The Pacaso blog

You’re considering becoming a homeowner but aren't sure you can afford to do it alone. This is where Here is what you need to know about co-ownership, including how it works, its benefits and drawbacks, the differences between co-ownership and whole home ownership and how to get started. What is co-ownership? Co-ownership occurs when two or more parties jointly own an asset such as a home. In this arrangement, all owners are listed on the asset's title, signifying that each holds a specific percentage of ownership. Opting for co-ownership means entering into a legal and financial partnership with the other buyers and an agreement about shared property access. How does co-ownership of a house work? Co-owners of a house share obligations like property taxes and mortgage payments. Each co-owner must agree to decisions like renovations made to the property. Co-owners are also typically Shared ownership homes may work through either a joint tenancy structure or a What is a co-owned home? A co-owned home is a property purchased and owned jointly by two or more people. All owners are included on the title of the home, and all parties hold a portion of ownership in the property. When you buy a shared ownership house with other buyers, you enter into a financial and legal partnership and a new living arrangement. Why is co-ownership on the rise? Co-ownership has traditionally involved a group of friends or family members coming together to buy a second home, or a child inheriting a house from their parents or grandparents. While co-ownership isn’t a new concept, it has become a more viable Types of co-ownership There are different Tenancy in common A tenancy in common (TIC) is for two or more people with an ownership interest. Tenants may have unequal investment stakes. For example, one owner might have an 80% interest with two co-owners at 10% apiece.  Often, this corresponds to the financial investment contributed at the original purchase. Unless explicitly stated otherwise in the deed, TICs do not have rights of survivorship. Property shares pass to an heir if a tenant dies instead of the remaining tenants. Tenancy in common is available for everyone, regardless of their marital status. Joint ownership All tenants are granted their deeds at the same time and, upon death, agree to pass the property on to their co-owners via survivorship rights to avoid probate. Owners must demonstrate the “four unities” to qualify: Community property Married couples may co-own title as community property in nine states: Arizona, Texas, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Washington and Wisconsin. These states recognize couples as a single financial entity. A right of survivorship must be specified so that when one spouse dies, the other can automatically take over the title. Unlike JTWROS, there’s no guarantee of automatic survivorship rights. Tenancy by the entirety Married couples can also choose tenancy by the entirety (TBE) as their co-ownership model. TBE is a type of joint tenancy that comes with survivorship rights. This ensures the property avoids a costly probate process and passes immediately into the widowed spouse’s hands. Tenancy by the entirety views couples as one financial entity, so the property is considered to be owned by “one person.” Modern co-ownership Pacaso is an example of modern co-ownership, the new way to co-own luxury vacation homes. Modern co-ownership comes with some key differentiators, such as: Pros and cons of co-owning a home As an alternative to buying a whole second home, co-owning a house offers owners a unique set of benefits for buyers, as well as things to consider: What’s needed to start a co-ownership agreement? Whether you are doing Common elements of a successful co-ownership agreement include: Types of co-owners You can co-own a home with a family member, friend and even a stranger. The people you’re looking to co-purchase a home with could influence the type of co-ownership. For example, friends, partners and strangers might consider a TIC or joint ownership, while married couples might benefit from community property and TBE. Buying a home with other people is a major undertaking, regardless of the co-owner. Not only is DIY co-ownership challenging, but it also presents factors outside of your control. Job changes, financial disruption, health issues and other major life and lifestyle changes could impact each person’s commitment to the second home.  Co-ownership mortgage differences If you decide to purchase a home through co-ownership, you and your co-owners will likely take out one mortgage loan — unless you plan on paying all in cash. Advantages of co-ownership mortgages include: But you’ll also need to consider: If you are co-purchasing a home part of a TIC, you may qualify for a fractional loan that reduces your financial responsibility to only your loan and not your co-owner’s. However, Differences between a co-signer and co-buyer A co-buyer (or co-owner) is different from a co-signer regarding ownership and payment. Co-signers take full responsibility for a loan along with a primary signer, but they do not have any ownership rights to the home. In contrast, a co-buyer has equal or similar rights to other buyers co-owning the home. Another difference is that co-buyers are responsible for payment from the start of the loan. Co-signers, however, only assume responsibility if the primary signer is unable to make their mortgage payments. Selling a home with co-owners If you decide to sell your home, there are scenarios to consider: The first is where all owners want to sell, and the second is when one owner wants to sell their ownership interest but the others do not. If all owners of a co-ownership property decide to sell, the situation is less complicated, as there would be no debate over the right to sell. Outlining these terms in the co-ownership agreement from the beginning is critical. What happens when only one person wants to sell? With certain co-ownership models like tenancy in common or joint ownership, you have the right to sell your interest in the home. While you cannot sell without the permission of the other owners (as you do not hold sole ownership), you can still share your share at any given time once approved. The buyer of your share — which could be another co-owner — would take on the same portion of ownership that you held in the property.  H2: Co-ownership vs. fractional ownership While co-ownership and However, unlike timeshares, co-ownership and fractional ownership models provide deeded ownership, Tips for co-buying a house If you’re thinking co-buying is for you, here are some additional tips to consider: Co-own a home today Co-owning a home empowers people to own property and build equity while lowering the financial and logistical burdens of buying and owning a whole house.

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

Fractional ownership allows multiple individuals to purchase property together and share usage rights. It’s a common practice among people buying big-ticket items like second homes, Because each party is only responsible for a portion of the full purchase price, Unlike timeshares, fractional ownership While a lot of factors go into deciding if fractional ownership is right for you, one of the most important considerations is how you’ll pay for it. Here are a few options for financing fractional ownership of a second home.  Types of fractional ownership financing Cash Of course, paying for your second home in cash is the most straightforward option — there's no financing application, no contingencies and, best of all, no monthly mortgage payment or interest charges. However, not all buyers have the amount of cash required to purchase shares in a property without Mortgage While not every bank or credit union offers mortgages for fractional ownership purchases, an increasing number do. It’s important to note that qualifying for a second home mortgage can be more difficult than qualifying for your first mortgage. You may need a higher credit score, longer employment history and a down payment of 20% or higher.  If you’re buying in a new vacation community, the property developer may offer financing through a banking partner as a way to encourage purchases.  Home equity  If you already own a home and have a significant amount of equity, you may be able to tap into it to purchase your second home. There are three different ways to do this. Be sure to explore your options with your financial advisor, mortgage broker or accountant.  Financing a Pacaso second home Pacaso is a popular choice for fractional ownership of a vacation home. Our unique co-ownership model allows you to buy a ⅛ share or more of a fully furnished and professionally decorated second home in your Buyers can pay for their co-ownership share in a Want to find your dream vacation home? Explore our

Fractional ownership: Experience the best of coastal and mountain living Fractional ownership is redefining what it means to own luxury second homes. This approach allows families to enjoy the best of destinations such as Palm Beach, Lake Tahoe, and Jackson Hole. With Pacaso, owners enjoy curated homes, professional management, and seamless scheduling so every visit maximizes relaxation and adventure. Let us compare these premier locations so you can find the destination that matches your vision. Your Palm Beach escape Palm Beach is famous for its pristine beaches, vibrant dining scene and boutiques. Recent years have seen fractional ownership become increasingly popular, giving buyers an opportunity to experience premium homes with less financial commitment. Pacaso homes in Palm Beach deliver sunny outdoor spaces, beautiful interiors and direct access to the best of the coast. The climate, culture, and proximity to Miami make this a top choice for those who value both relaxation and cosmopolitan energy. For more about South Florida, browse the Discover Lake Tahoe adventure and endless views Lake Tahoe draws those who value four season recreation, clear lake waters, and alpine landscapes. Pacaso homes in Lake Tahoe are perfect for those who want mountain activities like skiing and hiking alongside peaceful lakefront living. With fractional ownership, you can own in top lake or ski locations without the complexity of managing a second home. Explore more in our Explore Jackson Hole refined wilderness and cultural charm Jackson Hole offers a dynamic blend of outdoor adventure and living. Pacaso homes give owners quick access to skiing, hiking, and the beauty of Explore Find your perfect lifestyle with Pacaso Whether you see yourself enjoying Palm Beach’s coastal culture, taking in the views in Lake Tahoe, or adventuring in Jackson Hole, fractional ownership with Pacaso brings your ideal lifestyle closer. Explore

If you’re looking for a second home that offers luxury, convenience and flexibility, you might be tempted by the idea of a A But before you sign up for a timeshare contract, you should Unlike a What is Pacaso? The Pacaso second home ownership model is a revolutionary way to buy, own and sell a luxury second home in a world-class vacation destination. We simplify the 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.  Buyers can also take advantage of competitive What is a timeshare? A The time increments may be fixed or flexible, and may be based on weeks, months or a point system. Timeshares are often sold through high-pressure sales meetings that claim to offer low prices and long-term benefits.  Timeshare companies can provide you with a predictable vacation setting in a professionally managed resort. Still, they have some drawbacks, such as lack of flexibility, difficulty in reselling and risk of scams. 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 One of the most significant differences between a timeshare vs. vacation home is what you actually own. With Pacaso, your share is real property, not simply a block of time — you own a real estate asset. And because it’s a real estate asset, its value will move with the market, meaning any realized equity is yours.  When you purchase a timeshare, you typically own the right to use the property for a period of time, not the property itself. That’s why you can’t usually get a conventional home loan to purchase a timeshare — there’s no “home” as collateral, only time.  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 is not 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, year after year. You may have a “floating week” option, but your choices are still restricted to a range of dates. 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 We think you’ll love your Because our homes are thoughtfully selected and located in some of the most desirable second home markets, we’ve experienced strong buyer demand for Pacaso shares.  On the other hand, selling a timeshare can be extremely difficult. There’s an entire industry of timeshare exit companies that will help you offload your timeshare for a fee — and, unfortunately, many of them have been known to take advantage of sellers.  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

Co-ownership vacation homes: Elevate your lifestyle with shared luxury There’s nothing like sharing your second home with friends and family in one of the world’s most sought-after destinations. Co-ownership vacation homes make this lifestyle possible, blending the sophistication of luxury real estate with the ease of shared ownership. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering in Palm Beach, a wine tasting in Napa, or a winter soirée in Aspen, each destination offers its own unique opportunities for entertaining. With Pacaso, you enjoy the benefits of a professionally managed, beautifully designed home — ready for memorable experiences whenever you arrive. Palm Beach entertaining tips for coastal gatherings Palm Beach is synonymous with vibrant social scenes and outdoor entertaining. Co-ownership vacation homes here often feature expansive patios, private docks, and resort-style pools — perfect for hosting sunset cocktail parties or alfresco brunches. Take advantage of local One of the standout features of Palm Beach homes is their seamless indoor-outdoor flow, ideal for entertaining in the balmy Florida climate. Picture evenings spent around a fire pit, with ocean breezes and lively conversation. For example, Santa Barbara gatherings with coastal elegance Santa Barbara’s Mediterranean charm and ocean views set the stage for sophisticated entertaining. Co-ownership vacation homes in this region often feature open floor plans, sun-drenched terraces, and lush gardens. Host a wine and cheese evening with selections from local vineyards, or plan a summer barbecue overlooking the Pacific. For a touch of local flavor, invite a private chef to prepare a farm-to-table meal using ingredients from the Homes like Napa wine country hosting and culinary experiences Napa’s reputation as a wine and culinary capital makes it a dream destination for those who love to entertain. Co-ownership vacation homes in Napa are designed for gatherings — think expansive dining rooms, chef’s kitchens, and outdoor spaces with vineyard views. Host a private wine tasting with a local Aspen mountain escapes for all-season entertaining Aspen is renowned for its year-round appeal, from snowy winter gatherings to summer mountain adventures. Co- ownership vacation homes here often feature vaulted ceilings, stone fireplaces, and expansive decks — ideal for après-ski evenings or summer barbecues. Arrange a Hallam’s living room, with its dramatic beam ceiling and sophisticated lighting, embodies the mountain lifestyle and provides a welcoming space for hosting guests in style. Owners of Parisian soirées in the heart of the city Paris offers an unmatched setting for intimate dinners and lively soirées. Co-ownership vacation homes in Paris blend timeless elegance with modern comforts — think beamed ceilings, stone fireplaces, and sweeping city views. Host a candlelit dinner with a Rue du Bac’s dining area, with its classic Parisian features, provides the perfect backdrop for memorable hosted dinners and gatherings with friends. As a Pacaso, Hosting essentials for every destination No matter the location, co-ownership vacation homes offer a foundation for effortless entertaining. Here are a few essentials to enhance your hosting experience: If you’re considering different types of vacation homes, think about which amenities and features best suit your entertaining style. Find your perfect co-ownership vacation home Whether your vision includes beachfront brunches, wine country dinners, mountain gatherings, or Parisian soirées, Pacaso offers a curated collection of homes in the world’s most desirable destinations. Explore Ready to create unforgettable experiences in your own second home? Learn more about the benefits of co- ownership by reading our guide on

If you’re exploring different Since this type of So, what is tenancy in common, and how can it help you purchase a primary or second home? Continue reading to learn about the pros and cons of this ownership model, plus the difference between joint tenancy and tenancy in common. What is tenancy in common (TIC)? Tenancy in common is a home ownership model that allows multiple individuals to own a single property, each holding a distinct share. Unlike joint tenancy, these shares don't have to be equal, making TIC a flexible option for diverse groups of varying income levels or investments. TIC agreements are usually very detailed, addressing various potential conflicts through comprehensive operating agreements. These documents outline financial obligations, maintenance responsibilities and exit strategies. In 2025, as housing costs rise, TIC is increasingly seen as an attractive path to homeownership since it enables individuals to pool resources. Each owner can independently sell, mortgage or will their portion of the property, offering significant autonomy. How a tenancy in common agreement works A tenancy in common agreement is a form of Here is how home buyers can become co-owners within a tenancy in common: It’s important to note that no one person or company is in charge of a TIC. This means that, for example, while one owner might have a 50% interest share in the property, they have the same usage rights as a tenant with 10% ownership.  How to finance a tenancy in common Although a tenancy in common is a form of fractional ownership, you still have access to traditional funding opportunities like loans.  When it comes to financing a tenancy in common, you have two options: Simply put, the main attraction of Tenancy in common property taxes In general, a tax jurisdiction may require property taxes to be paid as a unit. This may be because If your TIC receives a single tax bill, your tenancy in common agreement will determine how the property taxes are paid. Pros and cons of tenancy in common real estate As an arrangement that enables multiple individuals to share ownership of a single property, TIC brings a set of distinct advantages and challenges that prospective homeowners must consider. Understanding these key factors is essential in making informed decisions and forging successful co-ownership partnerships. Let’s dive into the pros and cons of tenancy in common. Tenancy in common advantages Here are the core advantages of opting for a tenancy in common agreement: Tenancy in common disadvantages Although a TIC agreement can be an easily customizable and flexible ownership arrangement, it also has its drawbacks, such as: Tenancy in common example  Now that you understand the basics of how tenancy in common operates, let’s see how this ownership model plays out in a real-world example.  In this scenario, three families enter into a tenancy in common agreement: The story above illustrates how Tenancy in common vs. joint tenancy  The major difference between Let’s break down both co-ownership types: Comparing the different types of tenancy  To understand property ownership, you have to differentiate between the various types of tenancies — and there's more than just the two we've mentioned already.  Ultimately, the type of tenancy you should choose should be determined by your personal situation, legal status (like whether you're looking to buy as an individual or as a How to dissolve a tenancy in common agreement Dissolving a tenancy in common is relatively straightforward and easy to accomplish, assuming all co-owners wish to end the agreement.  Additionally, seeking legal advice, drafting a formal dissolution agreement and adhering to the legal procedures required in your jurisdiction are crucial steps in the dissolution process.  If the co-ownership aspect of a tenancy in common appeals to your real estate goals and you’d like to skip property management altogether, Pacaso offers

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

Enjoying family time should be easy. Part of what makes the Pacaso experience stand out is our dedicated team of home managers, Lindsey Harden (Tahoe) In the Tahoe region is Senior Home Manager Lindsey Harden, who shares the care and service owners can expect. Aaron Olthoff (Colorado) If you’re a owner in Colorado, you’ll get to know Aaron Olthoff. He shares how he keeps every home in the Vail, Breckenridge, Aspen and Steamboat Springs region in top condition all year long. Want to experience the Pacaso lifestyle for yourself? Browse our

When you decide to sell a whole home, you might take a look at recent home sales in your area, check your home value on various real estate sites, decide on a price, list the home and wait for offers to roll in. When you own a Pacaso, the sales process includes some of those steps, but you’ll find it simpler and more streamlined. Here’s how it works. 1. Sell on your terms Any Pacaso owner can choose to sell their ownership interest, at any time.* Each owner has independent control over the sale of their share, which is a key benefit of our professionally managed LLC co-ownership model and a big advantage over timeshares. Once you’ve decided to sell, simply let us know, and we’ll provide you with a current comparative market analysis (CMA) for your ownership interest. The CMA is compiled using local market data, comps, trusted valuation models, and our knowledge of what active second home buyers are willing to pay. You’re in control of the final price, however. You can use the CMA in addition to guidance from Pacaso or your own research to decide what the sale price should be. 2. Take advantage of an existing marketplace Unlike a typical home sale, Pacaso has two ways to assist you in the sale process Second, many homes have a wait list of interested buyers. Our sales Crew will tap into our buyer pipeline when a share is up for resale and inform any buyers who may have missed out on the opportunity initially, as well as buyers who’ve indicated interest in similar homes in that area. Between current owners and Pacaso’s buyer marketplace, you may be able to sell your share without listing it.  3. Get the full marketing treatment As the market leader in vacation home co-ownership, Pacaso puts the resources of our entire team behind owners looking to resell their Pacaso home. First, we market to existing Pacaso owners and our marketplace of buyers (some homes even have waitlists). Next, we prepare your share for broad exposure on the open market to ensure you have every opportunity for a sale. If we don’t have an offer right away, we’ll include the home as an active listing on our website and work with our local partner agents to hold open houses and market the listing through their networks. We then market your listing through a mix of traditional and digital media advertising, leveraging our proprietary technologies along with custom, data-driven strategies tailored to your unique offering. 4. Experience a seamless and transparent transaction Pacaso’s role in the sale is to help facilitate the transaction and find buyers. There’s no lengthy closing process, no due diligence period, and no need for a title and escrow company, because the title doesn’t change. The LLC membership interest is simply reassigned to the new owner at closing. If the buyer is paying cash, closing can be as soon as the next day. If the buyer is financing their purchase, closing is still much faster than a typical sale, often just 1-2 weeks.  Pacaso resale performance According to From 2021 to 2024, Pacaso homes have outperformed market averages in several luxury markets. In Napa-Sonoma, CA, Pacaso shares appreciated by 12.4%, compared to the market's 0.4%. Lake Tahoe, CA, experienced a 9.5% appreciation in Pacaso shares, versus the market's 3.2%. In Vail, CO, Pacaso shares grew by 6.7%, compared to the market's 1.2%. Finally, in Charleston, SC, Pacaso shares appreciated by 7.9%, while the market saw a 2.9% increase. Overall, Pacaso shares have consistently outperformed the broader luxury market. Looking across all resales, Other avenues for Pacaso owners Owner selldown If you decide your Pacaso isn’t a good fit, or if you purchased more ownership than you’re using, you have options beyond a traditional resale. Own 1/4 or 1/2 of a Pacaso, but only use it 1/8 of the time? You can right-size your ownership by selling a portion of your ownership interest. A selldown works the same way as a resale transaction, but you retain a share of the home.  Pacaso gives sellers an exceptional level of flexibility, control and peace of mind. Hear from Pacaso owners about the ease of their resale experience. Frequently asked questions Can the seller really choose any sale price? Pacaso recommends a price, but the seller makes the final call. If the price seems too high, we’ll share the information we have about the buyers in our pipeline, including what we know about their price ranges. But the seller can choose to proceed with the price they’ve set and see what the market will bear.   What happens if a share isn’t selling? As the market leader in vacation home co-ownership, Pacaso puts the resources of our entire team behind owners looking to resell their Pacaso home. First, we market to existing Pacaso owners and our marketplace of buyers (some homes even have waitlists). Next, we prepare your share for broad exposure on the open market to ensure you have every opportunity for a sale. If we don’t have an offer right away, we’ll include the home as an active listing on our website, and work with our local partner agents to hold open houses and market the listing through their networks. We then market your listing through a mix of traditional and digital media advertising, leveraging our proprietary technologies along with custom, data-driven strategies tailored to your unique offering. If we’re not seeing buyer interest despite these marketing efforts, we might recommend lowering the asking price. Can buyers negotiate on price?  Yes, we think of the resale marketplace as fluid and moving in line with the open market, so buyers are welcome to bring offers. The seller can choose to accept or decline any offer.   Are there closing costs, commissions or other transaction fees?  For sellers, a 6% commission fee is deducted from the final sale price. For buyers, there are no title, inspection or service fees. Buyers fund the first two months of their home’s operating expenses at closing, similar to property tax and insurance “prepaids” in a traditional sale. Buyers who choose to finance their purchase also pay a financing fee at closing.

Do you have your perfect home in mind but struggle when you try to describe it? Well, you’re not alone.  There are many types of houses — with many having their own variants — and unless you’re an architect, it can be difficult telling them apart. Learning what makes each type of home unique can help you in your search for the perfect first or That’s why we’ve compiled this list of common house styles that breaks down their defining Types of houses by structure Before we get to the different types of houses, it can be helpful to know the common types of residential 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 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. 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. Condominium A condominium, or condo for short, is an apartment-like unit that is owned by an individual. The owner can make renovations and rent out the unit so long as they do not violate the rules of the homeowners association (HOA). 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. 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. 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. Chalet A chalet is the traditional house of shepherds in Switzerland. Today, the term refers to a 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. 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. 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.  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. Types of houses by architectural style Now that you know the different structures that can make up a home, it’s time to dive into the house 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 their practical functions. As you examine the different kinds of houses, 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.  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 differs 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 have a mix of indoor and outdoor living. It’s a style that looks particularly fitting in the rolling hills of wine country and in 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 and became popular in the 1950s and 1960s. Its main difference is that it will contain multiple stories that are connected with short flights of stairs.  Defining features: Bungalow Bungalow houses were first constructed in the 19th century by the British elite 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. 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 Defining features: Craftsman The Craftsman style is 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. These types of houses were created by architects looking to break away from the traditional European styles of the time. It can be seen as a precursor to the Mid-Century Modern style with its heavy reliance on horizontal lines and desire to complement natural surroundings.  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: 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 styles you find most inspiring and practical to your needs.   If you’re currently in search of a

If you’re thinking about purchasing a second home, you’ll want to answer the question “Can I afford a Our second home mortgage calculator can give answers to that question and more — with no complicated math needed from you. You’ll also want to read through our list of five How to use the second home mortgage calculator This easy-to-use calculator breaks the number-crunching down into a few steps. Simply plug in details about your total monthly income and debt obligations, then continue on to determine how much you can afford. The calculator is only as accurate as the numbers you put in, so try to be as exact as possible with your current financial status. Let’s walk through the steps: Step 1 On the first screen, you’ll input some of your financial data to calculate your monthly debt-to-income ratio. As you do, here are the figures you’ll be asked to enter: Step 2 On this screen, you’ll see your current debt-to-income ratio (DTI). A commonly used term in real estate lending, DTI is calculated by dividing your monthly debt obligations by your gross monthly income. The lower your DTI, the more favorable you will be seen by mortgage lenders.  This screen also shows you your estimated cash on hand. This is the amount of money you have left over each month after deducting recurring expenses. Step 3 This step helps you figure out how much you can afford to spend on a second home. You’ll be asked to input the following information: Step 4 Here, you’ll see your results. Based on all your inputs, you’ll see how much you can afford to spend on a second home. If you’d like to explore Pacaso second homes, you can simply click “ Now that you’ve done the math, let’s explore how you can make second home ownership work for you. 5 factors to consider when buying a second home Since lenders make money off of Remember that in addition to monthly mortgage payments, second home owners are still responsible for: These added expenses can easily cut into your cash on hand. That’s why it’s important to figure out how much you can afford for a second home by using our second home mortgage calculator, also known as a For added help in getting the right mortgage loan, read the following five tips.  1. Know your financing options Knowing how you plan on The purchasing method that’s right for you will largely depend on your current financial status, which we’ll get into next. 2. Revisit your current financial status Lenders want assurance that you will be able to uphold the terms of your loan, so they’ll look at your current financial situation. Considering purchasing a second home? A key financial metric to assess is your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. To comfortably afford a second property, your DTI should ideally not exceed 45%. While this threshold is a general benchmark, having a favorable credit score, a substantial down payment or considerable cash reserves can provide added flexibility. Ensuring that these financial parameters are in check will guide you in making an informed decision about acquiring a secondary residence. Typically, you will need to have a favorable credit score, as anything below 640 could result in a rejected application.  3. Understand second home mortgage requirements The second home buying process is similar to buying a primary home, but it does have stricter requirements. Along with having higher interest rates — usually 0.5% to 1% higher — The rule of thumb is that your housing and debt payments should add up to 36% of your pre-tax income at most. Sticking to this guideline can prevent you from being “house poor,” which means tying the majority of your income up in housing expenses and leaving little cash on hand for unexpected expenses, either related to your second home or not. Be prepared to pay at least 10% of the second home’s value as a down payment. This is substantially higher than the rate for a primary mortgage due to the added loan risk.  4. Know your options for second home ownership Getting a second home mortgage may be out of reach if your goal is to become the sole owner, but that’s not your only option. Pursuing Purchasing your home through a co-ownership model like Pacaso manages the property for you, ensuring it’s flawlessly maintained and stocked with the essentials you need for a relaxing stay. This sort of 5. Learn how to increase your borrowing power After evaluating your finances, you may find that you don’t meet the requirements for purchasing a second home at the moment. The good news is that you have the power to increase your appeal to lenders with just a little time and strategy. Applying these strategies can put you in better standing to get an affordable loan in the near future or down the road. Track your progress over time Still wondering, “Can I afford a second home?” Even if the answer isn’t a yes right now, you have the power to change it. Bookmark this calculator and come back to recalculate based on your progress.  When you’re ready to make a second home

It’s no secret that home prices are substantial. The average sales price for new houses sold in February 2025 was Other factors, like initial costs, interest rates, insurance costs, property taxes, maintenance responsibilities and the ever-changing economic landscape, can also shape how people choose to live and if they decide to invest in real estate.  Let’s go over the pros and cons to help you decide whether it's better to rent or buy a home. Pros and cons of owning a home Owning a home provides more stability and long-term equity but comes with varying costs, especially with a variable-rate mortgage. Here’s a list of pros and cons when purchasing a home: Pros Owning a home can build equity over time, but it’s more than that for most. Part of this ownership comes back to making the home your own. Home improvements are a boon to homeowners who want to increase the value of a home or truly make it theirs. However, depending on the Equity is still a vital tool for homeowners. Homeowners can use equity to turn a profit on the home later, or they may also borrow against it to pay for expenses like medical bills, college tuition and home improvements.   There’s also the stability. Unless you pay cash, fixed-rate mortgages enable flat monthly payment amounts over the life of the loan, except for insurance premiums and tax fluctuations over time. Even so, these can be relatively minor fluctuations you can plan for. Cons Homeownership is generally more expensive than renting because there are more costs to consider, such as property taxes, higher insurance costs, utility costs and maintenance. Many of these can also fluctuate depending on varying factors, such as insurance rates in your area. Buying, setting up a mortgage and scheduling necessary inspections could also be time-consuming. If you need the home now, waiting for these processes to complete can be frustrating, sometimes being pushed by several months, depending on scheduling limitations.  Homeowners might also see their creative vision limited by a Homeowners Association (HOA). While HOAs can sometimes benefit you through snow removal, lawn maintenance, and other services, others can restrict housing colors or your plans to expand your home. Pros and cons of renting a home Renting a home saves time from the purchasing process and provides more flexibility while trading in the benefits of ownership, such as tax breaks or stable payments. Here’s a list of pros and cons when renting your home: Pros Renting works well for those who value flexibility, convenience, and savings. Median rent was around $1,406, around $500 cheaper than the average monthly mortgage of homeownership.  Renters are also not responsible for maintaining as much of their unit, enabling renters to save what they would spend on maintenance costs for a Cons A renter’s main inconvenience is the lack of control. There’s no home customization, you might be subject to Renters may also have their home sold while they live there, meaning they’ll have to move out at the end of a lease term. Some lease contracts even have clauses forcing the renters to move out within 30 days if the property is sold. It’s vital to read your contracts fully, regardless of renting or buying. While home ownership is often seen as a goal to strive for, renting vs. buying a home may make more financial sense in certain stages of life.  Let’s look at the differences between buying and renting. Buying vs. renting: 5 differences to know:  Your costs and lifestyle needs will affect whether renting or buying a home is better. Here’s a table breaking down some major differences. 1. Monthly housing payment Homeowners are responsible for a wide range of costs taken by a mortgage company, often through an escrow account. Your mortgage company uses the escrow account to pay property taxes and homeowners insurance. You might also need to pay mortgage insurance premiums if you purchase your home with a down payment of less than 20 percent. Utilities are billed separately.  If you rent a home, you will pay a set amount for your lease, which can change during renewals. You also may be responsible for the utility bills, which could be part of your rent or separate, depending on your rental agreement. Many people also choose to get renters insurance; some leases even require it.  Whether you’ll pay more in your monthly housing payment as a renter or a homeowner depends on many factors, including market conditions, interest rates, and the size of your down payment. Knowing these factors before buying a home will help you understand if you can afford it.  Consider second home co-ownership with 2. Insurance  Homeowners often pay more than renters for insurance. The average cost for renters insurance is around Renters insurance can provide liability protection for at-fault incidents for things you don’t own, often including damages to the residence. It can also protect your belongings in case of flood, fire or theft. Some homeowners require adequate liability coverage to protect their homes in the event of a major incident.  Meanwhile, homeowners are generally required to obtain insurance to qualify for financing. Like renters insurance, homeowners insurance covers liability, such as people slipping in your home, and coverage for your belongings. Where it differs is that the coverage for the house itself must be broken down by type, such as coverage for other structures, coverage for wind and hail and coverage for the dwelling itself. This complexity makes homeowners coverage much more expensive. 3. Home equity Rent payments contribute solely to the landlord's income and do not provide renters with any property ownership stake or investment value, so tenants do not build equity. Instead, that equity goes to the rental property owner. In contrast, homeowners make mortgage payments, build equity in their property, and may benefit from property value appreciation. This makes buying a primary home a long-term investment with potential financial gains. Additionally, home equity can allow homeowners to access funds through home equity loans and lines of credit.  4. Property taxes Homeowners are required to pay annual property taxes, while renters do not. Property taxes vary by state and county, with Although homeowners must pay annual property taxes and mortgage interest, tax deductions can lead to significant tax savings. Even when selling a home, homeowners may qualify for capital gains tax exclusions that further reduce their tax burden. Homeowners can also take advantage of different tax breaks for Tenants who rent typically do not receive direct tax benefits related to their rental payments, and property taxes may be fixed into their lease agreements. You may qualify for deductions if you use the space for something tax-deductible, such as working from home. 5. Lifestyle Renting offers greater flexibility and mobility, making it an appealing choice for individuals who prioritize a transient lifestyle. Renters can easily relocate for job opportunities or personal preferences without the burden of selling a property. Renting also eliminates the responsibility of property maintenance and repairs, providing a more carefree living experience.  On the other hand, buying a home suits those seeking stability and ownership. Ownership allows people to customize their living space and establish long-term relationships within their community. Although homeowners have more control over their living environment, they are responsible for all property maintenance and upkeep. The cost of buying vs. renting a home [$300,000 home example] Renting generally involves lower upfront costs, as renters typically only pay a security deposit and first month's rent, while homebuyers are responsible for repairs. However, renting can be more expensive than buying in the long term, as homeowners build equity, benefit from potential property and receive more tax benefits. Here is a breakdown of the cost expectations of renting vs. buying a $300,000 home. Items like taxes may vary depending on your state or county. Simply put, renting is better if you prefer convenience, while buying is better if you prefer stability. So, if uncertainty and commitment are the only things holding you back, wouldn’t it be great if you could try it out before committing to a 30-year mortgage?  Thankfully, you can do that with

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

Coordinating Your pet deserves luxury on vacation, and so do you. Selecting the right destination can provide you and your pet with the carefree escape you’re hoping for — and maybe even introduce you to a location for a second home that's great for you and your pup. Browse these top pet-friendly vacation spots — listed in no particular order — to get ideas for your next trip. Ready, set, go fetch your next dog-friendly vacation destination! 1. Block Island, Rhode Island When it comes to dog-friendly vacations, Block Island is one destination you won’t want to miss. From scenic walks to water taxis, there's so much for you and your pup to enjoy together. Brenton Point State Park offers beautiful views of the bay, with kite fliers taking advantage of the gusty ocean winds. Have a picnic at Grab a bite to eat at 2. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania The City of Brotherly Love extends its hospitality to four-legged friends. Visit For a break from the concrete jungle, head to the 3. Nantucket, Massachusetts This Northeast pet friendly vacation spot has beaches, brewskies and bogs to entertain you and your dog. Surfside, Brant Point and Cisco Beaches all provide sandy ocean fun. Take a ride on the When it’s time to rehydrate and replenish your calories, head to Easy Street Cantina or the Sandbar at Jetties Beach for fresh food and refreshing drinks. In terms of dog vacations, this one is hard to top.  4. Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania What may at first seem like a sleepy town in the Poconos is a must-see place to go with your dog. Fido is welcome on the vintage 5. Long Island, New York The largest island in the country offers pet-friendly beaches, hiking trails and more. Take your dog walks up a notch by strolling around Long Island has plenty of dog-friendly breweries, and there’s even a tour that takes you to all of the best neighborhood taprooms. 6. Lake Placid, New York There’s so much to experience in Lake Placid. Enjoy a convenient stay at the pet-friendly Town House Lodge, just a stone's throw away from the lake and a short walk from Main Street. Rent a boat from The 7. Stowe, Vermont Stowe has no shortage of pet-friendly vacation ideas. The 8. Bar Harbor, Maine If you and your furry friend share a love for the ocean, the seaside town of Bar Harbor has everything you need. This quiet town of 5,000 provides nature cruises for leashed pets, so you both can try spotting a variety of sea creatures, like porpoises and seals.  Take a picturesque walk around dog-friendly 9. Chicago, Illinois Bring your pet to this lakeside city for fun on and off the water. Multiple Montrose Dog Beach allows your pet to dip their paws in the lake and even provides free waste bags and a dog wash area. The pet-friendly 10. Madison, Wisconsin Sitting on an isthmus between two lakes, Madison has a whole lot of green space perfect for traveling dogs, including For two-legged visitors, The BarleyPop Tap and Shop provides another dog-friendly taproom with an extensive craft beer selection. If spirits are more your thing, the 11. Milwaukee, Wisconsin Stroll Milwaukee’s winding Treat your good dog to a spa day at 12. Grand Haven, Michigan This cozy western Michigan town offers plenty of fun for you and your pup while avoiding the overwhelming crowds of some better-known dog-friendly getaways. Take your time as you stroll down the Rent your own pontoon for a relaxing cruise or a water skiing excursion. Then step back into a time capsule at 13. Cleveland, Ohio This Lake Erie city blends freshwater fun with urban attractions. The downtown dog park offers 3,500 square feet of off-leash play space. The Then head to the 14. Indianapolis, Indiana This dog-friendly getaway blends city entertainment with natural attractions. The Enjoy the Downtown Canal Walk’s three-mile loop, or rent a pedal boat for a unique view of the city. Treat your pup to a movie at the 15. St. Augustine, Florida St. Augustine, the oldest continuously inhabited city in the U.S., is brimming with history for you and your pet to experience together. Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park includes a planetarium, Timucua Native American village and an observation deck. Wild peacocks roam the park, so be sure to keep your dog leashed.  In town, you can take your dog on a wine-tasting tour in a horse-drawn carriage or ride on 16. Key West, Florida Your leashed dog can stay by your side as you tour the local aquarium and witness shark feeding and alligator exhibits. You won’t want to miss your chance to dine on fresh seafood like fish tacos at 17. Asheville, North Carolina If the Southeast is more your style, grab the leash and head to Asheville, North Carolina. Take a stroll through Asheville has trolley tours for dogs up to 25 pounds, or you can scratch nature’s itch with a walk through 18. Charleston, South Carolina Fans of the macabre won’t want to miss the city’s 19. Hilton Head, South Carolina You can stick to living on island time at pet-friendly The 20. Shenandoah Valley, Virginia Virginia may be for lovers, but it’s also great for your fur baby. Shenandoah Valley has dog-friendly wineries, nature trails and other activities. The 21. Birmingham, Alabama Get a taste of Southern comfort food at Crazy Cajuns’ Boiling Pot, the punk rock-friendly Black Market Bar and Grill or Back Forty Beer Company.  22. Austin, Texas Austin is one of the best pet-friendly vacations in the United States! Prepare for sensory overload at the When you need a little extra energy to make it through the day, or maybe just to burn some of your pet’s energy, head to the 23. Sedona, Arizona 24. Albuquerque, New Mexico This Southwest city is well-known for its delicious food and lively festivals, but its reputation as a pet-friendly destination is also noteworthy. Your leashed dog can join you on an outdoor adventure along the La Luz Trail, much of If you need to give your paws a break, hitch a ride on the open-air 25. San Francisco, California San Francisco makes our list of best pet-friendly vacation spots thanks to its gorgeous scenery and dog-friendly accessibility. Your dog can splash in salt water at Golden Gate Park’s off-leash section is a viable alternative for dogs wanting to keep sand out of their fur. For an added activity, try the modern treasure hunt known as geocaching, which is great for dogs and children alike.  26. South Lake Tahoe, California Bring your dog with you as you try your hand at sport fishing, kayaking or paddleboarding. Lake Tahoe’s dog-friendly beaches also provide the option for a restful day soaking up the sun. Stop at the 27. Huntington Beach, California Huntington Beach — aka Surf City, with its 10 miles of coastline — is an evergreen pet-friendly vacation destination, thanks to its sunny After a day of frolicking on the beach, try some fresh seafood at 28. San Diego, California Make your dog’s ocean dreams a reality by taking a pet-friendly vacation to For a more sure-footed activity, spend the afternoon at the 29. Napa, California 30. Colorado Springs, Colorado Get away from big-city vibes and get back into nature in Colorado Springs. The impressively named For the less adventurous, Colorado Springs has plenty of places to go with a dog. 31. Kanab, Utah You have to see Kanab to believe it. Known colloquially as “Little Hollywood,” dozens of movies and television series are filmed in and around the area’s national parks due to the striking scenery. Your dog can join you as you walk remote trails, or you can both jump in a 4x4 for a guided desert safari. Be sure to stop by the 32. Boise, Idaho If you and your hound are tired of being confined indoors, Boise is a perfect pet-friendly escape. Tree-lined paths link the Winstead Park offers designated off-leash hours throughout its 11 acres of green space. The Spacebar Arcade lets you drink and game with your dog by your side. And your pup is welcome at the 33. Seattle, Washington Beat the heat with a pet-friendly vacation to the Pacific Northwest. Visit the city’s largest downtown green space at Along the shores of Lake Washington, you’ll find the 230-acre 34. Bend, Oregon The city of The Riverbend Beach Dog Park is a fenced oasis for your furry friend to socialize in and out of the water. Drink in Bend’s craft beer scene by walking the Taking a vacation with man's best friend requires some extra planning, but with some careful preparation — it'll give both you and your pup something to wag about.  Before you hit the road, make sure your pet is primed for the journey. Pack essentials like food, water, bowls, a leash, and any necessary medications to set your pack up for success. Ensure your pet's identification and vaccinations are current, and consider a microchip for extra safety. If traveling by car, secure your pet with a harness or carrier, and plan for frequent breaks for potty stops and exercise. After all, a tired pup is a happy pup! When selecting a dog-gone great destination, consider the climate and specific activities you and your pet will enjoy. Research pet-friendly parks, Sites like BringFido, Petswelcome, and GoPetFriendly specialize in pet-friendly accommodations. They have filters to narrow your search based on pet size, breed, and any extra fees. For example, on BringFido, you can filter for hotels with no size restrictions, which is perfect if you have, say, a Great Dane. Sites like Now that you've planned your destination and travel, it's time to nail down an itinerary that will Here are some of the best types of activities to share with your dog on vacation:  The great outdoors is almost always a safe bet for dog-friendly vacations. Hike scenic Who says pups can't be cultured? Many experiences, such as museums, zoos or historical tours, are pet-friendly. For instance, in Charleston, South Carolina, you can take a pet-friendly After a day of exploring, treat yourself and your furry friend to some delicious eats, a local beverage, or some Remember to always confirm pet policies beforehand to ensure an enjoyable experience for you and your pet. Tips for a pet-friendly vacation The key to a successful pet friendly vacation is preparation. Keep these tips in mind before hitting the road or taking to the air. 1. Consider the mode of transportation How you’ll get to your destination depends on how far away from home you’re going, of course, but you’ll also want to consider your dog’s comfort. Some dogs are perfectly fine flying on an airplane, but it can be traumatic for others. Some dogs love a road trip, while others don’t like being stuck in a car for a long time. Consider your dog’s personality before plotting your course.  2. Test your pet’s travel tolerance Before you go on a vacation with pets, see how they respond to being cooped up or in a car for long periods. You may discover they get motion sickness or need more frequent breaks than you were prepared for. 3. Double-check dog-friendly accommodations Before you leave, it’s smart to verify that you can bring your furry friend along to your hotel or vacation rental. Businesses can change their policies at any time and you don’t want to be left without a place to stay. The best dog-friendly hotels go out of their way to welcome four-legged guests, with special amenities like treats and dog beds.  Regardless of where you stay, it’s important to note even when dogs are allowed, many hotels won’t allow you to leave your pet unattended in a hotel room while you’re out and about.  4. Make a dog-friendly vacation itinerary Think through the places you want to visit on your vacation. For example, dogs are allowed in most national parks, but you’ll need to keep them on a leash and on the trail at all times. In town, look for pet-friendly restaurants with outdoor dining options. 5. Pad your travel schedule Even a well-trained dog can act out of character in new or unfamiliar environments. Allow for extra time for your four-legged friend to get acclimated so you don’t miss out on sought-after activities or reservations.  6. Update your pet’s identification and vaccinations Make sure their collar or chip has your current contact information. This way if you get separated while on vacation, they can be identified and reunited with you. On top of that, doublecheck that all of your pet’s vaccinations are up to date. Many businesses, including 7. Bring extra supplies Pack more waste bags, medications and other necessities than you think you’ll need, just in case.  Don’t forget to pack food, a water bowl and a few items to help your pet feel comfortable, like a portable dog bed and a few of their favorite toys and treats.  Buy your own dog-friendly vacation home Like most humans, most pets enjoy a sense of familiarity and routine. Instead of staying in a new hotel in a new city every time you travel, consider setting down roots in your (and Fido’s!) favorite dog-friendly vacation destination. The best dog vacation is one your pup will enjoy every time.  As a second home owner, you can enjoy all the comforts of home while venturing out together in search of local dog-friendly parks, dog-friendly hiking trails and maybe even a dog-friendly beach.  It should come as no surprise that man’s best friend can also make a great companion on your travels, but pet-friendly vacations require a special type of planning to make them enjoyable. Use the destinations on Imagine having a second home in one of these pet-friendly destinations. Browse

Say you've been planning the ultimate luxury vacation for a couple of years. You've got your list of dream destinations, top-notch resorts, and must-try experiences all lined up. But just as you're about to book, you discover some places have become overcrowded, while hidden gems have emerged elsewhere. Suddenly, your itinerary needs a revamp.  The luxury real estate market isn't much different. Economic shifts, evolving consumer tastes, and technological innovations continually reshape the landscape. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top luxury real estate trends of 2025 so you can create a strategy that leads to 1. Smaller homes are becoming more luxurious Smaller homes continue to gain popularity among luxury buyers in 2025, and it's not just about saving money — it's a lifestyle choice. Recent data from the Affluent buyers are prioritizing convenience and financial flexibility, seeking homes that require less maintenance without sacrificing those high-end finishes we all love. Many buyers are choosing smaller homes because they're easier to purchase with cash, avoiding mortgage debt and those pesky rising interest rates. Why smaller luxury homes work: 2. The luxury market is stabilizing as inventory rises and price growth cools After years of soaring prices and fierce competition, the luxury housing market is shifting toward a more balanced state in 2025. The extreme ups and downs we've seen in previous years are leveling off as more high-end properties become available. This increase in supply is giving buyers more options and cooling down the frenzy that once drove those intense bidding wars. In some areas, luxury home prices are even seeing slight declines — a welcome change for buyers. While demand for luxury properties isn't disappearing, the days of skyrocketing prices and bare-bones inventory seem to be behind us, pointing to more stable 3. The luxury real estate market is becoming more globalized Market trends in Rachel Stringer, a real estate agent at Raleigh Realty, says, “Many are drawn to destinations offering better tax incentives, lower costs of living or a higher quality of life.”  “Texas is seeing steady growth, especially in cities that offer business opportunities without the tax burdens of other states. At the same time, international luxury markets are evolving. A study by 4. Luxury price growth is slowing while select markets experience corrections Luxury home prices in the U.S. continue to rise, but the pace of growth is slowing. According to Redfin, the Some markets are still seeing impressive gains, such as: However, signs of correction are emerging in select cities, like:  This suggests a potential shift in the New listings in the luxury market have surged in several key areas, giving buyers more choices and taking the pressure off prices. Providence, RI (31.5%), Miami (28.1%) and Tampa, FL (27.6%) saw the biggest jumps in new luxury home listings.  Meanwhile, the pace of sales varies dramatically — on average, luxury homes in Seattle sold in just six days, while Miami's high-end properties lingered for 114 days. These luxury real estate market trends highlight how the high-end housing sector is evolving, with some cities still seeing rapid growth while others are cooling down or making slight adjustments. 5. Cash is king, but financing is gaining traction in the luxury market While cash has traditionally dominated luxury real estate transactions, financing is making a comeback as interest rates begin to descend.  Though interest rates remain higher than pre-pandemic levels, their gradual decline opens financing options for luxury buyers. Many wealthy individuals still prefer cash purchases to avoid borrowing costs, but others are dipping their toes back into the mortgage market as rates become more attractive. Beyond traditional mortgages, savvy buyers are getting creative with margin loans, stock portfolio loans and private banking credit lines to fund their purchases. Cash remains a powerful advantage in competitive markets where bidding wars still happen.  However, as borrowing costs continue to fall, experts predict more luxury buyers will incorporate financing into their strategies. This shift reflects a broader normalization in the 6. Luxury buyers are adapting to evolving interest rates With This hesitation creates a more balanced market, forcing sellers to adjust their expectations. As overpriced homes sit longer, buyers are holding out for better deals, potentially leading to win-win negotiations for both parties. Despite the challenging economic environment, cash-rich buyers remain active in the Dahlia Fox, a real estate agent with The luxury real estate market in 2025 is likely to see more price adjustments as everyone adapts to the new financial reality. 7. Luxury second-home market and co-ownership is booming Even with economic challenges, the demand for luxury Real estate expert and Platforms like Pacaso, where families can purchase fractional ownership of a luxury home with maintenance handled, are gaining popularity. This trend in the luxury home market makes owning that 8. Investors are expanding their portfolios with high-end real estate Despite economic shifts, luxury real estate remains a stable and attractive asset. Investors are particularly eyeing Thomas Franklin, Founder and CEO at This shift toward managed asset pools lets investors spread their capital across multiple luxury properties, enjoying both flexibility and access to global markets while minimizing risk — a trend that's reshaping luxury real estate market trends in 2025. 9. Smart homes are becoming essential rather than a luxury feature According to Rachel Stringer, "Technology is built into every part of high-end real estate now. Homes that aren't equipped with automation, security and seamless integration of smart features feel outdated before they even hit the market."  With AI, IoT and big data working together, these smart systems are completely transforming how luxury homes operate, delivering next-level comfort and efficiency that today's discerning buyers demand. These luxury home trends are rapidly becoming the new standard rather than exceptional features. 10. Luxury buyers are prioritizing sustainability Sustainability is becoming a top priority for luxury buyers in 2025, with a growing emphasis on energy efficiency, eco-friendly materials and green spaces. As climate awareness rises and government regulations tighten, we're seeing a notable shift toward sustainable Rachel Stringer puts it perfectly: "The conversation about sustainability has also shifted. It's not about marketing a home as eco-friendly for show — it's about efficiency. Solar panels, energy storage, water recycling and passive design are becoming standard because they lower long-term costs and increase self-sufficiency."  Investing in green properties with 11. Luxury home buyers are prioritizing resiliency features Luxury home buyers are increasingly looking for properties that can weather natural disasters — literally. In regions prone to hurricanes, wildfires and flooding — like California, New Orleans and Florida — buyers want more than just beautiful homes. They want properties with features that ensure their investments remain safe and functional no matter what Mother Nature throws their way. These features include: Nathan Mathews, CEO of 12. Gen-X and Millennials will influence the market Millennials and Gen-Xers are reshaping the luxury real estate market. Affluent millennials gravitate toward homes featuring cutting-edge technology, sustainability and energy efficiency, viewing real estate as a lifestyle statement and a financial investment. Their preference for urban properties or resort homes with income potential drives demand for smart, sustainable luxury properties across the market. Gen X buyers, now in their prime earning years, are focusing on long-term asset diversification. With wealth inherited from baby boomers, they're seeking homes with premium amenities, enduring value and stability for future generations. As  Rachel Stringer notes, "Millennials and Gen X prioritize functionality, privacy and convenience. They want spaces designed for how they actually live — integrated wellness features, easy-to-maintain outdoor areas and turnkey properties." These generations are significantly influencing luxury real estate trends with their distinct preferences and priorities. Luxury real estate made easy with Pacaso The luxury real estate market is always evolving, and 2025 promises to bring new opportunities and challenges for prospective buyers. Whether you're looking for a primary residence or a To stay ahead of the latest luxury real estate market trends and discover exclusive high-end listings, Pacaso can help you cross the finish line on your vacation home ownership journey (or even help you figure out how to

If you bought your A So, how much does a property manager cost in 2024? We’ll break down all the factors,  from property types to the climate of the housing market, that contribute to property management costs– plus, highlight which ones apply to short-term or long-term rentals. 1. Property management fee structures There are three ways Let’s explore each property management fee structure more in-depth, plus share their pros and cons. Percentage of monthly rent In this arrangement, One advantage of this model is that Flat fee Also known as a fixed-rate fee model, in this arrangement, Using this model, you may go through periods when your property management fee only makes up a small portion of your monthly earnings. When your rental isn’t generating much income, however, it may feel like a significant expense. If you don’t intend to rent out your vacation home, a property manager could charge a flat fee to look after your property while you’re away. The upside to Guaranteed income fees It’s also possible to The property management company will propose a rate based on how much income they think the 2. Type of property The 3. Condition of the property Older homes are generally subject to more repairs and maintenance. If your property is older, you may incur higher property management fees than you would with a newer home — even if it’s been renovated.  4. Property size and amenities In general, the larger your property, the higher the property management fees will be. This is because the more square footage you have, the more space the property manager will have to manage and maintain.  If your property includes special 5. Location Properties in high-traffic tourist areas or harsh weather environments may be subject to higher-than-average property management fees. For example, urban locations tend to have lower management fees than beach or 6. Market climate Similar to how rent prices reflect 7. Rent collected vs. rent due An important distinction to bear in mind is the difference between property management fees based on rent collected vs. rent due. Here are the main differences: Make sure your property management contract explicitly states which model you’ll use during your partnership to avoid payment discrepancies.  8. Other typical property management fees When hiring for a property management company, look for a company that is straightforward about its fee structure and any additional setup costs or fees. Here are some additional fees property managers may charge depending on the property type..  Account setup fee When you first sign on with a property management company, they may charge a one-time Advertising fee The cost of advertising your property on social media or within the property management team’s network is an additional service that could result in an advertising fee. Although this isn’t necessary, it is a good option to consider if you’re struggling to find tenants or don’t live nearby. Bill payment fee Some property management companies may also charge a separate fee  for the hours spent paying recurring bills like homeowners association (HOA) dues, utilities or even the property’s mortgage. This fee is typically around Early termination fee This fee is only applicable when homeowners terminate their contract with a property management company earlier than expected. Eviction fee Evictions can result in court appearances and costly legal fees. The total amount of this fee may depend on how time-consuming the eviction process is on a case-by-case basis. Late or unpaid service payment fee When homeowners are late on their property management payments or don’t pay them at all, a property manager may charge an absence of payment fee. Lease renewal fee Since a lease renewal potentially reflects your property manager’s sound performance, some property management companies may charge a small fee for every lease they’re able to renew. A Maintenance fee Most contracts cover basic maintenance in their fees but often limit what they include. For example, you may have to pay extra for things like snow removal and landscaping. Or they may be specifically excluded, and you’ll need to schedule those services with your own vendors.  New tenant placement fee Whenever a property manager secures a new tenant or lease, you may have to pay an additional fee equal to Reserve fund fee A reserve fund is what some property managers use when unexpected fees arise or when they need to pay recurring bills on your behalf. This may be an ongoing cost since you may need to refill the fund when it gets low.  Returned check fee A property manager may charge anytime you or a renter provides a bounced check or invalid form of payment that results in an additional round of payment processing. Vacancy fee Depending on your agreed-upon fee structure, some property managers may make less when your property is vacant. In that case, a vacancy fee can give the property manager the funds to continue maintaining the property.  So, how much do property managers charge? Although their base fee can be 8% to 12% of the rent, there is a long list of additional fees to factor into the total cost, leading some homeowners to DIY property management. If learning

Whether you’re planning a hiking trip through the Rockies, a ski resort adventure in Switzerland or island hopping in the Caribbean, you’ll need to prepare for how much it will cost you. If you expect your old travel budget to go as far as it did in past years, you may be in for a surprise.     Compared to 2024, average vacation expenses are expected to be up by 24% in 2025, according to Average travel cost for a vacation For a one-week trip in the United States, the average cost of a vacation for two people is Travel costs can add up quickly, leading to a wide range in average vacation expenses. You’ll need to consider not just how you’ll get to your destination, but also how you’ll get around once you’re there. For families, the cost can be even higher due to extra plane tickets and the need for larger transportation options. Here's a breakdown of average vacation transportation costs: Average lodging cost for a vacation Solo travelers can look to hostels for a cheaper alternative, so long as they’re willing to give up some privacy. Vacation rental services like Airbnb and VRBO offer alternatives to hotels for travelers who need access to amenities like kitchens and laundry rooms. Short-term rentals can provide multiple rooms at a reduced rate per person than many hotels can offer. Families of three or more, on the other hand, will have limited options because they’ll need more rooms. Average food cost for a vacation Taking advantage of a hotel’s complimentary breakfast is one easy alternative to an expensive brunch. You can also use a rental’s kitchen for a simple breakfast of toast and cereal. This might be an especially responsible option if you have a whole family to feed on your vacation. This list provides the average food costs for a vacation per person: The money you save by substituting these meals can be used toward a special meal at a restaurant or offset your other vacation costs. Average entertainment cost for a vacation According to Budget Your Trip, sightseeing and entertainment in the U.S. cost travelers an average of $55 per person per day. This includes museum and attraction tickets, day tours, and other related expenses. The American Alliance of Museums has a similar estimate, with a museum visit for a family of four averaging around Similar to plane tickets and rental cars, buying entertainment in advance can help you take advantage of discounts that may not be available to people making purchases on the day of. If you’re traveling with your family or taking a trip as a couple, look for activities with group rates, like national parks that charge by vehicle. 10 tips for budgeting on vacation A good vacation budget will help you save money during your trip. Apply these tips while planning your budget, and you might spend less than the average vacation cost.  How much will vacations cost in the future? Nerdwallet’s June 2025 Travel Inflation Report found that travel costs are Here are several reasons why vacation costs are on the rise: Consider buying a second home Instead of giving in to rising vacation costs, consider the long-term benefits of vacation home When you co-own a home, you own a portion of the property and share time and expenses proportionately with other co-owners. This allows you to stretch your budget, but you still get full use of your home like you would with full ownership.  Pacaso's Sources:

Not finding the right s Check out our list of alternatives to Airbnb before you book your next vacation: 1. Pacaso  Pacaso is also a great Co-ownership helps buyers afford 2. VRBO Like Airbnb, 3. Booking.com It is becoming a formidable Airbnb competitor in the vacation rental market, with offices in more than 70 countries and over 28 million listings, including hotel rooms. Booking.com charges a higher booking fee — 15% compared to Airbnb’s 3% — and renters will often pay these fees in the form of higher prices.  4. Hipcamp Since guests may travel to remote locations, Hipcamp has established standards to ensure safety and privacy. For example, hosts must limit campground occupancy and provide safety warnings for common dangers in the area.   Hipcamp’s search filters allow you to find the perfect spot for your desired activities. So if you want to hike, fish or ride horses, your hunt just got easier. The affordability and convenience make Hipcamp a great option for nature lovers.  5. Marriott Homes and Villas Managing expectations is one of the most challenging factors when staying at independent vacation homes. Hotel chains can deliver on cookie-cutter expectations but often lack the personal touch. The inventory is still growing — currently about 60,000 listings — but it has something most other alternatives to Airbnb don’t: a rewards program. Travelers can earn and redeem points for discounted stays in the future with a Marriott Bonvoy account. 6. Hopper Homes The streamlined app-only interface is convenient to use, with fewer distractions than many other platforms. Travelers can book their stay instantly rather than waiting for approval and receive flexible cancellation policies.  Hopper has its own rewards program in the works, Carrot Cash, to help customers save even more money while traveling. 7. Plum Guide Expect to pay more than the average vacation rental, but the price may be worth it if you value the luxury vacation experience. Plum Guide does offer price matching, just in case you see the same rental listed for less on another platform. 8. Agoda  You can receive a discount for being a solo traveler and find other discounts through a “secret deals” feature. Agoda’s website and app operate in 38 languages, with customer care in 16. While travel booking sites have moved into the rental property industry, Agoda performed a reverse migration. In 2019, the site launched a flight aggregator to compare hundreds of sites at once.    9. Homestayin When you travel, do you value cultural immersion above all else? It’s an affordable alternative to hotels while being a step up from the typical hostel. Homestayin is available for short- and long-term rentals, appealing to backpackers and students alike.   10. Sonder If you’re looking for a service like Airbnb that retains the comforts of a hotel, check out Every unit has a full kitchen, mini toiletries and Wi-Fi, making it great for long-term stays. The app allows for contactless check-ins along with requests for clean towels and restaurant recommendations.  11. Blueground If you’re living the digital nomad life, 12. Onefinestay All of the listings are whole units, so you won’t share the property with other travelers or the owner. The accommodations include houses, chalets and luxury villas, giving you the personal touch missing from hotels while delivering professional property management.  13. 9flats It works like an aggregator for other travel sites, so if you have issues with the interfaces of the other big names, 9flats might be more your style. It offers features like instant booking and advertises the maximum occupancy of every listing on the results page for quick scanning.  14. FlipKey While solo travelers can use FlipKey, it is ideal for groups. Finding a place big enough for a group can be challenging on other sites. FlipKey is facing the problem head-on.  15. Glamping Hub Like Airbnb, Glamping Hub is only a booking platform, so you’ll still depend on the property owner to deliver the rental as advertised. Glamping Hub allows you to filter through listings based on the type of building, cost and features, so you’ll have as rustic or luxurious an experience as you’d like.  16. ThirdHome To qualify, your second home must be worth at least $500,000, in a desirable location and well-maintained. This niche marketplace has 14,000 options, including entire estates and yachts. While you won’t pay a rental fee, Thirdhome does charge a booking fee that ranges between $495 and $1,395 per week.  17. Outdoorsy 18. Wimdu Users can choose from an array of filter options to search by distance to the city center (which is great for public transportation users), average ratings, amenities and price. They also have several pet-friendly listings and cater to families as well as solo travelers and couples.  19. Tripadvisor Vacation Rentals Tripadvisor taps into its deep reservoir of user-generated travel recommendations and reviews, so users get local recommendations on where to eat, the best excursions and more. 20. Expedia Vacation Rentals Reviews are also abundant here, helping travelers make an informed decision about what to do outside of the accommodation as well, allowing users to seamlessly combine their accommodation bookings with other travel essentials such as flights and car rentals.  21. Vacasa 22. HomeToGo Like Airbnb alternative 9flats, HomeToGo saves travelers time by allowing them to compare multiple sites in a single place rather than having to set search filters like budget and amenities on multiple sites to find answers. Once you find a rental that you like, you finish booking through the provider’s website.  23. Kid & Coe Since 2013, Regardless of the accommodation type, each hand-picked listing has a supply of books, toys and child travel essentials awaiting every family in 50 destinations around the world. Visitors can also request cribs and high chairs, ensuring a turnkey experience for every guest. When searching for a great vacation property,

Staying in a rental home can be a great way to spend a vacation. You aren’t confined to a single hotel room, and you have access to creature comforts like a kitchen, laundry and outdoor space. When it comes time to book a vacation home for an upcoming trip, it can be hard to know where to start. It seems like there are about a million Here are the differences between Airbnb and Vacasa, two of the most popular vacation home booking sites, plus an alternative that offers a true home away from home.  Vacasa is the largest full-service vacation rental property management company in North America. Unlike Airbnb, which primarily functions as a listing platform connecting travelers with hosts, Vacasa distinguishes itself as a comprehensive property management company. Vacasa's unique approach caters to both homeowners and travelers, providing services that go beyond mere listings to include property management, maintenance, and customer service. Recognizing this fundamental difference between Vacasa and Airbnb is pivotal for both homeowners and travelers when selecting a service for their vacation needs. Where you find listings  Airbnb listings are found on the Airbnb. You can use their full website or app to book, but the listings are the same. Homeowners have chosen to list their home (or room) for rent on the Airbnb platform specifically.  Since Vacasa is a full-service property management company, they list their clients’ homes  on multiple platforms, including their own website, Booking.com, Vrbo and yes, even Airbnb. Their goal is to showcase listings in as many places as possible to increase bookings for homeowners.  Available destinations and listings As of August 2022, there are roughly Vacasa takes a different approach. They focus on what they call “drive-to” vacation destinations, with roughly 35,000 listings concentrated in the most popular vacation hubs in the United States. (One reason is their use of local, on-the-ground property management teams.) Choose from beach destinations like Hawaii, San Diego, Myrtle Beach, Miami, Cape Cod and the Florida Keys. They have a big presence in ski areas, too: Park City, Lake Tahoe, Stowe, Sun Valley and Vail. You can also find Vacasa-managed homes in Belize, Canada, Costa Rica and Mexico.  Types of rental properties  Vacasa focuses on whole-home rentals, including condominiums, townhomes and single-family properties. You’ll find homes with a wide variety of amenities, including If you’re looking for a more unique experience, Airbnb is a great place to search. You can choose from shared rooms, private rooms in a home or full home rentals. In addition, Airbnb offers a range of 3D walkthrough  You can’t always believe what you see in rental property listings, and it can put a damper on your vacation to arrive at a home that looks dramatically different from the pictures. Vacasa tackles this problem by providing virtual 3D tours for many of its properties, allowing you to get a better feel for the layout, views and size of the home you’re thinking about renting.  Currently, Airbnb doesn’t allow hosts to upload videos or 3D tours to their listings, so you’ll only find still photography on their platform. However, many hosts include links to videos of their homes on external websites.  Fees Vacasa charges renters a booking fee, cleaning fee and damage waiver. Additionally, you may be subject to extra fees, like a pet fee, hot tub fee or early or late check out fees. Be sure to click on “pricing details” to see what you’ll be required to pay in addition to the nightly fee.  Similarly, if you rent a home through Airbnb, you’ll pay a cleaning fee and a service fee. You also may be subject to a security deposit, extra guest fee or local taxes.  Regardless of the platform you use to book, it’s important to take a close look at the required fees and any cancellation penalties, as these line items can add up quickly. As of November 2022, Airbnb added a feature to its search results page called “Total price display,” which allows you to see available homes with the fees included.   Level of customer support Because Vacasa is a full-service property management company, renters staying in Vacasa-managed homes enjoy 24/7 customer service via phone or their app. There are also local management teams in case you need in-person support during your stay. And because If you experience an issue while staying in an Airbnb rental, your first course of action will be to reach out to your host. This could be the owner of the property or a property manager working on their behalf. That means that the speed and quality of the response can vary. If you can’t reach your host, you can contact Airbnb customer service and request help via AirCover, their included travel protection program.  Technology  Vacasa has a well-earned reputation for in-property technology solutions that help ensure a smooth vacation for renters. This includes things like smart locks and Wi-Fi. The Vacasa app serves as your primary resource for every rental, with home access instructions, directions, parking details and a complete home guide.  Airbnb leaves the smart home technology up to the individual property owner, but renters can access a lot of helpful booking information in the Airbnb app, which is also how you can contact your host.  Go from renter to owner with Pacaso If you find yourself regularly

Before any Pacaso owner steps inside their new home, our team has already spent hours perfecting every detail– rearranging the layout, curating furniture, and fine-tuning the in-home experience.The result is a space that doesn’t just look beautiful, it We call this expert touch, Tucked in the heart of Vail, Fallridge is just minutes from world-class skiing and a short walk to the heated outdoor pool, perfect for unwinding after a day in the mountains. But what truly makes this home shine is the level of intention behind every detail. We asked a few Pacaso team members who helped bring Fallridge to life what stood out most to them: Every Pacaso home is part of our Behind the scenes, our team works through a detailed process, from architectural walk-throughs to virtual design boards, to ensure every space is not only aesthetically stunning, but highly functional.  Because your second home should support the At Fallridge, that meant reimagining the downstairs living area for après-ski gatherings, curating custom artwork for the dining area, and layering textures like soft gray Phillip Jeffries wallpaper to add warmth and dimension to the primary suite. Ready the moment you arrive The beauty of owning a Pacaso isn’t just the destination, it’s the ease. When you arrive at Fallridge, everything is in place: fresh linens, a fully stocked kitchen, plush seating, and welcoming spaces for everyone to unwind. It’s not just a second home in Vail, it’s  a second home where the hard work is already done for you. All that’s left to do is enjoy.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Growing up in Texas, Kevin Peranio had few opportunities to experience the thrill of fresh powder. After moving to the West Coast and starting a family, he was excited to introduce his children to the joy of skiing. Kevin and his wife Rebecca began exploring their options for a second home with easy access to ski slopes. “Our search was a couple of years in the making. Our kids are young, so I wasn’t in a big rush, but I was still eager and we knew we wanted something in a Second home destination: Park City After several idyllic visits to Park City, Utah, Kevin started scoping out properties in the area. Although the family enjoys local destinations like Big Bear, car rides with four young children — ages 2, 3, 6 and 8 — on winding mountain roads include the inevitable litany of “are we there yet?” at best, and one or more carsick kids, at worst. Their home in Newport Beach is minutes from the airport, and they find the short flight to Utah more convenient and relaxing than a long car trip. Ski town sticker shock The problem was finding a place they could afford. “Prices in Park City had been going up astronomically,” said Kevin. “My ideas about what I wanted and what I could actually afford were on two different levels.”  But then an opportunity opened up: A friend in the real estate business happened to mention Pacaso in an Instagram post. Kevin checked out Pacaso’s website and found a single listing in Park City. “I jumped on it right away. I was the first person to buy and the first owner to stay at the home. It was really exciting to be the first one.”  More home for less For Kevin, the cost savings of co-ownership were fundamental to his purchasing decision. “I couldn’t pay for this house in full. This is kind of a Texas phrase, but I have champagne taste and a beer budget. All the homes that I wanted to get into were really pricey, but co-ownership brought properties that I thought were out of reach into grasp.”  Beyond the price, the idea of Pacaso vs. whole homes and timeshares Kevin has a unique perspective on Pacaso, as his Park City home isn’t his first experience with second home ownership. “Owning a second home means dealing with maintenance, upkeep, furnishings — it’s a lot of work, especially if it’s far away. With Pacaso, I don't have to worry about any of that — it’s a breath of fresh air.”  How does that compare to his experience owning a whole second home? “We own another property in Rancho Mirage. It took forever just to finish the buildout and find subcontractors, and we have to drive there and deal with issues year-round. Two different second homes, and the starkest difference in upkeep.” The fact that Kevin doesn’t have to worry about his fully managed Pacaso doesn’t make him feel like less of an owner, however. “This is completely different from staying at a hotel or buying a timeshare. With Pacaso, you actually own a piece of this property and get appreciation. As an owner, you feel invested —  it’s not 100% ours, but you feel like it’s yours. You treat it like your home because it is. And then when I'm not using it, I don't have to worry about it.”  Satisfying his ‘champagne taste’ Kevin’s Park City Pacaso fulfilled all of his luxury home aspirations, which was a bit of a gamble, considering he purchased the property That care extends to the entire process of Adventure awaits in your Park City Pacaso For skiing, mountain biking, the Sundance Film Festival or just a place to get away, there’s nowhere quite like Park City. Co-ownership with Pacaso puts second home ownership in this mountain getaway within reach. Browse our collection of

Jason dreamed for years of owning a second home with his family. However, the thought of owning a second home didn't seem to be in the cards for him — until he came across Pacaso’s The right amount of time Despite wanting to own a second home, Jason felt that a whole luxury second home didn’t make sense financially, especially as a frequent traveler. “For me, staying in one city exclusively was not going to be realistic since we love to travel, and we knew we wouldn’t use it enough to justify buying a whole home.” Pacaso, however, provided the perfect solution. “Co-owning a second home was perfect for us,” Jason shared. “This is all organized by Pacaso to do exactly what I wanted: Using a few weeks each year I could spend in a second home, and sharing that with seven other families at a fraction of the cost.” Exceeding expectations Before buying his Napa home, Jason had previously thought of co-owning a home in Colorado or Utah. “I wanted to find what I call an ‘invisible unicorn’ home in the mountains. And the reason I called it an ‘invisible unicorn’ home is that I didn't know where this place was going to be. All I wanted was something that had beautiful scenery and mountain views.” After losing out on bids on homes in Colorado, Jason then set his sights on Napa — a place he’s been visiting for over 20 years. “It’s a wonderful place for my family to enjoy now, and by investing in this area, I’m able to get a feel for what it would be like to live here full time, which is something I’m considering when I retire.” Jason’s Pacaso checked all the boxes for his “invisible unicorn” second home. “The mountain views are sitting right in my backyard,” Jason shared. “I was looking for a more quiet and serene type of environment, and this home exceeds my expectations. And now, we welcome all of our family or friends to join us anytime they want to.” Part of the community  In addition to having a spectacular gathering place, Jason wants to get the most out of his community, from enjoying morning walks in this neighborhood and going horseback riding to visiting favorite wineries and exploring surrounding areas. The best part? Getting to slow things down. “When we stay at our Pacaso, we don't need to cram everything into a weekend like when we travel,” Jason said. “I’m treating it more as my time to relax. It’s my second home, and I finally feel like a local.” Jason sees his Pacaso — and the ownership experience — as completely different from a timeshare or vacation rental. “We’re one of eight families sharing a home, in the same way that I could purchase a property and share it with seven of my other friends. We own this home, just like others own their homes. We're not just passing through. We’re here to establish friendships with our neighbors and our community.” Make Napa your home away from home When you become a co-owner of a Pacaso home, you enjoy hassle-free ownership at a place that truly feels like home. Check out our

Curious about co-ownership? We sat down with a Pacaso owner during a webinar to chat about her experience of buying and owning a beautiful Pacaso in Florida. Our leadership team also answers guest questions about Pacaso co-ownership, covering everything from financials to design. "I thought it was too good to be true," shared Cheryl. "But I remember first walking into the home and being overwhelmed that the home was so beautiful. After our property manager left that day, I just started crying and said to my husband, ‘I can’t believe we have a second home Pacaso makes second home ownership enjoyable and possible for families looking to spend more quality time together.

Liesl had been looking for a second home in California Wine Country for some time. After losing an offer on a whole home in Calistoga, Liesl came across a Pacaso listing in Malibu. Although Malibu was not on her radar, she was so intrigued by the idea of co-owning a home that she decided to share the listing with her sister.  “I never would have even purchased a home in Malibu, but it was even more beautiful in person than in the photos, so we ended up with a Pacaso on the Pacific Coast Highway,” Liesl shared. “We totally love it.” Then, after coming across another appealing Pacaso listing in Calistoga, Liesl fell in love with that home as well and decided to buy her second Pacaso.  A home for many occasions Beyond it being in her dream destination, Liesl loved how much “home” she was getting. “It was a much bigger home than I could afford,” she said about her Calistoga Pacaso. “We have a big family. We needed a big house for all of us to gather.” The big surprise was getting to use her home for other purposes, too. “The only reason I had gotten the home was for our big family, but it’s great for friends too. And, I could bring my dog. It’s great,” Liesl shared. The ease of ownership Liesl likes that her Pacaso homes are completely Another part of this ease is having a A familiar community to call home Having a second home offers limitless options for fun and relaxation. “In Malibu, we like to find local restaurants and shops, go on hikes and go to the beach. In Calistoga, we hardly left the house the first weekend we were there. We just enjoyed the house — we had friends over, and we played games, pickleball, bocce ball and board games, and we swam and we cooked.” Liesl also recounts a positive experience meeting a neighbor in Malibu. “So, he goes, ‘Oh, you're one of the Pacaso owners. That's great. Welcome to the neighborhood.’ I thought there'd maybe be a little resistance. But I would say this: It's my home, and I would treat it as my home. I want to get to know the community and be a part of the community.”  And for Liesl, there’s immense value in having a home where every aspect is familiar, from supporting her favorite local restaurants to knowing where the pots and pans are in the kitchen. “I run a pretty busy life being a CEO with two kids,” she said. “Being able to go somewhere where I know I'm not going to have to do a lot of work to prepare … it all goes back to having that place where you can unwind faster.” Find your place to unwind When you co-own a Pacaso, you enjoy hassle-free ownership at a place that feels like home — because it is. Whether you’re looking for a Wine Country retreat or a home on the coast, check out our

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

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

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

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

Every winter, harsh temperatures prompt many retirees to head south to enjoy warmer weather. These “snowbirds” spend winter soaking up the sun and enjoying the warmth before returning to their primary residence in the spring. The snowbird season typically ranges from October through April, and sends thousands upon thousands of people flocking to warmer, affordable snowbird states like Texas, Arizona and Florida.  We’ve crunched the numbers to determine the top 50 snowbird destinations in 2023. To determine the best snowbird locations, we analyzed weather conditions, cost of living, safety and healthcare access in the area. And spoiler: Whether you plan to visit for a few weeks or plant your roots with a Here’s what makes each of the top 10 snowbird destinations worth the journey, plus 40 more warm winter spots. 1. Missouri City, Texas Just a half-hour from downtown Houston, Missouri City is at the top of our list of the best snowbird destinations. Whether you’re an avid fisherman or you never miss a morning walk, the Show Me City has many parks and lakes to enjoy during the comfortable 73-degree winters. While snowbirding in Missouri City, you can easily take advantage of everything downtown Houston has to offer, including its ethnically diverse dining scene, which is ranked as one of the Whether you’re feasting on some of the country’s best barbecue at Missouri City is also home to Plus, Missouri City's crime rate is well below the national average, making it one of the best places to spend winter months. 2. Pearland, Texas Pearland, Texas, is one of the Not only that, but Pearland offers stunning sightseeing experiences such as the Pearland is also home to some of the best barbecue in Texas, including If you’re a shopper, you’ll feel right at home at the 3. Pasadena, Texas Our third Texas snowbird destination is located southeast of Houston, extending all the way out to Trinity Bay. This Houston suburb offers warm winters and no shortage of things to do, making it one of the best places to winter. For space buffs, Pasadena is just minutes from the iconic NASA Johnson Space Center, the subject of the famous quote, “Houston, we have a problem.” Not only that, but you can visit If you enjoy spending your free time reconnecting with nature, you’ll love Pasadena’s Residents of Pasadena also enjoy quick access to scenic beaches like El Jardin Beach. If you’re looking for a relaxing day on the water, you can make a short trip to Seabrook, which offers 11 miles of waterfront and a vibrant coastal community. 4. Pembroke Pines, Florida Located 22 miles north of Miami, Pembroke Pines sits between the sandy Featured as one of the You can also spend your time strolling through brand-name stores at the luxurious open-air 5. Margate, Florida Also part of the Miami metropolitan area, Margate is located just east of the Everglades. Known for its beautiful golf courses, safe neighborhoods and close proximity to the ocean, Margate is one of the best places for a second home to spend your winters. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at scenic Pompano Beach or you’re feeling lucky enough to visit the If exploring nature is more your thing, you can check out Plus, enjoying everything Margate has to offer won’t break the bank, as its cost of living index is just barely above the national average, making it one of the most affordable winter home locations. 6. Tamarac, Florida Known as the City For Your Life, Tamarac sits south of Margate and is the last city from the Miami metropolitan area in our top 10. With 251 sunny days per year, Tamarac is a beautiful place to spend the winter season. While snowbird living in Tamarac, you’ll have quick access to the picturesque white sand beaches of Pompano Beach and Fort Lauderdale. Not only that, but you can take advantage of all the lush Everglades have to offer, from taking a guided airboat tour at For those relaxing days, you can spend time at the marvelous Nearby, you can also enjoy the 7. Gilbert, Arizona Once known as the Hay Shipping Capital of the World, Gilbert is home to families and snowbirds alike. Located just southeast of Phoenix, Gilbert offers views of the cactus-lined San Tan Mountains. With a vibrant dining scene, you’ll have plenty of restaurants and patios to choose from, whether you want to enjoy a fine meal at If shopping local is your thing, the Gilbert is also a great place for those looking to get outside to enjoy the warm winter weather. From taking a walk at 8. Clearwater, Florida Nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay, Clearwater is known for its gorgeous white sand beaches and Clearwater Beach, a 3-mile-long barrier island dotted with hotels and restaurants. Winning the title of America’s No. 1 Beach When you aren’t relaxing on a beach, you can take in all the sights Clearwater has to offer, from dolphin sightseeing cruises to the If you’re a sports fan, you can catch a game at Better yet, the amazing sights, fun experiences and comfortable snowbird winters in this 9. Mesa, Arizona Surrounded by the spectacular Sonoran Desert, Mesa sits southeast of Scottsdale and is a great place to spend the snowbird season. With access to For sports enthusiasts, Mesa is the spring training home of the Chicago Cubs and Oakland Athletics, making it one of the most popular snowbird destinations for baseball fans. To add to Mesa’s entertainment value, you’ll be near When you’re not out hitting the links or catching a game, you can spend an afternoon marveling at all there is to see at the If you’re an adventurer at heart, you can kayak the Lower Salt River, where you’ll float by wild horses and breathtaking scenery. No matter your interests, you’ll have plenty to do during the comfortably warm winter months. 10. Chandler, Arizona Also located in metropolitan Phoenix, Chandler sits northwest of the jagged San Tan Mountains. You'll have lots to enjoy while snowbirding in Chandler, from the endless number of golf courses to the vibrant downtown. Whether perusing one of downtown Chandler’s boutique shops or enjoying one of the In addition, you’ll have entertainment options aplenty, from listening to live music at the unpretentious And be sure to pack light, as you can get everything you need for the snowbird season at The 50 best snowbird destinations in the U.S. There are many other worthy locations for a Snowbird checklist Before you can head south to enjoy a warm, relaxing snowbird winter, you’ll want to leave your primary residence in good shape. Here’s a snowbird checklist to help get you and your home ready for your time away. Winterize your home It’s crucial that you winterize your home to help reduce the risk of any damage that could take place while you’re away. This includes making sure to: Forward any important information Next up, you’ll want to make sure any important information is passed along to your new home. This includes making sure to: Tidy up the house After spending your winter in the sun, the last thing you want is to return to a messy home. Be sure to: Secure your home Another concern for snowbirds is leaving your house unattended for months at a time. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help improve the security of your home. Before going south for the winter, be sure to: Now that your home is secure, you’re one step closer to enjoying your snowbird destination of choice. Pack your bags With your house prepared for the winter season, it's time to pack your bags! Aside from clothes and other obvious necessities, here are some important items to keep in mind while packing for your second home: This way, if anything arises while you’re at your snowbird destination, you’ll have everything you need to respond accordingly. Enjoy the sunshine Congratulations! With everything squared away at your primary residence, the only thing left to do is enjoy the sunshine at your snowbird destination. No matter where you end up, you’re sure to find plenty to do during the warm winter months. If snowbirding sounds like the way you’d like to spend your winters, consider trying out one of these gorgeous snowbird destinations. These cities not only provide you with endless outdoor enjoyment and an abundance of things to do, but they also make great places for a Our methodology This study was conducted in November 2022. To determine the best snowbird destinations in the United States, we compared five ranking factors across a sample of cities with the highest population over the age of 60, sourced from the The following ranking factors were used to determine how suitable a city is for snowbirds and assigned out of a weight of 100: Each snowbird destination was given a score based on these factors and assigned an overall ranking. The destinations with the highest scores were deemed the best snowbird destinations in the United States. Our data was sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau, BestPlaces, NOAA and Medicare.gov. Snowbird destinations FAQ Here are answers to some common questions about snowbird destinations. Where is the cheapest place to be a snowbird? Of our top 50 snowbird destinations, Port Charlotte, Florida, is the cheapest, with a cost of living index of 88.9. This means that living in Port Charlotte is roughly 11% cheaper than the national average. How do snowbirds afford two homes? Snowbirds can afford a second home in a variety of ways. Some snowbirds may rent a second home, whereas others may live in a What state has the most snowbirds? Florida tends to have the most snowbirds, with upwards of What is the average age of a snowbird? Because most snowbirds are retirees, the average age of a snowbird is around What are the benefits of being a snowbird? One of the biggest benefits of being a snowbird is having a second home to escape the cold winter months. That way, you can enjoy your primary residence spring through the fall while having a warm getaway in the wintertime, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors all year round. Are there any disadvantages to being a snowbird? Snowbirding does have a few inconveniences, including forwarding your mail to your second home and asking someone to look after your primary residence while you’re away. Other hassles may include switching over prescriptions to a new pharmacy and finding doctors you can go to during the winter months.

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

On Presidents Day, many across the U.S. celebrate the nation’s past, present and future leaders with a restful day off. It's no secret that our commanders-in-chief, too, enjoy their own vacation time. From small towns in Texas to multi-generational coastal compounds, presidents across history have retreated to unique destinations for some R&R — many spending their time in a second home. In honor of the holiday, we analyzed seven second home destinations where U.S. presidents vacationed before, during, and after their time in office. Since history shows that So, which president chose the getaway spot with the greatest price appreciation? Hint: He was the 40th president of the United States. Key takeaways 1. Goleta, California (Ronald Reagan) Six presidential getaway destinations saw more than 17% growth in median second home price from last year — with the biggest growth being 20.55% in Santa Barbara County. The average luxury home value in this California county almost doubled from $776,767 to $1,247,645 over a five year period. Santa Barbara County is not only home to the popular cities of Santa Barbara and Montecito, but also the chosen getaway destination for Los Angeles city dwellers and, previously, the Reagans. The famed Rancho del Cielo where President Ronald Reagan retreated with his family, also known as the “Western White House” is located in Goleta, California. The presidential ranch is situated atop the Santa Ynez Mountain overlooking "The Good Land," a breathtaking 10-mile stretch of beautiful coastal and agricultural land. 2. Hyannis, Massachusetts (John F. Kennedy) Barnstable County, Massachusetts recorded the next largest growth in second home price year over year with 19.73% increase. Barnstable County is home to the popular coastal community of Cape Cod and its associated islands. The picturesque seaside town has a rich history with the Kennedy family, which began in 1928 when President John F. Kennedy’s parents purchased a vacation home in Hyannis Port. JFK, his brother Ted and his sister Eunice later purchased the neighboring homes to bring to life the Kennedy Compound, a  three-house, six-acre waterfront property along Nantucket Sound. "With serene beaches, quaint villages, colorful seafood shacks and lighthouses, the Cape embodies the best of New England charm and has long been a popular destination for second home owners and seasonal travelers," said Pacaso Co-Founder and CEO Austin Allison. 3. Rancho Mirage, California (Henry Ford) Coming in third is Riverside County, California, where the 38th President Gerald Ford retreated at one time. The county saw a 19.61% price appreciation in its luxury home prices from 2021 to 2022. Most interesting is chance in price appreciation prior, during and following the pandemic — second home prices were up 4.24% year over year in 2020 but skyrocketed to a 20.66% growth in 2021, showcasing the demand surge for second homes after the onset of the pandemic. Nestled in Rancho Mirage between Palm Springs and Palm Desert, Ford’s home sat on the 13th hole of the iconic Thunderbird Country Club. The popular desert city is home nearly 300 days of California sun and great golf, and has long been a popular getaway for Hollywood and influential celebrities alike including Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Bing Crosby, Lucille Ball, and of course, Gerald and Betty Ford. 4. Crawford, Texas (George W. Bush) Perhaps the smallest town on this list of presidential second homes is Crawford, Texas in McClennan County, and the home away from home of Laura and George W. Bush. While Crawford’s population is less than 1,000 people strong, the central Texas county saw a 18.98% increase in the value of luxury homes from 2021 to 2022, perhaps due to the charming county seat of Waco. Waco is approximately 35 miles east of the "Bush Ranch" and offers plenty for locals and visitors alike to do and explore, from Baylor University and Cameron Park to delicious barbecue, unique boutiques and more. The stars of popular home show "Fixer Upper" and owners of Magnolia, Chip and Joanna Gaines call Waco home and have also attracted fans to the central Lone Star state town who visit the Magnolia Market & Silos. The luxury home price in McClennan County is the lowest on the list with a $512,931 average. 5. Rehoboth, Delaware (Joe Biden) Sussex County, Delaware saw an 18.27% year-pver-year increase in the value of luxury homes year over year. Sussex County is home to numerous seaside resorts and popular beach towns such as Bethany Beach, Dewey Beach, Fenwick Island, Lewes, and Rehoboth Beach.  Properly nicknamed “The Nation’s Summer Capital” due to its popularity amongst politicians and its proximity to Washington, D.C., Rehoboth is the current escape for POTUS Joe Biden and Dr. Jill Biden. The Delaware-native had been vacationing to Rehoboth for decades prior to purchasing his second home in 2017.  During Biden’s presidency, he and the First Lady have been seen in perusing Browseabout Books, grabbing an ice cream scoop at Double Dippers and strolling on Gordons Pond Trail, amongst others. 6. Kennebunkport, Maine ( The value of luxury homes in Maine's York County increased 17.16% from 2021 to 2022. The southern Maine county is home to the charming coastal city of Kennebunkport, widely known as one of New England's most popular tourist destinations.  President George H. W. Bush, the 41st President of the United States, inherited a "Summer White House" retreat in the town of Kennebunkport, rightfully named "Walker's Point Estate." Similar to JFK’s Massachusetts compound, Walker’s Point Estate consists of three family-owned properties and has long served as a multi-generational getaway destination for the Bush family. 7. Edgartown, Massachusetts ( Dukes County, Massachusetts saw an 11.11% increase in the value of luxury homes from 2021 to 2022. The county consists of the island of Martha's Vineyard, the Elizabeth Islands, the island of Nomans Land and other islets. While the entire county only has a population of about 20,600, the largest island in the county is Martha’s Vineyard, which has long been a popular vacation home destination. The island is famous for its miles of public beaches, quaint shops and restaurants.  In 2019, Barack and Michelle Obama bought a slice of Martha’s Vineyard by way of a 29-acre, seven-bedroom and eight-and-a-half-bath estate for $11.25 million. Despite having the lowest value increase year over year of the seven presidential second home destinations we analyzed, Dukes County has an average home price of $2,590,922 — the highest priced real estate of these markets. Methodology To compile this report, Pacaso analyzed luxury real estate activity in counties where U.S. Presidents owned second homes and examined average values of homes in the top 20% of those markets and the year-over-year percentage changes. Home price data was provided by Zillow, MLS data sources, and real estate analytics firm Optimal Blue.

Say you've been planning the ultimate luxury vacation for a couple of years. You've got your list of dream destinations, top-notch resorts, and must-try experiences all lined up. But just as you're about to book, you discover some places have become overcrowded, while hidden gems have emerged elsewhere. Suddenly, your itinerary needs a revamp.  The luxury real estate market isn't much different. Economic shifts, evolving consumer tastes, and technological innovations continually reshape the landscape. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top luxury real estate trends of 2025 so you can create a strategy that leads to 1. Smaller homes are becoming more luxurious Smaller homes continue to gain popularity among luxury buyers in 2025, and it's not just about saving money — it's a lifestyle choice. Recent data from the Affluent buyers are prioritizing convenience and financial flexibility, seeking homes that require less maintenance without sacrificing those high-end finishes we all love. Many buyers are choosing smaller homes because they're easier to purchase with cash, avoiding mortgage debt and those pesky rising interest rates. Why smaller luxury homes work: 2. The luxury market is stabilizing as inventory rises and price growth cools After years of soaring prices and fierce competition, the luxury housing market is shifting toward a more balanced state in 2025. The extreme ups and downs we've seen in previous years are leveling off as more high-end properties become available. This increase in supply is giving buyers more options and cooling down the frenzy that once drove those intense bidding wars. In some areas, luxury home prices are even seeing slight declines — a welcome change for buyers. While demand for luxury properties isn't disappearing, the days of skyrocketing prices and bare-bones inventory seem to be behind us, pointing to more stable 3. The luxury real estate market is becoming more globalized Market trends in Rachel Stringer, a real estate agent at Raleigh Realty, says, “Many are drawn to destinations offering better tax incentives, lower costs of living or a higher quality of life.”  “Texas is seeing steady growth, especially in cities that offer business opportunities without the tax burdens of other states. At the same time, international luxury markets are evolving. A study by 4. Luxury price growth is slowing while select markets experience corrections Luxury home prices in the U.S. continue to rise, but the pace of growth is slowing. According to Redfin, the Some markets are still seeing impressive gains, such as: However, signs of correction are emerging in select cities, like:  This suggests a potential shift in the New listings in the luxury market have surged in several key areas, giving buyers more choices and taking the pressure off prices. Providence, RI (31.5%), Miami (28.1%) and Tampa, FL (27.6%) saw the biggest jumps in new luxury home listings.  Meanwhile, the pace of sales varies dramatically — on average, luxury homes in Seattle sold in just six days, while Miami's high-end properties lingered for 114 days. These luxury real estate market trends highlight how the high-end housing sector is evolving, with some cities still seeing rapid growth while others are cooling down or making slight adjustments. 5. Cash is king, but financing is gaining traction in the luxury market While cash has traditionally dominated luxury real estate transactions, financing is making a comeback as interest rates begin to descend.  Though interest rates remain higher than pre-pandemic levels, their gradual decline opens financing options for luxury buyers. Many wealthy individuals still prefer cash purchases to avoid borrowing costs, but others are dipping their toes back into the mortgage market as rates become more attractive. Beyond traditional mortgages, savvy buyers are getting creative with margin loans, stock portfolio loans and private banking credit lines to fund their purchases. Cash remains a powerful advantage in competitive markets where bidding wars still happen.  However, as borrowing costs continue to fall, experts predict more luxury buyers will incorporate financing into their strategies. This shift reflects a broader normalization in the 6. Luxury buyers are adapting to evolving interest rates With This hesitation creates a more balanced market, forcing sellers to adjust their expectations. As overpriced homes sit longer, buyers are holding out for better deals, potentially leading to win-win negotiations for both parties. Despite the challenging economic environment, cash-rich buyers remain active in the Dahlia Fox, a real estate agent with The luxury real estate market in 2025 is likely to see more price adjustments as everyone adapts to the new financial reality. 7. Luxury second-home market and co-ownership is booming Even with economic challenges, the demand for luxury Real estate expert and Platforms like Pacaso, where families can purchase fractional ownership of a luxury home with maintenance handled, are gaining popularity. This trend in the luxury home market makes owning that 8. Investors are expanding their portfolios with high-end real estate Despite economic shifts, luxury real estate remains a stable and attractive asset. Investors are particularly eyeing Thomas Franklin, Founder and CEO at This shift toward managed asset pools lets investors spread their capital across multiple luxury properties, enjoying both flexibility and access to global markets while minimizing risk — a trend that's reshaping luxury real estate market trends in 2025. 9. Smart homes are becoming essential rather than a luxury feature According to Rachel Stringer, "Technology is built into every part of high-end real estate now. Homes that aren't equipped with automation, security and seamless integration of smart features feel outdated before they even hit the market."  With AI, IoT and big data working together, these smart systems are completely transforming how luxury homes operate, delivering next-level comfort and efficiency that today's discerning buyers demand. These luxury home trends are rapidly becoming the new standard rather than exceptional features. 10. Luxury buyers are prioritizing sustainability Sustainability is becoming a top priority for luxury buyers in 2025, with a growing emphasis on energy efficiency, eco-friendly materials and green spaces. As climate awareness rises and government regulations tighten, we're seeing a notable shift toward sustainable Rachel Stringer puts it perfectly: "The conversation about sustainability has also shifted. It's not about marketing a home as eco-friendly for show — it's about efficiency. Solar panels, energy storage, water recycling and passive design are becoming standard because they lower long-term costs and increase self-sufficiency."  Investing in green properties with 11. Luxury home buyers are prioritizing resiliency features Luxury home buyers are increasingly looking for properties that can weather natural disasters — literally. In regions prone to hurricanes, wildfires and flooding — like California, New Orleans and Florida — buyers want more than just beautiful homes. They want properties with features that ensure their investments remain safe and functional no matter what Mother Nature throws their way. These features include: Nathan Mathews, CEO of 12. Gen-X and Millennials will influence the market Millennials and Gen-Xers are reshaping the luxury real estate market. Affluent millennials gravitate toward homes featuring cutting-edge technology, sustainability and energy efficiency, viewing real estate as a lifestyle statement and a financial investment. Their preference for urban properties or resort homes with income potential drives demand for smart, sustainable luxury properties across the market. Gen X buyers, now in their prime earning years, are focusing on long-term asset diversification. With wealth inherited from baby boomers, they're seeking homes with premium amenities, enduring value and stability for future generations. As  Rachel Stringer notes, "Millennials and Gen X prioritize functionality, privacy and convenience. They want spaces designed for how they actually live — integrated wellness features, easy-to-maintain outdoor areas and turnkey properties." These generations are significantly influencing luxury real estate trends with their distinct preferences and priorities. Luxury real estate made easy with Pacaso The luxury real estate market is always evolving, and 2025 promises to bring new opportunities and challenges for prospective buyers. Whether you're looking for a primary residence or a To stay ahead of the latest luxury real estate market trends and discover exclusive high-end listings, Pacaso can help you cross the finish line on your vacation home ownership journey (or even help you figure out how to

Ready to buy your first or second home in 2025? Since property trends are always in flux, take some time to read through 42 real estate facts and While you’re here, also discover how Current real estate market overview and predictions As 2025 unfolds, Discover more current real estate statistics and predictions: Second home-buying statistics Many home buyers purchase second homes as an escape from their primary residences. Those who have (or aspire to have) second homes care deeply about location, cost and the commute. However, most only visit their secondary property a handful of times each year. Here are some second home statistics to know:  The housing market is witnessing a notable influx of younger buyers, often driven by the need for multi-generational living arrangements. Yet, baby boomers remain a dominant force in home buying. Across the board, however, potential homeowners are grappling with stricter mortgage requirements and the financial strain of existing personal debt. Here’s what the stats show: Realtor statistics Buying a home is a huge deal, and let's be honest, it's rarely straightforward. That's why most people turn to real estate agents to help them through the process, especially when buying in an unfamiliar area, making the leap into second home ownership or handling a big-ticket purchase. Here are some facts about real estate agents that illustrate the experience buyers have with realtors and what they expect from them:  Material facts in real estate statistics Material facts are any aspects of a property that influence a prospective buyer’s decision to buy or not buy — the deal-makers and deal-breakers. These material facts can include surface-level conditions like water damage, historical events or planned neighborhood changes. Or, under-the-surface considerations like insurance rates and HOA fees.  The following are some factors home buyers are considering, and you should too:  Wealth building through real estate investments statistics As financial futures feel increasingly uncertain, many are turning to Real estate financing statistics Unless you have plenty of cash to cover the cost of your new home, a home loan or another payment source will be a necessary step on your journey to home ownership. The following facts about real estate explore Real estate tax statistics Many new homeowners are surprised to learn that they generally can't Real estate fun facts Buying and selling homes can be exciting — and a headache. However, the world of real estate is also built on unique buildings and interesting facts. For example, these days, you can buy property in the real world or online. And once upon a time, you could even order your home from a catalog.  Learn about more fun real estate facts. Enjoy a vacation home — commitment-free Home prices are growing at a slower pace now, and upcoming markets have a lot of potential for appreciation, so now could be the perfect time to If the real estate facts we shared here aren’t enough to give you peace of mind, consider

I’m Austin, CEO and Co-founder of Pacaso. Spring has brought a renewed sense of optimism to the U.S. housing market, especially for those eyeing vacation and second homes. Buyers and sellers are seeing encouraging trends, from stabilizing prices to evolving ownership opportunities. Here’s a closer look at the factors shaping the second half of 2025 and why the outlook is sunnier than you might think. After a turbulent few years, the national housing landscape is showing signs of stability. According to These signals indicate a market that is rebalancing in favor of buyers, without the doom-and-gloom of a crash. Economists are even predicting further relief on the horizon, with mortgage rates expected to gradually ease later in 2025 per 2. The way Americans buy and use second homes is also evolving, driven by more flexible lifestyles and innovative ownership models. Remote work continues to be a game-changer allowing people to travel more freely and even work from their vacation properties. Thanks to these "workcations," professionals are extending their stays at second homes, blending work and leisure. Another behavioral shift can be seen in how vacation homes are purchased. High prices have led to models like co-ownership which is becoming an increasingly common way for people to buy a vacation home. One recent America's second-home buyers aren't just limiting their search to the fifty states – international vacation homes are increasingly on the radar in 2025. With the U.S. dollar remaining strong and remote work enabling longer getaways, more Americans are deciding that their piece of paradise might just lie overseas. Destinations like Mexico, Spain, Portugal, Italy and Greece are seeing increased demand from the U.S., contributing to record international sales for many European real estate agencies. As we head into summer 2025, the overall outlook for the second-home market is upbeat and forward-looking. While challenges like higher interest rates and economic uncertainty haven't vanished, the market has shown remarkable resilience and adaptability – a key factor in the If you have questions about a specific market or are interested in exploring co-ownership opportunities, don’t hesitate to reach out.

In recent years, both North Carolina and South Carolina have emerged as prime destinations for luxury second-home buyers, offering a mix of coastal retreats, mountain escapes, and charming small towns. But which state is seeing the biggest surge in vacation home investments? Top Carolina vacation home markets to watch To identify the trending vacation home markets in both North and South Carolina, Pacaso analyzed second home mortgage rate lock data alongside growth trends in pricing and transaction volume. These 20 counties stand out for their significant increases in second home activity and proportion of second homes to primary homes. North Carolina has topped the charts with 16 out of the top 20 counties in the Carolinas attracting vacationers. Compared to South Carolina’s “southern charm,” North Carolina offers a variety of vacation destinations. From the shores of the Outer Banks in Currituck County and Bald Head Island in Brunswick County to the mountains of Asheville in Buncombe County and popular ski areas in Haywood County, there is something for everyone.  Though ocean retreats remain popular along the Carolina coasts, North Carolina’s rural counties dominate the charts, finding that vacationers are seeking more than just a waterfront view but charming towns, mountainscapes and expansive vineyards, like Hendersonville in Henderson County, the main hub for the wine region with several wineries and vineyards located nearby. “Today’s second homebuyers are looking for more than just a beach—they want natural beauty and year-round appeal. The Carolinas deliver all of that, often at a more accessible price point than other markets,” said Austin Allison, CEO and co-founder of Pacaso.“For many buyers—especially those in the Southeast—these destinations provide a lifestyle upgrade that feels within reach." The Carolinas continue to attract vacation home buyers, with some of the more “legacy” coastal markets leading the way. Currituck County, NC home to the Outer Banks, remains a top destination, offering pristine beaches and exclusive waterfront properties, with luxury buyers investing in homes averaging over $1 million. With more than 33% of the second home share, Horry County, SC—home to Myrtle Beach—attracts a wide range of buyers with its more affordable inventory. In 2024, the average second home price is around $400,000. South Carolina gems like Beaufort County—home to “This data comes as no surprise to us at Pacaso,” said CEO Austin Allison. “Hilton Head was the first East Coast vacation home market where we introduced co-ownership. Our owners and buyers also adore the Charleston barrier islands, and in response to demand, we’ve just introduced another stunning home on Kiawah Island—Blue Heron.” Mountain communities in the Carolinas continue to attract vacation home buyers. Despite recent catastrophic weather challenges to the beloved communities of the southern Appalachian Mountains, these markets have shown resilience, with steady year-over-year growth from 2023 to 2024. In Buncombe County, Asheville remains a sought-after destination, offering a vibrant cultural scene, breathtaking mountain views, and a strong vacation home market. Just west of Asheville, Haywood County—where second homes make up 23.6% of the market—is emerging as a top choice for buyers seeking affordability, stunning scenery, and proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Similarly, Madison County continues to attract buyers year over year and has been referred to as “Asheville's backyard”—and it’s easy to see why. Located just 20 minutes north of Asheville, Madison County is steeped in natural beauty, home to the famed Appalachian Trail, Pisgah National Forest, the French Broad River, and the renowned Hot Springs. North Carolina’s quieter coastal regions are seeing increased interest from  vacation home buyers, with hidden gems gaining traction alongside more well-known destinations. Brunswick County, positioned between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach, is drawing buyers to its charming beach towns like Oak Island and Sunset Beach. Pamlico County, often known for possibly having more boats than people, appeals to those seeking tranquil waterfront living away from the crowds.  Pacaso identified the top North Carolina and South Carolina home markets by selecting 20 counties with the highest index scores, determined by analyzing key metrics such as the proportion of second homes to primary homes and growth trends in second home rate locks and prices from 2023 to 2024. Counties with fewer than 50 second home rate locks or where second homes accounted for less than 5% of transactions were excluded. Markets were further filtered to include only areas with positive price growth during this period. Weighted criteria emphasize popularity, demand, and recent growth, highlighting dynamic and high-value second home destinations. The markets are ranked based on the largest proportion of second homes to primary homes.

If you love the activities that make Vail, Colorado, a famous From golf and garden exploring to fly fishing and white water rafting, our guide offers 25 top activities to enjoy during your trip to Vail this summer. 1. Wander the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens Topping our list is one of the most popular things to do in Vail. As the world’s highest-altitude botanical garden at 8,200 feet, the 2. Visit the Colorado Snowsports Museum and Hall of Fame The 3. Sample 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits 4. Try new sports at Vail Ski Resort 5. Sip some brews at Vail Brewing Company 6. Explore Lionshead Village Scenic 7. Enjoy outdoor concerts at The Amp Fittingly located next door to the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, the 8. Taste summer’s bounty at the Vail Farmers Market If you are looking for a fun and delicious way to hang out in Vail in the summer, you should check out the 9. Play outside at Piney River Ranch 10. Play a round of golf surrounded by mountains  The award-winning 11. Have an adventure at Epic Discovery A true mountain playground for daredevils of all ages, 12. Get your blood pumping at Vail Nordic Center 13. Ride the Eagle Bahn Gondola The 14. Take a self-guided art walk at Vail Village Vail Village is a charming Bavarian-style ski village, making it a lovely place to spend an afternoon. Discover the incredible 55 works of public art that are spread throughout town. To see them all, you’ll want to stop by the welcome center to pick up a free map. Guided tours are also available during the summer.  15. Catch a sunrise or sunset at Bighorn Park 16. Make friends with a llama Yes, really. 17. Explore the Vail Nature Center  The 18. Go whitewater rafting Cool off on a hot summer day with an exhilarating ride down the Colorado and Arkansas Rivers. Local outfitters offer a range of rafting options, from kid-friendly introductory trips to technical rafting experiences with rapids up to Class IV. Looking for something a little more relaxing? Opt for a low-key float trip through Browns Canyon, where your guide will do all the paddling.  19. Sample wines from around the world  20. Enjoy tubing in Vail Relish in the thrill of tubing in Vail while being surrounded by the greenery and beauty of the Colorado mountains. 21. Fly through the sky on a zip line Soar through the air and enjoy the scenic views of Colorado. If you are looking for a zip line adventure in Vail, you have plenty of options to choose from in the summer. You can zip line over the Colorado River, through the alpine forests or across the Rocky Mountains. Tours vary in length, difficulty and price, but they all guarantee a memorable and exciting experience. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you can find a zip line tour that suits your level of adventure and budget. 22. Bike Vail’s trails Vail offers many trails and paths for cyclists of all levels and abilities. You can enjoy the fresh air and stunning views as you pedal along the paved and dirt roads or cruise through downtown Vail. Whether you want to challenge yourself with steep climbs and descents, or relax and enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace, there is a route for you in Vail. 23. See Vail on horseback Horseback riding in Vail is a great way to enjoy the scenic beauty of summer in the Rocky Mountains. Whether you are a beginner or an expert rider, you can find a trail that suits your skill level and preferences. You can choose from half-day, full-day or overnight trips, and explore the alpine meadows, aspen forests and wildflower fields with your friendly steed. 24. Spend the day fly fishing Vail is a popular destination for fly fishing enthusiasts, as it offers a variety of rivers and streams to explore. Some of the best spots for fly fishing in Vail are Eagle River, Gore Creek and the Colorado River. You will need a fishing license, which you can buy online or at local shops. Enjoy the scenic views and the fresh mountain air that make Vail a perfect place for fly fishing.  25. See it all with a hot air balloon ride If you’re looking for one of the most thrilling things to do in Vail in summer, consider taking a hot air balloon ride. A hot air balloon ride is a great way to experience the stunning scenery of the Rocky Mountains from a bird's-eye view. You can soar over the lush green valleys and sparkling rivers, enjoying the peace and tranquility of the clear blue sky. Vail, Colorado, is a nature lover's dream. Although the town is famous for its winter sports scene, there are plenty of things to do in Vail in summer as well. If you could see yourself in this year-round paradise, skip the vacation rentals and consider investing in a

Tucked away high in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado, Telluride is an adventurer’s playground for its nearly 2,600 year-round residents and a multitude of visitors.  Whether you’re in for adrenaline-pumping adventure sports, to be 1. Hit the slopes If you’re lucky enough to be in Telluride in the winter, you’ll find yourself in a powder paradise. And compared to some of Colorado’s other famous ski resorts, you’re less likely to find long lift lines and crowded amenities in this low-key town. Looking to take a day off your skis but don’t want to miss out on those awesome mountain views? Plenty more Telluride attractions await. 2. Go on a hike Telluride isn’t just a winter destination. In fact, Telluride and its surrounding landscapes are just as impressive in the warm-weather months. Endless hiking options abound, beginning with the must-see 3. Ride the gondola The only free transportation of its kind in the United States, the 4. Visit Mountain Village Mountain Village is the end stop for the gondola, making it a convenient destination to add to your itinerary. It started as a European-style ski resort and has evolved into a bustling town with shops and restaurants well worth the visit. 5. Go fly fishing  Telluride has some of the country’s finest alpine streams for trout fishing. Buy a fishing license at a local sporting goods shop and you're good to hit the waterways for a day of solitude. Local guides are available for hire, helping novices learn the ropes and experienced anglers find the best spots. If you plan to visit during the winter, bring your fishing pole — fishing maintains its status as one of the top things to do in Telluride year-round because the environmental conditions for trout are even better at that time of year. 6. Take a walking tour of downtown When you’re at a loss for what to do in Telluride, a walking tour is well worth the time. With an Old West vibe that feels like something out of a movie, downtown Telluride started as a silver mining camp and is nothing if not charmingly historic. It’s just eight blocks wide and 12 blocks long, and the entire downtown seems to be miraculously pinned inside a narrow canyon. An afternoon is well spent wandering the quaint shops and restaurants of downtown Telluride. 7. Raft down the San Miguel River The rivers around Telluride are good for more than just trout fishing. Hop on a raft for a trip down the San Miguel River. Trips range from 9 ½-mile half-day trips to multi-day adventures, with family-friendly trips on the easier end up to intermediate class 3-rated adventures. Other popular rafting expeditions include the Dolores River and Colorado River. 8. Experience tandem paragliding Get a thrilling view of Telluride and the Rocky Mountains from the harness of a paraglider. Passengers must have the ability to run on takeoff and landing, making this activity accessible to people 5 and older. Some instructors even offer the option to pilot the glider yourself after teaching you the basic controls. 9. Visit the arts district Established in 1971, the 10. Rock climb at Via Ferrata Skiing isn’t the only thing Telluride’s mountains are good for. Check out climbing at 11. Drive Black Bear Pass This 8½-mile scenic drive will take you to elevations of nearly 13,000 feet. This famous road is recommended for experienced drivers in 4x4 vehicles with high clearance. Those willing to brave the hazards will get a view of the highest waterfall in Colorado at Bridal Veil Falls and have the thrill of steep switchbacks on their descent. Black Bear Pass is also accessible to hikers and bikers. 12. Ride the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad 13. Bike the Galloping Goose Trail The 14. Go on an off-road tour Thanks to Telluride’s roots as a mining town, the area has off-road trails to remote ghost towns and alpine lakes. You can choose to rent a Jeep for a self-guided trip, or contract a guide to experience the more difficult terrain. Favorite destinations include the Smuggler-Union Mine and the Tomboy ghost town. 15. Explore the historical museum The 16. Camp in the San Juan Mountains If a hike is not enough to satisfy your outdoor appetite, camping surely will. There are multiple campgrounds in the region that offer a range of amenities. The Priest Lake Campground is free to use, allowing visitors to stay for up to seven days. The Town Park Campground has 28 vehicle sites for visitors to glamp in luxury and even hosts festivals throughout the summer for added entertainment. 17. Snowshoe Hope Lake Trail Add an extra challenge to your hike by strapping snowshoes to your feet and trekking through the fresh Telluride snow. 18. Tour the Old Hundred Gold Mine While visiting Telluride, head over to nearby Silverton to tour the Old Hundred Gold Mine from late spring through mid autumn. The guided tour goes ⅓ mile into Galena Mountain, giving visitors a sense of what it was like for miners over 100 years ago. Real mining equipment is still stored in the tunnels, with demonstrations of how they operated. Visitors can pan for precious metals for free with the price of their ticket and are allowed to keep what they find. 19. Go on a guided horseback ride Riding a horse through the mountains and meadows of the Rockies is one of the best things to do in Telluride and makes unforgettable memories. Experienced guides lead groups along winding trails to gain a unique view of the local wildlife and stunning scenery. Family-friendly tours are available so no one gets left out, and more advanced options ensure experienced riders aren’t bored. 20. Ice skate at the Madeline Hotel This 21. Take a dip in the hot springs When it’s time to take a break from the more physically demanding activities in Telluride, soak in one of the nearby hot springs. While this can be done at any time of year, it’s an especially memorable experience in the winter, when a chance snowfall can turn a relaxing dip into something magical. Certain locations also offer spa services like massages, facials and body treatments. 22. Visit Canyons of the Ancients Formerly called the Anasazi Heritage Center, 23. Enjoy spa time at The Peaks Resort 24. Grab a drink at Telluride Distilling Company This small distillery crafts a range of spirits, winning awards for its schnapps and vodka. The tasting room provides a cozy atmosphere to enjoy your cocktail, with a pool table and darts for added entertainment. Patrons can also treat themselves to a dish from 25. Play golf at Telluride Ski and Golf Club This 18-hole golf course is among the highest in the world, at an elevation of 9,500 feet. Even if you don’t have time to play a full round, visiting the practice area can be satisfying, thanks to its impressive views of the area. Don’t be surprised to find your drives feel like they go farther than normal — at this elevation, the air has less resistance on the ball. For a small town, Telluride has plenty of things to do. If you find yourself returning year after year for the activities you didn’t get to last time, it just might be time to make it your

One part world-class ski destination, one part charming Colorado mountain town, Aspen is truly a must-visit location. This community of 7,200 year-round residents has an outsized selection of recreational, cultural and historical attractions. If your Check out these 15 great ways to spend a fall day in and around Aspen ​​— all of which give you beautiful views of the changing aspen leaves. 1. Explore the Lost Forest's autumnal glow There’s no better place to immerse yourself in the golden beauty of Aspen than the 2. Discover Aspen's Saturday market magic  Immerse yourself in Aspen's culture at the Explore the Aspen Mall, where local artisans display their creations, from stunning jewelry to one-of-a-kind home decor. As you stroll through the market, enjoy live music performances and soak up the lively atmosphere. It's the perfect way to spend a Saturday morning and get a true taste of Aspen life. 3. Experience Maroon Lake's fall fantasy Maroon Lake is a must-visit if you've chosen Aspen as your fall destination. Surrounded by the iconic Maroon Bells, this stunning alpine lake transforms into a photographer's dream in autumn, perfect for when you’re visiting Aspen in October. For an unforgettable experience, take a boat tour across the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by the warm autumn hues of the aspen leaves. If you're up for a challenge, hike to Crater Lake for breathtaking panoramic views of the valley. And don't forget to capture the perfect shot of the Maroon Bells reflected in the still waters of Maroon Lake — it's an image you'll cherish forever. 4. Uncover Ashcroft's autumnal charm Step back in time with a visit to the charming ghost town of Pack a picnic and find a secluded spot along the 5. Cruise Castle Creek Road for fall colors  Take a scenic drive along Castle Creek Road in Aspen's own backyard. This picturesque route winds through stunning landscapes, offering breathtaking views of Red Mountain and Smuggler Mountain. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, as you’ll likely spot deer and elk.  As you cruise along, you'll be captivated by Aspen's golden groves set against the majestic backdrop of the Elk Mountains. It's the perfect opportunity to relax and soak in the beauty of the Colorado autumn. 6. Conquer Snowmass Mountain in autumn As you ascend, the mountain will reward you with panoramic views of Aspen and the surrounding peaks, painted in a beautiful palette of autumn colors. For a bird's-eye perspective, take a gondola ride to the summit of Snowmass, where you can soak in the expansive vistas and crisp mountain air. 7. Hike Hunter Creek Trail for fall freshness Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in nature on the Enjoy the fall foliage, and listen for the soothing sounds of the rushing water. The crisp mountain air and the beauty of the surrounding forest make this hike a perfect way to recharge and connect with nature. You might even spot colorful birds or curious squirrels  enjoying their natural habitat.  8. Immerse yourself in downtown Aspen Downtown Aspen is a shopper's paradise, with high-end boutiques lining Galena Street and Cooper Avenue. When hunger strikes, you won’t be disappointed by Aspen’s culinary scene. Savor exquisite dishes at award-winning restaurants like As the sun begins to set, Aspen's nightlife comes alive. Experience the town's energy at popular venues like 9. Enjoy the Aspen Filmfest The Get up close and personal with filmmakers and celebrities at exclusive industry events. And for an unforgettable experience, enjoy outdoor screenings on 10. Admire Aspen Art Museum's fall collection Immerse yourself in the world of contemporary art at the Expand your artistic horizons by attending engaging workshops and lectures led by renowned artists and curators. And don't miss the opportunity to appreciate the museum's stunning architecture, designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding mountain landscape. 11. Celebrate Aspen's Oktoberfest If you’re visiting Aspen during the fall, join the festivities at Oktoberfest for an authentic taste of Bavarian culture. Wagner Park transforms into a lively beer garden, offering a delectable array of traditional German food and refreshing brews.  Get your groove on with live music and dancing at the Aspen Mall, where you can show off your best polka moves. Join in the fun with various contests and games, from stein-holding competitions to costume contests. Oktoberfest truly captures the spirit of Aspen in autumn.  12. Trek Sunnyside Trail for stunning fall views Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in nature on the 13. Journey through Independence Pass Embark on an unforgettable adventure as you traverse the iconic For the more adventurous, hike to stunning alpine lakes like Turquoise Lake and soak in the serenity of the mountain. Independence Pass is a must-visit for any nature lover exploring Aspen. 14. Relish Hunter Creek's peace Discover tranquility along the crystal-clear waters of 15. Play golf amidst Aspen's fall foliage Aspen offers world-class golfing experiences that are even more spectacular in the fall. Tee off at renowned courses like Aspen in the fall weekend itinerary To help you make the most of your time in Aspen, we've curated a sample weekend itinerary showcasing the best of what the area has to offer in the fall. Whether you’re after a Day 1: Saturday Day 2: Sunday Make Aspen a second home location with Pacaso No matter the season, there’s so much to explore in Aspen that you’ll need more than a weekend. Give yourself the time you need by

Every winter, harsh temperatures prompt many retirees to head south to enjoy warmer weather. These “snowbirds” spend winter soaking up the sun and enjoying the warmth before returning to their primary residence in the spring. The snowbird season typically ranges from October through April, and sends thousands upon thousands of people flocking to warmer, affordable snowbird states like Texas, Arizona and Florida.  We’ve crunched the numbers to determine the top 50 snowbird destinations in 2023. To determine the best snowbird locations, we analyzed weather conditions, cost of living, safety and healthcare access in the area. And spoiler: Whether you plan to visit for a few weeks or plant your roots with a Here’s what makes each of the top 10 snowbird destinations worth the journey, plus 40 more warm winter spots. 1. Missouri City, Texas Just a half-hour from downtown Houston, Missouri City is at the top of our list of the best snowbird destinations. Whether you’re an avid fisherman or you never miss a morning walk, the Show Me City has many parks and lakes to enjoy during the comfortable 73-degree winters. While snowbirding in Missouri City, you can easily take advantage of everything downtown Houston has to offer, including its ethnically diverse dining scene, which is ranked as one of the Whether you’re feasting on some of the country’s best barbecue at Missouri City is also home to Plus, Missouri City's crime rate is well below the national average, making it one of the best places to spend winter months. 2. Pearland, Texas Pearland, Texas, is one of the Not only that, but Pearland offers stunning sightseeing experiences such as the Pearland is also home to some of the best barbecue in Texas, including If you’re a shopper, you’ll feel right at home at the 3. Pasadena, Texas Our third Texas snowbird destination is located southeast of Houston, extending all the way out to Trinity Bay. This Houston suburb offers warm winters and no shortage of things to do, making it one of the best places to winter. For space buffs, Pasadena is just minutes from the iconic NASA Johnson Space Center, the subject of the famous quote, “Houston, we have a problem.” Not only that, but you can visit If you enjoy spending your free time reconnecting with nature, you’ll love Pasadena’s Residents of Pasadena also enjoy quick access to scenic beaches like El Jardin Beach. If you’re looking for a relaxing day on the water, you can make a short trip to Seabrook, which offers 11 miles of waterfront and a vibrant coastal community. 4. Pembroke Pines, Florida Located 22 miles north of Miami, Pembroke Pines sits between the sandy Featured as one of the You can also spend your time strolling through brand-name stores at the luxurious open-air 5. Margate, Florida Also part of the Miami metropolitan area, Margate is located just east of the Everglades. Known for its beautiful golf courses, safe neighborhoods and close proximity to the ocean, Margate is one of the best places for a second home to spend your winters. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at scenic Pompano Beach or you’re feeling lucky enough to visit the If exploring nature is more your thing, you can check out Plus, enjoying everything Margate has to offer won’t break the bank, as its cost of living index is just barely above the national average, making it one of the most affordable winter home locations. 6. Tamarac, Florida Known as the City For Your Life, Tamarac sits south of Margate and is the last city from the Miami metropolitan area in our top 10. With 251 sunny days per year, Tamarac is a beautiful place to spend the winter season. While snowbird living in Tamarac, you’ll have quick access to the picturesque white sand beaches of Pompano Beach and Fort Lauderdale. Not only that, but you can take advantage of all the lush Everglades have to offer, from taking a guided airboat tour at For those relaxing days, you can spend time at the marvelous Nearby, you can also enjoy the 7. Gilbert, Arizona Once known as the Hay Shipping Capital of the World, Gilbert is home to families and snowbirds alike. Located just southeast of Phoenix, Gilbert offers views of the cactus-lined San Tan Mountains. With a vibrant dining scene, you’ll have plenty of restaurants and patios to choose from, whether you want to enjoy a fine meal at If shopping local is your thing, the Gilbert is also a great place for those looking to get outside to enjoy the warm winter weather. From taking a walk at 8. Clearwater, Florida Nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay, Clearwater is known for its gorgeous white sand beaches and Clearwater Beach, a 3-mile-long barrier island dotted with hotels and restaurants. Winning the title of America’s No. 1 Beach When you aren’t relaxing on a beach, you can take in all the sights Clearwater has to offer, from dolphin sightseeing cruises to the If you’re a sports fan, you can catch a game at Better yet, the amazing sights, fun experiences and comfortable snowbird winters in this 9. Mesa, Arizona Surrounded by the spectacular Sonoran Desert, Mesa sits southeast of Scottsdale and is a great place to spend the snowbird season. With access to For sports enthusiasts, Mesa is the spring training home of the Chicago Cubs and Oakland Athletics, making it one of the most popular snowbird destinations for baseball fans. To add to Mesa’s entertainment value, you’ll be near When you’re not out hitting the links or catching a game, you can spend an afternoon marveling at all there is to see at the If you’re an adventurer at heart, you can kayak the Lower Salt River, where you’ll float by wild horses and breathtaking scenery. No matter your interests, you’ll have plenty to do during the comfortably warm winter months. 10. Chandler, Arizona Also located in metropolitan Phoenix, Chandler sits northwest of the jagged San Tan Mountains. You'll have lots to enjoy while snowbirding in Chandler, from the endless number of golf courses to the vibrant downtown. Whether perusing one of downtown Chandler’s boutique shops or enjoying one of the In addition, you’ll have entertainment options aplenty, from listening to live music at the unpretentious And be sure to pack light, as you can get everything you need for the snowbird season at The 50 best snowbird destinations in the U.S. There are many other worthy locations for a Snowbird checklist Before you can head south to enjoy a warm, relaxing snowbird winter, you’ll want to leave your primary residence in good shape. Here’s a snowbird checklist to help get you and your home ready for your time away. Winterize your home It’s crucial that you winterize your home to help reduce the risk of any damage that could take place while you’re away. This includes making sure to: Forward any important information Next up, you’ll want to make sure any important information is passed along to your new home. This includes making sure to: Tidy up the house After spending your winter in the sun, the last thing you want is to return to a messy home. Be sure to: Secure your home Another concern for snowbirds is leaving your house unattended for months at a time. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help improve the security of your home. Before going south for the winter, be sure to: Now that your home is secure, you’re one step closer to enjoying your snowbird destination of choice. Pack your bags With your house prepared for the winter season, it's time to pack your bags! Aside from clothes and other obvious necessities, here are some important items to keep in mind while packing for your second home: This way, if anything arises while you’re at your snowbird destination, you’ll have everything you need to respond accordingly. Enjoy the sunshine Congratulations! With everything squared away at your primary residence, the only thing left to do is enjoy the sunshine at your snowbird destination. No matter where you end up, you’re sure to find plenty to do during the warm winter months. If snowbirding sounds like the way you’d like to spend your winters, consider trying out one of these gorgeous snowbird destinations. These cities not only provide you with endless outdoor enjoyment and an abundance of things to do, but they also make great places for a Our methodology This study was conducted in November 2022. To determine the best snowbird destinations in the United States, we compared five ranking factors across a sample of cities with the highest population over the age of 60, sourced from the The following ranking factors were used to determine how suitable a city is for snowbirds and assigned out of a weight of 100: Each snowbird destination was given a score based on these factors and assigned an overall ranking. The destinations with the highest scores were deemed the best snowbird destinations in the United States. Our data was sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau, BestPlaces, NOAA and Medicare.gov. Snowbird destinations FAQ Here are answers to some common questions about snowbird destinations. Where is the cheapest place to be a snowbird? Of our top 50 snowbird destinations, Port Charlotte, Florida, is the cheapest, with a cost of living index of 88.9. This means that living in Port Charlotte is roughly 11% cheaper than the national average. How do snowbirds afford two homes? Snowbirds can afford a second home in a variety of ways. Some snowbirds may rent a second home, whereas others may live in a What state has the most snowbirds? Florida tends to have the most snowbirds, with upwards of What is the average age of a snowbird? Because most snowbirds are retirees, the average age of a snowbird is around What are the benefits of being a snowbird? One of the biggest benefits of being a snowbird is having a second home to escape the cold winter months. That way, you can enjoy your primary residence spring through the fall while having a warm getaway in the wintertime, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors all year round. Are there any disadvantages to being a snowbird? Snowbirding does have a few inconveniences, including forwarding your mail to your second home and asking someone to look after your primary residence while you’re away. Other hassles may include switching over prescriptions to a new pharmacy and finding doctors you can go to during the winter months.

Looking for a sunny beach-town escape? Look no further than Newport Beach. This coastal city attracts visitors with its natural beauty, yacht community and casual yet sophisticated vibe. Like other Southern California cities, Newport Beach is great to visit almost any time of the year. Ten distinct neighborhoods comprise the city, each offering a vibrant lifestyle and array of attractions.  As a center of upscale shopping and fine dining, Newport Beach may not be the most obvious destination for a family-friendly California getaway. But this seaside spot has quite a few hidden gems geared for family fun. We’ve picked some of the best Newport Beach activities to entertain your whole crew.  Explore the hottest family-friendly spots Before you plan your family adventure, jot down some of these top destinations within Newport Beach that anyone in your family can enjoy. Picnic at a playground Sometimes all you need for a great family outing is a cooler of food, a shady spot and some fun playground equipment.  Get out on the water The Pacific is calling! Enjoy a day out on the water with one of these family adventures.  Burn off some energy If you’re looking for something that will get everyone totally tuckered out by the end of the day, try some of these energetic Newport Beach activities.  Get back to nature Expand your family’s horizons by exploring botany and biology together at these beautiful and enriching Newport Beach destinations.  Hit the beach Whether you want to ride the waves or bask in the sun, a list of Newport Beach activities for the whole family wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the best local beaches.  Broaden your horizons If your crew needs a little more culture in their lives, here are a few opportunities for cultural and educational enlightenment.  Eat, shop and be merry Not all Newport Beach shops and eateries are ideal for families, but these are well suited for kids and teens.  Need more time to see it all? With so many fun family activities to choose from, consider a second home in Newport Beach. Make memories in the sunshine when you co-own a beautiful second home in greater

Charleston has an incredibly long history. Just how long? The town was founded in the late 1600s as the English settlement known as Charles Towne. Today, with some 150,000 residents, it is the biggest city in South Carolina. For history lovers, Charleston has all the makings of a storied destination: wartime battles, ghost stories, pirate captures, stunning architecture and plenty of local folklore. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or are returning to learn more, here are the seven sites you won’t want to miss. 1. Charles Towne Landing  2. The Angel Oak  Believed to be over 400 years old, the 3. The Old Exchange Building This National Historic Landmark is a must-visit for anyone wanting to learn more about South Carolina history. The 4. The Old City Jail  The imposing, castle-like and slightly foreboding building in downtown is the 5. Fort Sumter  Did you know that the American Civil War started right in Charleston? The Confederacy fired on the U.S. garrison of 6. Middleton Place National Historic Landmark Go back in time at 7. Old Slave Mart Museum Charleston played a major role in the tragic history of American slavery. At one time, 35-40% of the Africans brought to North America as slaves were processed through Charleston. Considered the last surviving slave auction gallery in the state, the Immerse yourself in Charleston history With its deep history to explore, one trip to Charleston is never enough. Explore

With its storied history, diverse mix of cultures and distinctively Southern feel, it’s no wonder South Carolina is a popular vacation destination. And while South Carolina’s cities have a myriad of popular tourist attractions, there are also plenty of unique, off-the-beaten-path ways to spend a day in the Palmetto State. Here are eight of the best.  1. Boneyard Beach Otherworldly Boneyard Beach is located on Bulls Island, just up the coast from Charleston. Because of the way the island is positioned, a seemingly endless array of shells wash ashore here. When you couple that with the skeleton-like remains of a water-stranded forest, you’ll easily see how the beach got its name. Because it’s located in a wildlife refuge, the island is only accessible by boat, and 2. Pearl Fryar Topiary Garden  In the 1980s, to discredit the commonly held belief at the time that Black residents of Bishopville couldn’t keep up their yards, Pearl Fryar taught himself how to garden. He bought a hedge trimmer and, after work and on weekends, created what today is a wonderland of over 150 topiaries. The 3. Poinsett Bridge Located in Greenville County between Greenville and Spartanburg, Poinsett Bridge is the oldest bridge in South Carolina. A stone bridge with a gothic arch, it was built in 1820 and once was the main road between Columbia and Saluda Mountain, allowing travelers to pass over Little Gap Creek. Historians believe it was designed by Robert Mills, architect of the Washington Monument. Today, it’s part of a peaceful, 120-acre nature preserve. It’s a beautiful stop any time of year, but vibrant fall colors make it a truly breathtaking destination every autumn.  4. Haunted Charleston  While millions of visitors flock to South Carolina’s largest city each year to marvel at historic architecture, enjoy area beaches and sample Lowcountry cuisine, many don’t know about the city’s spooky past. Charleston is considered one of the most haunted cities in the country. Multiple tour operators escort ghost-hunting travelers through town, regaling them with chilling stories of pirates, shipwrecks, murders and paranormal activity.  5. The Gullah Heritage Trail Hilton Head Island is part of the Gullah Geechee Corridor that runs from Charleston to Savannah, Georgia. The Gullah are descendants of West African slaves and have a long history of living on South Carolina’s most remote islands. The Gullah are known for preserving more of their cultural and linguistic heritage than any other African American community in the United States, and 6. God’s Acre Healing Springs A fountain of youth right in South Carolina? God’s Acre Healing Springs got its name during the Revolutionary War, when four badly wounded soldiers were taken by Native Americans to their sacred healing springs. So the story goes, the soldiers were healed, and the springs, located in Blackville, became a destination for those seeking healing from the mineral waters. Today, the spring is open to the public 24 hours a day, with water coming out of an unassuming pipe in the ground.   7. Rocky Shoals spider lilies  Between late May and mid-June, an area of the Catawba River in 8. Tunnelvision Mural  Inspired by a dream, South Carolina artist Blue Sky painted an Explore more Give yourself all the time you need to explore South Carolina’s quirks, oddities and hidden treasures. As a Pacaso second home owner in South Carolina, you’ll have the

Charleston is a charming, culture-filled South Carolina destination that seems to get more and more popular every year. Some 7 million visitors are drawn to the subtropical weather, an incredible food scene, nearby beaches and the 17 championship golf courses within swinging distance. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular, here are five things you should definitely know about Charleston, nicknamed the Holy City for its history of religious tolerance and numerous places of worship. 1. Being full of firsts  Dating from 1736, the 2. Its many haunted spots  Many believers of the paranormal profess Charleston to be one of the most haunted cities in the United States. Multiple companies offer walking tours of some of Charleston’s spookiest sites, including the 3. Incredible local food Foodies from near and far head to the South for the food scene, and Charleston offers a culinary experience all its own. With a combination of European, African and Native American influences, the cuisine in Charleston has a long history — and plenty of flavor. You can find iconic local dishes like shrimp and grits and cornbread all over town. Fried green tomatoes make a popular appetizer, and boiled peanuts are so loved, they’re called the “caviar of the South.” You’ll find she-crab soup at many local restaurants — a rich, bisque-like crab soup that’s called “she-crab” because it contains orange crab roe, found only in female crab. For a hearty dinner, try frog-free Frogmore stew — named for the South Carolina town where it originated. This one-pot meal has shrimp, corn on the cob, new potatoes, and smoked sausage. Wash it all down with a glass of Planter’s punch, a cocktail invented at the historic Planters Inn in downtown Charleston.    4. Rich history History buffs can’t get enough of Charleston’s historic buildings, monuments, museums and walking tours. Charleston celebrated its 350th anniversary in 2020, and the city’s most storied historical sites span the centuries. Start at the famous 5. Proximity to beautiful beaches  Just 15 miles from downtown Charleston are some of the East Coast’s most gorgeous beaches and five distinct beach towns to explore. What will you love most about Charleston? There’s so much to discover in Charleston and so many ways to spend your time. Whether you love history, art and culture, outdoor activities, food or a little bit of everything, you need ample time to explore. Become a Charleston local when you buy a

With its inviting coastline, charming towns and quintessential New England atmosphere, Cape Cod, Massachusetts, is a great vacation destination and one of the Let’s explore 16 Cape Cod towns so you can plan the perfect spot for your vacation — or vacation home. 1. Bourne Immersed in maritime history, Bourne serves as an idyllic introduction to the upper Cape Cod region. Stroll or bike the scenic Cape Cod Canal path, marveling at the impressive engineering feats of the Sagamore and Bourne Bridges. Visit the Bourne’s culture is all about embracing the outdoors. Cast a line for world-class fishing, kayak the canal's calm waters, or unwind at the shores of Monument Beach. For those seeking a vacation home that blends easy access to the rest of the Cape with a relaxed pace, Bourne has charming cottages and canal-front properties.  2. Falmouth Boasting a rich history and magnetic appeal, Falmouth is a vibrant tapestry of villages. Nicknamed “The Shining Sea,” Falmouth is known for its pristine beaches, from the expansive shores of Old Silver Beach to the charming inlets of Falmouth Heights.  Beyond the coastline, Falmouth’s culture thrives on a deep appreciation of the arts. Explore the carefully preserved village of Sandwich or immerse yourself in Falmouth’s vibrant arts scene, including 3. Sandwich Step back in time with a visit to Sandwich, the oldest town on Cape Cod. Steeped in history, Sandwich boasts meticulously preserved buildings, charming shops along tree-lined streets, and the iconic Enjoy the Sandwich embodies classic New England charm, which is evident in its close-knit community and dedication to preserving its rich heritage. If you’re after a vacation home steeped in character, Sandwich has charming historic cottages and estates.  4. Mashpee Mashpee is a captivating blend of rich Native American heritage and a vibrant year-round community. Immerse yourself in the Wampanoag culture at the For outdoor enthusiasts, Mashpee’s culture is rooted in respect for the land, artistic appreciation and a welcoming spirit. Events and festivals throughout the year foster a strong sense of community.  5. Hyannis Serving as the region’s commercial hub and a popular vacation destination, Hyannis pulses with the energy of Cape Cod. This Hyannis is characterized by a vibrant blend of maritime traditions and artistic appreciation. The town has an energetic atmosphere year-round, with shops, restaurants and festivals catering to every taste. Whether you’re after a luxurious waterfront condo or an in-town cottage, you’ll find a diverse range of vacation rentals and potential second homes perfect for immersing yourself in the heart of Cape Cod action.  6. Barnstable Barnstable is the largest town on Cape Cod and boasts plenty of natural beauty. Explore the village of Yarmouth Port, a walkable haven lined with art galleries, boutiques and historic sites. Delve into the past at the Barnstable's culture revolves around its residents' deep connection with the land and the sea. Vacation rentals here cater to various tastes, from charming homes in rolling hills to waterfront estates with stunning ocean views.  7. Yarmouth Yarmouth strikes a delightful balance between quintessential Cape Cod charm and activities that keep families entertained. The vibrant village of Dennis Port boasts a harbor teeming with colorful boats, enticing visitors with fresh seafood shacks and scenic cruises. History buffs can delve into the past at the Yarmouth embraces the relaxed pace of Cape Cod life while catering to diverse interests. Families will find a welcoming atmosphere, with ample opportunities for outdoor adventures and exploring the region's rich history. The town has a variety of vacation rentals, from cozy cottages within walking distance of the beach to spacious properties with expansive yards, perfect for creating lasting summer memories. 8. Dennis In Dennis, you’ll find a perfect mix of relaxation and artistic exploration. Warm beaches like West Dennis Beach give you ample opportunity for sunbathing and calm waters for swimming. Off the beach, immerse yourself in the local art scene. The Dennis is a laid-back town celebrating Cape Cod life's simple pleasures. Vacation rentals cater to those seeking a peaceful escape, offering charming cottages near the beach and secluded properties nestled in nature.   9. Brewster Nestled on Cape Cod Bay, Brewster is ideal for nature enthusiasts and families seeking a classic Cape Cod escape. The town boasts the Cape’s largest state forest, With Long Pond, Cape Cod's largest freshwater pond, within its borders, Brewster offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, kayaking and enjoying the tranquility of nature. Vacation rentals range from cottages with easy beach access to luxury properties with stunning water views. 10. Harwich As the largest of all the Lower Cape Cod towns, Harwich is known for its diverse outdoor activities and family-friendly atmosphere. Stroll along the shores of Bank Street Beach or Red River Beach, both havens for sunbathing, swimming and watersports. For a unique experience, explore the vast cranberry bogs that dot the landscape. History buffs will appreciate the Harwich is conveniently located near Cape Cod National Shore, which hosts plenty of family-friendly amenities. Vacation rentals cater to families and those seeking an active escape, with plenty of beach-access options or spacious properties with room for the whole crew.  11. Chatham If you’re looking for a refined escape, look no further than Chatham. With an average home price of $1.2M, Chatham is one of the most affluent towns in Cape Cod. It’s located in the southeastern corner or “elbow” of Cape Cod and has become a popular summer destination.  The iconic Chatham is one of the best towns in Cape Cod for those seeking a luxury experience. Vacation rentals skew upscale — think waterfront properties with expansive decks — along with in-town cottages, many within walking distance of the 12. Orleans Orleans is known for a relaxed vibe steeped in natural beauty. The crown jewel is Nauset Beach, bordering the Cape Cod National Seashore and a haven for sunbathers and beachcombers. For a quieter experience, explore the shores of Skaket Beach on Cape Cod Bay — its calm waters are perfect for families with young children — or the diverse ecosystems and scenic trails of the Orleans has an appreciation of the natural environment and a relaxed pace of life. While Orleans lacks the tight-knit feel of some Cape Cod villages, East Orleans offers a charming village atmosphere with local shops and restaurants. Vacation rentals cater to various budgets, making Orleans an accessible option for those seeking a Cape Cod escape.  13. Eastham Nicknamed the "Gateway to the Cape Cod National Seashore," Eastham boasts vast stretches of protected coastline, perfect for exploring diverse ecosystems and indulging in outdoor activities. The famous Eastham's culture revolves around a deep connection to the land and the sea. Imagine mornings spent exploring the Cape Cod National Seashore or learning about Eastham's rich history at the museum, and afternoons swimming at Coast Guard Beach.  14. Wellfleet Wellfleet is one of the best Cape Cod towns for outdoor enthusiasts and seafood lovers. The Cape Cod National Seashore sprawls across nearly half the town, offering a massive playground for exploration. Hike scenic trails, relax on the beach or kayak the calm waters of Wellfleet boasts a vibrant arts scene with galleries and studios showcasing local talent. In October, the town becomes a haven for oyster lovers, hosting the famous 15. Truro Truro features a dramatic landscape unlike any other on Cape Cod. Rolling sand dunes border the Atlantic Ocean, creating a breathtaking backdrop for relaxation and exploration. Visit the iconic The town also hosts events and festivals throughout the year to celebrate local traditions and creativity. A vacation rental in Truro promises a tranquil escape that allows you to reconnect with nature and experience the artistic spirit of the town, with options like beachside cottages or more secluded properties among the dunes.  16. Provincetown Provincetown is a vibrant mix of artistic energy, rich history and inclusivity. Stroll along the picturesque harbor lined with shops and restaurants, or explore the beaches at Cape Cod National Seashore. History buffs will appreciate the Provincetown is a place where creativity, acceptance and a celebration of individuality thrive. The town boasts a thriving year-round LGBTQ+ community and hosts vibrant events like Carnival in August, attracting roughly 90,000 festival-goers each year. While Provincetown has something for everyone, it caters particularly to those seeking a lively and inclusive atmosphere.   How to spend a weekend in Cape Cod Whether you're a family seeking quality time together or a couple looking for romance, this iconic peninsula offers a quintessential New England escape. Use the sample itinerary suggestions below to help you craft a memorable weekend.  Family Cape Cod itinerary Cape Cod has a variety of activities and destinations perfect for families with children of all ages. Here's a sample itinerary of Couple’s Cape Cod itinerary Cape Cod is an idyllic Co-own a home in Cape Cod Cape Cod's charm extends far beyond its iconic beaches. Vibrant villages, rich history, and thriving arts scenes await in its many towns. Cape Cod offers prospective second home buyers everything from quaint beach cottages to luxurious waterfront estates.

Retirement is your time to embrace relaxation, adventure and the lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of. Finding the perfect destination is key, whether you picture yourself savoring coastal sunsets or exploring centuries-old European villages. Our guide to the 10 best places to retire in Europe provides everything you need to make an informed choice for your Using a comprehensive scoring system based on seven crucial factors, we’ve ranked the top European countries for retirement. Check out the full methodology at the end of the post to see how we developed these rankings. 1. Valencia, Spain Valencia effortlessly blends Mediterranean charm with a city atmosphere, making it a top choice for retirees. The city offers golden beaches, a rich history, cultural festivals like Las Fallas and affordable living. Its first-class healthcare system provides peace of mind, with both public and private options ensuring top-notch care.  Valencia’s expat community is welcoming and diverse, featuring residents from across Europe and the Americas. With a range of housing options — from historic apartments to modern villas — and attractive visa programs like the Golden Visa, settling in is simple. Whether you’re savoring authentic paella or exploring tranquil retreats like Xàtiva and Albufera, Valencia is considered one of the best cities to retire in Europe and a perfect location for those looking for a 2. Paris, France For many, France is considered one of the best European countries to retire in. France’s healthcare system ranks among the world’s best, providing comprehensive public and private options for retirees. While the cost of living can be higher in Paris, it’s generally more affordable than in many major U.S. cities, like New York, Los Angeles and Chicago. With visa pathways like the VLS-TS Long-Stay Visa and tax benefits available to U.S. retirees, France makes it easy to enjoy a fulfilling and serene retirement. 3. The Hague, Netherlands The Hague offers retirees an ideal mix of culture and a high quality of life, making it a prime choice when While the cost of living is above the national average, the Netherlands’ universal healthcare system and safe environment ensure peace of mind. The Hague also provides a wealth of 4. Brussels, Belgium  You can't mention Belgium without talking about its world-famous sweets, from decadent chocolate and pralines to crispy, golden waffles. Brussels combines these culinary delights with a cosmopolitan flair, making it one of the best places in Europe to retire. The city is known for its international community, progressive atmosphere and rich cultural scene, with highlights such as world-class museums, art galleries and a thriving culinary culture. Retirees enjoy easy access to green spaces, excellent public transportation and Brussels' prime location in the heart of Europe.  While winters can be long and overcast, the city offers a welcoming, diverse environment perfect for exploring or relaxing. Affordable housing and a high-quality healthcare system further enhance its appeal, though non-EU retirees should plan for a more complex residency process.  5. Helsinki, Finland When it comes to quality of life, Helsinki is one of the best countries to retire in Europe. About 70% of the population speaks English, which simplifies communication, and all permanent residents have access to a top-tier, publicly funded healthcare system. The cost of living is lower than the U.S. average, with affordable housing, utilities and public transportation, though higher costs for gas and winter utilities may arise.  Despite its benefits, Finland's harsh winters and proximity to Russia may be challenging for some retirees. However, Helsinki's affordability and standard of living make it a compelling choice for retirement. 6. Zagreb, Croatia Zagreb provides retirees with an affordable cost of living, excellent public healthcare and wonderful natural beauty. The country is known for its low crime rates, warm summers and mild winters, making it a safe and welcoming destination. Coastal cities like Split and Dubrovnik offer a Mediterranean lifestyle, while the Istria region is renowned for its wine and olive oil production.  Retirees should prepare for bureaucratic hurdles in obtaining a visa, potential healthcare wait times and occasional earthquakes. With no taxes on foreign retirement income and a relaxed lifestyle, Croatia remains an attractive option for those ready to navigate its complexities. 7.  London, United Kingdom London’s urban lifestyle makes it an appealing choice for retirees, offering world-class cultural experiences, high-quality healthcare and excellent public transportation links that are free for pensioners. The city’s walkability and active transport options keep retirees physically engaged, while the abundance of museums, galleries and theaters foster intellectual and social stimulation. There are tons of Depending on  8. Sicily, Italy Sicily offers a warm Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers, making it an attractive destination for retirees looking to While the public healthcare system is accessible and affordable, many expats opt for private healthcare for more comprehensive coverage. However, navigating Italy’s language barrier can be a challenge, especially for those not fluent in Italian.  9. Lagos, Portugal Lagos, located in the Algarve region of Portugal, is a peaceful town known for its beaches, dramatic cliffs and storied history. The Mediterranean climate is one of its many draws, offering warm summers and mild winters that enhance the relaxed lifestyle. An increasing expat community provides an excellent setting for retirees looking to enjoy a social and active lifestyle. The strong potential for kinship abroad makes Lagos one of the best places for expats to retire. The D7 visa option allows retirees to live in Portugal, provided they meet specific requirements, including proof of income and health insurance. Lagos is affordable, and its thriving tourism and outdoor activities, such as surfing, boating and hiking, provide a rich cultural experience for anyone choosing to retire there. Retirees should be mindful of the 10% tax on foreign income for those holding the D7 visa and the need to secure private health insurance for full coverage. 10. Crete, Greece Spending your golden years on an island in the Aegean Sea sets up Crete, Greece as one of the best places for Americans to retire in Europe. Crete is an island off the coast of Greece and an enticing destination for retirees. It offers many outdoor activities, such as hiking, swimming and sailing. Its Mediterranean climate features warm, dry summers and mild winters, making it ideal year-round. Plus, Crete is just a short boat ride from Santorini, one of the best The cost of living in Crete is also significantly lower than in the U.S., especially for housing and dining, giving retirees access to an affordable lifestyle. Crete’s excellent healthcare system combines both public and private options, ensuring that expats can receive quality medical care. With historical sites and the famous Minoan civilization, Crete offers a lively atmosphere for those looking for an active lifestyle. Enjoy Europe Easier with Pacaso Whether you're an Our methodology To establish the rankings of the top 10 retirement destinations, we created a thorough evaluation system grounded in five essential factors that matter most to retirees. We carefully chose these factors to align with the key concerns of those looking for affordable, fulfilling and comfortable retirement options. We calculated the rankings by applying these factors, each given a specific weight as outlined below: Cost of Living (25%) Affordability is paramount when choosing a retirement destination, which is why the cost of living holds the highest weight in our methodology. To evaluate affordability, we took into account average monthly expenses such as housing, groceries, utilities and transportation. For accuracy, we pulled data from the Health Care (20%) Given its critical importance, health care was assigned the second-highest weight. We assessed each country's health care system based on Numbeo’s health care index, which evaluates the quality of healthcare services by considering factors like medical staff, infrastructure, treatment costs and access to care.  Safety (20%) Retirees prioritize safety in their decision-making process. For this factor, we turned to the The GPI offers insights into each country's peace level by examining factors like crime rates, terrorism, political stability and military expenditure. Using this index, we assessed the relative safety of each nation.  Average Home Price (15%) Home affordability plays a central role in determining a country's appeal to retirees. To measure housing costs, we analyzed the average percentage of income spent on home prices in each country, leveraging data from Numbeo.  Social Security Tax (10%) Taxation has a big impact on retirees' finances. We examined tax policies such as social security exemptions and local sales taxes, evaluating the impact these taxes would have on retirees. For consistency, we calculated the average tax rates across countries and factored them into the overall ranking.  Climate (5%) A favorable climate can greatly affect the lifestyle and well-being of retirees. We utilized a climate index that ranks cities worldwide by their weather and temperature patterns, considering annual averages and conditions that would be most desirable for long-term living.  Retirement Visa (5%) The ease of acquiring a retirement visa can influence a retiree’s decision. We tracked countries that offer retirement visas and those that do not, recording results in a binary fashion for each destination. The countries that streamline the visa application process were given higher marks.