restaurants. When you're working a full day and don't want to spend your evenings driving long distances, having local amenities within easy reach is a meaningful quality-of-life factor. How do you plan a successful workcation? A workcation without structure can quickly slide into either overworking or underperforming. These steps make the difference between a disjointed experience and a genuinely productive one. 1. Get employer approval in advance Even if you already work remotely, give your manager adequate notice of your travel plans. Be direct about where you'll be, your availability during standard hours, and any time zone considerations. Come prepared with answers to likely objections and reassurance that your core commitments will be met. 2. Set and communicate a clear routine Establish your working hours before you arrive and communicate them to both your team and anyone traveling with you. Resist the temptation to answer messages outside those windows. A clear schedule protects both your work quality and your leisure time. 3. Secure your workspace before you go Confirm the workspace and internet setup at your accommodation before you leave, not after you arrive. A poor desk setup or unreliable internet connection on day one creates unnecessary stress that's difficult to recover from mid-trip. 4. Build in leisure time deliberately Schedule specific after-work activities and local experiences, especially early in the trip when motivation to explore is high. Workcations work best when leisure time feels as planned and purposeful as work time. 5. Separate your physical work and living spaces Keep your work equipment confined to your designated workspace. Don't let your laptop migrate to the couch or the bedroom. Physical separation reinforces the psychological boundary that helps you actually relax when the workday ends. 6. Plan a buffer day at the end Avoid scheduling your return travel or re-entry to the office on the last day of your workcation. A buffer gives you time to decompress and transition back without the whiplash of going from vacation-mode straight back to peak productivity. How does Pacaso co-ownership enable the workcation lifestyle? For professionals who regularly return to the same destination, the workcation math eventually shifts in favor of ownership over renting. Workcation Airbnb rentals, short-term rental platforms, and workcation hotel packages all involve paying premium nightly rates with no equity built and no guarantee that the property will be available when you want it. Pacaso offers a different model. Pacaso allows buyers to purchase a share (1/8 to 1/2) of a For the workcation lifestyle, Pacaso homes have several distinct advantages over the alternatives: Pacaso destinations particularly well-suited to the workcation lifestyle include Aspen, Sonoma, Miami, Park City, San Diego, Jackson Hole, and a growing portfolio of international markets. Explore the full

Dreaming of buying a second home? Despite market shifts, it’s still within reach. Whether you’re seeking a mountain escape, a beach retreat or a cozy getaway, understanding the realities of purchasing a vacation property is key. Buying a second home can feel overwhelming — between higher costs, financing nuances, ongoing upkeep and limited time to enjoy the home. That’s why Let’s start with the seven steps of how to buy a second home: 1. Determining your second home budget involves assessing your current and future finances. Consider income, expenses and additional costs like taxes and maintenance, especially if you will be assuming a second mortgage. A It’s also important to think long-term. Will this home primarily serve as a personal getaway, a future retirement retreat, or a potential investment? Aligning your second home goals with your broader financial plan helps ensure the purchase supports your lifestyle, not strains it. Evaluate financing options and consult a financial advisor for insights into tax implications and investment alignment. This thorough analysis ensures that your second home purchase aligns with your financial goals. Second home expenses In addition to the purchase price, be sure to factor in these expenses when budgeting for a second home: Although second homes come with added expenses, they can also offer tax advantages that help offset costs. As you’re crunching the numbers, remember your second home can also be a source of rental income and tax breaks. Depending on how your second home is classified and used, you may be able to: These are great ways to make owning a second home more feasible. However, 2. Consider your financing options Lenders often see second homes as being at higher risk for loan repayment. For this reason, Here are some things to consider when financing a second home: It’s important to note that Buying a second home doesn’t have to be a solo endeavor. The standard minimum What are the no- and low-down-payment options? VA loans are available to eligible veterans, active-duty service members, surviving spouses, and those receiving VA disability benefits. They offer zero-down financing and are one of the few truly no-money-down paths available. Because VA loans are government-backed, they tend to carry more favorable terms than conventional second home loans. Note that VA loan eligibility for a second home depends on how the property is used and your remaining entitlement. If the seller's existing mortgage is assumable, you may be able to take over their loan terms, including a lower interest rate, without a new down payment. This option is relatively rare but can be a meaningful cost saver in a high-rate environment. If you have equity built up in your primary residence, a home equity loan or For homeowners 62 and older, a reverse mortgage allows you to access existing home equity without monthly mortgage payments. The funds can be directed toward a second home purchase. The loan is repaid when the borrower sells the home, moves out, or passes away. This option comes with high fees and significant complexity; consult a financial advisor before pursuing it. A gift of equity occurs when a family member or close contact sells you a property below market value. If the gift amount equals 20% or more of the property's fair market value, you can avoid a traditional down payment. Tax implications apply, so consult a tax professional before proceeding. A lease-option agreement lets you rent a property with the right to purchase it later. A portion of your rent payments may be credited toward the purchase price, reducing the down payment you need at closing. Negotiate these terms upfront with the help of a real estate attorney. In a seller-financed deal, the seller acts as the lender and you negotiate terms directly, potentially including a reduced or no down payment. Seller financing does not include standard mortgage protections, so the legal safeguards of a traditional loan may not apply. Proceed carefully with legal counsel. Adding a co-borrower who can contribute the down payment is another path. Shared financing reduces the burden on either party, though it also means shared ownership and responsibility. A formal co-ownership agreement is strongly recommended. What are the key considerations before going no-money-down? Reducing or eliminating your down payment does not eliminate costs entirely. Before pursuing a no-down-payment strategy, factor in the following: 3. Compare lenders When comparing second home lenders, it's essential to conduct a thorough evaluation to secure the best financing option tailored to your specific needs. Consider the following factors and use them as a basis for comparison: By comparing these factors among different lenders, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your financial goals and secures the most favorable mortgage terms. 4. Get pre-approved Getting pre-approved for a second home gives you a clear picture of what you can afford and strengthens your position when making an offer. Lenders will review your income, assets and debts to determine an approved loan amount. Consult multiple lenders to compare interest rates and terms. Keep in mind that because lenders may see 5. Find a location and a local agent Once you decide how to use your second home, you can hone in on the best second home locations. Ask yourself: Confirming your reason for owning a second home can help you decide on the perfect destination for your new vacation spot. Choosing the right agent Finding a knowledgeable agent in your target market can significantly decrease your workload in your second home search. You can use their local knowledge to help you with logistics and make an informed decision. Research local agents online, cross-reference reviews and ask for recommendations from your friends and family when possible. 6. Make an offer Buying a second home will be a familiar process if you’re already a homeowner: You make an offer, negotiate, come to an agreement and prepare for closing. Prior to closing, you will: Once your offer is accepted, it’s time to begin the closing process for your new second home. 7. Begin closing After the seller accepts your offer, the second home closing process begins. This process involves several crucial steps: Although closing on your second home may appear overwhelming, a smooth closing is key to turning your house purchase into a dreamy second home getaway.  How do you know if you’re ready for a second home? When considering purchasing a second home, you'll want to evaluate your finances, lifestyle, and market conditions to determine whether it's the right time to purchase — but those factors are just the tip of the iceberg. Here are some of our team's top considerations for those considering a second place of residence. Down payments, interest rates and debt Assess your current financial situation to see if you can comfortably afford a If additional debt strains your financial resources, it may not be quite the Location and lifestyle fit The ideal second home also aligns seamlessly with your lifestyle. Prioritize locations that support your hobbies and desired activities, guaranteeing a frequent and enjoyable retreat. If you like to ski, for example, a Investment or personal escape? When deciding on the main goal for your second home, it's crucial to determine if you're primarily interested in generating rental income, building long-term investment appreciation, or creating a personal retreat. Each of these objectives will significantly affect your approach to buying, managing, financing, and handling taxes for the property. Time investment Owning a second home comes with significant responsibilities. Are you prepared to manage the upkeep of two properties? This includes regular maintenance, potential repairs and the time and financial commitment of traveling between both homes. If not, are you willing and able to hire a property management company or other professionals to handle these tasks?  Remember that delegating these responsibilities will add to the overall cost of owning a second home. Market timing Finally, when looking to take a big step forward in your second home journey, you'll want to look at the home market conditions. Many properties are available in a buyer's market, and buyers have more negotiating power. In a seller's market, high demand and low inventory give sellers the upper hand.  Understanding the current market conditions will help you set realistic expectations, develop an effective negotiation strategy and help you determine if now is the right time to buy.  How do I buy a second home with Pacaso? Now that you know how to buy a second home, it’s time to explore your options. If turnkey luxury and simplicity appeal to you, co-ownership with Pacaso offers a modern alternative to traditional second home ownership. If you’re unfamiliar with Here are 11 steps to follow if you’re wondering how to buy a second home with Pacaso.  1. Find a second home you love From there, you can explore each destination and the homes available within it, picturing what life could look like in every location. Each destination page brings the area to life, showcasing Pacaso homes through rich photography, detailed descriptions, and a true sense of how it feels to live there. Every Pacaso home is hand-selected and 2. Talk to us We’re excited to share all the details about our homes. If you’re not sure which one is best for your needs, we’ll go through each home’s unique attributes and location to help you decide.  You can easily schedule a time to talk with one of our Crew members from any listing details page, or if you have general questions about co-ownership, you’re welcome to get in touch via our 3. Take a tour  Touring is an important step in buying a vacation home. We’ll give you all the information we have about the home, but seeing is believing. While you’re on the call with our Crew member, they can arrange a time for you to tour the home. Buyers can schedule a virtual tour, an in-person tour, or 4. Say yes!       You talked, you toured, you fell in love, and you’ve decided on owning a vacation home! We’ll walk you through the purchase process and paperwork, and our Crew will make sure you understand all the terminology related to co-ownership, such as: We want you to feel confident in the process, so ask as many questions as you’d like. Once you’re ready to proceed, you’ll reserve your share with a 10% deposit. 5. Secure second home financing  If you’re interested in The approval process is straightforward and fast. Once all documents are provided — typically your most recent pay stub, bank statement and tax return — approval takes just a few days. You also have the option to pay all cash or take out a HELOC or personal line of credit through a lender of your choice. 6. Close on your new second home Your journey begins by reserving your share and signing the residential purchase agreement. You’ll submit a deposit equal to 10% of the share price, officially kicking off the closing process.  From there, you’ll receive two sets of documents to review and sign. These include familiar items, such as the inspection report and seller disclosures, as well as Pacaso-specific agreements that outline how the home is managed and owned through our property LLC structure. If you choose to finance a portion of your purchase, our team will work with you to collect the required financial information and keep things moving smoothly. As closing approaches, we’ll schedule a check-in call to review your final closing statement, confirm wire instructions for the remaining funds, and verify that everything is in place, including your first stay date. Once the transaction is complete, congratulations are in order: you’re officially a Pacaso owner. After closing, you’ll transition into onboarding, where you’ll meet your Home Manager, download the Pacaso app, and start booking stays. From there, all that’s left to do is settle in and enjoy your new second home. 7. Get ready for vacation home bliss Congratulations on owning a vacation home with Pacaso! Our commitment to owners doesn’t end at closing. We assign a 8. Book your stays You can begin 9. Experience the ease of fully managed ownership One of the best things about buying a vacation home? It’s all yours! One of the worst things? It’s all your responsibility. The hassles of vacation home ownership can take a lot of joy out of the experience.  Pacaso’s fully managed co-ownership model gives you the benefits of vacation home ownership without all the headaches. We take care of maintenance, repairs and cleaning; manage payments for utilities, insurance and taxes; oversee 10. Flex your ownership muscles Pacaso’s management services are designed to make your ownership experience easier — but that doesn’t mean you don’t have a voice. In fact, you and your property’s co-owners have 100% ownership of the property once all shares are sold, which means your co-ownership group has decision-making authority.   Here’s how this works in practice: Owners can bring major issues about their property to a vote of the co-ownership group, and every share owned holds one vote. A major issue might be a costly property upgrade, like the installation of a hot tub.  To call for a vote, you would get in touch with your home management team. Routine maintenance and necessary repairs (such as replacing a broken dishwasher) are handled by Pacaso and do not require a vote. 11. Feel confident if it’s time to move on We think you’ll love your Pacaso for years to come, but life evolves, and your ownership can evolve with it. If your needs change, you’re free to Why is buying a second home with Pacaso the smart choice? For buyers who want to reduce upfront costs without the complexity of no-down-payment strategies, You can From luxury homes in premier destinations to professional property management, Pacaso provides everything you need to make ownership simpler and more enjoyable. Whether you're just beginning to explore or ready to take the next step,

There are both personal and financial reasons to buy a vacation home. On the personal side, owning a second home gives you a familiar retreat, a place to build memories with family, and a home base for exploring destinations you love. Financially, a vacation home can generate rental income, appreciate in value, and offer meaningful tax advantages. Here's a closer look at the top 10 reasons why buying a vacation home could be the right move. 1. Enjoy your own personal retreat 2. Have flexibility for your vacations With a vacation home, you no longer need to fight for reservations during peak season or scramble to find last-minute 3. Build a lifetime of memories A vacation home transcends bricks and mortar — it becomes a cornerstone for creating cherished memories with the people you love. Host unforgettable holidays and family gatherings at your 4. Relish familiar settings Owning a vacation home means having a true home-away-from-home. Equip your space with luxury amenities, such as a heated pool, home gym, and dedicated workspace, and arrive ready to relax from the moment you walk through the door. 5. Embrace a new community Purchasing a vacation home can open doors to a new community. Strike up conversations with neighbors who share a love for the area, explore local shops and restaurants, and gain a deeper appreciation for the region's culture and hidden gems. 6. Cultivate a sense of adventure A vacation home serves as a springboard for deeper exploration. With a home base in place, you can explore nearby towns, hike or bike scenic trails, and discover hidden beaches. The possibilities grow far beyond the typical tourist itinerary. 7. Create a healthier lifestyle A vacation home can be a catalyst for a healthier way of living. Many vacation destinations offer opportunities for outdoor hobbies like hiking, biking, and swimming. Inside your home, 8. Pass down an asset to your children A vacation home can become a cherished part of your family's legacy, a gathering place for future generations and a valuable asset you can pass down as an inheritance. 9. Choose a location close to activities you love Finding a second home in a place that supports your interests can significantly enhance your lifestyle. Whether it's lakeside fishing, beach kayaking, or a cozy ski cabin, choosing a location tied to your passions means every trip feels intentional. 10. Take advantage of unique financing options When buying a vacation home, you can access The benefits of buying a vacation home can be significant, and for many owners, they far outweigh the challenges. When you own your vacation accommodations, you always have a great place to stay, even on a busy holiday weekend. You can keep all the comforts and necessities on-site so you can get away at a moment's notice. If you don't want your vacation home to sit vacant when you're not using it, you may be able to list it as a Whether you're using your home for personal enjoyment or passive income, your property may increase in value over time. Like a primary residence, a second home can build equity and appreciate in value. Adding real estate to your portfolio is a smart way to diversify and hedge against market volatility. Always consult a financial planner before making such an investment. You can deduct mortgage interest paid on up to $750,000 of principal mortgage debt, including your vacation home. Other Your second home likely won't be close enough for you to stop by frequently, and home repairs and regular maintenance can become a hassle. A potential solution is to If you plan to rent out your vacation property, be prepared for income fluctuations between high and low tourist seasons. Plan appropriate nightly rates and budget for the possibility of low-season vacancies, and factor in marketing and advertising costs to attract consistent bookings. Many towns are passing ordinances that prohibit short-term rentals or require homeowners to pay significant fees to list their homes as rentals. Check local laws before relying on rental income as part of your financial plan. Once you invest in a vacation home, you'll likely want to use it as much as possible, which means spending more time in one Buying a vacation home is an exciting endeavor, but several important factors will shape whether it's the right move for you. Getting clear on your preferences, finances, and the property's unique requirements will give you an accurate picture of the true cost and commitment involved. The total cost of a property doesn't stop at the mortgage. Plan for ongoing expenses including taxes, insurance, utilities, HOA fees, and repairs. A useful rule of thumb: set aside 1% of the home's purchase price annually for maintenance. For mountain or coastal homes, which face higher material costs and climate exposure, consider setting aside 2–3%. Frequency of use is one of the most important factors in determining a vacation home's value to you. For example, if you spend 5 nights a year in a vacation home costing $30,000 annually, you're paying $6,000 per night. At 40 nights per year, that drops to $750. Be honest about your work schedule, proximity to the property, and life commitments before you buy. Renting can bring in meaningful income, but it requires knowing whether there's genuine demand in the area. If you're considering short-term rentals, verify that they're allowed in your city, county, and HOA. Research comparable rental rates, noting whether pricing is strong year-round or only during peak seasons. Zoning laws may place conditions on how you use and rent your home. HOAs may restrict short-term rentals or ban them entirely. Review city ordinances and HOA documents carefully to understand exactly what's allowed before purchasing. Location is one of the most critical things to consider when buying a vacation home. Ask yourself whether the area's amenities, community feel, and long-term desirability align with your goals. Check the history of property values in the area, explore local shops and restaurants, and talk to residents to get a genuine sense of the neighborhood. An up-and-coming area may offer strong appreciation potential, while an established destination may offer stability. Think carefully about the home's age and condition. Older homes have charm and character, but may require more maintenance investment. Consider whether the size fits your actual needs: a home that's too large creates unnecessary upkeep, while one that's too small may not accommodate family gatherings comfortably. Think through the There will come a time when you may want to sell or transition out of the property, so it's wise to consider resale potential before you buy. Is this a desirable destination? Do similar homes nearby have a track record of selling well? Keeping resale in mind from the outset protects your investment and ensures you're not locked into an asset that's difficult to exit. It's typically harder to Deciding between full and co-ownership comes down to how much time you'll actually spend in the home. Full ownership means you're responsible for all finances and maintenance, so it makes the most sense if you plan to use the property frequently.  Co-ownership through a model like Pacaso spreads financial obligations across multiple residents and includes Whether buying a vacation home is worth it depends on how often you'll use it, your financial goals, and your appetite for ownership responsibilities. Renting offers maximum flexibility with no long-term commitment or upfront costs, but you don't build equity, you can't personalize the space, and costs add up over time if you visit the same destination repeatedly. Buying makes the most financial sense when you plan to use the home regularly (at least several weeks per year), have a clear handle on total ownership costs, and are buying in a market with solid appreciation potential. For those who want the benefits of ownership without the full financial and logistical burden, There are tradeoffs, though. Financing a vacation home through an LLC can be more complex, as many lenders require commercial loan terms rather than residential mortgage rates. You'll also face ongoing administrative responsibilities like annual filings, operating agreements, and separate banking. Consult with a real estate attorney and tax professional to determine whether an LLC structure makes sense for your situation. While there are nearly a dozen reasons to buy a vacation home, the initial cost and ongoing maintenance can feel daunting. DISCLAIMER: This content is published solely for informational purposes and isn’t intended to be investment advice. You should consult an appropriate professional for specific advice tailored to your situation.

The primary difference between a vacation club vs. timeshare is the ownership structure. A timeshare typically gives you the right to use a specific property for a set week or season, while a vacation club is a points-based membership that offers access to a network of different resorts. Both models offer a consistent way to travel, but each comes with its own benefits and trade-offs. Read on to compare timeshares and vacation clubs and see how they differ from each other and from a co-ownership model like What is a vacation club? A For example, programs like Marriott Vacation Club or Inspirato allow members to redeem points across a range of destinations and accommodations. How does a vacation club work? Vacation clubs typically operate on a membership model that gives you access to a curated portfolio of properties. Instead of owning real estate, you pay an upfront fee and or ongoing membership dues to unlock booking privileges within the club’s network. From there, how you book depends on the provider. Some vacation clubs use a points system, while others charge nightly rates or offer preferred pricing on stays. This structure gives members flexibility to choose different destinations, travel dates, and home types each year, without the long-term ownership commitment of a traditional timeshare. Many vacation clubs offer an online booking platform that works similarly to a hotel reservation site, allowing you to search for available properties, compare options, and redeem points for specific stays. Here’s a closer look at the details.  How much does a vacation club cost? Vacation club membership costs generally fall into two categories: What is a timeshare? A How does a timeshare work? How a timeshare works depends on the type of contract you sign. Here’s a closer at the options.  How much does a timeshare cost? Like vacation clubs, timeshares require an initial investment followed by ongoing costs.  Timeshare financing models are also known for high interest rates. Some travelers even consider taking out a personal loan to finance their vacation. The difficulty of finding affordable financing options has led predatory companies to take advantage of vacationers seeking a good deal. Timeshare ownership doesn't end with the purchase price. In most cases, owners are contractually responsible for ongoing maintenance fees and related costs, even if they don’t use their allotted time. The third option: Pacaso co-ownership If A second home should be a sanctuary, not a series of resort restrictions. Unlike a vacation club or timeshare, owning a deeded share of a Pacaso allows you to: When you buy a Pacaso second home, you co-own a Find a vacation home option that fits your needs The best model for your family depends on your travel style and budget. But while you're weighing the pros and cons of a vacation club vs. timeshare, consider the long-term value of owning the place where you make memories. With integrated financing for up to 70% of the purchase price, luxury ownership is more attainable than you think.  Try our

On paper, timeshares seem like the perfect middle ground between a cramped hotel and a vacation home. But the reality is that most timeshares are marketed as investments when they are actually depreciating travel expenses. If you’re looking for a return on your money or an easy exit strategy, a timeshare is rarely worth it. However, if you are strictly looking to prepay for resort access and have no interest in equity, it might be worth it. Below, we break down the pros and cons of timeshares and why Pacaso co-ownership is a better What are timeshares? Timeshare agreements can be arranged in two ways: Depending on your arrangement, you may have set dates to use the property each year, such as the first week of February. Or you can have floating time, where each year you choose a different week to vacation there. Some timeshares give owners points that can be used throughout the year to “purchase” time at a property. Timeshare pros and cons  While timeshare resorts provide a designated vacation destination with Here are some pros and cons of owning a timeshare. If you’re looking at the secondary market (reselling a timeshare from an existing owner rather than buying from a developer), the news isn't great. Recent Are timeshares worth it?  Deciding if a timeshare is worth it depends on whether you view it as a lifestyle choice rather than an investment. For some, the appeal is convenience, having a reliable place to return to each year, a set vacation schedule, and access to a network of resorts without the hassle of planning from scratch. A timeshare may be worth it for someone who values consistency, prepaid accommodations, and familiar destinations, and who isn’t concerned with building equity or resale value. However, for most travelers, vacations are still an ongoing expense rather than an asset, and the long-term costs and limited flexibility can outweigh the benefits. Before committing to a timeshare, evaluate these five factors: A better timeshare alternative If you want the consistency of a second home without the resale trap of a timeshare, Choose Pacaso over timeshares  So are timeshares worth it? The answer is rarely, given other alternatives that provide greater flexibility and potential return on investment. Before committing to a timeshare, browse

What is a Pacaso resale? A Pacaso resale occurs when an existing owner sells their ownership interest in a Pacaso home to a new buyer. While this differs from purchasing a new Pacaso share at initial launch, the ownership structure remains the same. All Because of this model, selling a Pacaso share is simpler than selling a traditional home. There’s no need for staging, showings, or home prep, no due diligence period, and no title or escrow process. Ownership is reassigned through the LLC, allowing for faster, more streamlined closings. Resales are a built-in feature of Pacaso’s How does the Pacaso resale process work? What does Pacaso’s role in the resale look like? Pacaso facilitates the resale process by helping source buyers, coordinating marketing efforts, and managing the administrative and legal steps required to complete the transaction. This support significantly reduces the friction typically associated with selling real estate. Owners can list their shares directly through Pacaso's marketplace, where we provide pricing guidance based on current market conditions. Ultimately, each owner sets their own price, similar to a traditional real estate transaction. Pacaso acts as the listing agent within our marketplace, supporting the process and connecting sellers with qualified buyers. Owners also have the option to work with a third-party agent if they prefer. Pacaso is the expert in co-ownership. We know these assets inside and out, from the scheduling and property history to the operating structure, and we process the sale on our own documents. That positions us better than anyone to facilitate the resale of shares in these homes effectively and efficiently for all parties. To ensure transparency, Pacaso maintains separate representation on the listing side and the buy side of every transaction. Our operating agreements make the structure of that relationship clear from the outset, and owners are always free to engage their own independent legal or financial counsel. We encourage them to do so. If any owner has a specific concern about a potential conflict of interest, we would absolutely engage with them on it directly. When multiple shares in the same home are listed, pricing can vary by owner. Buyers have full transparency into all available shares and can choose based on price or preferred calendar availability. As a result, outcomes are driven by a combination of pricing, timing, and buyer demand. How long does a Pacaso resale take? Pacaso homes typically close much faster than traditional home sales.  Factors such as buyer financing and market demand may influence the exact timeline. How has Pacaso resale performed? According to RCLCO’s findings, from 2021 through 2024, shares of Pacaso homes achieved an average Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 9.7%—4.7% higher than traditional luxury homes in the same markets. In several luxury destinations, from California to the Carolinas, Pacaso resales have consistently outperformed regional averages. From 2021 through 2024, Pacaso share appreciation exceeded market benchmarks in each destination, with Pacaso resales averaging a 10% overall gain. From inception through the end of 2025, Pacaso has completed over 400 resales. Across those transactions, the average time owned was 2 years, the average time on market was 99 days, and the average resale share price appreciation was 6%. 73% of all over 400 resales appreciated in value. Pacaso shares sell faster and perform better than comparable luxury homes. While the widely cited luxury median of 78 to 89 days on market includes homes starting around $1M+, isolating the $5M to $10M tier where Pacaso homes compete shows 120 to 200+ days as more typical.  What are the fees and costs associated with a Pacaso resale? Compared to traditional real estate, resale-related costs are streamlined. Overall, the Pacaso resale process eliminates many of the unpredictable expenses associated with selling a traditional home. What are tax considerations for Pacaso resales? Selling a Pacaso share may result in capital gains, depending on your individual situation. Because Pacaso resales involve the transfer of an LLC membership interest rather than a traditional deeded sale, tax treatment may differ from a standard home sale. This information is provided for general guidance only. Owners should consult a qualified tax professional to understand how a Pacaso resale may impact their personal tax situation. What are other options for Pacaso owners? If your needs change, selling your entire share isn’t your only option. Owners who find they’re using less time than anticipated can right-size their ownership by selling a portion of their interest. A selldown follows the same process as a resale, allowing you to retain partial ownership while freeing up capital and flexibility. Is Pacaso a good investment? On average, Pacaso homes have appreciated in value, often outperforming traditional luxury homes in their markets. With a built-in resale marketplace and streamlined ownership transfer through the LLC, selling a Pacaso share is faster and simpler than a traditional second home, providing liquidity and flexibility. Beyond potential financial gains, owners enjoy a Pacaso markets its properties as luxury second homes, not as investment vehicles, and we are deliberate about that distinction. Our materials focus on the lifestyle value of co-ownership, access to a high-quality property at a fraction of the cost of sole ownership, rather than projecting financial returns. Real estate values fluctuate, and we don't represent otherwise. We encourage buyers to conduct their own due diligence and consult independent advisors when evaluating their purchase. A flexible, transparent way to sell Pacaso gives owners an exceptional level of flexibility, control, and peace of mind when it comes time to sell. With a built-in marketplace, professional marketing support, and a simplified transaction process, reselling Pacaso shares is designed to be as effortless as ownership itself.

The internet is full of sites offering options for the perfect vacation rental, whether you’re looking for an upscale hotel, an immersive cultural experience or a unique campsite. While Plum Guide offers a great look at luxury vacation options, it’s not the best fit for other types of stays. Luckily, there are plenty of Plum Guide alternatives available.  With rentals ranging from budget-friendly hotels in remote destinations to luxury options in the midst of great cities, our list of Plum Guide alternatives can help you find the perfect setting to launch your next adventure: Is Plum Guide legit? What is Plum Guide, and is it legit? In short, yes, Plum Guide is legit. It’s a high-end vacation rental platform that focuses on curated luxury homes in popular destinations around the world. Only a small percentage of homes are accepted onto the site, based on a detailed verification and vetting process.  Plum Guide is a legit company with verified listings, customer support and plenty of positive reviews on third-party review sites. That said, it’s not the best option for everyone. Due to their selectiveness, they don’t offer Plum Guide rental listings in every location. Plus, their focus on luxury homes brings a higher price point that may edge out budget travelers. Plum Guide reviews   Plum Guide reviews are generally positive, with Reviewers note that the booking process is simple, and they appreciate the support and communication throughout their stay. However, reviewers also note that the selection of units is limited (which isn’t surprising given the rigorous, competitive acceptance process). They don’t find Plum Guide cheap, which reflects the luxury focus. If you’re a budget traveler or looking for something a little more “home sweet home” than “luxury experience,” there’s something for everyone in our list of Plum Guide alternatives. 1. Airbnb Amenities can vary and stays may be paired with excursions via the app’s Airbnb experiences feature. Because amenities can vary and Airbnb doesn’t require stringent vetting or verification, there’s a risk of ending up in a rental that doesn’t quite live up to your expectations, so be sure to read reviews carefully before booking. 2. Glamping Hub While Glamping Hub is great for those who embrace the great outdoors, it isn’t quite the same as a hotel stay. You won’t always find amenities like Wi-Fi, and you may be limited to more remote areas, making city visits trickier. 3. Booking.com Another site that doesn’t require extensive vetting, 4. Tripping.com Similar to Plum Guide, Travelers can also benefit by visiting the Tripping blog where they’ll find location guides and travel advice on how to make the most out of their vacation. 5. Vrbo While you may enjoy having an entire unit to yourself, that can sometimes ratchet up the costs compared to a single hotel room. Plus, you’re beholden to the unique rules and policies set by each host, rather than a standard set of requirements. 6. Homestay The vacation site is different from other platforms because it focuses on creating meaningful connections between travelers and hosts, rather than just providing a place to sleep. This is great for those looking to make new friends and live like the locals, but may not be a fit if you simply want to get away on your own. 7. Sonder Due to Sonder’s focus on urban cityscapes, you’ll be hard-pressed to find options outside of urban areas, so this isn’t a fit if you’re hoping for an outdoorsy adventure or a trip to the countryside.  8. Vacasa With listings across 30 countries and regions, Vacasa has a variety of vacation experiences, from beachfront condos to mountain cabins and more. However, it’s not available everywhere in the world yet, and prices can fluctuate during busy seasons. 9. Tripadvisor The platform has millions of reviews and opinions from real travelers who have visited hotels, restaurants and attractions, allowing users to compare prices and book accommodations, flights, car rentals and tours from a variety of providers. If you need a one-stop shop for your entire itinerary, Tripadvisor can be a great choice. Note, though, that it’s a third-party platform so prices may be higher than going directly to the source.  10. OYO Rooms It caters to a wide array of travelers, such as couples, families, solo adventurers and young professionals, by offering various types of rooms, prices and amenities. While OYO strives to offer a generally standardized experience across its locations, it doesn’t always hit the mark, sometimes providing an inconsistent level of quality. 11. Outdoorsy 12. Onefinestay Similar to the Plum Guide, 13. HomeToGo Listings cover over 200 countries and regions, offering a wide range of destinations and accommodation types. It also provides useful information and tips for travelers, such as destination guides, travel trends and inspiration. Like other third-party platforms, prices and policies offered may differ. 14. Wimdu 15. 9flats On 16. Agoda While Agoda offers listings around the world, it does heavily skew toward Asian countries, making it a great choice for those hoping to explore Asia but perhaps less attractive to those considering other destinations. 17. Kid & Coe 18. Hipcamp 19. Pacaso Pacaso provides travelers who frequent a single destination with the opportunity to own a second home in their favorite place. The co-ownership model reduces the cost and hassle of owning a luxury second home in

If you're considering flexible travel to different resort communities, However, Pacaso The comparison to What is Pacaso? The Pacaso second home ownership model is a revolutionary way to buy, own and Pacaso owners enjoy all the benefits of second home ownership without the hassle of maintenance, scheduling or resale. All of our homes are professionally designed, fully furnished and impeccably maintained, offering a consistent and luxurious experience every time.  Qualifying buyers can also take advantage of competitive What is a timeshare? A Timeshares are often sold through high-pressure sales meetings and have drawbacks, such as difficulty in reselling and exposure to scams.Timeshare owners also have little to no control over the underlying asset — they cannot replace management, and costs are not as transparent. Pacaso vs. timeshare: 5 key differences If you are looking for a way to own a luxury vacation home in a desirable location, you might be wondering about the differences between a Both options allow you to share the cost and use of a vacation property with others, but there are some key distinctions that make Pacaso a better alternative for many buyers. Here are five reasons to consider LLC co-ownership of a second home. 1. Each Pacaso listing is a one-of-a-kind second home Not just any home can be a Pacaso home. We seek out the best homes in the best locations — each one is different, and all have plenty of wow factor. Then our professional interior designers A Pacaso home is a luxurious home away from home. A timeshare is almost always a unit at a hotel or condo complex. Think cookie-cutter floor plans and typical hotel-style furniture. 2. A small group of co-owners enjoy the home Because we limit the number of shares per home to eight, you and (at most) seven other owners will have access to the home. (Only one owner will occupy the home at a time, of course.)  Plus, Pacaso homes are reserved for the exclusive use of owners and their guests — rentals aren’t permitted. We vet potential owners who agree to a common sense code of conduct to ensure they will treat the home as their own — because it is! Plus, you won’t feel like you’re “sharing” your home. We conduct a thorough inspection and cleaning after each stay so your home is pristine when you arrive.   A 3. You own real estate, not time With Pacaso, you own a real estate asset, not simply a block of time. Each owner holds their interest in an LLC that holds title to the home. That's real ownership, with the governance rights, transferability, and equity exposure that come with it. And because it's a real estate asset, its value will move with the market. With timeshares, you typically own the right to use the property for a period of time, not the property itself. There are no points systems, no resort affiliations, and no sprawling fee structures unconnected to the actual costs of running that specific home. Financing is offered through the timeshare company, often at a high interest rate, and some buyers secure funds through a personal loan or home equity loan. Since even the best timeshare property does not function like a real estate asset, you are likely to see the value depreciate, much like a new car begins to lose value once it’s driven off the lot. 4. You can use your home year-round Pacaso’s When you purchase a timeshare, you’re often locked into a fixed week or block of time, year after year. You may have a “floating week” option, but your choices may still be restricted to certain unit configurations or seasons. With either option, you can only check in on certain days, and you typically must book a full week.  There are exchanges and point-based systems that allow you to choose different resorts, but you’ll often pay extra for more desirable locations, and availability can be limited. If you have a fixed-week schedule, you may never get a particular holiday week if another owner already locked it in. 5. The resale process is streamlined You set the price you want for your Owners can list their shares directly through Pacaso's marketplace, where we provide pricing guidance based on current market conditions. Ultimately, each owner sets their own price, similar to a traditional real estate transaction. Pacaso acts as the listing agent, supporting the process and connecting sellers with qualified buyers. Owners also have the option to work with a third-party real estate agent if they prefer. Pacaso is the expert in co-ownership. We know these assets inside and out, from the scheduling and property history to the operating structure, and we process the sale on our own documents. That positions us better than anyone to facilitate the resale of shares in these homes effectively and efficiently for all parties. To ensure transparency, Pacaso maintains separate representation on the listing side and the buy side of every transaction. Our operating agreements make the structure of that relationship clear from the outset, and owners are always free to engage their own independent legal or financial counsel. We encourage them to do so. If any owner has a specific concern about a potential conflict of interest, we would absolutely engage with them on it directly. When multiple shares in the same home are listed, pricing can vary by owner. Buyers have full transparency into all available shares and can choose based on price or preferred calendar availability. As a result, outcomes are driven by a combination of pricing, timing, and buyer demand. Because our homes are thoughtfully selected and located in some of the most desirable second home markets, we've experienced strong buyer demand. By contrast, selling a timeshare can be extremely difficult, with an entire industry of timeshare exit companies charging fees to help owners exit. Pick the right choice for you Keeping your second home goals in mind while comparing Pacaso vs. timeshare opportunities can help you find exactly what you’re looking for. If you’re specifically looking for a luxury getaway and a place to make memories together with your family, browse through our

Ever found yourself drawn to a house but unable to pinpoint why? Residential architecture boasts a wide array of styles, each with distinct, often subtle, differences. For many, identifying different types of houses, like distinguishing a Colonial style house from a Craftsman style house, can feel like breaking a code. However, understanding this architectural language isn't merely academic; it's essential for envisioning your ideal living space, whether it's your first or your second home. This isn't just a list. It's an exploration into the fundamental characteristics that define each house style. We're moving beyond superficial appearances to reveal the core features that shape their unique identities. This insight will help you understand how historical influences mold design and enable you to match an architectural style to your lifestyle. What are the different types of house structures? Before we get to the different types of houses, it can be helpful to know the common types of home structures. Knowing whether you want a single-family home or a condo can narrow down your search and make it easier to find something that suits your budget and lifestyle. Single-family detached home A single-family home is a structure that is not physically attached to other houses. These homes offer the highest degree of privacy and customization by the owner. They are most popular in areas with lower population densities.  These house types are best for families wanting space and a yard, but not ideal for those preferring an urban, low-maintenance lifestyle. Mansion A Mansions are ideal for those wanting ultimate richness and privacy, but they're not suitable for people who prefer low maintenance or city living. Apartment An apartment is a residential unit contained within a larger building or complex. An apartment is only available for renting and requires a contractual agreement with the landlord. Some apartment buildings provide amenities such as pools and fitness rooms.  Apartments are best for individuals or small families seeking flexibility and affordability, but aren't ideal for those desiring privacy, a yard or extensive customization. Row house A row house is a single-family home connected to others by shared side walls, usually with multiple stories. Compared to apartments, row houses offer more space and often a small private outdoor area, but they offer less privacy than detached homes.  Row houses are ideal for those wanting a blend of city living and a bit more room, but not for people seeking large private land, complete detachment from neighbors or a fully maintenance-free life. Condominium A condominium, or condo for short, is an apartment-like unit that is owned by an individual. The owner can make renovations and Condominiums are great for those wanting homeownership with less maintenance and a convenient location. However, they're not ideal if you need lots of privacy, a big yard or freedom from HOA rules and fees. Co-op A housing cooperative, more commonly known as a co-op, has many similarities to a condominium but with more restrictions. Instead of purchasing a specific unit within the building, the buyer is purchasing shares in the company that owns the building. The number of shares the person owns translates to the size of their unit.  This type of house is best for people who want a strong community and affordable access to good city areas. However, it's not for those who need total control over their property or fewer rules about how they live. Townhome A townhome is a private unit that is attached to at least one other private unit. It usually has exterior access and multiple stories for added space. Townhomes sometimes provide access to shared building amenities. These are increasingly diverse in style, often incorporating elements of modern farmhouse and contemporary styles. This type of house style is ideal for individuals seeking more space and a private entrance, rather than an apartment. However, if you're looking for complete detachment from neighbors or no HOA fees, another home type may be a better fit. Coach home Coach houses, sometimes called carriages, were originally used to house horse-drawn carriages and were converted to be private dwellings. Now, a coach house can refer to any detached unit on the same property as another building. They can be rented out by the property owner of the main house or owned by a second individual.  Coach houses are ideal for individuals wanting a detached home with less upkeep than a larger house and potential rental income. However, they're not great for those seeking a large yard or someone who wants full independence from the main property. Chalet A chalet is the traditional house of shepherds in Switzerland. Today, the term refers to a Winter sports lovers and families wanting a cozy mountain getaway will love a chalet. However, it's not for those who prefer warm weather, flat areas or dislike being isolated. Cabin A cabin is a type of single-family structure defined by its minimalist features and rustic design. It is often used as a vacation residence but can also be a primary dwelling. Cabins are almost always located in remote areas. This home is great for nature lovers and those wanting peace and quiet. However, it's not ideal for people who need easy access to amenities or prefer a social city setting, as they might find it too isolated or uncomfortable. Tiny house A tiny home is usually considered to be any home under 400 square feet. Tiny homes were inspired by the modern trend of people downsizing their possessions and financial burdens. Tiny homes are best suited for minimalists and budget-conscious individuals who value financial freedom and a smaller environmental footprint. However, they are not ideal for families needing significant space or individuals who prioritize privacy and traditional amenities. Mobile home A mobile home is a factory-built house that can be towed to a lot for a semi-permanent residence. The mass-produced nature of mobile homes makes them an affordable option for home buyers.  Mobile homes are often affordable options for people seeking homeownership and a community feel. This type of house may not be ideal for people prioritizing rapid property appreciation, extensive privacy or freedom from community rules. Modular home A modular home has different sections that are fabricated in a factory. The sections are then shipped to the build site and assembled atop the foundation. Unlike mobile homes, modular homes are permanently affixed to real estate and built according to local and state building codes as traditional site-built homes. Modular homes are an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking faster construction and high-quality, factory-controlled builds. On the other hand, they might not suit those wanting extreme customization or extensive involvement in the on-site building process. What are the different types of house architectural styles? Now that you know the different types of house structures that can make up a home, it’s time to dive into the different house style names and architecture styles you’ll likely come across. When we talk about house styles, we’re referring to the exterior aesthetics of each house and some of its practical functions. As you examine the different style homes available, take note of what is beneficial for the area you live in, versus what is simply decorative, as this can drive costs up unnecessarily. For example, while a home with tall ceilings and lots of windows may be great for hot climates, it’s going to raise heating costs in areas with harsh winters.  Victorian The Victorian house style came to prominence in the 1830s — during Queen Victoria’s reign — and continued into the early 1900s. These homes are quite large, usually two to three stories tall. This type of house is known for its ornate wooden exterior with gabled roofs and turrets. Defining features: Tudor The Tudor house style came to America in the late 1800s and remained popular into the 1930s. Tudor homes often evoke feelings of an English country manor. They were inspired by medieval architectural elements and incorporated masonry, timber framing and narrow windows.  Defining features: Farmhouse The Farmhouse style is known for its warm and cozy aesthetics. It typically employs hand-hewn beams and wrought iron hardware over a rectangular design. Farmhouse-style homes often have wood flooring, clapboard siding, and contrasting shutters. Some even mimic barn roofs, evoking a charming Defining features: Modern Farmhouse Modern Farmhouse homes blend traditional Farmhouse elements with the sleek, clean lines of contemporary design, resulting in warmth, simplicity and functionality. The style is characterized by natural textures and materials, especially wood and galvanized steel. Color schemes lean toward cream with black trim and fittings, though bolder hues are also used. Defining features: French Country As the name suggests, French Country-style houses take inspiration from homes found in areas like Provence, France. These types of homes share traits with the Farmhouse style by incorporating distressed wood, subdued color palettes and window shutters. They differ in their stone exterior and fireplace.  Defining features: Mid-Century Modern Mid-Century Modern style is all about simplicity, with clean lines, organic and geometric shapes, floor-to-ceiling windows and minimal decoration. Made popular after World War II, Mid-Century Modern design puts function front and center. This type of home also aims to complement the surrounding environment. Defining features: Tuscan/Mediterranean The Tuscan style is a natural fit for areas that mix indoor and outdoor living. It looks particularly fitting in the rolling hills of wine country and sunny Southern California. These kinds of houses feature detailed stonework, lavish balconies with wrought iron railings, terracotta tiles, textured walls and stucco façades.  Defining features: Ranch Ranch houses first popped up in the 1930s and hit their peak in the 1950s. They are known for open living spaces and low-pitched roofs, rarely being taller than one story. Since these homes hit the market during the suburban boom, they often have an attached garage for commuters and a large backyard. Defining features: Split-Level The Split-Level house style is an offshoot of the Ranch style that became popular in the 1950s and 1960s. Its main difference is that it contains multiple stories connected by short flights of stairs.  Defining features: Bungalow The British elite first constructed bungalow houses in the 19th century as simple rest houses. This affordable style was adopted all over America in the 20th century, with offshoots popping up in Chicago, California and Michigan. Bungalow homes are known for their column-supported roofs, large main floors and stone elements, making them a charming option for those considering Defining features: Cottage Cottage houses were first built by working-class English farmers before this type of home was first brought to America. Now, they are ideal vacation homes due to their tight quarters, creating a cozy atmosphere and requiring little maintenance. They can be identified by their wood or wood shingle siding and small front porches.  Defining features: Art Deco Art Deco is one of the most visually distinct types of homes in this list. Like Mid-Century Modern and Cottage, this style can also be applied to certain Defining features: Colonial The Colonial house style in America dates back to the 1600s and draws from English, French, Georgian, Dutch and Spanish influences. These homes are at least two stories tall and have a rectangular frame. They have a symmetrical façade with evenly spaced windows. It is also common for them to have a decorative crown over the entryway that is supported by columns.  Defining features: Cape Cod Cape Cod homes are similar in style to Colonial houses, and they originated around the same time. They also have a symmetrical appearance, but are usually smaller in size. They were designed to withstand harsh weather, so they have heavy shutters to protect the windows and a central fireplace for heating the whole home, where essential. Defining features: Craftsman The Craftsman style is one of the quintessential American house styles, representing a rebellion against the mass-produced homes in modern developments. These houses are handmade and built to stand the test of time. Each one is unique since they are designed according to the specifications of the owner. Some common traits include built-in shelves, custom fireplaces, and reading nooks.   Defining features: Greek Revival The Greek Revival style arose during the 1800s when people found inspiration in ancient Greek culture. This translated to buildings emulating traits of historic structures like the Parthenon. These types of houses in America had large wood columns that were covered in white plaster to mimic stone. Defining features: Prairie The Prairie house style is a uniquely American creation. Architects created these types of houses to break away from the traditional European styles of the time. With its heavy reliance on horizontal lines and desire to complement natural surroundings, it can be seen as a precursor to the mid-century modern style.  Defining features: Contemporary The Contemporary style refers to homes that are presently being built and do not fall under a previously defined style. They sometimes share elements with modernist styles — such as clean lines — but will also appeal to current trends, like utilizing eco-friendly materials.  Defining features: How do I find my dream second home with Pacaso? Now that you know the types of houses you’re likely to come across during your house hunt, you can narrow your search down to the house structures and styles you find most inspiring and practical for your needs.   If you’re currently in

For Nina and Kristian Giordano, owning a beach home in Years ago, during the pandemic, they were staying in a rental near the water. One afternoon, sitting quietly on a balcony, Kristian noticed the beautiful home next door. At that moment, something clicked. Kristian recalls thinking to himself, “Somehow, some way, we’re going to make this happen.” At the time, it felt unrealistic. The home was listed for millions, far outside what they imagined was possible. Still, the idea stayed with them. It became part of their story — a shared dream they carried forward. Years later, Nina stumbled upon the same house while browsing listings. This time, the price looked different. As they researched further, they discovered Pacaso and learned about co-ownership. Suddenly, what once felt impossible felt achievable. “This was our dream house,” Nina says. “And it’s been a dream of ours forever.” A home that fits real life Living just 15 minutes away in La Mesa, Nina and Kristian didn’t want a vacation home that pulled them away from their everyday responsibilities. With four kids, school schedules, sports practices, and family routines were always part of their lives. What they wanted was balance. And with their Pacaso home, they found it. They can spend the night by the beach, wake up to ocean air, and still make it back in time for school drop-offs and afternoon practices. There’s no pressure to “make the most” of every trip, no long drives, no complicated planning. “We love staycations, and I feel like that’s what our Pacaso home feels like. But it also feels like home.” It’s a place where vacation and real life blend together naturally. Every time Nina walks through the front door, she feels it. “The first thing I do is open those doors and just kind of a relief, a sigh.” The view, the light, and the quiet immediately shift her mindset. “You feel like you’re miles away. In reality, we’re 15 minutes from home.” Watch the video to hear what else Nina and Kristian love about their San Diego beach second home. Where family always finds its way back Family has always been the foundation of Nina and Kristian’s lives. “Family is the main reason I exist,” Kristian says. With four children and now a grandchild, their Pacaso home has naturally become the place everyone gravitates toward. It’s where birthdays are celebrated, holidays unfold, and spontaneous weekends turn into cherished memories. Cousins arrive together. Kids bring friends. Aunts and uncles drop by. The house fills with voices, laughter, and shared meals. Big dinners stretch late into the evening. Barbecues turn into all-day gatherings. Beach walks become group adventures. No one feels rushed. No one feels like a guest. “It really, truly feels like home,” Nina says. What they treasure most is the quality of time they spend together. “It’s different here. Quality time with your family is what’s most important. This is creating everlasting memories.” Everyday moments that become traditions Some of the Giordanos’ favorite memories are built around simple rituals. On warm afternoons, Kristian fires up the grill, and kids run in and out of the house while music plays in the background. As evening comes, everyone gathers around the fire pit to roast marshmallows and tell stories. During the summer, nights often end on the rooftop. From there, they can see fireworks from SeaWorld San Diego lighting up the sky across the bay. “We set timers and race upstairs,” Nina says. “Watching fireworks from your own house is pretty magical.” Inside, the home offers just as much comfort. After long days filled with activity, everyone finds their own way to relax. Some curl up with a book on the balcony, while others head to their rooms. Nina often retreats to the primary bathroom for a quiet bubble bath. “After a long, busy day, everybody has a place to relax and unwind.” The home is designed for both connection and privacy — large enough to gather, yet intimate enough to feel personal. A sense of calm you can feel Their primary home is where life happens: early mornings, packed lunches, work calls, homework, and responsibilities. Their Pacaso home is where life slows. “At home, you’re in your routine,” Nina explains. “Here, you walk in and feel like you’re on vacation.” The calm here feels intentional. It’s built into the layout, the light, the view, and the atmosphere. It invites them to pause. “The sense of calm is very different than walking into a house with kids running around.” Even arrival feels effortless. They don’t worry about restocking supplies, cleaning, or repairs. Everything is prepared when they arrive. “I literally bring clothes and that’s it,” Kristian says. “You show up and you’re home.” That simplicity allows them to focus entirely on being present. Opening the door to new experiences with Pacaso Global Swap What started as a beach retreat soon became something more. Through Pacaso’s Global Swap feature, Nina and Kristian began traveling in ways they never expected. In just one year, they stayed in Pacaso homes in Paris, Jackson Hole, Lake Arrowhead, and Newport Beach. Each destination brought new perspectives, and these experiences have reshaped how they think about the future. .“It’s like owning 10 homes instead of one,” Kristian says. “Paris really opened our eyes,” he adds. “It showed us what the next 10, 20, 30 years could look like.” As Kristian steps into semi-retirement and their children become more independent, the access they get with Pacaso Global Swap has become a meaningful way for them to reconnect as a couple. “Family time. Family memories. Forever.” For the Giordanos, Pacaso isn’t just about owning a beautiful property. It’s about how that property fits seamlessly into and enriches their lives. It’s about arriving without stress, gathering everyone in one place, slowing down together, and making space for what matters. When asked to describe their experience, their answer comes easily. “Family time. Family memories. Forever.” From a dream sparked on a balcony to a home filled with generations of laughter, Nina and Kristian’s Pacaso story is about building a legacy of connection — one weekend, one trip, and one memory at a time.

Owner Alison Davis shares how Pacaso helps her family building memories near and far Austin Allison, CEO of Pacaso, sits down with Alison Davis — a Pacaso board member and owner of two beautiful vacation homes — to discuss how co-ownership has enriched her family’s life. Joined by her adult children Tallulah and Felix, Alison shares how her Pacaso homes in Tahoe and London have enabled special place for her busy family to reconnect, host friends and gather with extended loved ones. This intimate fireside chat also highlights prioritizing experiences, create lasting memories, and find meaningful moments together amidst life’s hectic pace. Key takeaways:

Lake Tahoe has always been a special place for Christianne and John. When finances made it difficult for them to continue owning there, they made the heartbreaking decision to sell their home. When the couple discovered Pacaso co-ownership, however, they realized they didn’t have to say goodbye to their dream after all. "The first time we came in and stayed at our Pacaso, I just couldn’t believe the dream had come true for us, in a way that we could’ve never imagined," said Christianne shared. Watch to see Christianne and John’s favorite things about their Tahoe home, plus Pacaso’s due diligence in the community response to co-ownership. Pacaso makes a second home possible and enjoyable for more people.

Jim and Jun wanted to own a second home in Palm Springs, a place they’ve been visiting for years. Jim hadn’t used his previous vacation homes as much as he had hoped, so co-owning made sense to him. Pacaso enabled the couple to make their budget go further and purchase a beautiful home that fits their schedule, supplies all the amenities they need, and offers them true ownership. “This is my property, and I want to take care of it,” said Jim. “We would absolutely [buy] another interest in a Pacaso. It’s a great setup, everything is taken care of for you, and it really fills a niche in the market.” Watch the video to hear what else Jim and Jun love about their Palm Springs second home.

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.

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

YIMBY stands for “Yes In My Backyard.” The phrase started as a direct counter to NIMBY (“Not In My Backyard”), which describes residents who oppose new housing or development near their homes. So when people ask what YIMBY stands for, the short answer is: it’s a pro-housing identity. People who say “yes in my backyard” believe more homes should be built, closer to jobs and transit, in more shapes and sizes than the postwar single-family default. The YIMBY movement formed in the late 2000s and grew rapidly in the 2010s as housing costs in West Coast cities outpaced wages and the U.S. fell millions of homes short of what its population needed. By 2024, the National Association of Realtors and Zillow estimated a U.S. housing shortage of roughly 4 to 4.5 million homes, and that gap has shaped almost every conversation about YIMBY housing since. Today YIMBY is bigger than a slogan. It’s a coalition of homeowners, renters, labor unions, environmental groups and elected officials who believe the answer to high prices is more homes, not fewer. When people search for “what is YIMBY” or “what is the YIMBY movement”, that is the through-line: YIMBY housing advocates argue that abundant, diverse, well-located homes are better for affordability, climate and community than blocking new construction. Most local housing fights come down to NIMBY vs YIMBY. NIMBY residents tend to support housing in the abstract but oppose specific projects nearby, often citing parking, traffic, neighborhood character or property values. YIMBY residents argue that those concerns, while real, have been used to block so much housing for so long that the cumulative effect is sky-high prices, longer commutes and exclusion of renters and lower-income workers from desirable neighborhoods. A side-by-side helps make the difference concrete: In practice, most communities sit somewhere between the extremes. A NIMBY vs YIMBY conversation is usually about how much new housing, where, and at what scale. The YIMBY movement’s contribution has been to make sure the cost of saying “no” is finally part of the conversation alongside the cost of saying “yes.” Pacaso’s inaugural Y.I.M.B.Y. Report, produced in collaboration with Greater Washington, D.C., which spans parts of Virginia, Maryland and West Virginia, ranked first. More than 70 percent of its high-demand ZIPs met the YIMBY criteria. Arlington County’s missing middle ordinance now allows two- to six-unit buildings on lots once zoned exclusively for single-family homes, and Alexandria, Virginia and Montgomery County, Maryland, have followed with similar density and YIMBY affordable housing plans. Chicago made the list because its high-demand ZIPs correlated strongly with YIMBY housing growth, even though the metro’s overall demand pressure is lower than the coasts. The 2021 update to the city’s Affordable Requirements Ordinance pushed more new construction into mixed-income neighborhoods. Austin stood out for the clear demand we found across all of its ZIPs, almost half of which qualified as YIMBY. In May 2024 the Austin City Council voted to reduce minimum single-family lot sizes and legalize triplexes, townhomes and other missing middle homes citywide. Nearby San Antonio also embraced YIMBY real estate reforms in its highest-demand neighborhoods. Minneapolis became the first major U.S. city to eliminate single-family-only zoning in 2019. Two- to four-unit buildings now make up a growing share of the city’s housing stock, and the policy has been studied closely by other YIMBY organizations as a real-world test case for citywide upzoning. Columbus introduced a plan to reshape the city and allow construction of as many as 88,000 new housing units. The proposal limits car-focused sprawl and simplifies the rules for homeowners and small developers. Nearby Kansas City legalized rental ADUs in 2022, and Salt Lake City joined the YIMBY scale by recognizing that more efficient use of existing homes is part of the supply answer. In 2023, Utah passed a law requiring municipalities and counties to regulate YIMBY Los Angeles is shorthand for the network of advocates pushing California cities to permit more homes near jobs and transit. While Los Angeles itself didn’t crack the top of our YIMBY scale, the state’s package of pro-housing laws (SB 9, SB 10, AB 2097 and others) has reshaped what is possible at the parcel level statewide and changed how YIMBY real estate gets built across Southern California. The fastest-growing area of YIMBY housing policy is statewide preemption: laws that override the most restrictive local rules to make more homes legal by right. The most influential YIMBY legislation in recent years includes: A common question is whether YIMBY policy is the same as YIMBY rent control. It isn’t. Most YIMBY advocates focus on supply (more homes, faster, in more places). Rent control is a separate debate about pricing existing units. Some YIMBY organizations support targeted tenant protections; the movement’s core insight is that without more homes, no policy can keep prices in check for long. Even residents who agree the country needs more homes often have legitimate questions about how new development plays out on their block. The YIMBY movement has spent the last decade gathering data on those concerns. Here is how the most common ones look once you check the evidence. The most common pushback on new housing is parking. The data from cities that have eliminated parking minimums (Buffalo, Minneapolis, San Diego, Anchorage) shows that builders still add parking where the market wants it; they simply right-size it instead of overbuilding. Studies from UCLA’s Institute of Transportation Studies have found that requiring two off-street spaces per unit can add $50,000 or more to the cost of a single home, much of which is passed straight through to buyers. Removing those minimums lowers prices without producing the parking apocalypse opponents predict. In second home destinations, the most common concern is short-term rental impact. Pacaso is structurally different from a A Independent analyses of upzoned neighborhoods, including the University of Minnesota’s tracking of post-2019 Minneapolis data, show that adding gentle density does not depress nearby property values; it increases options for buyers and renters across price points. The YIMBY movement’s answer to neighborhood-disruption fears isn’t to dismiss them; it’s to point at the cities that have actually built more housing and ask what changed.  The YIMBY movement is a network of national, state and local YIMBY organizations rather than a single body. Some of the most active groups include: For day-to-day discussion, most YIMBY forums live online. The That structure is why Pacaso is a member of YIMBY Action and why our 2023 economic impact study found that co-ownership reduces competition for primary housing in the destinations where Pacaso operates. For buyers, Pacaso turns a luxury second home into something accessible. For neighbors, it means a home that’s actually occupied, professionally managed and not turning over every weekend like a short-term rental. For policymakers, it’s a working example that the YIMBY movement isn’t only about new apartments. It’s about making more efficient use of the homes that already exist.  To learn more, explore

The second home real estate market in 2026 is best understood in two tiers: the broader housing market, which has navigated the weight of elevated mortgage rates and affordability constraints, and the luxury second home segment, which continues to demonstrate remarkable strength. At the macro level, the U.S. housing market has been in a period of rebalancing. Median home prices reached a new all-time high of $446,000 in June 2025, with the full-year 2025 average tracking about 1.7% above 2024 levels, according to Redfin data. Active listings surged roughly 33.7% year-over-year in 2025, inventory relief not seen in recent memory, yet overall home sales remained sluggish as affordability kept buyers sidelined. Mortgage rates, while easing modestly after three Fed cuts in 2025, have remained in the mid-to-high 6% range, continuing to constrain primary market demand. The second home housing market tells a different story. Affluent buyers purchasing luxury second homes are less dependent on financing, with close to half of luxury home transactions completed in cash in recent years. This structural insulation means the second home market, especially at the luxury tier, has continued to attract serious buyers even as the primary market cools. According to Pacaso's fourth annual The latest housing market research consistently reinforces that demand for luxury second homes has held firm through rate volatility, economic uncertainty, and shifting work patterns. Pacaso's ongoing analysis of second home mortgage rate lock data, one of the most reliable indicators of second home buying activity, has tracked this resilience across multiple market cycles.  When broader second home mortgage rate lock shares fell below pre-pandemic levels in 2022, Pacaso's research showed the decline was concentrated in the median-to-lower end of the market. Luxury second homes priced above $1 million made up approximately 12% of all second home mortgage rate locks, with median prices holding relatively flat year-over-year even as rates climbed. The Agency's 2025 Red Paper further confirmed the bifurcation: the number of U.S. homes sold for $1 million or more grew 5.2% in the first half of 2024, and median prices for high-end properties climbed 14.2%. This starkly contrasted the broader market, where overall home sales fell 12.9% in the same period. Pacaso's Second Home Attitude Report, a survey of more than 1,000 current and aspiring second homeowners with household incomes of $150,000 or more, also revealed a key motivational insight: affluent consumers increasingly view real estate as a stable asset class.  Research shows that since 1980, real estate has remained more stable than typical stock market indexes during periods of economic uncertainty, which continues to drive high-net-worth buyers toward the The luxury market's steady momentum is further supported by a two-year inventory high, which is giving buyers more choice and negotiating power. Globally, the luxury real estate category is projected to grow at a 6.9% CAGR through 2035, with North America accounting for approximately 30% of market share. For affluent investors seeking leading second-home markets with strong ROI, Pacaso's annual market reports have consistently surfaced a combination of legacy destinations and emerging hotspots. Legacy second home markets with enduring appeal Cape May County, New Jersey claimed the top spot in Pacaso's 2024 Top Vacation Home Markets Report, with second homes making up more than 150% of the ratio of second to primary homes. Average vacation home prices remain above $1 million, reflecting Cape May's status as a premier East Coast coastal destination with timeless demand. Newport County, Rhode Island demonstrated extraordinary transaction momentum, recording a 64% surge in second home transactions in 2023, the largest year-over-year increase among all tracked markets. Fairfield County, Connecticut and Westchester County, New York also ranked in the top tier as metro-adjacent markets appealing to New York City buyers seeking accessible escapes. Beaufort and Charleston counties in South Carolina continue to attract affluent second-home buyers with their coastal charm and Southern appeal. Pacaso CEO, Austin Allison, has cited Hilton Head and Kiawah Island specifically as first-mover East Coast markets where co-ownership demand has been especially strong. Emerging second home markets with appreciation potential Several markets have broken out as new leaders for appreciation-focused buyers: The destination dupe trend Pacaso's market analysis has also identified a growing "destination dupe" trend among second home buyers: the search for more affordable markets that offer comparable amenities, outdoor access, and quality of life to well-known high-priced destinations.  Examples include Bald Head Island, NC (as an alternative to Kiawah Island, SC), Mt. Rose, NV (as a substitute for Lake Tahoe ski resorts), and Golden, CO (as an alternative to the higher-priced Colorado mountain towns). This trend reflects buyers getting more sophisticated about where to find top second-home markets with strong ROI. The Scottsdale second home market has emerged as one of the most closely watched luxury real estate stories in recent years. According to local market data, luxury home sales priced above $1 million surged 57.7% in early 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Even more striking, ultra-luxury properties priced above $5 million saw a 157% increase in closed sales, a sign that Scottsdale is attracting a concentration of ultra-high-net-worth capital. A key driver is that second home buyers are keeping Scottsdale's market prices stable even as some segments of the broader Phoenix metro have softened. According to market practitioners cited by KeyCrew, out-of-state affluent buyers purchasing second homes have provided critical price support, with second home purchases rather than local primary residence demand functioning as the primary market driver. Scottsdale's appeal for second home buyers is deeply rooted in lifestyle: Premium neighborhoods commanding the most second home buyer interest include Silverleaf at DC Ranch, Troon North, and Estancia, master-planned communities with private golf clubs, spa facilities, and resort-style living. For buyers seeking a lock-and-leave lifestyle, luxury condos near Old Town Scottsdale offer sophisticated urban living with immediate access to fine dining, designer shopping, and cultural venues. Market observers expect Scottsdale second home prices to remain supported by ongoing migration of high-income households, strong stock market performance, and the sustained appeal of lifestyle-driven purchases. Explore Several structural shifts are redefining how affluent buyers think about and approach the second home real estate market today. Demand resilience through rate cycles One of the most important findings from Pacaso's housing market research is that luxury second home demand has consistently proven resistant to interest rate headwinds. Because more than half of second home buyers at the luxury tier pay entirely in cash, mortgage rate fluctuations have a far smaller impact on this segment than on primary residence purchases.  While the total share of second home mortgage rate locks fell during periods of rate increases, transaction activity and appreciation for luxury homes priced above $700,000 to $1 million remained strong, a pattern that held through the rate spikes of 2022 and 2023 and has continued since. The local and metro-adjacent destination shift As premier destinations like Malibu, Aspen, and Lake Tahoe have seen accelerated price appreciation in recent years, second home buyers have increasingly pivoted to more accessible local and metro-adjacent destinations.  Buyers are seeking locations where they can get more for their money without compromising on quality of home or nearby attractions, a shift reflected in the strong performance of markets like Coeur d'Alene, ID; Williamson County, TN; and Cape Cod, MA. Resort areas within easy driving distance of major cities, like Lake Geneva, WI (between Milwaukee and Chicago) or Westchester County, NY, have emerged as key beneficiaries of this trend. Hybrid work as a lasting demand driver Flexible and remote work arrangements have permanently expanded the appeal of second home ownership. The ability to work from anywhere has made a second home far more than a weekend escape. It has become a viable base for extended stays, a meaningful alternative to hotel and vacation rental costs, and a lifestyle asset with year-round utility. This shift has been most pronounced in markets offering both natural beauty and reliable connectivity. Lifestyle-first buying criteria Today's second home buyers are increasingly prioritizing lifestyle attributes over traditional real estate metrics. According to agent insights and market research, buyers are asking about golf course views, lake access, resort community amenities, and proximity to outdoor recreation rather than just square footage or bedroom count. Properties within master-planned communities offering clubhouses, beach clubs, on-site dining, and activities accessible by golf cart are commanding premium prices and selling faster. Sustainable luxury A growing subset of luxury second home buyers is prioritizing eco-conscious features. Solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, water-efficient systems, and smart home automation are increasingly considered standard requirements in high-end second homes. Markets with natural beauty, whether desert, mountain, or coastal settings, are seeing buyers willing to pay a premium for homes that align with an environmentally conscious lifestyle. Co-ownership as a mainstream access model Perhaps the most significant structural trend in the second home real estate market is the rapid normalization of Buyers increasingly recognize the logic of right-sizing their ownership share, purchasing what they will actually use at a fraction of the full cost and without the management burden of sole ownership. Learn more about Multiple authoritative sources provide useful context for understanding where the second home market stands and where it is heading. Redfin's 2025 Housing Market Year in Review found that overall home sales remained below pre-pandemic levels, with 30% of homes purchased entirely in cash, down slightly from 31% in 2024 but still well above pre-pandemic norms. Luxury buyers remained far more likely to pay in cash, which has given them an outsized advantage in a high-rate environment. J.P. Morgan Global Research projects U.S. house prices to stall near 0% growth in 2026, reflecting a market that has largely worked through its pandemic-era surge but faces ongoing affordability headwinds. For luxury second homes, this stabilization is more opportunity than threat. With inventory at a two-year high, buyers have more selection and negotiating power than at any point since 2020. The Dallas Fed's real-time house price model showed signs of stabilization beginning in May 2025, with the trend turning less negative even after a modest first-quarter dip. The consensus view is that any correction will be shallow rather than steep, a pause in momentum rather than a significant decline. Cotality data showed that investor activity, which overlaps significantly with second home purchases, remained strong through 2025, running well above pre-pandemic norms even as overall market activity cooled. The luxury segment has benefited from the wealth effect of strong equity market performance, boosting the net worth and purchasing confidence of high-net-worth households. Pacaso's own rate lock data continues to show that second home demand is concentrated in the top-of-market price tier, with buyers in the $700,000+ range driving the most active segments of the second home housing market. The outlook for the second home market in 2026 is cautiously optimistic. Mortgage rates are expected to ease gradually, with J.P. Morgan projecting continued improvement if the Fed continues to cut rates. Home purchase applications have been rising, and growing inventory is translating into more transactions. While the overall housing market recovery will be gradual and regionally dependent, the luxury second home segment is positioned to remain one of the most resilient categories in real estate. Key dynamics shaping the second home market in 2026: Whether you are tracking second home market trends as an investor, a first-time second home buyer, or someone who has always dreamed of a vacation home but found the full cost prohibitive, the data points in a clear direction: the top of the luxury market continues to outperform, and smart ownership structures are making that tier more accessible than ever. Pacaso is the technology-enabled marketplace that makes luxury second home co-ownership simple, transparent, and professionally managed. Instead of purchasing an entire vacation home and bearing all costs, responsibilities, and underutilization alone, Pacaso buyers purchase a hare (1/8 to 1/2) of a fully designed, furnished, and managed luxury property, giving them true real estate ownership in some of the country's most sought-after markets. Pacaso homes have appreciated in value on average, often outperforming traditional luxury homes in their local markets. With a Today, Pacaso operates in more than 40 top second home destinations across the U.S. and internationally, from Scottsdale and Palm Springs to Paris and Cabo San Lucas. Ready to explore what is available?

You keep coming back to the same streets in Paris, the same corner pub in Mayfair, the same market in Lisbon, and the thought surfaces again: what would it take to actually own a place there? Buying a second home in Europe used to mean navigating a foreign legal system, a foreign tax code, and a long list of local vendors on your own. It does not have to. This guide walks through the best places to look, what to expect as an international buyer, and how Pacaso's cross-border co-ownership in Europe gives you a real home abroad with local experts doing the heavy lifting. Europe is one of the rare places where short trips start feeling too short. A long weekend in Paris or London stretches a few days and you are already thinking about when you can come back. A second home turns that pattern into something you actually live, rather than rebook every year. Beyond the lifestyle, owning in Europe gives you a home base for the wider region. From Paris you can reach Amsterdam, Barcelona, or the Alps within a few hours. From London, the Cotswolds, Edinburgh, and Dublin are all a short hop. One home becomes a doorway to dozens of future trips with family and friends. Europe also has deep real estate markets in its most loved cities, with centuries of demand behind them. Central Paris and central London have been desirable for generations, which is part of why they remain the go-to answer for buyers searching for the best places to buy a second home in Europe. The right European city depends on how you want to spend time there: long weekends, multi-week stays, holiday seasons, or a bit of everything. A few cities Paris is the classic choice: world-class food, art, and fashion inside a city you can cross on foot. Neighborhoods like London is an English-speaking launchpad into the rest of Europe. Mayfair, Chelsea, and Knightsbridge remain anchor neighborhoods for buyers who want Georgian and Victorian townhouse living steps from parks, restaurants, and theater. It is also a natural pick if you travel on business and want a home that doubles as your European base. Lisbon, Barcelona, Florence, Milan, and Amsterdam all earn regular spots on best-of lists. Each one trades sunshine, cost, and cultural flavor differently. The common thread: pick a city you already love visiting, then decide whether you want a full-time solo purchase or a share in a home that is already set up for co-ownership. There is no single best European country to buy a second home. The honest answer is that the best country for you is the one that matches how you want to spend time, what you are comfortable managing from overseas, and which rules you are willing to work inside. A quick side-by-side helps. Pacaso is a luxury second home company that offers fully managed co-ownership of real homes in real cities. You purchase at least one 1/8 share in a property-specific LLC (or the local equivalent structure), share costs with other owners, and For international homes, Pacaso layers local expertise on top of that model. Practically, that means: You keep the lifestyle of a second home in Europe. Pacaso quietly absorbs the cross-border complexity in the background. Pacaso's European portfolio is a curated collection of homes in Pacaso's Pacaso's Pacaso's Expect local transfer taxes, notary or solicitor fees, and often a foreign-buyer premium on top of the purchase price. In France, notaire fees typically run a few percent of the price. In the United Kingdom, Utilities, property management, insurance, local taxes, and maintenance are real line items whether you own a whole home or a share. With co-ownership, each owner pays their portion, and Pacaso handles the vendors and billing. Budgets are transparent and require owner approval, so there are no surprises. Buying a second home in Europe does not automatically confer residency, and it does not require it either. You own a home, you visit it, and you follow local stay limits and tax rules. Some countries offer residency pathways tied to real estate that change over time. Your Pacaso Crewmembers can flag what is currently available so you can plan with your own tax professional. Owning abroad on your own means managing a purchase in another language, another currency, and another legal system, then maintaining a home you only visit part of the year. Pacaso was built to take that weight off. Through Pacaso's cross-border co-ownership in Europe, you share ownership of a designed, What you get: a curated home in a neighborhood you actually want to live in, If you are ready to look at specific homes, you can

They don't make headlines. They're not on Forbes lists. But according to a new This group isn't defined by fame. It's defined by asset wealth: stock portfolios, private business stakes, and real estate that have compounded quietly for 30+ years. And the way they approach second home luxury is increasingly reshaping what ownership looks like, not through flashy purchases, but through smart, values-aligned co-ownership. At Pacaso, this is our buyer. And the data has never been clearer about just how many of them there are. According to Federal Reserve data analyzed by Princeton economist Owen Zidar, there are approximately 430,000 U.S. households worth $30 million or more. Within that, roughly 74,000 households have crossed the $100 million threshold. This group has grown faster than the general population over the past few decades, and recent stock market gains suggest the numbers are even higher today. These aren't tech billionaires or celebrity executives. Many live outside major coastal cities and built wealth through car dealerships, regional businesses, and long-term investment portfolios. They are distributed, diverse, and largely overlooked by luxury brands that only targeted the ultra-famous top. The growth isn't coming from salaries. It's coming from assets. For the top 0.1% of U.S. households, nearly 72% of their wealth is held in corporate equities, mutual fund shares, and private businesses, according to the Federal Reserve. The S&P 500 has more than tripled over the past decade. Private business valuations have risen in tandem. And for Baby Boomers, who make up roughly two-thirds of $30M+ households, decades of homeownership and equity accumulation have produced a generational wealth surge that shows no signs of slowing. The WSJ describes this as "get rich quick(er)" but really it's the compounding payoff of long-term asset ownership. These households didn't win the lottery. They built something The same instincts that made the quiet rich successful in business, smart capital allocation, avoiding waste, and optimizing for return, apply directly to how they think about real estate. Traditional luxury second home ownership means paying 100% of the cost for a property you may use 4 to 6 weeks a year. It means property management headaches, carrying costs, and capital tied up in a single illiquid asset. For someone whose wealth is built on intelligent asset allocation, that math doesn't add up. The WSJ points directly to this shift: co-ownership models, specifically citing NetJets in private aviation, are seeing surging demand from the multimillionaire class even as the overall market is flat. The behavior is the same in real estate. Ownership, yes. But smart ownership. Pacaso is the NetJets of luxury real estate. We offer the same core value proposition that has made co-ownership a defining feature of how the quiet rich live: premium access, without the premium burden. With Pacaso, buyers own a real deeded share of a vacation home co-ownership property, For buyers with significant assets, the second home co-ownership benefits are clear: it is simply the smarter way to own. Brands and services targeting the "merely well-off" are facing headwinds. Demand is concentrating at the very top. Hermès, Ferrari, and Brunello Cucinelli are posting record numbers. High-end travel is booming. Shared aviation is up markedly. Second home luxury is following the same curve. The most expensive homes have seen accelerating demand since the pandemic, and that demand is coming from exactly this buyer profile: asset-wealthy, experience-driven, and looking for vacation home co-ownership solutions that match how they think. Pacaso homes are positioned squarely in this tailwind. Our portfolio spans the There's no compromise on quality. Every Pacaso home is The quiet rich aren't waiting. If you're ready to make your second home work as hard as the wealth behind it,

Market trends in global luxury real estate: 3 rising retreats For 2025, buyers are paying attention to market trends in global luxury real estate while zeroing in on places that deliver an extraordinary everyday rhythm. Carmel, Santa Barbara and Breckenridge check that box with rare settings, strong lifestyle draws and a growing selection of high-design homes available through co-ownership. Below, see why each destination is trending, how the broader market supports thoughtful acquisitions, and where Pacaso fits your plan. The luxury market shows steady momentum in 2025, with median prices for single-family luxury homes up 1.8% year-over-year and 8.0% versus 2023. Inventory has reached a two-year high, giving buyers more choice and negotiating power. Globally, the category is projected to grow at a 6.9% CAGR through 2035, with North America accounting for about 30% of market share. These market trends in global luxury real estate are fueling interest in lifestyle-led destinations like Carmel, Santa Barbara and Breckenridge. Why Carmel is trending for 2025 Carmel pairs cinematic coastline and acclaimed dining with access to Santa Barbara’s Mediterranean pace and culture Framed by ocean and mountains, Santa Barbara blends refined dining, a lively arts calendar and quick access to Breckenridge for four seasons of alpine living With How co-ownership fits these markets Pacaso co-ownership aligns with these destinations by matching high-use lifestyles with right-sized ownership. You enjoy equity in a real home that is professionally designed and furnished, plus intuitive scheduling that supports frequent stays. For a deeper overview of how it works, see Pros and cons by destination Which destination fits your lifestyle If you picture quiet coastal mornings and gallery strolls, vacation homes in Carmel deliver a refined, low-key rhythm. For terrace-to-beach living with culture in every direction, luxury homes in Santa Barbara lead the list. If your calendar is built around ski days and summer trails, Breckenridge vacation homes offer a year-round mountain base. In each, market trends in global luxury real estate favor thoughtful buyers who value setting, design and time well spent. Explore Pacaso homes in these markets Ready to see more in each destination? Browse

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

Maui packs an extraordinary range of landscapes into 48 miles of coastline: world-class beaches on the south and west shores, lush rainforest along the Hana Highway, ranchland and lavender farms in the upcountry, and a 10,000-foot dormant volcano at its center. First-time visitors leave with a wish list. Repeat visitors and second home owners in Hawaii get something better: a routine. Once you have been a few times, the things to do in Maui stop feeling like a checklist. They start to feel like rituals. Sunrise paddles when the currents are calm. Mango runs to the upcountry farmers market in late summer. Whale-watching from your lanai between January and March. Long, unhurried dinners at a neighborhood spot where the host remembers your last visit. That is what this guide is built for: a layered look at the island for people who plan to come back often, and for those exploring buying a second home in Hawaii so they can. Once you know Maui, Maui's coastline shifts with the seasons, so the best things to do in Maui on any given morning often depend on wind direction and swell. Repeat visitors learn to chase calm water on the leeward south and west shores, and save the dramatic north shore for watching from above. A short rotation of beaches keeps the island feeling new. Consistently ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world, Wailea offers golden sand, gentle waves and a paved coastal walkway connecting a string of resorts. It is ideal for stand-up paddling, easy swims and sunset strolls. Free parking, restrooms and food and drinks at nearby resorts make it a low-friction option for slow mornings. South Maui in general is regularly named one of the A protected crescent on Maui's northwest tip, Kapalua Bay is one of the easiest places on the island for snorkeling. Reef fish, sea turtles and clear visibility make it a year-round favorite. The bay is small, so arrive early; afterward, walk the cliffside coastal trail for ocean views and pocket coves. South of Wailea, Makena's wide stretch of golden sand and turquoise water feels untamed compared with the resort coast. Bodysurfing can be punishing here when shore break picks up, so this is more of a beach-walking and sunset-watching destination on big-swell days. Hike over the rocky headland to Little Beach for a quieter pocket. On Maui's eastern edge near the town of Hana, Hamoa Beach is a curve of fine gray sand backed by steep, jungle-draped cliffs. James Michener famously called it the most beautiful beach in the South Pacific. Visit on a return trip when you have time to overnight in Hana and the morning to yourself. Hookipa is not for casual swimming. It is one of the world's premier windsurfing and surfing breaks, and a regular afternoon stop for green sea turtles to rest on the sand. Pull off at the lookout to watch the action from the cliff above. For more options, including secluded coves and quiet escapes, see our guide to Some of the most memorable things to do in Maui Hawaii are at their best in shoulder seasons or specific weather windows. Owning your time on the island, rather than racing the calendar of a one-week trip, is the difference between a single attempt and the perfect day. Molokini, a crescent-shaped volcanic islet about three miles off the south coast, protects a marine conservation area with hundreds of species of fish, eight kinds of coral, and frequent green sea turtle sightings. Charter boats leave early from Maalaea Harbor; calmer water before the trade winds pick up makes morning trips noticeably better. Between January and March, you can often hear humpback whales singing while you snorkel. The Road to Hana covers 50 miles, more than 600 turns and 59 one-lane bridges. First-timers spend the day racing waterfalls, fruit stands and overlooks. Repeat visitors go slower, stay overnight in Hana, and use the second day to reach Pipiwai Trail, the bamboo forest, and Oheo Gulch in Kīpahulu. Going clockwise versus counterclockwise also changes the feel of the drive completely. Humpback whales migrate to Hawaii to breed and birth calves, with peak sightings between mid-January and March. Charters out of Lahaina Harbor and Maalaea Harbor get you close, but the south and west shores also offer excellent shore-based viewing. A lanai with a wide ocean view becomes the most relaxed whale-watching seat on the island. Golf on Maui blends ocean views with serious course design. Maui's food scene goes far past the famous-name restaurants. The best things to do in Maui for repeat visitors often involve learning the rhythm of farmers markets, food trucks, plate-lunch spots and chef-driven restaurants tucked into the upcountry. Still the island's most famous restaurant, Peter Merriman is a founder of Hawaii Regional Cuisine, and his oceanfront perch at Kapalua delivers some of the best sunset dining on the island. Locally sourced fish, ranch beef, and produce from upcountry farms anchor a menu that rewards repeat visits as the seasons change. Kula and Makawao's farms grow much of what fills Maui's best menus. Make time for Kula Bistro, Hali'imaile General Store and a stop at Surfing Goat Dairy on the way up. The Saturday morning Upcountry Farmers Market in Pukalani is the closest thing to a weekly anchor for residents. Geste Shrimp Truck near Kahului Harbor, Leoda's Kitchen and Pie Shop in Olowalu, Tin Roof in Kahului, and Aloha Mixed Plate near west Maui round out a good rotating list. Plate lunches and shaved ice are fixtures of island life, especially on long beach days. For a deeper dive on dining with a view, see our guide to The right base on Maui depends on your routine. For repeat travelers and second-home owners, three west and south coast hubs offer the easiest balance of beaches, dining, golf and outdoor access. Wailea's flat coastal walkway, gentle beaches and concentration of restaurants make it the easiest base for travelers who want to wake up and walk to the water. It is also the closest hub to Big Beach, snorkeling at Ahihi-Kinau, and morning Molokini charters. West Maui delivers championship golf, classic snorkel coves and some of the island's most reliable sunsets. Kapalua sits at the northern tip with cooler trades and quieter beaches; Kaanapali to the south is closer to dining and resort amenities. If your version of Maui leans toward farms, hikes and sweater-weather mornings, the upcountry offers a different pace. It is the longest drive to the beach but the closest base to Haleakalā sunrise and the upcountry food scene. If your things to do in Maui list keeps growing, the case for owning a home on the island grows with it. Pacaso allows buyers to purchase a share (1/8 to 1/2) of a fully managed luxury home through a property-specific LLC, giving them a true real estate asset for a fraction of the cost. You get the upside of true ownership without the operational weight of a full second home. To see how it stacks up against the alternatives, Each Pacaso home is professionally designed with luxury furnishings, a stocked kitchen and Pacaso Essentials in place when you arrive. A dedicated home management team handles maintenance, cleaning and repairs, while the Beyond Maui, Pacaso offers

Can Americans buy property in Mexico? Yes, Americans and other foreign nationals can legally buy property in Mexico — no residency or citizenship is required. However, the rules differ depending on where the property is located. Outside restricted zones (areas more than 50 kilometers from any coastline and more than 100 kilometers from an international border), Americans can purchase property directly and hold the title in their own name, just as Mexican nationals do. This includes major cities like Mexico City, Guadalajara, and San Miguel de Allende. Within restricted zones — which cover most of Mexico's popular coastal destinations, including Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Cancún — foreigners must use a legal structure called a A One important note: a significant portion of Mexico's land is classified as Where are the best places to buy property in Mexico? Mexico offers a wide variety of real estate markets, from beachfront luxury to colonial charm. The right location depends on your lifestyle, how often you plan to visit, and what kind of experience you're looking for. Located at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, Los Cabos is one of the most sought-after destinations for American buyers. The region combines desert landscapes, championship golf courses, world-class dining, and some of the most dramatic coastline in Mexico. Los Cabos real estate appeals to buyers looking for a luxury second home close to the U.S., with direct flights from most major West Coast cities. The market here is mature, with strong international demand and reliable rental activity from American tourists throughout the year. Pacaso offers a curated portfolio of Puerto Vallarta sits on the Bay of Banderas along Mexico's Pacific Coast and is known for its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, golden-sand beaches, and vibrant expat community. It's a strong market for buyers looking for a mix of authentic Mexican culture and modern amenities. The airport has seen significant recent expansion, increasing access and long-term property value prospects. The Riviera Maya is Mexico's Caribbean coastline, running south of Cancún through Playa del Carmen, Akumal, and Tulum. This corridor leads American buyer activity in terms of volume and is known for strong rental yields, robust tourism infrastructure, and a growing expat community. Playa del Carmen offers urban convenience near the beach, while Tulum draws buyers seeking a more boutique, design-forward aesthetic. Located in the highlands of Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende is a UNESCO World Heritage city known for its colonial architecture, thriving arts scene, and large North American expat population. Properties here fall outside the restricted zone, meaning Americans can hold direct title. It's an excellent option for buyers who want a second home rooted in culture rather than beachfront access. Mexico City is one of the largest and most dynamic cities in the world. Its neighborhoods — particularly Roma, Condesa, and Polanco — attract buyers looking for urban luxury, walkable living, and cultural immersion. The city is outside the restricted zone, and the market has seen consistent annual price growth in prime areas. How do you buy property in Mexico? Buying property in Mexico as an American follows a clear process. Here are the key steps to understand before you get started. Whether you're looking to Once you've found the right property, your agent will help you draft a formal offer letter outlining the purchase price, terms, and conditions. Be prepared to include an earnest money deposit as a sign of your intent to purchase. The seller may counter your offer, so be ready for negotiation until both parties reach an agreement. Once purchase price and terms are agreed upon, both parties formalize the sale with an official sales contract. This document outlines the purchase price, closing date, financing terms, and any contingencies. Have a real estate attorney review the contract carefully to ensure your legal rights are protected. Note that all legal documents in Mexico must be drafted and signed in Spanish — English contracts are not legally binding, though they may be used for reference. After signing the sales contract, you'll typically pay an earnest money deposit of around 10% of the purchase price. This deposit is held in escrow by a neutral third party and applied toward your down payment at closing. If you fail to complete the purchase, you may forfeit the deposit. If the property is located within 50 kilometers of the coast or 100 kilometers of a U.S. border, you'll need to establish a Foreign buyers purchasing in restricted zones must also submit documentation to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as part of the Before closing, have a Mexican attorney review the property title, conduct a valuation, and confirm that all legal documents are in order. Due diligence protects you against issues like unclear ownership, unpaid taxes, or boundary disputes. Once all parties are satisfied, documents can be notarized. Once due diligence is complete, you'll sign the After closing, expect to pay property registration fees, stamp duty, and other applicable Mexican taxes. Budget for these in advance. If you're purchasing a The final step is registering ownership in your name at the local land registry office. Secure a certified copy of the property title for your records — you'll need this documentation if you ever sell. What are the taxes and fees involved in buying property in Mexico? Closing costs in Mexico differ from those in the U.S. and can add meaningfully to the total purchase price. The table below outlines typical costs to budget for: Beyond closing costs, buyers should budget for ongoing maintenance, property management, homeowners insurance, HOA fees (if applicable), and utilities. Currency fluctuations between the U.S. dollar and Mexican peso can also affect your long-term cost picture. In practice, most Mexican coastal properties are priced in U.S. dollars, which offers some currency stability on the purchase side — while ongoing operational expenses paid in pesos tend to remain relatively low. Ask your real estate agent for a detailed breakdown of the estimated costs specific to your property and location. Consult a tax professional to understand your obligations both in Mexico and in the United States. Is buying property in Mexico a good investment? For many buyers, purchasing a home in Mexico is less about investment returns and more about gaining a second home — a place to escape, recharge, and enjoy a different way of life. That said, Mexico's real estate market has historically performed well in popular coastal markets, and there are legitimate financial benefits worth knowing. Strong rental demand in destinations like Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, and the Riviera Maya means that owners who rent their homes when not in use can generate meaningful income to offset ownership costs. Popular beachfront areas have seen occupancy rates of 70% or higher during peak seasons. Long-term appreciation in prime coastal markets has been driven by sustained international demand, limited inventory, and ongoing tourism infrastructure investment. Many markets have shown consistent price growth year over year. Diversification is another factor some buyers weigh: owning property in Mexico provides exposure to a market outside the U.S., and since most coastal properties are priced in USD, buyers benefit from dollar-denominated assets while operational expenses in pesos remain relatively low. That said, Mexico real estate is not without risk. Market values can fluctuate, legal complexities require professional guidance, and properties in certain areas may be harder to finance or resell. Buyers who treat their Mexican home as a lifestyle asset — rather than a speculative investment — tend to find the most satisfaction in their purchase. What are the pros and cons of buying property in Mexico? What challenges should buyers be aware of? Every step of the Mexican real estate process — from the A meaningful portion of Mexico's land, particularly in coastal areas and near popular tourist destinations, is classified as Title issues are more common in Mexico than in the U.S., and can include unclear ownership, unpaid taxes, or boundary disputes. Thorough title review and due diligence are non-negotiable. Partnering with an experienced local team significantly reduces this risk. The Mexican real estate market, particularly in high-demand coastal areas, has seen a rise in fraud targeting foreign buyers. Common scams include fraudulent notaries, fake listings with cloned legitimate properties, and inflated investment return promises. Always verify credentials, conduct independent research, and avoid rushing any part of the process. If you plan to finance your purchase through a Mexican bank, expect stricter lending criteria, potentially higher interest rates, and lower loan-to-value ratios than you may be used to in the U.S. Many foreign buyers secure financing from their home country or work with developers offering in-house financing options. How does Pacaso make buying a second home in Mexico easier? For buyers who want to enjoy a luxury second home in Mexico without the full complexity of a solo international purchase, co-ownership through Pacaso is worth exploring. Pacaso allows buyers to purchase a share (1/8 to 1/2) of a fully managed luxury home through a property-specific LLC, giving them a true real estate asset for a fraction of the cost. Each home is professionally designed, fully furnished, and managed end-to-end — so you never have to worry about maintenance, cleaning, utilities, or vendor coordination. Unlike a timeshare, Pacaso co-ownership is true real estate ownership. Owners hold deeded interest in the property, share costs proportionally with up to seven other co-owners, and can sell their share after 12 months. Pacaso also handles all of the legal and logistical complexity involved in an international purchase, including due diligence, title review, and compliance with Mexican property laws — so you can Whether you're drawn to a beachfront villa in Los Cabos or a sun-soaked retreat in Tulum, explore Pacaso's

Paris Perfect is well-known for its high-end, classic French apartments, but many travelers seek Paris Perfect alternatives for more neighborhood or design options. Whether you're looking for a This guide explores the 15 best Paris Perfect alternatives for your next short to long-term stay in the City of Light. 1. Pacaso Pacaso uses a They handle the complex administrative work, interior design, and property management, providing you with a Pacaso focuses exclusively on prime locations in the prestigious 1st, 4th and 7th arrondissements. You can find incredible shared-ownership options like a chic spot on You can explore all of their 2. Onefinestay When you walk into a Onefinestay, you’ll always find crisp, hotel-grade linens on the beds and high-end toiletries waiting in the bathrooms. Your stay also begins with a personalized meet-and-greet service where a local staff member welcomes you at the door. During this check-in, they explain the home's specific features and share helpful local nuances about your new neighborhood. 3. CoHabs If you’re looking for a completely different experience than a traditional private rental like Paris Perfect, The co-living model gives you a private bedroom with stylish communal spaces. They also bundle all utilities, weekly cleaning and basic supplies in one flat rate. CoHabs has dedicated community managers who organize regular events, dinners and monthly breakfasts to help you form meaningful connections during your time there.  4. Plum Guide With Their curated selection heavily focuses on Paris’s most iconic and high-demand neighborhoods, particularly Le Marais and Saint-Germain-des-Prés. They have a wide range of architectural styles, from ultra-modern lofts to classic Haussmannian apartments. 5. VRBO The main advantage here is the whole home policy, which means you get the entire property to yourself. That makes it a good option for families who need extra bedrooms, a full kitchen and the authentic feeling of living like a local in a real neighborhood.  They're known for their “Book with Confidence” guarantee, giving specialized payment protection and 24/7 customer support if something goes wrong. 6. La Réserve Apartments What truly makes this option better than a typical rental is your direct connection to the renowned La Réserve hotel nearby. As an apartment guest, you’re granted full access to the hotel’s world-class amenities, like their luxurious spas, private pools and Michelin-starred dining. To elevate your stay even further, these rentals include a dedicated butler service to handle your daily needs and special requests. 7. Paris Autrement Their inventory includes everything from cozy studios to grand lofts, all situated in lively, walkable areas like Bastille or near the Louvre. You get the benefit of a professional agency that manages logistics, but with a portfolio that feels much more diverse and less cookie-cutter than larger brands. They provide personal check-ins with a local staff member who helps you settle into your new neighborhood. 8. Paris Attitude If you’re planning to stay in the city for an extended period, Their multilingual advisors personally guide you through the entire leasing process. Each apartment is personally visited, assessed and photographed to meet strict quality standards before being listed. They even partner with insurance companies to provide free home insurance with your rental.  9. Haven In Every Haven In guest is welcomed at the door and handed a bespoke neighborhood guide packed with highly localized recommendations for nearby cafés, markets and hidden gems. They also stand out as a family-friendly luxury agency. You can easily request practical amenities like sturdy cribs or high chairs, which are incredibly rare to find reliably stocked in most high-end Parisian rentals. 10. Paris For Rent When you rent a Paris apartment through this agency, whether for a short or long stay, you can use their luxury concierge services. Given enough notice, their local team can arrange anything from a private chef and dedicated chauffeur to daily housekeeping and trusted babysitters.  11. Guest Apartment Services The company curates apartments for their historic charm, often featuring original 17th-century details paired with high-end modern luxury. They manage a smaller, exclusive portfolio, so that the maintenance and cleanliness of each home are kept to a high standard. 12. Airbnb While you might be reading this list specifically looking for luxury What sets Airbnb apart from a luxury agency is its flexibility for all types of travel budgets. That’s because you can rent directly from hosts rather than a highly curated management team. The platform’s review system also gives clear insights into the host’s trustworthiness and the home’s condition. 13. Booking.com The site also features a popular loyalty program called Genius, which automatically applies hidden discounts and free perks, like breakfast for frequent travelers. You can read through millions of verified guest reviews to find a trustworthy apartment that matches your exact travel needs. 14. Sweett While Paris Perfect focuses on a very traditional, classic French aesthetic, You can find their stylish apartments scattered across the most iconic neighborhoods, including Le Marais, the 8th arrondissement and the lively Latin Quarter. That broad reach gives you more geographical variety than the Eiffel Tower-centric portfolio of Paris Perfect. They also offer extra luxury perks, like private airport transfers and personalized grocery delivery, to make your trip to the city truly comfortable and relaxing. 15. Highstay Every apartment is custom-built with premium materials like marble and oak, creating a high-end private-residence feel. They use an automated check-in process so you can head straight to your room. Even though you have your own kitchen and living area, they still provide daily housekeeping to keep the space fresh and tidy. Key factors to consider when booking a luxury rental in Paris When searching for a short-term stay, you must check that your chosen property is legally permitted to operate as a tourist rental. Paris strictly limits primary residents from renting out their homes for more than If you’re browsing for legally compliant Paris apartment rentals, skipping listings without this official number protects you from sudden cancellations. Dealing with these strict municipal regulations is one reason many frequent travelers consider You should also pay close attention to the specific climate control and accessibility features of older Haussmannian buildings. Air conditioning is generally not a standard feature in historic Parisian apartments, but it’s an absolute baseline requirement if you’re paying for a luxury rental during the warmer months.  You also need to understand the local étage system, where the ground floor is zero, and the first floor is actually one flight up.  If you’re planning a trip for 2026, tracking upcoming infrastructure projects and major cultural openings will help you pick the best neighborhood. The 8th arrondissement is a premier choice this year because the monumental Grand Palais is hosting massive events, like the Henri Matisse retrospective and Art Paris 2026. Staying in the 16th arrondissement puts you right next to the Fondation Louis Vuitton and the Musée d’Art Moderne, which are headlining major 2026 exhibitions for artists like Alexander Calder and Lee Miller. The ongoing rollout of the new Grand Paris Express metro lines in 2026 also turns luxury properties into highly connected options by drastically cutting travel times across the metropolitan area. Find your Parisian vacation home with Pacaso Pacaso is the best choice among Paris Perfect alternatives because it transforms you from a temporary guest into a true homeowner. Instead of spending your travel budget on short rentals, you can co-own and enjoy a permanent To see how Pacaso co-ownership compares financially to repeated hotel stays, calculating your

Finding the best places to buy a vacation home comes down to matching the location to your lifestyle, favorite hobbies and climate preferences. Consider how you want to spend your free time, who will be traveling with you and how the market will look in five to ten years.  To help you narrow down the choices, we divided the top 15 locations into three distinct groups. You can choose from sunny beach destinations, explore quiet nature-filled destinations or exciting international destinations.  1. Miami, Florida Miami is one of the best places to If you’re looking for a luxury beach house, Pacaso has numerous options.  For those seeking classic Miami Beach elegance, If island living is more your speed, the 2. Hilton Head, South Carolina  Hilton Head Island is one of the best places to buy a vacation home for those who want a mix of active outdoor living and relaxed coastal charm. The area has warm weather year-round, making it easy to enjoy the famous golf courses and miles of nature trails. This is also one of the Pacaso has properties that capture the everyday essence of Lowcountry living. For example, homes like the For a classic island experience, the 3. San Diego, California San Diego is a top contender for a second home because it has the most consistent weather in the United States. With temperatures hovering around 70 degrees nearly every day, you aren’t restricted to a single season of enjoyment. Whether you’re exploring the world-famous San Diego Zoo or hiking the trails at Torrey Pines, the outdoor lifestyle here is a year-round joy. The vacation rental market in San Diego remains incredibly strong due to the city’s massive appeal to both domestic and international travelers. Market conditions often involve high demand and limited coastal inventory, which helps support long-term property values.  Pacaso properties in this region perfectly capture the Southern California experience. If you prefer a more energetic atmosphere, the 4. Palm Springs, California Palm Springs is famous for its striking desert scenery, more than 300 days of sunshine a year and iconic mid-century modern architecture. Notable attractions like the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway and world-class golf courses serve up endless entertainment in this stunning oasis. The reliable winter weather makes it ideal for luxury buyers looking to escape the cold back home. The local real estate market remains highly desirable, with mid-century gems and modern estates holding strong value. Investing in a vacation property here means securing a slice of a legendary resort town that has captivated Hollywood stars and design enthusiasts for decades. Featured Pacaso homes like 5. Scottsdale, Arizona Scottsdale is a premier sanctuary for those who crave a mix of outdoor adventure and high-end relaxation. It has a unique landscape that makes it one of the Its local real estate market has a history of resilience, as the area attracts global golfers and luxury events. Scottsdale’s strict zoning laws preserve the rugged trails and natural beauty that make living here so distinct, ensuring your daily enjoyment of the landscape remains uninterrupted.  Pasaso featured homes in the area showcase this diverse desert lifestyle perfectly. 6. Aspen, Colorado Aspen balances powder days with gallery nights, a rare mix that keeps real estate demand consistently high. With one ultrawealthy resident for every 77 people, the town’s depth of amenities and community feels both intimate and dynamic. This unique combination of privacy, nature and dining makes Aspen one of the best places to invest in real estate for buyers seeking a premier mountain retreat. Properties here are designed to let you enjoy both winter snow and summer hiking seasons. At Pacaso’s For those wanting to be right in the center of everything, the 7. Lake Tahoe, California Lake Tahoe is a good choice for those looking to buy a vacation home that has year-round appeal. The region features spectacular weather with deep winter snow for skiing at renowned resorts like Palisades Tahoe, followed by warm, sunny summers perfect for boating on the crystal-clear lake.  Its local real estate market is resilient, driven by buyers who value both outdoor adventure and peaceful alpine living and featuring homes that harmonize with the stunning natural environment. Pacaso’s Similarly, 8. Jackson Hole, Wyoming If you’re looking to buy a vacation home that has both privacy and adventure, Jackson Hole is hard to beat. The area acts as a cozy basecamp for Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. You get deep, dry snow in the winter that attracts skiers from across the globe, while the summers stay mild, which is perfect for exploring the Snake River.  Because nearly 97% of the land in Teton County is federally protected or state-owned, the supply of private real estate is incredibly small. The scarcity creates a highly stable, resilient market where high-end homes are always in demand. Pacaso featured home For a bit more seclusion, 9. Napa Valley, California Napa Valley has a strong global reputation, making it one of the best places to invest in real estate. The region is a premier sanctuary for those who value fine wine, rolling landscapes and a slower pace of life. Its consistent Mediterranean weather offers owners warm, dry summers and mild winters, so the valley remains a top-tier destination year-round. The list of Pacaso’s These properties have professional-grade kitchens and outdoor living areas designed specifically for entertaining. Because Pacaso handles property management, you can spend your time visiting your favorite wineries instead of worrying about landscaping or home maintenance. 10. Paris, France Left Bank mornings along the Seine, gallery afternoons in the 7th and 8th, and destination dining that never goes out of style. Paris rewards owners with walkable neighborhoods, rich arts and effortless access to wider Europe. For buyers focused on properties abroad, Paris brings heritage architecture paired with modern conveniences.  The city features beautiful, distinct seasons, with crisp, bright autumns and mild springs perfect for exploring historic streets. Real estate in the French capital remains incredibly stable, acting as a reliable asset in a globally coveted market. Pacaso’s The 11. London, England London blends global finance and world-class culture in one lively city. From Chelsea townhouses to Mayfair galleries, you can easily shift from morning meetings to Michelin-starred dining within minutes. For owners looking for a second home abroad, London brings an unmatched network effect for business and leisure in any season. The city features mild, distinct seasons, making it comfortable to explore historic landmarks and expansive royal parks year-round. The local real estate market remains incredibly stable, serving as a global safe haven for luxury buyers seeking both long-term value and immediate lifestyle benefits. Considering a base here gives you unparalleled access to Europe and beyond, while enjoying the rich heritage of the British capital. Pacaso’s For those drawn to the prestigious Mayfair district, the 12. Tuscany, Italy Tuscany has a timeless appeal that makes it a top choice for a vacation property. It acts as an Italian cultural hub where art and history meet, giving owners a lifestyle that is both relaxed and deeply enriching. Many consider the region one of the The local market has a high demand for historic residences updated to modern luxury standards. Florence, in particular, acts as a stable market because its architectural heritage and global tourism keep property values very resilient. The weather gives you warm, golden summers and crisp, beautiful winters, making it a great year-round escape.  13. Madrid, Spain Madrid has a lively mix of historic architecture and modern urban energy. The city has many notable attractions, like the Royal Palace, world-renowned art galleries and a culinary scene that never sleeps. The pleasant spring and autumn weather make it a great European base year-round. The local real estate market has been strong as international buyers increasingly seek properties in the Spanish capital. The city’s blend of heritage, lifestyle and connectivity makes Madrid one of the best places to invest in a vacation home abroad. 14. French Alps, France The French Alps are a top choice for anyone looking to buy a vacation home with true year-round appeal. The region has heavy winter snowfall for incredible skiing at iconic spots like Mont Blanc, followed by bright, mild summers perfect for hiking and mountain biking. Each home acts as an idyllic, warm retreat where you can completely unwind after an active day on the slopes. The French Alps continue to see a significant tightening of available inventory, as constant global demand for luxury chalets consistently outpaces new listings. This scarcity has turned the local real estate market into a highly competitive environment, where the limited number of homes on the market reinforces the region’s status as a reliable, high-security move.  15. Los Cabos, Mexico Los Cabos has a unique landscape where the desert meets the sea, giving owners a vacation experience unlike any other. The region is a high-end playground with championship golf courses and swimmable beaches that attract visitors from around the globe. It has a dry, sunny climate for most of the year, making it a good choice for a vacation home away from the rain. The local real estate market stays incredibly strong, driven by high demand from international buyers seeking a reliable coastal retreat close to the US. The area's consistent popularity makes it a smart choice for long-term value. Pacaso featured listings give you a front-row seat to the best of Baja. Choosing where to buy a vacation home Figuring out where to buy a vacation home starts with pinpointing exactly what you want out of your second property. Keeping a few key lifestyle factors in mind helps you narrow down the map and find a retreat that truly fits your needs.  Consider these essential elements before making your decision: Explore the best places to buy a vacation home with Pacaso Finding the right destination is just the first step in making your second-home dreams a reality. When you are ready to explore the best places to buy a vacation home, you can easily browse our

With year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches and endless attractions for every traveler’s interest, there’s a lot to love about Florida. And while Florida has plenty of full-time residents, it leads the country in second homes. According to the Florida has so many great second home destinations, it’s hard to know where to start. If you’re considering buying a vacation home in Florida, here are seven destinations you’ll want to check out.  1. 30A Also called the Emerald Coast, the region known as The area is popular among second home owners in search of beautiful white-sand beaches, impossibly blue-green waters and a slower pace of life. Its Florida Panhandle location makes this area a convenient vacation home location for homeowners throughout the South. 2. Delray Beach Located between West Palm Beach and Boca Raton, Delray Beach has an eclectic restaurant scene, a walkable downtown and an incredible range of live music venues. Atlantic Avenue, known by locals as “The Ave,” is bursting with local boutiques, galleries, spas, breweries and more. 3. Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale is the perfect second home destination for those who believe that the best days are those with plenty of fun in the sun. Located 30 minutes north of Miami, 4. Marco Island Spend your vacation days surrounded by the beauty of the Florida Everglades. A barrier island located off the southwest coast of Florida near Naples, During sun-soaked days, explore the Ten Thousand Islands Wildlife Refuge by kayak, take a sportfishing excursion in the Gulf of Mexico, go bird watching at 5. Miami Cosmopolitan, multicultural and action-packed, Miami is a one-of-a-kind vacation destination. Second home owners in South Florida’s biggest city have a world of opportunities at their fingertips.  6. The Florida Keys Nowhere in the world is quite like Because the archipelago spans 125 miles, there’s an island town to fit every buyer. Key Largo is prized for its convenience, as it’s just an hour from Miami. Watersports enthusiasts and anglers may choose the Middle Keys for its incredible sportfishing and colorful offshore reefs. For a truly remote getaway, consider buying in Key West, the southernmost point in the United States.  7. West Palm Beach Like many parts of Florida, Golf at more than 20 courses within the city limits and some 75 more within 20 miles. Sink your toes into the sand at local beaches including Lake Worth, Juno Beach and Ocean Reef Park. And on that rare rainy day, find shelter at the Choosing a destination is just one of the many decisions you’ll need to make on your journey to buying a vacation home in Florida. Here are a few more things you’ll want to keep in mind. 1. Home type Florida’s second home real estate market includes a 2. Amenities and lifestyle Swimming pools are one of the most 3. Affordability As one of the most popular destinations in the United States, it’s no surprise that real estate in Florida doesn’t come cheap — especially if you want to be close to the beach. Some Florida destinations are considerably more expensive than others, so having some flexibility with your target destination can put more homes within reach. 4. Rental potential Some second home owners aim to offset ownership costs by 5. Accessibility  Second home owners in Florida come from all over the United States, and beyond. But how often you’re able to use your second home often comes down to how easy it is to get there. You may find you’ll get more use out of a vacation home that’s close to a major airport or within easy driving distance of your hometown. 6. Low season experience  While Florida does boast plenty of year-round sunshine, there are seasonal variations to consider. People sometimes make the mistake of buying a second home in a destination they’ve only visited under ideal conditions. Take the time to experience your favorite Florida destination in non-peak seasons like during the heat of summer or the unpredictability of hurricane season.   Buying a vacation home in Florida also comes with its own share of pros and cons. Before you take the next step towards owning your dream home, here are some pros and cons to consider. Year-round sunshine + lifestyle perks Florida’s warm climate, beautiful beaches, championship golf courses, and boating lifestyle are a major draw for second-home buyers. Owning a vacation home gives you a consistent, comfortable place to return to without the hassle of booking hotels or rentals. Over time, it can also transition into a primary residence or retirement home, adding long-term lifestyle flexibility. Strong rental income potential High demand during peak travel seasons, especially winter and spring, can make short-term rentals highly lucrative in popular destinations. Renting your home when you’re not using it can help offset expenses like your mortgage, property taxes, insurance, and maintenance. In well-located markets, some owners generate meaningful supplemental income. No state income tax Florida’s 0% state income tax can be a meaningful financial advantage, particularly for high earners or those considering establishing residency. This can improve overall tax efficiency compared to owning in higher-tax states. Long-term appreciation potential Desirable coastal and lifestyle-driven markets in Florida have historically shown strong demand and resilience. Limited waterfront inventory, population growth, and continued tourism can support long-term property value appreciation. Potential tax advantages (if rented) If you rent out your property, you may be eligible for deductions such as mortgage interest, property taxes, insurance, property management fees, and maintenance expenses. When structured properly, these can help improve overall investment returns (consult a tax professional for specifics). High insurance costs Insurance is often the biggest drawback right now. Florida has some of the highest homeowners insurance premiums in the U.S., and many properties require additional hurricane/windstorm and flood insurance policies. Costs can be unpredictable and have risen significantly in recent years. Hurricane and climate risk Florida is the most hurricane-prone state in the U.S., which brings risks of property damage, storm-related disruptions, and rising insurance costs. Long-term climate considerations like flooding and sea-level rise can also impact property values and resale in certain areas. High ongoing costs Beyond your mortgage, ownership costs can add up quickly. These often include property taxes, insurance, HOA fees, utilities, and ongoing maintenance. Florida’s humidity, salt air, and storms can accelerate wear and tear, with maintenance typically running around 1–2% of the home’s value annually. Seasonal rental income swings Rental income is often concentrated in peak months. While winter and spring can be highly profitable, off-season demand may drop, leading to vacancies or reduced rates. Owners need sufficient cash reserves to cover expenses during slower periods. Short-term rental restrictions Regulations vary widely by city and HOA. Some areas restrict or prohibit short-term rentals altogether, while others require permits, taxes, and strict compliance. Navigating these rules can add complexity and limit your rental strategy. Market volatility in some areas Vacation home markets can be more sensitive to economic shifts than primary housing markets. Oversupply in certain areas, changing travel trends, or rising costs (like insurance) can impact both rental income and resale value. Buying and owning a Florida vacation home doesn’t have to be a solo pursuit. When you buy with Pacaso, you can enjoy all the benefits of second home ownership without all the hassle — or the full price tag.  Each Pacaso home has a maximum of eight owners, giving everyone plenty of access to the home while splitting both the upfront purchase price and

There’s a reason this part of Florida is called the Paradise Coast. Located south of Naples on the Gulf of Mexico, Marco Island is a popular year-round travel destination for nature lovers, sun worshippers, anglers and just about anyone who enjoys a slower pace of life under the Florida sunshine.  There are so many unique things to do in Marco Island that it can be hard to know where to start, so we’ve compiled 10 fun-filled activities for your next visit to Marco Island. And if you’re interested in making frequent visits, consider 1. Sink your toes in the sand at South Marco Beach With clear blue-green waters, soft, white sand and plenty of nearby amenities, It’s one of only two public beaches on the island and is open year-round from dawn to dusk. Public parking is available for a $10 fee if you don’t have a Collier County Resident Beach Parking Permit. However, dogs are not permitted, so be sure to plan accordingly. 2. Thanks to the natural beauty of the Gulf, Marco Island has been inspiring artists for as long as people have lived here. The In addition, the center offers a range of art classes for both adults and kids. It also offers unique events and experiences like concerts, comedy shows, film screenings, and live theater, providing a cultural experience on the island beyond sand and water. 3. A favorite watering hole for locals, You’ll also find a menu full of classic pub grub, from burgers and nachos to pizzas and tacos. Best of all, it’s a great place to watch sports, with multiple TV screens and an indoor/outdoor full-service bar. 4. Accessible by charter boat or kayak, the Today, they’re abandoned, and erosion and rising sea levels have surrounded them by water. It’s a truly one-of-a-kind place to visit, and also a popular spot for anglers. 5. Marco Island serves as the gateway to the 6. If Marco Island charter fishing is on your to-do list, this Gulf Coast destination is the perfect place to reel in your next big catch. The town serves as the perfect jumping-off point for a fishing expedition thanks to its easy access to both the backwaters of the Ten Thousand Islands and the open waters of the Gulf of Mexico.  Hire a knowledgeable local captain, and head offshore in search of grouper, tuna and king mackerel, or stay closer to shore to target tarpon, snook, and redfish. Many charters depart from nearby marinas and tailor trips to your experience level, whether you’re planning a half-day outing with the family or a full-day deep-sea adventure.  The area’s year-round fishing seasons and rich marine ecosystem mean there’s almost always something biting, making Marco Island one of the most rewarding places in Southwest Florida to cast a line. 7. The coastal waters surrounding Marco Island are home to a wide range of wildlife, and many of these animals are best seen from the deck of a boat. Several local companies offer Marco Island boat tours that focus on wildlife viewing and scenic cruising through the area’s coastal waterways and mangrove islands.  Depending on the time of year you visit, you may spot playful dolphins riding the boat’s wake, gentle manatees gliding through calm backwaters, and even sea turtles surfacing for air in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico.  Many boat tours also explore the nearby Ten Thousand Islands, a maze of mangrove islands and shallow estuaries that provide critical habitat for birds, fish, and marine mammals. Along the way, guides often share insights about the region’s ecosystem, local history, and the best places to spot wildlife.  With calm waters and abundant marine life, dolphin-watching tours are one of the most memorable and family-friendly ways to experience Marco Island’s natural beauty. 8. A more tranquil option than South Marco Beach, It’s also one of the best spots on Marco Island for shelling. Eagle-eyed beachcombers may find conchs, sand dollars, scallops, and other colorful shells washed up along the shore, especially in the early morning or after storms. The area is also a haven for birdwatching, with species like egrets, herons, sandpipers, and osprey frequently spotted along the sandbars and mangroves. 9. Held every Wednesday morning at Mackle Park, the Beyond the food, the market is a lively gathering place where visitors can browse handmade crafts, pick up unique souvenirs, and chat with local farmers and artisans. Many people come early to enjoy breakfast, sip fresh coffee, and stroll through the park while listening to live music or soaking up the warm sunshine. 10. Do some waterfront shopping at the Esplanade Shoppes  Designed to resemble a coastal Italian village, the The Esplanade is also known for its dockside restaurants and marina views, where diners can watch boats come and go while enjoying fresh seafood or a sunset cocktail. The center features a scenic courtyard with an open-air bar and fountain that often has live music in the evenings, making it a great gathering spot. How do I buy a second home in Marco Island with Pacaso?  Pacaso makes owning a second home simple by leveraging an Ready to make Marco Island your home away from home? Browse

Owning a vacation home in London puts you at the center of one of the world’s most iconic cities, with landmarks like Big Ben and Tower Bridge, world-class theater in the West End, and globally inspired dining just steps away. Though like any major global city, it comes with a few drawbacks. Below, we break down 16 pros and cons to help you decide if owning a home in England’s capital is right for you. London 101: Is London a good place to live? London is one of the United Kingdom’s biggest draws, with a population of But London is more than a tourist destination. It’s also an economic powerhouse, ranked the #1 most desirable city in the world by Resonance Consultancy’s Pros of living in London There are plenty of reasons to move to the U.K. and settle in London, with its blend of modern infrastructure and historic attractions. Here are 10 areas where London delivers when it comes to day-to-day life: 1. Accessible healthcare and medical support London’s residents have access to the National Health Service (NHS), a publicly funded healthcare program for U.K. residents. As long as you are legally recognized as a resident, you can expect free general practitioner visits. Many medical services are covered, such as regular doctor visits and mental health services. If the NHS doesn’t cover everything you need, you’re free to opt into a private insurance plan to supplement your nationwide healthcare. About one out of eight Britons holds a private medical insurance policy, according to 2. A hub of national and international travel London is well-known as an international city and is therefore highly globally connected and well-designed for travel. London Heathrow Airport was named the Trains are popular for commuting both nationally and internationally to and from London. The National Rail connects residents across England, Wales and Scotland. Eurostar’s international rail service departs from St. Pancras International, a major station in central London, and brings travelers to other popular hubs such as Amsterdam, Brussels, and Paris in just a few hours. 3. High quality of living and safety One indicator of London’s high quality of living is its school system, where 27.2% of elementary schools are considered outstanding, and 65.4% are considered good, according to The Health Foundation. This means that it’s more than just a safe destination for 4. A variety of job opportunities  Living in England is viable if you’re seeking employment. London has a higher concentration of opportunities than the U.K., and an overall employment rate of 74%. It’s important to research the industry you work in beforehand to understand the demand and gauge how challenging it is to land a job in your field.  The fintech market dominates much of London’s economy, and the city expects a 5. Plenty of green space Despite being known as a metropolitan destination, London has a surprisingly large concentration of green spaces. There are about Many of London’s green spaces are open to the public, making them among the best options for  6. Access to public transport London is primarily serviced by the London Underground rail service, also known locally as the Tube. It’s comprised of 272 stations and runs 11 lines that traverse through the city as well as the surrounding suburbs. London’s bus system operates over 700 routes, many of which are available 24/7, and these two services cover the entire city.  The Elizabeth Line is popular for travelers and takes commuters directly to Heathrow Airport. Suburban residents usually take the London Overground, which connects them to the city center. Public transportation in London is generally affordable, with most fares ranging between £2.80 and £5.60 for a single trip.  Most of London’s trains are wheelchair accessible, and 100% of the city’s buses offer step-free access. Transport is equipped with visual and audio announcements for further accessibility.  In addition to its trains and buses, London is known for its iconic black cabs, widely regarded as among the best taxi services in the world. Drivers must pass a famously difficult exam called the Knowledge, which requires memorizing thousands of streets and landmarks across the city.  Because of this rigorous licensing process, becoming a licensed London cab driver is considered a prestigious achievement and passengers benefit from drivers with an exceptional understanding of the city’s layout. 7. Plenty of things to see and do  Life in England is about more than the daily routine — it provides a unique opportunity to see some of the most globally sought-after attractions, and many of them are in the heart of London. History is a big draw, with Educational staples include the Natural History Museum and British Museum, both of which offer free admission. There are also plenty of performances at notable venues like the Lyceum Theatre and Apollo Victoria Theatre. Culinary options are abundant and diverse, ranging from the Mexican favorite Wahaca to the charming Peggy Porschen bakery. 8. Exciting nightlife options No matter which neighborhood you live in, London offers plenty of nightlife options. However, the highest concentrations are in the Mayfair, Shoreditch and Soho neighborhoods. You can enjoy world-class venues like Royal Albert Hall or the O2 Arena, where pop tours, orchestral performances and international DJs perform most nights.  For more intimate experiences, the Comedy Store in Soho is an incubator for UK comedians and Camden’s Jazz Cafe offers a distinguished experience for soul, blues and swing music fans. The Village Underground, located in East London, hosts up-and-coming indie acts in a trendy warehouse club. London is also widely considered one of the best dining cities in the world, known for everything from classic fish and chips and Sunday roasts to globally inspired cuisine. The city is home to acclaimed restaurants like Dishoom, famous for its Bombay-inspired dishes and Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, one of the city’s most celebrated fine dining destinations. 9. Abundant culture and history London is an Anglophile’s paradise, with centuries of rich history that have built the city’s unique cultural draw. The monarchy remains one of the most notable parts of London’s heritage, and if you live in London, you may see its influences on a daily basis.  Buckingham Palace is located in Central London and is the home of the British monarch. Many flock to its facade to witness the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony or to get a glimpse of the royal family on major national holidays. Westminster Abbey and Kensington Palace are other notable places to learn about this rich history.  Cons of living in London Like any major city, living in London comes with a few drawbacks. Here are the most important cons to consider if you plan on living in the capital city:  11. Cost of living London is notoriously expensive, which can be prohibitive if you plan a major move. Numbeo cites that the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is However, if you’re coming from the United States and have a sizable income, costs may feel more reasonable. For example, Numbeo’s comparative report reveals that the cost of living in London is 12. The population density If you’re not a fan of the hustle and bustle of a major city, London may not be the best fit. Especially in central boroughs like Kensington and Camden, there are both residential and tourism crowds to contend with most of the time.  This sometimes leads to packed trains, slow congested roadways and a good amount of noise. It can often lead to higher rates of petty crime, such as 13. A vast number of tourists In 2024, London welcomed approximately The main drawback of London’s tourism industry is that it's essentially nonstop. Travelers love to visit for the summer’s Wimbledon Championship games as much as they do for the London Christmas Markets in winter. This can be a struggle for residents who have to endure long lines and inflated prices because of the city’s popularity. 14. Lack of cleanliness Parts of London with high foot traffic, such as King’s Cross, Victoria and Oxford Street, are often dirtier due to tens of thousands of people moving through them on a daily basis. London is known for its rain, which not only dulls the city's appearance but also slows construction and the work of city workers tasked with building and cleaning the region.  Tourism also complicates the issue since there isn’t an official “off-season” when the city can recover and straighten up. This combination of tourism with a dense population makes London feel grittier than other areas in the U.K. 15. Poor air quality Poor air quality is a concern in London, especially in densely populated neighborhoods and near major roads. The city has consistently worked to reduce air pollution, but levels 16. Wet and gloomy weather London experiences four distinct seasons, but one factor persists year-round — dampness. While the city isn’t known for torrential downpours, brief showers and light drizzles are very common.  While this isn’t the biggest hindrance for walking through a neighborhood or driving, it may cause mold issues and additional wear and tear on your home. Additionally, the frequency of grey skies can be a challenge for some residents, especially during the darker winter months. 17. Unreliable transportation While London’s public transportation system is quite comprehensive and reaches most areas of the city, it comes with issues such as overcrowding, congestion and delays. Since London has one of the oldest networks of trains in the world, much of its infrastructure is aging more quickly than the city can keep up with. Buses also experience significant delays due to heavy traffic and lane closures, making it difficult to predict how long it will take to commute throughout the city. Driving in the city can also be a challenge with higher gas prices than in other areas of the country and slow driving during peak hours. Popular places to live in London London houses 32 distinct boroughs and hundreds of neighborhoods and districts, each offering a unique set of activities and communities to engage with. While it’s worth it to take the time to find the perfect fit for your relocation, here are three of Mayfair  Mayfair is one of London’s most refined neighborhoods, lined with Michelin-starred dining options, high-end real estate and luxury shops. It’s also a cultural hotspot with a cluster of art galleries, as well as the Royal Academy of Arts. It’s an ideal neighborhood for high-earning professionals who want to live close to work, as it’s in proximity to business districts in central London.  If you’re interested in getting a vacation home in London, check out Pacaso’s Westminster  Westminster is in the heart of central London, best for those who want to live within walking distance to the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. It’s a great option for those who don’t want to drive, with many transportation stations in the neighborhood. Tourism and royal events keep the neighborhood busy year-round.  Chelsea  Chelsea is a riverside gem, lined with townhouses that give the neighborhood a polished yet residential feel. It’s located in Southwest London and its main vein is King’s Road, a strip lined with design shops, boutique clothing stores and several notable restaurants. It’s best for those who want city access with a laid-back atmosphere.  If you’re interested in owning a luxury property in Chelsea, explore Pacaso’s Live in London with ease with Pacaso With Pacaso’s professionally managed LLC co-ownership model, buyers can purchase ⅛ or ¼ of a luxury second home, sharing costs with like-minded owners while enjoying dedicated time in the property each year. Pacaso’s team leverages local expertise to simplify buying, financing and ownership abroad – helping avoid the logistical challenges that often come with traditional international purchases. Pacaso also curates luxury homes in London’s most desirable neighborhoods, furnishes and designs them to be move-in ready, and provides a dedicated local property manager to handle maintenance, vendors and day-to-day oversight. The result is a streamlined, hassle-free way to own a second home in London without the administrative burden of managing it yourself. If you’ve weighed the pros and cons of living in London and decided to take the leap, browse our selection of

South Carolina is home to some of the most beautiful and varied islands on the East Coast. And the best islands in South Carolina offer experiences for a variety of travelers, from those seeking luxurious golf course-lined retreats to quaint, small-town family getaways. In this guide, we’ll help you compare each destination by lifestyle, amenities and long-term appeal, so you know what to expect when buying a second home in the area. 1. Hilton Head Island Hilton Head Island offers one of the most well-rounded experiences on the South Carolina coast, blending family-friendly amenities with upscale touches. Golfers love it for its 20+ courses, and cyclists flock to the 60+ miles of scenic bike trails. With a robust dining scene that includes spots like Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana and The Jazz Corner, and high-end resorts, it’s no surprise that Hilton Head is one of the The Looking for a space that can accommodate a large group of family and friends? Check out 2. Kiawah Island If you’re seeking privacy, exclusivity and top-tier amenities, Its carefully planned community layout makes it feel peaceful and uncrowded, ideal for buyers who value serenity. That said, the controlled access and limited nightlife can feel a bit quiet if you’re used to more social or bustling beach towns. Still, as one of the best islands to live on in South Carolina, it offers a more quiet beach escape while having access to upscale amenities. Interested in purchasing a second house in Kiawah Island? Check out 3. Seabrook Island Seabrook Island offers a calm, residential alternative to its neighbor, Kiawah, with just as much natural beauty but a more understated atmosphere. The island is known for its peaceful pace, scenic marshes and low-density living. Plus, it’s home to a renowned equestrian center and two beautiful golf courses, Ocean Winds and Crooked Oaks. This South Carolina island is an excellent option for second-home shoppers who want a more local-feeling, lived-in community. While Seabrook has fewer shopping and dining options compared to other South Carolina beach towns, its appeal lies in what it doesn’t have: crowds, traffic and noise. 4. Edisto Island Edisto Island is a top pick for Edisto’s laid-back vibe makes it one of the best islands to live on in South Carolina for those who want peace over prestige. Just keep in mind, entertainment options and nightlife are minimal, making it a better fit for nature walks and stargazing than cocktail hours. 5. Fripp Island Fripp Island blends a private island experience with an approachable, family-first atmosphere. Located near Hunting Island State Park, this gated community is known for its abundant wildlife, bike-friendly roads and safe, easygoing environment. It’s particularly attractive to second-home buyers with kids or grandkids, offering amenities like golf carts, tennis and beach access within a close-knit community. The gated access adds to the sense of seclusion, though it can also mean more planning for guests and deliveries. 6. Daufuskie Island Daufuskie Island is perfect for buyers who want something rare and remote. With boat-only access, no traffic and a rich Its charm is undeniable, but living here means adapting to limited services and ferry-only transportation. If you’re  7. Folly Beach Folly Beach brings boho beach vibes and a surfer’s spirit, and it's all just minutes from downtown Charleston. It’s one of the liveliest South Carolina beach towns, with live music, beachfront bars and a casual vibe that attracts both locals and visitors. It’s also a great option for second-home buyers who want proximity to city amenities. But with popularity comes congestion: summer parking can be tight and beach access is best enjoyed early in the day. Still, Folly’s personality and location make it a standout on any coastal shortlist. 8. Isle of Palms Isle of Palms offers a polished resort feel with excellent proximity to Charleston. With long stretches of beach, access to Wild Dunes Resort and abundant water sports, it’s well-suited for second-homeowners looking for a balance of relaxation and recreation. Rental demand is strong, especially in peak season, making it a good candidate for passive income, though that popularity means the island can feel quite busy. Yet, it remains one of the best islands in South Carolina for families, thanks to its clean beaches and activity-rich environment. Located on the quiet side of the island, 9. Sullivan’s Island Sullivan’s Island strikes a rare balance between quiet charm and high-end living. It’s known for its quiet residential streets, upscale dining and historical landmarks like With restrictions on short-term rentals, the island stays peaceful year-round—a major draw for second-homeowners who prefer community over tourism. While it’s not a nightlife hotspot, the calm, consistent atmosphere is exactly what many buyers are looking for. For 360-degree ocean views and a mix of relaxing indoor and outdoor living spaces, check out Pacaso's 10. Hunting Island Hunting Island isn’t a place to buy a home but a place to reconnect with the wild. As a protected state park, this barrier island offers hiking trails like Lagoon Access Trail and Diamondback Rattlesnake Trail, historical lighthouse views and untouched beaches that feel like a world away. Since it’s not residential, it works best as a day-trip destination or nature-filled weekend outing, particularly if you own on nearby Fripp Island or Beaufort. 11. Bulls Island Bulls Island offers pure wilderness just a short ferry ride from the mainland. Part of the With zero development or commercial activity, Bulls isn’t a place to live, but it’s a must-see for second-homeowners nearby who want a taste of untamed South Carolina coastline. What to consider before choosing a South Carolina island Before choosing the best South Carolina island for your second home, consider the amenities provided, seasonal changes, and accessibility. When deciding on your slice of paradise, look at the following key factors: Find the island that fits your lifestyle with Pacaso At Pacaso, we help buyers find second homes in places that fit their lifestyle. No matter your preferences, we’ve got it: a luxury retreat on Kiawah Island, a family escape on Hilton Head or a laid-back surf town like Folly Beach. Our LLC co-ownership model lets you own a slice of a high-end second home for a fraction of the cost, with professional management and year-round enjoyment. Take a look at your potential

San Diego has beautiful landscapes, great weather and vibrant culture in equal measure. And no matter what area you see yourself living in, there's a place that's perfect for you in one of the best neighborhoods in San Diego. Want to live close to the beach so you can go surfing whenever you have a free moment? Look for a place in Encinitas. If you love the nightlife, a vacation home in the East Village can help you maximize your time at the clubs and bars.  Discover more of our top picks for the best neighborhoods to live in San Diego below. 1. La Jolla La Jolla is quintessential California living and one of the best neighborhoods to live in San Diego. It's close to some of the La Jolla is also one of the quieter parts of the San Diego area and features some great recreation opportunities at La Jolla Cove and Torrey Pines State Reserve. For young professionals, retirees and families, it's a perfect fit for a While La Jolla isn't the most walkable part of San Diego, there are still lots of places for you to walk, including shopping and natural areas. We recommend strolling the 2. Mission Bay  The Mission Bay area truly embodies 3. Encinitas Encinitas was named one of the 50 If you've never surfed before, book a lesson at 4. Ocean Beach Ocean Beach gives you pretty much everything you could want when you're looking for the best neighborhoods to stay in San Diego. It's close to the water and only a few miles from downtown, making it an excellent choice for those who can't decide between living in the 5. Barrio Logan For authentic city vibes and the excitement of an up-and-coming community, you can't do any better than Barrio Logan. Nestled just outside of the downtown area, it's full of converted warehouses that are home to some of the city's best artists, galleries, breweries and restaurants.  If you're a young professional or like to be where the old meets new, Barrio Logan is where you need to be. Barrio Logan's proximity to the border also makes it perfect for anyone who loves traveling to 6. Little Italy If you're a full-on foodie, you want to be in Little Italy. From classic restaurants like Along with great eateries, Little Italy is home to a bustling Saturday 7. East Village The East Village neighborhood has seen a lot of change — what was once a rundown area full of warehouses east of the Gaslamp Quarter is now one of the best neighborhoods to stay in San Diego. It’s home to the 8. Hillcrest As one of San Diego's oldest neighborhoods, Hillcrest has something for everyone. It's one of the city's LGBTQ+ hubs (San Diego's Pride Parade takes place there every year) and a magnet for artists.  It's located next to 9. Pacific Beach The Pacific Beach neighborhood is ideal for California beach living. Take a stroll (or skate or bike) along the boardwalk, go surfing, head to SeaWorld with the family or grab some authentic tacos.  Pacific Beach really comes alive at night as one of the party hotspots for college students in the area. If you're searching for a neighborhood with everything you need to have fun and relax, you can find it in Pacific Beach. 10. Carlsbad Carlsbad is the type of tourist town where you actually want to have a Whether you're looking for a 11. Imperial Beach Imperial Beach is right across the border from Tijuana, Mexico. The Pier Plaza is great for watching the water, the surfing in the area is excellent and you can even ride horses on parts of the beach. The wildlife refuge at the 12. North Park North Park is at the top of the coolest and best neighborhoods in San Diego for many reasons. It's stuffed with vibey cafes, photo-worthy eateries, hip bars and breweries and one-of-a-kind boutiques and gift shops. But it isn't all go-go-go in North Park; 13. Kensington Founded in the early part of the 20th century, Kensington is a true local neighborhood. That means the community is tight-knit, friendly and home to hidden gem restaurants, cafes and shops. If the idea of living in a walkable part of the city that’s quiet and a little removed from some of the glitz and glam (while still being a short trip away from downtown or the beach) sounds ideal, check out Kensington. 14. Oceanside Oceanside is experiencing a rebirth as a distinct neighborhood that brings everything from surfing to cuisine together in a fun, photo-worthy package. At the northern tip of the city, Oceanside is home to some of the largest beaches in San Diego and is one of California's Cultural Districts that highlights unique local artists and homegrown culture. As a gateway to the city, it has a little bit of everything people think of when they think of San Diego. 15. Old Town Old Town is a great choice of neighborhood for people who aren't sure exactly where to live in San Diego because it has a great variety of things to do. Its mixture of authentic Mexican restaurants, historic buildings at the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park and 16. Coronado Coronado is located on Coronado Island and connected to San Diego via the San Diego-Coronado Bridge. This island community is known for its wide sandy beaches, charming streets and relaxed pace of life.  The neighborhood is anchored by the iconic With its calm atmosphere, excellent schools and postcard-worthy scenery, Find your future home in San Diego with Pacaso Visiting San Diego is always a treat, and the more time you spend there, the easier it will be to find the best neighborhoods in San Diego that are a perfect fit for your lifestyle. The city is one of the When you're looking for a

Beyond the tourist facade of the City of Love lies a collection of vibrant neighborhoods, each offering a unique slice of Parisian life. That said, finding the best places to live in Paris can feel overwhelming due to the sheer number of neighborhoods and lifestyle options.  To help, we’ve picked the 11 best neighborhoods to live in Paris. Whether you’re looking to How Paris neighborhoods work (quick primer on arrondissements) Paris is split into 20 distinct districts called arrondissements. These arrondissements are arranged in a snail-shell shape, starting in the middle and winding outward. The first arrondissement sits in the center near the Louvre, and the higher numbers sit on the city edges. You’ll want to keep this simple system in mind when deciding which arrondissement to choose in Paris. The River Seine cuts the city in half to create the Left Bank and the Right Bank. The Left Bank ‌is filled with historic charm and artistic areas. The Right Bank feels more fast-paced and modern. Finding the best area to stay in Paris for you comes down to matching the neighborhood to your lifestyle rather than prestige.  You can explore our Best places to live in Paris at a glance Use this list to quickly find the best neighborhoods to stay in Paris for your specific needs. 1. Le Marais (3rd & 4th Arrondissements) Le Marais is a historic district known for its trendy boutiques, art galleries and thriving LGBTQ+ scene. The winding streets have centuries-old mansions that owners have turned into stylish shops and apartments. You can step into the lively atmosphere of Place des Vosges or admire the exhibitions at the Centre Pompidou. The Le Marais area is an excellent location for a second home because of its walkability. You rarely need public transport when the best bakeries and shops are right downstairs. The neighborhood stays active all year, so you never arrive at a quiet or empty street. 2. Saint-Thomas-d'Aquin (7th Arrondissement) Saint-Thomas-d’Aquin offers a calmer and more residential version of the Left Bank experience. The neighborhood is known for its elegant Haussmann buildings, art galleries and proximity to some of Paris’s most important cultural landmarks. Streets here feel polished and quiet, with fewer crowds than nearby Saint-Germain-des-Prés while still being close to cafes and shopping. For a second home, Saint-Thomas-d’Aquin appeals to buyers looking for privacy and convenience in a central location. You are within walking distance of the Seine and major museums, yet the atmosphere remains relaxed and residential. The neighborhood feels distinctly Parisian without the constant tourist traffic found in more famous areas. Interested in exploring Pacaso’s luxury homes in Saint-Thomas-d’Aquin? Check out our 3. Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th Arrondissement) Saint-Germain-des-Prés is known for the classic Parisian experience and served as the meeting place for famous writers and philosophers throughout the 20th century. You can still feel that history today while sitting at iconic spots like Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots. The streets are lined with luxury fashion boutiques and historic churches like the Saint-Germain-des-Prés is arguably the most desirable location for a second home in Paris. You get the safety and quiet of a residential area, along with the excitement of the city center. Living in the 6th means you can start your morning with a run in the Jardin du Luxembourg and end it with a glass of wine on a terrace. That is why you’ll find so many Pacaso homes here, including our listing on 4. Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement) The Latin Quarter is steeped in academic tradition and bohemian culture. You’ll find the prestigious Sorbonne University and many charming bookstores in this neighborhood. The neighborhood is often considered one of the best places to live in Paris for students because of that academic energy. The lively student population means the cafes and bistros stay busy all year. The 5th Arrondissement works well for a second home because it balances deep history with youthful vibrancy. You’re buying into a part of the city that feels truly ancient and authentic. You can stroll along the narrow streets as you admire the Gothic architecture of the Sorbonne or relax by the serene waters of the Seine River.  5. Montmartre (18th Arrondissement) Montmartre sits high on a hill, allowing for some of the best views in the city. The area is also famous for its artistic history and bohemian atmosphere. You’ll find places like the iconic 6. Canal Saint-Martin (10th Arrondissement) Canal Saint-Martin is a trendy neighborhood known for its beautiful waterway and lively street art. You’ll find spirited bars and restaurants packed with locals here. The area ranks as one of the best places to live in Paris for young adults because of its laid-back atmosphere. You can rent an electric boat, stroll along the iron footbridges or just relax at a cafe by the water. The Canal Saint-Martin district fits those who want to live like a local. You get a genuine sense of local life here. The vibe blends hip urban culture with natural beauty. You might also find that homes are often priced lower than in the city center, so you can often get more space for your money. 7. Passy (16th Arrondissement) Passy is one of the most affluent and secure neighborhoods in Paris. The area features elegant Haussmannian architecture that lines peaceful residential streets. It has a distinct village atmosphere that feels removed from the chaotic tourist centers. The 16th Arrondissement borders the massive Bois de Boulogne park. Residents enjoy immediate access to expansive green spaces for walking and relaxation. A second home in Passy works well if you want a sophisticated vibe with a strong sense of community. You can indulge in high-end shopping along the bustling Rue de Passy or explore local food markets. Living here means you experience the polite and polished side of Parisian life. 8. Madeleine (8th Arrondissement) If you love the glitz of high-end living, then you’ll find that magic in Madeleine. The streets are packed with world-class fashion houses and some of the best fine-dining spots in the city. You can spend your afternoons wandering past the massive columns of the Madeleine is a great central spot to choose for a second home in Paris. You’re very central to the 9. Trocadéro (16th Arrondissement) Trocadéro has one of the best views of the Eiffel Tower in the area. You’ll have many opportunities to enjoy it thanks to its wide avenues and stately stone palaces. You can spend your afternoons wandering through the formal gardens or visiting the museums inside the Palais de Chaillot. It’s also close to the majestic Bois de Boulogne for morning walks or weekend picnics. The area is a fantastic choice for a second home for a peaceful retreat that still feels prestigious. Many international buyers prefer this district because it’s safe and feels like a true residential community. 9. Louvre/Tuileries (1st Arrondissement) You’ll find yourself in the exact center of the city when you stay in the 1st Arrondissement. That means world-class treasures like the Louvre Museum and the Palais Royal are right at your doorstep. You can spend your mornings strolling through the manicured Tuileries Gardens or browsing the boutiques along Rue de Rivoli.  The district is an incredible choice for a second home because you have much of the city within walking distance. You’ll love how easy it is to reach any other neighborhood since the main transit lines all meet here. 11. Bastille (11th Arrondissement) The 11th Arrondissement is on the lively side of Paris. Here, streets are packed with fashionable cafes, hidden galleries and some of the best nightlife in the city. The area around Place de la Bastille has a youthful energy that makes it a favorite for those who want to experience the city like a local. Bastille is a great choice for a spacious, lively second home without the cost of more central neighborhoods. You can easily spend your mornings at the busy local markets or take a short stroll down to the Seine River. It also stays lively all year long, unlike some tourist-heavy areas. 12. Bercy (12th Arrondissement) If you prefer modern architecture and wide-open spaces, you’ll enjoy living in Bercy. The neighborhood is home to ‌Parc de Bercy, a massive green space built on the site of old wine storehouses. You can spend your days wandering through the gardens or exploring the nearby Bois de Vincennes.  You can also catch a world-class show at the The district is a great option for a second home with modern comforts and local charm. Living in the 12th Arrondissement feels quieter and more open than the busy center. Many buyers also appreciate the excellent transit links, especially the automated Metro Line 14 which makes it easy to travel across the city. What it’s like owning a home in Paris Owning a pied-à-terre (home) in Paris is a great lifestyle choice, yet it often comes with a mountain of paperwork and confusing local laws. You might find yourself struggling with French bureaucracy or trying to find a plumber who speaks your language. New energy laws now force you to pay for expensive renovations before you can even use or rent out many older apartments.  You also have to use the “Notaire” system, where legal fees and taxes can take months to process. And in most older buildings, it’s hard to put in air conditioning or elevators without a unanimous vote from every neighbor in the block. Buying with A smarter way to own a home in Paris The decision between the best places to live in Paris comes down to what you prefer for your stay. Gaining access to luxury homes in dream cities is just one of four reasons to consider co-ownership for your life abroad. Browse all of our

For many real estate agents, Pacaso sparks interest — and just as many questions. To explore those questions, we spoke with top-producing realtor, real estate investor, and author, Eugene Kamenskiy, who has built a dedicated platform educating buyers and agents on the Pacaso model.  Drawing from his personal journey, professional credentials, and years of hands-on experience, he shares why Pacaso resonated with him and effective marketing strategies for real estate agents to thoughtfully and successfully position it in today’s luxury real estate landscape. This conversation is designed for real estate agents: practical, candid, and rooted in real-world application rather than sales theory. Q1: How did you first get introduced to Pacaso, and what was your initial impression? My journey to Pacaso began from a very personal place — a dream that started in the middle of a cold Canadian winter. During the harsh winter of 2021, amid COVID-19 lockdowns and ice storms in Toronto, I found myself dreaming of an escape to warmer climates: the Florida sun, the sound of the ocean, and the idea of finally owning a vacation home. It was a dream I’d held for nearly 20 years, ever since a conversation with a former boss who owned a modest Florida property. When I finally began researching seriously, reality hit quickly. The beachfront home I envisioned was priced around $4 million — far beyond my $500,000 budget. Even with financing, the ongoing carrying costs, maintenance responsibilities, and the fact that I’d only use the home four to six weeks a year made traditional ownership financially impractical. That dream felt out of reach — until I discovered the concept of co-ownership. That’s when I found Pacaso. When I first came across Pacaso, it was a pivotal moment. My initial impression? I was blown away. Here was a Silicon Valley–backed company that had cracked the code for affordable luxury living. Pacaso wasn’t just offering co-ownership — it was delivering a In my book, I describe Pacaso as a “paradigm-shifting solution” because it turned what once felt like fantasy into something real and attainable. My takeaway was simple: Pacaso built the model that made the impossible finally possible. Q2: What made you confident in recommending Pacaso and promoting it in general? At first, I was impressed by how the Pacaso model opened doors for people who once believed owning a luxury vacation home was impossible. Emotionally, it felt revolutionary — a concept that could truly redefine the entire second-home industry and create new opportunities for countless dreamers. But what ultimately gave me confidence wasn’t just the idea — it was the people and the proof behind it. Leadership & track record What gave me instant trust in Pacaso was the leadership behind it. Spencer Rascoff (former Zillow CEO) and Austin Allison (founder of Dotloop) aren’t just successful tech entrepreneurs — they’re true real estate visionaries who understand both innovation and property ownership. Their advisory board includes some of the most respected names in the industry, and with $1.5 billion in funding and backing from top-tier investors, Pacaso’s credibility felt undeniable. These are people who clearly know what they’re doing – equipped with the experience, data, and resources to evaluate markets and validate concepts at the highest level. I remember thinking, A proven model Results speak louder than words. Pacaso now has over 2,000 satisfied owners, 90,000 nights booked, a $1B real estate portfolio, and operations in 40 global destinations. Real estate asset As a real estate investor, I immediately recognized the strength of Pacaso’s model. Resilience by design From an investor’s perspective, the Pacaso model appeared remarkably resilient across different market cycles — that was my logical conclusion. When markets are strong, share values naturally rise with the tide, reflecting appreciation in the underlying real estate. But when interest rates climb and affordability declines, co-ownership becomes not just an attractive alternative — it might become the only accessible path for many buyers to step into luxury ownership, fueling demand and, in turn, supporting share values. Pacaso’s structure adapts to both climates, making it, in my view, a smart and sustainable model in any market. Personal alignment As a licensed realtor, mortgage agent, and real estate investor with a multimillion-dollar portfolio — and someone who has always valued innovation that delivers real, lasting results — I saw in Pacaso a model that passed every test: financial, operational, and philosophical. It represents exactly what I believe in: smart, efficient investing, true hard-asset ownership, and the freedom to live your dream today, not someday. Q3: What do you wish more real estate agents understood about Pacaso? I have a chapter in my book: This is not just another home; it’s a lifestyle transformation that opens doors to experiences previously out of reach. Pacaso doesn’t compete with traditional ownership — it expands the market, creating homeowners out of people who might otherwise rent, stay in hotels, or never own a vacation property at all. Agents who promote Pacaso are not only salespeople but also educators and advisors, helping clients realize dreams they once thought impossible. I also wish agents recognized the power of leverage within the Pacaso model. With the ease and flexibility of  Finally, agents should understand that Pacaso solves real problems, such as affordability barriers, management headaches, and underutilization. It’s a legitimate, modern solution for sophisticated buyers seeking maximum return and enjoyment. From my own marketing experience, I’ve learned one important lesson: if you promote only “savings” or “affordability,” you attract the wrong audience. The real message is value, access, and lifestyle transformation — that’s where Pacaso truly shines. Q4: How does Pacaso enhance the second-home ownership experience? In my book, Pacaso transforms second-home ownership from a burden into pure joy — it eliminates every pain point traditionally tied to owning a vacation property and replaces them with simplicity, flexibility, and freedom. Eliminates the “second job” problem Traditional vacation homeownership often feels like work, from coordinating maintenance and paying bills to arranging cleaners and worrying about an empty property. You finally arrive for a short vacation and end up busy fixing things instead of relaxing. Pacaso changes everything. They handle design, furnishing, cleaning, repairs, utilities, taxes, insurance, and reserve funds. You simply arrive, unpack, and start living your dream. Adds true flexibility With Upgrades the Asset Instead of owning a modest $500,000 property, my clients can now own a share of a $2M – $3.5M luxury home with resort-level amenities, the difference between a basic condo miles from the beach and a luxury waterfront estate just steps from the sand. Freedom from debt and stress In my book and No debt, no carrying costs (with smart strategy) Using strategies I outline in my book, Pacaso owners can invest their remaining (saved) capital in cash-flowing assets that cover their monthly Pacaso ownership fees. That means they enjoy their dream home without debt and without out-of-pocket carrying costs. Pacaso doesn’t just enhance second-home ownership — it completely redefines it. It’s not about owning a property; it’s about owning your freedom, your time, and your dream. Q5: What feedback have you received from clients? Many clients who discovered Pacaso through While my book The book itself has generated strong interest. My reader survey shows that people become more interested in co-ownership after reading it. Q6: If you had to describe Pacaso to another real estate agent in just a few words, what would you say? "Pacaso is where Silicon Valley innovation meets luxury real estate — making dream homes accessible through smart co-ownership, backed by proven leadership, and wrapped in hassle-free, turnkey management." "Unlock the luxury market for your clients. Pacaso turns $2M second homes into accessible $400K opportunities — with you earning on every share sold." About the agent This Q&A features Eugene Kamenskiy, a top-producing realtor and Pacaso expert behind Your opportunity with Pacaso Pacaso isn’t just a new ownership model — it’s a new opportunity for agents. For real estate agents willing to understand the structure, educate thoughtfully, and position Pacaso as a value-driven lifestyle solution rather than a discount play, the upside is meaningful. Pacaso enables agents to serve buyers who may have otherwise stayed on the sidelines — and to do so with credibility, confidence, and scale. If you have additional questions,

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,

Pacaso is a team of real estate and tech veterans with a mission: Enrich lives by making second home ownership possible and enjoyable for more people.  We offer buyers a smarter way to approach owning a second home: professionally managed Buying and owning a second home through Pacaso dramatically reduces costs and lessens management and scheduling hassles. This lets buyers who are sitting on the sidelines have the chance to become true property owners of a home that previously was beyond their price range.  And it opens up opportunities for real estate agents to have new conversations with buyers and sellers. They can access the second home of their dreams in one of their favorite locations for less money than if they purchased a whole home.   Co-owning real estate is not a new concept. But doing it on your own with friends or family often creates hassle and strain on personal relationships. Many DIY owners find it daunting to communicate effectively about scheduling, maintenance and managing the home.  Pacaso eliminates those issues, making co-ownership easy for the first time by creating a professionally managed, property-specific LLC design especially for co-ownership. A limited liability company (LLC) ensures that the owners are not personally liable for the company’s debts or liabilities. It combines some elements of a partnership, sole proprietorship and a corporation. For buyers, co-ownership increases their purchasing power. It also reduces the stress and pressure of whole home ownership. Gone is the feeling of guilt from leaving a home empty much of the year. Gone is the hassle of vacation rental platforms, the anxiety of knowing that dozens (or hundreds) of strangers are traveling in and out of your home, and the tedium of dealing with repairs.  The benefits for buyers, sellers, owners Buyers can shop from Pacaso’s curated listings. Alternatively, if they find an active listing they’d love to co-own, they can submit the listing to Pacaso; if it meets our specifications, we’ll partner with the buyer to purchase and close on the home, as well as identify vetted co-owners. Each home is co-owned by a maximum of eight owners who use it with only family and friends; no outside rentals are allowed. Owners schedule time in the home with our innovative and equitable SmartStay system on the owner app. And instead of worrying about maintenance, Pacaso's professionally managed LLC will take care of all property management needs. Sellers have two options to work with Pacaso. First, they can decide to sell their whole home to us. Pacaso is a qualified buyer, and we pay premium prices for turnkey homes in the right locations.  Alternatively, current second home owners can decide to keep as much as half of the ownership in their home while unlocking their equity by selling the other portion through Pacaso’ selldown program. This allows owners to keep the home they love while tapping into its liquidity and continuing to enjoy access to their second home. Why partner with Pacaso today? The Pacaso crew, led by former executives from Zillow, has more than 100 years of combined expertise using big ideas and innovative technology to create great real estate experiences. The company’s founders believe second homeownership enhances people’s lives because it has enhanced theirs. And it’s the driving force for the company.  This co-ownership model is a chance for you to bring a modern way of owning as well as fresh inventory to your customers.  Be part of the next wave of innovation, re-inventing how second homes are bought, sold and owned — and creating new business opportunities for you.  -------- Quiz 1. What type of second home ownership does Pacaso offer? A. Whole ownership of a second home B. Time share ownership D. None of the above 2. True or false: Co-ownership is not new, but Pacaso is solving the major pain points associated with the DIY approach. B. False 3. The advantages of Pacaso co-ownership for buyers include: A. They can now afford to own a home previously out of reach financially. They can bring a listing, from Pacaso or any website, that they are excited about to Pacaso. If it’s a fit, Pacaso will buy the home and bring together co-owners. B. They get true real estate property ownership of a fully managed single-family home with fewer hassles and headaches.  4. The advantages of working with Pacaso for sellers include: A. Pacaso pays a premium for turnkey homes in select locations. B. Sellers can unlock equity and still retain up to half ownership of their homes. C. Sellers can remain co-owners of their homes but will have to find the buyers themselves. 5. The professionally managed LLC also handles property management. B. False

Los Angeles and luxury real estate go hand-in-hand. And when the city’s A-list buyers want to Stars of Bravo’s long-running “Million Dollar Listing LA” reality series and co-owners of Josh and Matt worked with Zillow for years and had gotten to know Pacaso co-founder and former Zillow CEO Spencer Rascoff. They had also met Pacaso co-founder and CEO Austin Allison, and the brothers knew Rascoff and Allison were real estate innovators.  So when the Pacaso founders approached the team to discuss their new venture, the brothers were intrigued. “Knowing their track record, we were interested, because these were guys who changed the business,” said Josh. Added Matt: “Josh and I jumped at the idea. It was an incredible concept and a product that I would use.” The Altmans, always on the lookout for innovations in real estate, were among Pacaso’s early agent partners. “We like to be the first to do new things. In order to stay on top, you really have to embrace change and technology, and understand how it can work to your benefit,” said Josh. But they had plenty of questions. “When Spencer and Austin presented their business idea to us, my initial reaction was, ‘How is it different from a timeshare, how do people sell their shares, how do they get financing’ — just like any buyer hearing about it for the first time,” said Josh. “Because it’s a new company, it takes a second for clients to wrap their heads around it, but after conversations with the Pacaso team, all our questions were answered.”   After going through the sale process with Pacaso, which Josh described as “seamless,” he was convinced. “I looked at my brother and said, ‘This is going to be really big. This is going to be game changing.’” Matt said it didn’t take long for their team at The Altman Brothers to embrace the concept as well. “I explained the benefits of the Pacaso model for both the homeowner and the buyers, and the team got it very quickly.”   More importantly, the brothers have found second home shoppers to be highly receptive. “The best selling point for buyers is you don’t have to take care of the house,” said Josh. “That’s why a lot of people shy away from second homes. With Pacaso, you get the best of both worlds but for a much lower cost. My clients like it because of the ease.”   For Matt, Pacaso’s fully managed model is a huge perk for buyers. “Owning a second home isn’t easy — you have maintenance, which is an issue no matter how new the home is, you’ve got upkeep. With a Pacaso, you just walk in with your toothbrush and your clothes. It’s a great feeling with no stress. It lets you enjoy a second home like you’re supposed to.”  Being able to tap into the luxury market at a lower price point is a win for buyers, said Josh. “Pacaso has really expanded the buyer pool for second home ownership. Most of the world cannot afford a second home, but Pacaso unlocks a whole group of buyers who weren’t there before.” Matt added, “What’s so special about the Pacaso model is it enables someone to own a real second home for a fraction of the price. A typical second home is empty half the time, which doesn’t make sense financially.” And for real estate agents? Josh thinks working with Pacaso is a “no-brainer.” He said, “Not only can you sell Pacaso the house, you can then sell it up to eight times to the individual buyers. You get commission on the sale of all those shares. Pacaso looks out for the agent and makes sure they get paid what they deserve.”  Matt described it as “an incredible opportunity for agents,” pointing to one of their early success stories in Malibu. The Altman Brothers found a desirable home that seemed like a perfect fit for Pacaso. “It was a hidden gem, a small property right on the beach. As soon as it was in escrow, all eight shares sold almost immediately.” Looking to the future of second home ownership, the brothers agree Pacaso is onto something big. “Pacaso is really changing second home ownership, and I think this is just the beginning. Five years from now, people are going to own multiple second homes for one-eighth the price, and that’s a game-changer,” said Josh.  Matt said he’s considering a Pacaso for his own family. “I see Pacaso becoming a household name in the next few years. I live in LA, and this winter I thought about buying a second home in Big Bear. But I’m only going to use it a portion of the time —  I’d much rather buy a Pacaso knowing I’m only going to use it part-time, but I still have ongoing access to the home. It’s a great product.”

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.

The demand for second homes is growing, but so are the barriers. With limited inventory and rising prices, many buyers are hesitant to take on the full cost and responsibility of a second property. Others worry about leaving a home unused for much of the year or managing short-term renters. That’s where co-ownership comes in. This modern approach to second-home ownership gives agents a powerful way to meet evolving client needs, earn more through commissions and grow your business in a changing market. With co-ownership, buyers purchase a share of a private, high-value home alongside a small group of other vetted owners. It’s an ideal solution for clients seeking more flexibility and accessibility than traditional second-home ownership, with greater equity and control. With Pacaso, clients benefit from a professionally managed LLC co-ownership model that offers true real estate ownership. While DIY LLC ownership has existed for years, it’s often difficult to manage. Pacaso simplifies the process by handling the management, maintenance and scheduling so your clients can enjoy their home for several weeks a year, minus the typical headaches of ownership. Co-ownership isn’t just a smart option for buyers, it’s a business-builder for agents. Whether your clients are priced out of full ownership or simply want more flexibility, co-ownership allows you to expand your reach and offer more tailored solutions. No matter where you’re based or licensed, you can refer clients to thousands of homes nationwide and in select global markets and earn a Want to take your business to the next level? Our free Co-ownership isn’t just a trend, but a smart, strategic way to meet modern buyer needs.

As you browse Pacaso listings, you may notice this repeated phrase: “The home comes fully furnished and professionally decorated.”  One standout feature of a Pacaso is the But a Pacaso is more than just a pretty face! Beyond the visible design elements, our homes are supplied with all the necessities and special touches that make an owner’s stay relaxing and easy. And for families with children or grandchildren, we've made sure our Family-Friendly Second Homes™ are equipped with all the essentials for a comfortable stay — we want you to spend less time packing and more time having fun! Here’s a peek inside the cupboards and closets of our Pacaso homes.  Dining delights Whether your idea of a dream dinner is a homemade multicourse feast or takeout by the pool, we’ve got you covered. Kitchens are stocked with all the food-prep essentials and then some, including an array of high-end pots and pans, pizza stones, mixing and measuring sets, German cutlery, and all manner of bakeware. Plus, countertop appliances like multicookers, stand mixers, blenders and more make it fast and easy to whip up your favorite treats.  When you don’t feel like cooking, you can serve fresh bakery croissants or a charcuterie assortment in style, using our sophisticated white porcelain china and Portuguese flatware.  For your morning pick-me-up, choose from Nespresso or standard brew (or use the electric kettle for a spot of tea). When winding down, our barware collection caters to nearly every preference, whether you bring along red, white, bubbly or create a custom cocktail. Bed, bath and … BBQ Beds are fitted with quality linens, luxurious duvets and assorted pillows. Bathrooms are stocked with plenty of towels, hair dryers, a scale and magnifying mirror, and basic toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, body wash and soap.  For homes with outdoor entertaining spaces, you’ll find gas barbecues, fire pits, outdoor drinkware and dinnerware and patio furniture. If the home has a pool, we even supply floaties for added fun, while Work and play If you need to catch up on work during your stay, you can count on high-speed internet throughout the home, a charging station and, in many homes, a dedicated work space. Once you’ve logged off for the day, sit down with the family to enjoy one of the provided games, like Jenga, backgammon or cards. If you’re looking for more modern forms of entertainment, never fear — all Pacasos have smart TVs and streaming services so you can catch a show, tune into your favorite sporting event or keep the kiddos entertained while you enjoy a quiet moment watching the sunset with a glass of wine. Speaking of little ones, our Family-Friendly Second Homes are equipped with kid-friendly dinnerware and cutlery, a high chair, booster seat and Pack ‘n Play. And homes in beachfront and warm climates come equipped with beach chairs and pool floaties for bonus fun in or by the water. Household necessities Need to clean up some spilled spaghetti sauce? Or change a light bulb in the hall? While we focus on luxury living, we’ve also prepared our homes for those less-than-glamorous aspects of daily life. Mops, brooms, cleaning supplies, extra light bulbs and batteries, an iron and steamer, and even a mini-toolkit are provided to ensure you have what you need, when you need it, to handle the little details of your stay.  See the full list of

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. 

According to second home mortgage rate lock data analyzed by Pacaso’s research team, sales of luxury second homes and “Overall, luxury real estate exceeded expectations and outperformed the rest of the second home category and the overall real estate market in Q2 2022,” said Pacaso Co-Founder and CEO Austin Allison. “Despite a rising interest rate environment and growing concerns of a recession, it is clear that demand for this type of asset remains strong.”   The last two years, particularly during the peak of the pandemic, the housing market experienced record growth. Home price appreciation seemingly peaked in April of 2022, when it was up 21% nationwide. Today, the market is beginning to normalize from those unprecedented levels. In May, home prices decelerated for the first time in five months, but were up double digits year-over-year for the 16th consecutive month. The deceleration was partially driven by rising interest rates, an uncertain economy and geopolitical unrest in the Ukraine. Contrary to some headlines, many economists believe that the housing market will continue to grow through 2022, albeit not at the same pace as 2020 and 2021. The current volatility in the stock market has impacted many consumers’ overall net worth in recent months. This in turn drives many to look to more stable asset classes, such as real estate. “Affluent consumers tend to be more insulated from the impacts of an economic downturn,” continued Allison. “Some consumers will look to real estate as a more stable place to park their money during times of increased market volatility. Although they may trim their budgets, this group is less likely to completely drop out of the market. As a result, demand for luxury real estate remains strong, but the acceleration of home price appreciation for this category will likely continue to slow as we saw during Q2 2022.”  While interest rates are rising compared to record low rates during the pandemic, the housing market is still experiencing very healthy demand, particularly in the luxury second home segment. Thirty-year fixed rates rose above 5% in April for the first time in more than a decade. In the second week of June, interest rates rose by 55 basis points, which was the largest one-week increase since 1987. However, for the past 50 years, 30-year fixed mortgage rates have averaged approximately 8%, even crossing above a staggering 18% in the early 1980s. With rates averaging around 5% today, they are still relatively low comparatively. It is important to note that the total share of second home mortgage rate locks was 2.7% in Q2 2022, dropping below the pre-pandemic national average of 3.5% (based on second home mortgage rate locks between 2015-2019). The luxury category makes up approximately 12% of all second home mortgage rate locks. The median price for all second home mortgage rate locks during Q2 2022 was $435,000, which was up 19% year-over-year. Looking specifically at the luxury category, the median price was approximately $1.4 million, which remained relatively flat on a year-over-year basis. However, when it comes to second homes, more than 50% of buyers pay in all cash*. For this reason, looking simply at second home mortgage rate lock data is not the best indicator of true second home sales in the U.S. The median-to-lower end of the housing market, which makes up approximately 88% of all second home mortgage rate locks is being hit particularly hard, thus driving down total second home mortgage rate lock growth on a year-over-basis. In fact, numerous discount brokerages and mortgage companies are reportedly laying off agents in mass due to decreasing demand for median to lower priced homes.  Second home buyers were focused on locally-relevant destinations that feature outdoor attractions, many located along waterfronts, as the peak summer travel season approached.  “For the past two years, premier second home destinations like Aspen, Malibu and Tahoe experienced strong buyer demand,” said Allison. “As inventories were constrained and prices accelerated in those markets, buyers began looking to more locally-relevant destinations for their second home. In those markets, buyers can get a lot more for their money without sacrificing on the quality of their home or proximity to outdoor activities.” Coeur d’Alene, ID and Williamson County, TN experienced the largest year-over-year increase in the median purchase price for luxury second homes of 52% and 42%, respectively. These destinations offer a wealth of outdoor activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, and fishing, making them optimal second home destinations. Situated along Washington’s Puget Sound, Kitsap County, WA, which boasts miles of beautiful shoreline, golf courses, water activities, and boat excursions, saw the median price of luxury second homes increase 39% year-over-year. Cape Cod, MA experienced the largest increase in second home rate lock transactions during Q2 2022 (+236% year-over-year). Located just south of Boston, Cape Cod offers a wealth of outdoor activities, pristine beaches, five star restaurants and some of the best mini golf courses in the nation for family-friendly fun. Beachfront counties dominated the top ten list of destinations by transaction count, including  St. Johns County, FL which saw a 220% increase. Sevier County, TN, which is known as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Clark County, NV, home to The Last Vegas Strip, also experienced strong growth in second home rate locks, up 147% and 108%, respectively. 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. 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. For this analysis Pacaso’s research team looked at mortgage rate lock volume for both second homes and investment properties for Q2 2022 with a purchase price of greater than $1 million to focus on the luxury end of the second home and investment property category. Rate lock transactions and median purchase price data were sourced at the county level for counties that had a minimum of 5 second home transactions and aggregated quarterly, with Q2 representing the months of April through June 2022. * National Association of REALTORS®, June 2021

Many second home buyers are wary of high costs and ongoing maintenance, and worry they won’t have enough time to use their home. Pacaso is the best solution, according to San Francisco-based luxury real estate broker Roh Habibi of Sotheby’s International Realty. “Every complaint that I’ve gotten from my clients that own second and third homes in all these destinations — Pacaso has solved it,” said Roh, describing how Pacaso makes it easy for buyers to enjoy their second home. Plus, Pacaso handles the legwork, including tours, inspections and escrow. “For me as an agent, the Pacaso transactions are the easiest I will do all year.” Watch the video to learn more about co-ownership and the benefits of working with Pacaso, from easy in-person or virtual touring with clients to a generous and fast commission structure for agents.