Discover vacation home alternatives with co-ownership

Alternatives to buying a vacation home reimagined

Buyers today want more flexibility and less hassle from their second home. That is why many are exploring alternatives to buying a vacation home outright. Co-ownership offers access to premium homes, professional management, and scheduling that matches real usage — while traditional paths like sole ownership and vacation rentals come with trade-offs. Below, we compare these models across top destinations and share real examples to help you decide what fits your lifestyle.

What a co-ownership home looks like in top markets

In mountain destinations like Vail, co-ownership is gaining momentum as buyers seek turnkey access near the lifts without year-round oversight. In coastal hubs like Miami, city recognition of co-ownership models has created clarity for owners exploring alternatives to buying a vacation home. And in global capitals like Paris, evolving short-term rental rules are prompting second-home buyers to consider ownership structures designed for personal use. Browse our collections in Vail, Miami and Paris to see how this plays out at the home level.In Vail, interest in fractional and shared ownership has risen alongside demand for premium, slope-accessible homes. Buyers who want consistent access during peak ski weeks are turning to professionally managed co-ownership for predictable stays and high-quality upkeep without personal oversight. After a day on the slopes, visitors often enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Vail Village for dining and shopping.

Emerald in Vail illustrates co-ownership near world-class skiing, with private outdoor spaces ideal for apres-ski and four-season use.

For easy ski access and a private base in Vail, Emerald puts you near Vail Village and offers indoor-outdoor living for post-mountain gatherings - a tangible example of co-ownership that prioritizes prime locations and thoughtful spaces for every season.Miami Beach has formally recognized co-ownership, signaling that shared ownership of single-family homes can be an accepted path for second-home use in the city. At the same time, national second-home demand has cooled, pushing many buyers to rethink traditional models and consider options that align with how often they actually use a home.

A saltwater pool and hot tub at Casa Estrada in Miami Beach, showcasing resort-style amenities for second home living.

Casa Estrada in Miami Beach shows how co-ownership delivers coastal luxury, a chef's kitchen, and spectacular outdoor entertaining with a pool and covered lounge—a smart fit if your calendar centers on basking in the South Florida sunshine and enjoying world-class nightlife and dining.In Paris, regulators have tightened rules on short stays, and the city continues to scrutinize conversions that remove residences from the traditional housing stock. For second-home buyers who prefer predictable personal use, these shifts highlight the value of ownership structures designed for owner stays rather than short-term rental activity. Rue Madame in the 6th arrondissement shows how co-ownership delivers historic charm, refined Haussmannian interiors, and immediate access to iconic Left Bank destinations—a smart fit if your calendar centers on leisurely strolls through the Jardin du Luxembourg and enjoying Parisian café culture.

Why a co-ownership home often fits real usage

Most second homes are used for a limited number of weeks each year. A co-ownership home aligns ownership with actual use, supported by equitable scheduling and professional care so the home is guest-ready each stay. Independent research shows co-owned homes see substantially higher owner use than traditional second homes, reflecting an efficient model that matches modern travel patterns.

Where sole ownership still fits

Whole ownership remains the right choice for some buyers, especially if you plan extended stays, desire full control over design decisions, or want year-round access without sharing. The trade-offs include higher capital commitment, carrying costs during periods of low use, and the need to coordinate vendors and logistics when you are away.

Pros and cons by ownership model

Short-term rentals

Pros: Rights-based ownership of a luxury home sized to real use, equitable scheduling, professionally managed care, higher year-round utilization
Cons: Calendar coordination among owners, defined usage windows, must follow ownership program rules

Co-ownership

Pros: Full control over design and access, unlimited personal stays, complete privacy
Cons: Higher capital commitment, underuse during off periods, coordination of vendors and services when away

Sole ownership

Pros: Flexibility to choose different neighborhoods and home styles per trip, no long-term commitment
Cons: Regulatory variability by city, inconsistent quality, less certainty for peak dates

How to choose your best path

Use your expected weeks per year and destination preferences as your guide. If you value predictable access to a top-tier home without year-round oversight, co-ownership is a strong fit among alternatives to buying a vacation home. If you want extended stays with total control, sole ownership may be right. If you enjoy variety and spontaneity, short-term rentals can work when local rules are clear.

Start your search for shared luxury living

Explore co-ownership options in your favorite markets and see how the model fits your calendar. Tour our collections in Vail, Los Cabos and Lake Tahoe. Prefer city energy or beach culture? Browse Paris and Miami. For deeper context, read What is co-ownership property and our analysis of market trends in global luxury real estate.Note: This article was generated with the help of an AI agent and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and clarity.