Buying

According to a 2024 survey, We’ll cover the top factors to consider when looking for your next accommodation. We’ll even introduce you to a third option — second homes — and share how it stacks up against the Overview: Airbnb vs. hotel Airbnb is usually cheaper, though its listings have variable quality, privacy and amenities depending on the location and host, which may make people look for Airbnb: Pros and cons  Airbnb is an app and online platform where you can rent rooms or whole properties to stay. The company facilitates shared and private short-term rentals, connecting travelers with hosts who offer accommodations in their homes or properties. Airbnb has helped guests find accommodations in popular tourist destinations and remote environments since 2008.  Airbnbs are typically quick and easy to book, cancel and check into, making them a top contender in the short-term travel market. However, safety and quality can be tough to determine from Airbnb listings.  Hotels: Pros and cons  A 9 differences between hotels and Airbnbs Hotels and Airbnbs differ in price, types of room accommodations, safety resources, locations, privacy, amenity offerings, available lengths of stay, and accessibility.  1. Price When it comes to Airbnb vs. hotel prices, Airbnb has a broad spectrum of accommodation options at different price points, while hotels are often more expensive per night.  Globally, the average cost of an Airbnb is The global average cost of a hotel is 2. Accommodation types Hotels specialize in providing private rooms, while Airbnb offers multiple accommodation types, including shared and private rooms and entire homes, to suit your budget. Hosts can categorize their listing based on the layout of their lodging:  Although you can share a room with your friends and family, private rooms are the only accommodations you’ll find in a hotel setting. However, some luxury hotels offer penthouses and villas with a kitchen and a dining and living room. Types of hotel rooms include: 3. Safety  Regarding safety, hotels may have more resources to keep guests secure than Airbnb. However, even the largest hotel chains are not immune to security breaches. Both Airbnb and hotels can be subject to Since Airbnb listings are managed by individual hosts, it can be difficult to accurately gauge the safety of a location. A 4. Locations  If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path lodging option, Airbnb may have what you’re looking for. If a room in the city is what you need, consider staying at a hotel.  One of the most attractive qualities of Airbnb and Similar to Airbnb, Booking.com currently features 5. Privacy Hotel rooms are generally more private than Airbnbs. Both hotels and Airbnb have privacy concerns; however, many Airbnbs allow self check-in procedures that limit or remove face time with hosts.  Much like safety, privacy can be difficult to gauge from Airbnb listings. Even if you book an entire home, you could still share a wall or outdoor space with your host, who might invade your privacy.  While some hosts may live on the property, others live nearby or may manage their property remotely. The key to finding a private unit is to read the property description and reviews thoroughly.  In terms of your room, it’s hard to find a more private option than a hotel. However, once you leave that space, you may find yourself swimming in a sea of people in the common areas. Even the most luxurious hotels typically have a check-in procedure requiring guests to interact publicly before retiring to their private rooms. 6. Amenities  Hotels often provide guests with a few basics, while some offer more Airbnb amenities can vary from listing to listing. Don’t expect the same amenities as you would receive during a hotel stay. Available amenities depend on individual hosts, and quality can differ per listing. Here are some of the One of the defining features of a hotel is the wide array of amenities offered to guests. Along with the amenities mentioned for Airbnb, hotels typically provide at least one of the following as well: 7. Length of stay  Hotels are ideal for a weekend getaway. But if you’re searching for a place to stay longer than a few nights, Airbnb is a better option.  Booking an entire home on Airbnb may be more comfortable than hotels for long-term travel. Airbnb also offers Most hotels cater to short-term travelers who prioritize convenience and location over long-term travel amenities like a kitchen or laundry facilities. 8. Accessibility features Both Airbnb and hotels try to create more accessible spaces for their guests; however, hotels are often more accessible because they are commercial businesses. While Airbnb does have an “Accessibility features” section in their search filters, hosts are not required to comply with In general, hotels are required to comply with ADA guidelines. Along with the features mentioned above, here are some more examples of how hotels adhere to ADA policies: 9. Checkout Some guests may prefer to stay at hotels to avoid the long list of checkout procedures some Airbnb hosts require. The Airbnb host is responsible for providing a detailed checkout process, while at hotels, checkout tasks are usually simpler. The Airbnb checkout experience can be as simple as locking the door when you leave or something similar to what most people expect from a paid housekeeper. Here is what a lengthy checkout procedure could look like for an Airbnb stay: Some Airbnbs also request specific payment options, such as cash only, specified in the listing introduction. Generally, a hotel has a housekeeping crew responsible for most of the cleanup after your stay. However, guests may also be responsible for small tasks like returning the room key. Note that the added convenience of leaving the cleaning to the professionals may result in higher costs. Consider co-owning a second home instead Whether you want a When it comes to booking an Airbnb vs. a hotel, Airbnb is generally the cheaper option. However, the price of a hotel may be well worth it. From guest services to prime urban locations, a hotel typically offers a consistent level of quality to every guest. If you're after a unique accommodation equipped with a kitchen (and a potentially long list of checkout procedures), book an Airbnb.  If you prioritize a home away from home in a dream destination, consider owning a second home.  Co-own a vacation destination today Weighing Airbnbs vs. hotels may help you plan the ideal short-term vacation, but what if your dream vacation spot is a repeat destination? Co-owning a second home makes repeat vacations cost-effective and stress-free.  As a

If you’ve found the most incredible second home in a picture-perfect location, there’s a good chance you’ve started looking into financing options to make your dreams a reality. So let’s discuss how to buy a second home with no money down.  We won’t lie: 1. Use government-backed loans by changing your primary residence  There are several government-backed loans for second home options to consider. The first is VA loans are for The second is 2. Assume an existing mortgage  Another option for a no-down-payment mortgage is to assume an existing mortgage. If the seller’s home has an 3. Tap into existing home equity  You can also choose to tap into your existing home equity by using a Or use a home equity line of credit ( If you already have a mortgage, these would both be second mortgages that you’d need to pay in addition to the first.  4. Reverse mortgage A reverse mortgage is an option for seniors 62 and older. It allows seniors to access home equity without monthly mortgage payments, and the funds can be used as a down payment for a second home.  The loan is repaid when the senior sells the house, moves out or passes away — whenever they no longer live in the home. The heirs or homeowners must repay the loan, usually by selling the home. It’s important to note that this type of loan comes with high fees and complexities. We strongly recommend consulting a financial advisor first if you’re considering a reverse mortgage.  5. Gift of equity  Another no-money-down mortgage option is a gift of equity. A gift of equity is when someone with whom you have a close relationship sells you a home below market value. Usually, the person is a family member.  If the gift of equity is equal to 20% or more of fair market value, you can avoid down payment contributions. However, you’ll need to consult tax advice to understand the tax implications of a gift of equity.  6. Lease with option to buy  A lease with option to buy, or lease option, is a rent-to-own contract that lets you rent the property to test it out, with the opportunity to commit and buy at the end of the lease. Usually, the lease contract is for a number of years.  If you decide to buy, rental credits can be applied toward the purchase price and converted into a down payment. It’s important to negotiate these terms upfront with your landlord with the help of a tax professional and real estate attorney.  7. Seller financing  Another option is to negotiate directly with the seller to finance the purchase. You may be able to negotiate terms that require less or no down payment. However, it’s very important to be aware that seller financing doesn't include standard mortgage protections, so you may not have the same legal safeguards as you would in a traditional mortgage. 8. Retirement account access  You can This allows you to borrow money from your 401(k) and repay it with interest. You can also make a 401(k) withdrawal for your home purchase. However, if you are under 59, you’ll have to pay a 10% withdrawal penalty plus income tax.  9. Partnership or co-borrower Lastly, consider partnering with someone who can provide the down payment while sharing the ownership or financing burden of the second property. Key considerations  Buying a second home with no money down can be a huge leap, and it’s important to know how it will impact your financial future. Here are some things to consider before you take the plunge: An alternative approach: Pacaso co-ownership  So, can you buy a house with no money down? Technically, there are ways, but it can be a tough road to go down. Instead, consider Pacaso as a better approach to Pacaso’s fully managed LLC co-ownership model allows you to purchase 1/8 or 1/4 of a vacation home property. You split the costs with your fellow co-owners, while our local maintenance crews handle daily maintenance and management. You and your loved ones get exclusive access to the home at specific times throughout the year. Get your dream second home with Pacaso  As you think about how to buy a second home with no money down, consider Pacaso for a lower-cost, hassle-free way to co-own your luxury vacation home. Finance up to 70% of your home’s purchase price and sell your home at the time and price of your choice. View our

Million-dollar homes are a niche market all their own, and in order to sell your luxury home to that market, you have to understand it. That’s why you’ll need our top tips on how to sell a luxury home. Below, we’ll cover how to highlight your property’s strengths, which updates will make it irresistible, and how to market it to potential buyers. Then learn how you can 1. Get an experienced real estate agent Don’t underestimate the value of hiring an experienced luxury real estate agent who knows how to sell million-dollar homes. The process for selling luxury real estate is significantly different than the process for selling an average-priced home in a typical suburb, and it’s important to have an agent who understands what buyers are looking for and how to showcase it.  Experienced luxury realtors can help you prep, list and market your home and use their connections to reach out to other agents and brokers to find buyers who are looking for homes like yours and who can 2. Know your property’s strengths Pay attention to what buyers are looking for in your area, and be sure to highlight those features in the sales listing – especially if they’re rare. For example, if you live in a city and your home has a large yard, that can be a huge draw for buyers looking for Standards can also vary by location. For example, spa-like bathrooms and waterfront access are desired features in Miami, while in NYC, floor-to-ceiling windows and great views are huge draws. Features like extra closet space, wine cellars, fireplaces, swimming pools and rooftop decks can also spark interest in a property. An experienced local real estate agent familiar with your competition can help identify your home’s standout features.  3. Make your home irresistible  Most luxury home shoppers aren’t looking for a project property, so make sure your home is move-in ready. Simple updates can make a huge difference: a fresh coat of paint, new high-quality fixtures, freshly polished floors, new carpeting and professional landscaping.  To take things up a notch, hire a professional who knows how to sell million-dollar homes to stage the property with 4. Create stunning visuals  Once your home is looking its best, your agent will arrange for top-quality photos and video footage of the property. Remember, the quality of your listing sends a distinct message about the quality of your home. Luxury real estate marketing ideas include drone photography and video footage that includes life and movement, like a luxury car coming down the driveway or someone relaxing by the pool. Include a 3D walkthrough to let potential buyers imagine themselves in the space.  You’re not just selling a home, you’re selling a luxury lifestyle. In addition to all major real estate listing sites, you can post photos and videos on your social media channels.  5. Educate potential buyers  Your home and community likely have hidden perks that buyers won’t know about unless you tell them. In listings and social media posts, be sure to highlight home features like smart security, home automation, central vacuums and heated floors. You might also want to share your favorite area restaurants, parks and other points of interest.  These little extras can give your listing the added boost it needs to make it to the top of buyers’ lists. You may also want to host an invite-only party (in addition to agent open houses) to give brokers and potential buyers the full picture of what your home has to offer. 6. Show your home in the right places It’s important to get your listing in front of affluent buyers using elite channels. Effective marketing channels include luxury home design magazines, international listing platforms, luxury real estate sites, and targeted ads. You can also host high-end, invitation-only events using professional networks to get your property in front of more qualified buyers without a hard sell.  Don’t forget about social media, but make sure to share only the highest quality photos and videos that tell a story and show off the lifestyle of your home. 7. Price properly It may be tempting to pick the real estate agent promising the highest list price for your property, but agents who know how to sell luxury real estate know that “comps” are key. Make sure your agent bases your list price on competitive market analysis research, and have them explain their numbers.  Keep in mind that listing strategies vary by market; sellers in some markets do well with bidding wars, while others know it’s better to ask for top dollar up front and negotiate down. Again, an experienced real estate agent will know the ideal strategy to sell your home quickly for the best price.  8. Know when to list Mother Nature can be one of the best marketing partners you’ve ever had – or your worst enemy. If you’re selling a mountain lodge close to a ski resort in Choose a season that showcases your property's best features, taking into account your area’s climate and your home’s character. 9. Craft a concierge-level buying experience.  You can enhance the luxury mindset around your property by creating a concierge-level buying experience. This includes NDAs, appointment-only tours, private showings and valets. Private transportation and access to exclusive listings can also make buyers feel valued and special. All communications should feel personalized and exclusive.  10. Be patient  When it comes to knowing how to sell million-dollar homes as a real estate agent or seller, one secret the pros don’t always share is this: It takes time. Again, the Sell your home with Pacaso After learning how to sell a luxury home, you’ll probably need a helping hand to get started. Pacaso buys high-end homes in top destinations for second-home buyers. With curated marketing and a large buyer pool, we can help you Or, if you’re not quite ready to leave your home entirely, tap into your home’s liquidity and keep the amount of ownership that’s perfect for you.

Is a vacation home on the coast of Portugal calling your name? Buying property abroad gives you a place to call home in a new destination, whether that's a Buying property abroad has its benefits, but the complexities can be intimidating. From navigating legal regulations and language barriers to working with local vendors and securing financing, buying a home abroad requires careful consideration and expert guidance. Below, learn more about what you need to consider when buying a house abroad — from the best place to invest in real estate to how Pacaso can help you confidently buy abroad. 1. Figure out the type of property you want Ask yourself the type of property you want, the ownership style you’re comfortable with and how you intend to use the property. Will it be your primary residence, or do you want a second home to be your 2. Think about where you want to buy Next, think about where you want your new property to be. Even if you already have a dream destination, it’s worth looking into global home-buying trends. For example, buying property abroad as an American remains a lengthy and complicated process in 2025, but, currently, many high-net-worth Americans We analyzed both luxury and average home prices across the globe. We found that some of the other 3. Find a local realtor Learning how to invest in international real estate can be challenging without the help of a local real estate agent who understands the lay of the land. Consider hiring an agent in your country of choice who understands When buying overseas property, an experienced local realtor can help you navigate exchange rates and tax implications, double-tax treaties, land registry, stamp duties, lawyer fees, hidden costs, financing options and zoning laws. Bonus Tip: If necessary, use a professional translator to ensure accurate communication and avoid misunderstandings. 4. Research the country’s real estate process Every country has its own real estate process, from property search and negotiation to closing and ownership transfer. When getting into overseas property purchases, always research the specific process in your chosen country to know what to expect. Things to look into include local customs on making offers, negotiating and closing — things might be done quite differently. Also, find out about any specific documentation or permits that may be required.  5. Consult your financial advisor Before buying luxury property abroad, consult a financial advisor specializing in foreign real estate. They can help you take a holistic approach, considering your financial goals and the risks and rewards of owning a home abroad. An advisor can also guide you on currency exchange rates, tax implications and estate planning considerations. Bonus Tip: Use our 6. Learn about your tax obligations  If you’re buying property overseas, tax implications are important to be aware of. Here are some to keep in mind: You’ll need to have a tax expert in both the U.S. and the country where you’re buying property and a legal expert to help you navigate these waters.  7. Discover other options to finance an overseas property  While Pacaso offers Bonus Tip: Connect with a property broker like 8. Review residency requirements If you plan to spend extended time or Some countries where Americans can buy property may have specific visa programs for foreign property owners. For example, some countries offer the Golden Visa, which is an investment immigration program that lets you live in another country in exchange for a significant investment in the economy of that country, often real estate.  Others may restrict your stay without obtaining a visa or have other limitations. In Mexico, for example, foreigners cannot own property within 50 kilometers of its coastlines, but it can be done through a Mexican bank trust. Research the residency options available or ask your local agent to help you find the option that best suits your needs.  Bonus Tip: Familiarize yourself with cultural nuances and negotiation styles that may differ from your home country. 9. Know the risks  Buying a property abroad isn’t without risks. A purchase like this can come with long sale times, high transaction costs and hidden fees. Plus, changing local laws can impact value and liquidity, and currency fluctuations can impact the transaction as well. Make sure to consult someone for legal advice and representation. 10. Look into property management services A good property management service can help make buying property overseas less stressful. Someone will need to take care of the home’s security, cleaning and maintenance while you’re not there. Pacaso’s international vacation homes come with a team of local experts and Things to consider with foreign real estate International real estate investing comes with much to consider, and there are many When learning how to buy a house in another country, consider the following factors: laws and eligibility, currency, culture and language differences. Laws and eligibility  It’s crucial to understand the local laws and regulations governing international real estate when looking at overseas property for sale. Research the specific requirements and restrictions for foreign buyers before making any decisions. Your local agent or financial advisor can also guide you on property taxes and any other potential restrictions to be aware of.  Language barriers Unless you’re fluent in the local language, think about how you will communicate in your country of choice — especially with agents and local authorities during the purchasing process. So, before you Difference in currency Investing in foreign real estate involves dealing with different currencies. Fluctuations in exchange rates can impact the value of your home and potentially increase or decrease your return. Stay informed about currency trends as you navigate your purchase.  Culture  Understanding the country's culture where you plan to buy a second home is essential. Research political stability, social customs and overall feel for various regions or neighborhoods. Be aware of cultural faux pas or scams targeting foreign buyers.  Confidently buy a vacation property abroad with Pacaso Pacaso leverages our local expertise to help you bypass burdensome legal and tax intricacies, and we offer tailored financing solutions and remote home management to help own with confidence. This full-service experience is all streamlined so you can fully enjoy your home, whether you’re there or miles away. Our Ready to find your dream vacation home? Contact our team to explore our curated listings of

Today, Below, we’ll compare the top 12 real estate websites in 2025, from Zillow to Pacaso, focusing on each site's specialty. Read on to find the best platform for home searching. 1. Zillow With its user-friendly interface and robust search features, Zillow is commonly cited as one of the best home search sites because it offers valuable tools like mortgage and 2. Trulia Trulia is another top website to look for houses. What sets Trulia's interactive map functionality and detailed property information enable users to easily explore homes in their preferred neighborhoods. The platform provides valuable insights into local real estate market trends, helping users better understand price fluctuations and determine 3. Realtor.com The platform's user-friendly mobile app keeps users connected to the latest real estate developments, making it an invaluable tool for house hunters on the go. 4. Redfin The platform also employs a team of agents who prioritize customer satisfaction. Buyers must work directly with a Redfin agent or partner to purchase a home. 5. Homes.com Homes.com's intuitive search tools, detailed property descriptions and neighborhood information make it straightforward for users to shop for homes. 6. Pacaso Pacaso turns Pacaso has revolutionized the way people experience 7. Sotheby’s Realty You can filter listings by lifestyle (e.g., beach, country living, and eco-friendly) and those with video and virtual reality tours. 8. Homefinder.com Homefinder.com also equips buyers with essential tools like affordability calculators to aid financial planning. 9. Estately With an extensive and regularly updated property listing database, Estately also offers unique features like commute time calculators, which help users assess the practicality of a location for their daily routines. 10. RE/MAX 11. FSBO.com This platform allows buyers to access different 12. Auction.com A luxury home-buying website for second-time shoppers Now that you’ve perused the best house-buying websites, it’s time to start shopping. If you have your eye on a vacation home with simplified Pacaso has revolutionized the way people experience

You may have purchased your first home using an FHA loan, and now you’re looking into Below, we’ll explain how to finance a second home, the major differences between FHA loans and second home loans and discuss how loans can differ for vacation homes and investment properties. What is a second home mortgage? A second home mortgage finances the purchase of a second home (which may be a rental property or Second home mortgage rates and costs You will likely pay a slightly higher interest rate on a mortgage for a second home than for your primary residence due to the increased risk for lenders. In 2025, expect interest rates to be What is an FHA loan? If it’s been a while since you applied for your FHA loan, here’s a refresher on some of the distinguishing characteristics between an FHA loan for a primary home and a conventional loan for a primary home. An FHA loan: Second home mortgages vs. FHA loans A mortgage loan for a second home will differ quite a bit from an FHA loan. Below, let’s look at the main differences and similarities between the two. The biggest difference between FHA loans and second home mortgages is that lenders consider second home mortgages to be higher risk. They know that in a financial crisis you’re more likely to make mortgage payments  on the loan for your primary residence than you are on a vacation home. For that reason, the Loan type  An FHA loan helps first-time homebuyers buy homes. It is backed by the government and usually comes with more lenient requirements.  On the other hand, a second home mortgage can help finance the purchase of a second home, like a vacation home. Usually, second home mortgage requirements are stricter, as you’ll need higher credit scores and down payments. Credit score  Because an FHA loan is designed to help first-time buyers achieve home ownership, the credit score requirements for an FHA-backed loan are lower than they are for a second home mortgage.  FHA loans typically require a minimum credit score of 620, while a second home loan usually requires 680 or higher. Debt-to-income ratio  Your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) is calculated by comparing the amount of debt you’re carrying to your income. With an FHA loan, your DTI maximum is 57%. But your DTI cannot exceed 45% for a second home mortgage.  Down payment A mortgage on a second home requires a higher down payment than your FHA loan. The minimum down payment required for a second home is usually 10% compared to 3% with the FHA.  However, one benefit of your second home loan is that you can take advantage of your first home’s equity and use a home equity line of credit (HELOC) or cash-out refinance to pay for all or part of the down payment for your second home. Debt-to-income ratio  Your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) is calculated by comparing the amount of debt you’re carrying to your income. With an FHA loan, your DTI maximum is 57%. But your DTI cannot exceed 45% for a second home mortgage.  Occupancy For an FHA loan, the home must be the borrower’s primary residence.   For a second home mortgage, the home must be for personal use, like a seasonal or vacation home, not an investment home. Depending on the property and management company, owners may rent it out — but only for a certain portion of the year.  Interest rates As you may have guessed, a second home mortgage will have a higher interest rate than an FHA loan. It will also be higher if your second home is classified as an Type of home FHA loans allow for duplexes and other multi-family dwellings, but second home mortgages are for single-unit homes only, unless it’s classified as an investment property. Closing costs  Both FHA loans and second home mortgages require closing costs, but these can vary from lender to lender.  Some closing costs, which may include origination charges, appraisal fees and title insurance, will be higher for a second home mortgage. FHA loans usually have lower closing costs and more flexible terms. Property taxes Many second home mortgages will roll property taxes into your monthly payment, similar to an FHA loan.  Lenders Most lenders that offer FHA loans and conventional mortgages for primary residences also offer vacation home loans. These may be mortgage companies, credit unions or traditional banks. However, the lender must be approved by the Federal Housing Administration for an FHA loan. Second home vs. investment property Loan requirements will vary depending on how your second home is classified, with a vacation home mortgage having more lenient terms than an investment property. But how does a lender differentiate between an investment property and a vacation home? A vacation home: If you fail to meet any of these criteria, your second home will be considered an investment property and you could be subject to income taxes and higher interest rates on your second home mortgage.  But having your second home classified as an investment property isn’t all bad news– lenders may also take into account potential rental income when calculating your DTI for an investment property, so in some cases, classifying your second home as an income property could be to your advantage.  While it’s true that second home mortgage requirements have tougher restrictions than FHA loans, many mortgage lenders will be flexible if you have financial strengths that compensate for your weaknesses. For example, if your credit score is a bit on the low side, but you can provide a higher down payment, a lender will be more likely to work with you. Financing options When looking into financing a second home and how to qualify for a second mortgage, you’ll want to be familiar with the different loan types available. Here are the main ones to know: Financing your Pacaso Pacaso’s LLC co-ownership model includes

If the A So, how much does a property manager cost in 2025? We’ll break down all the factors, from property types to the climate of the housing market, that contribute to residential property management costs and highlight which ones apply to short-term or long-term rentals. How do monthly property management fees work? You either pay property management fees when rent is collected or based on income. 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: To avoid payment discrepancies, make sure your property management service contract explicitly states which model you’ll use during your partnership. Property management fee structure models So, how much do property managers make from you? There are three ways Let’s explore each property management fee structure more in-depth and share its pros and cons when managing a vacation home. Percentage of monthly rent In this arrangement, One advantage of this model is that Flat monthly 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. However, when your rental isn’t generating much income, 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 or hybrid income models It’s also possible to The property management company will propose a rate based on how much income they think the Hidden or additional property management fees When learning how to manage a 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 for their second homes. Factors that influence monthly fees There are a lot of reasons why you might see variance in monthly fees from your property manager. Here are a few: Do Pacaso homes have a property manager? Now that you’re familiar with property management costs per month, you’ll be looking for options. If learning how to manage a second home or vacation property doesn’t sound like the right fit for you, consider becoming a Every Is hiring a property manager worth the cost? Hiring a trusted property management company for vacation homes or residential spaces can be worth the cost if you don’t have the bandwidth to communicate with tenants, manage paperwork or maintain your property. If you live nearby and can manage the property yourself, it may not warrant the costs. 

There are so many ways to vacation: the consistency of a hotel, the extra space in a vacation rental, the structure of a What is a luxury vacation club?  A vacation club is a membership-based program that gives participants access to thousands of hotels, rental vacation homes and travel experiences. Luxury vacation clubs take these offerings to the next level, with an exclusive, curated collection of Many large hotel chains — Hilton, Marriott, Hyatt and Wyndham, for example — have travel clubs designed around their own collection of hotels and resorts. However, the most exclusive, high-end vacation clubs operate independently of a single hotel brand, offering their members a wide range of options.  How do luxury vacation clubs work?  While each luxury vacation club has its nuances, they typically operate with the same general model. Members usually pay a one-time initiation fee to join. Costs can range from a few thousand to much more, depending on how exclusive the club you join is. Then, you’ll pay annual dues, with prices fluctuating based on how much you want to travel each year.  In exchange for your investment, you have access to a wide range of accommodations and experiences, many with better perks, lower per-night costs and more options than you’d find if you booked on your own. Some offer a rewards program based on your spend.  The most exclusive travel clubs — among them What are the most popular luxury vacation clubs? Vacation clubs are available at a wide variety of price points, but in the luxury space, there are a handful of clubs that lead the pack among jet-setters.  Inspirato Inspirato boasts a portfolio of high-end homes, hotels and experiences in the most sought-after vacation destinations. Service is Inspirato’s hallmark, including travel planning, an on-site concierge, daily housekeeping and more. A rewards program provides extra discounts, early access to special events and complementary guest passes, depending on how much you spend each year.  Inspirato offers two tiers of membership: Inspirato Club and Inspirato Pass. Inspirato Club, a traditional vacation club membership model, lets you choose between a monthly or annual membership, both of which will set you back $7,800 per year. The monthly membership is more flexible, allowing new members to try out an Inspirato membership without a large upfront investment, but the monthly membership does require a $650 enrollment fee. The Inspirato Pass is a more flexible, monthly subscription model. For $2,550 per month, members can book Pass Trips from a list of over 1.5 million options, with nightly rates, taxes and fees included. There are limits to how many trips you can have reserved at a time. Exclusive Resorts  If Inspirato is a luxury vacation club, Exclusive Resorts is an ultra-exclusive vacation club. Their 4,000 members have access to 400 exquisite homes and expansive experiences in 75 global destinations. Most of the homes are owned by Exclusive Resorts, which allows for a consistently high level of service and amenities. Members enjoy the services of a travel planner before each trip, plus a dedicated concierge at the destination.  Exclusive Resorts invites only about 200 new members each year. Members pay a $195,000 initiation fee for a 10-year plan, plus $42,250 each year for 25 travel days. Solstice Collection Solstice Collection offers a more intimate luxury club experience, with far fewer properties but a promise of better availability. There’s a 6:1 ratio of homes to members, making it easier to book and enjoy time at the home you want. All of the homes in their portfolio are in the multi-million-dollar range and they include a sunny hillside estate in Cabo San Lucas, a historic palace in Florence and a private beach oasis in Koh Samui.  The costs of Solstice Collection membership include a one-time initiation fee of $15,000, plus annual dues ranging from $49,000 to well over $100,000, depending on how many nights you’d like to travel.  What’s the difference between a vacation club and a timeshare? While both In terms of financial investment, both timeshares and vacation clubs require an upfront payment and ongoing dues. However, timeshare owners often get saddled with maintenance fees, taxes and special assessments. And timeshares can be notoriously difficult to resell. How is Pacaso different? Luxury vacation clubs offer access to incredible properties around the world. So does Pacaso, with one major difference: You own your second home.  Discover how Pacaso stacks up against Inspirato. Pacaso uses an innovative With homes available from

For those who love to travel, do so frequently, and want more out of their accommodations than simply a hotel room, vacation clubs and fractional ownership programs can be very appealing. While Two of the best known are How does Equity Estates work? A common gripe about timeshares is that you pay a lot of money into the program, yet you gain no equity in the properties you visit each year — you get only the right to use the property. Equity Estates offers an alternative. Instead of paying a membership fee, you contribute to an investment fund that buys you shares of the Equity Estates property portfolio. Down the road when your defined liquidity date arrives, the residences are sold and investors are paid back 100% of their initial capital contribution, plus 80% of the profits.  Properties and destinations During the years between investment and disbursement, investors enjoy access to 60+ destinations across over 25 countries. The properties are private, luxury homes valued between $2 million and $5 million, with amenities like oceanfront views, ski-in/ski-out access, swimming pools and private club access.  Access Depending on your level of investment, you’ll get a set number of nights per year. Equity Estates promises better availability than timeshares since homes are only available to investors. Cost In addition to your initial investment, which can start at $145,000 or more, investors pay annual fees to cover maintenance, daily housekeeping, a personal travel concierge, destination manager and local hosts.  How does Inspirato work?  Inspirato also promises luxury vacations at upscale private homes around the world, but the structure of the program is quite different from Equity Estates. Inspirato is set up as a subscription model featuring three tiers with varying levels of cost and benefits.  The Inspirato Pass The Inspirato Pass is the company’s core offerings. For a $2,550 enrollment fee and a monthly subscription of $2,550, members can choose from over 1.5 million Pass Trips, with all nightly rates, taxes and fees included. And it’s not just homes. You can also stay at top hotels and resorts and choose from cruises, safaris and guided tours. The pass is designed for travelers with flexible schedules, as you have to complete a booked reservation before scheduling your next trip. It’s also ideal for those who want to travel frequently but want the planning to be simple and straightforward.  Inspirato Club The third option, the Inspirato Club, costs $650 per month. Travelers get access to the Inspirato Collection of properties and experiences, with members-only nightly rates and travel planning assistance.  Inspirato luxury homes are owned by the company, but they have partnerships with hotel, resort and travel brands, ensuring you have access to stays and experiences all over the world.  Which option is right for you?  Whether you choose to go with Inspirato or Equity Estates depends on what you’re looking for out of a vacation club.  The people who join Inspirato tend to be frequent travelers who spend a lot on travel each year and have a flexible enough schedule to work around some of the inherent booking limitations.  Equity Estates appeals to people who spend significant amounts each year on travel, but want to see some return on their spend. Because of the potential for investment gains, the initial investment is higher than other options.  Equity Estates pros and cons Inspirato pros and cons Now get to know Pacaso Equity Estates and Inspirato aren’t the only innovators in the world of luxury travel. In fact, Pacaso takes the best of what these companies offer and delivers a smarter way to enjoy second home ownership.  With Every Pacaso home is fully managed, professionally designed and ready for you to enjoy, with equitable scheduling among owners.  Pacaso co-owners purchase shares in a property-specific LLC, and when you’re ready, you can sell your share to realize any returns on your property.   Comparing Pacaso and Inspirato An owner’s view of the differences Pacaso owner Mark also has an Inspirato membership. While he uses his Inspirato to “fill the gap” when he wants variety in destinations, he says he loves that his Pacaso gives him true ownership in a destination he loves.  “We’re kind of creatures of habit,” Mark said. “We like to go back to the same place that we know. We know it’s going to be quality. We get to know people in the community … it’s a totally different animal, and we prefer having the house.”  

Buying a home in Europe for fall in London or Paris Autumn rewards those who plan ahead. If you are buying a home in Europe, a private base in London or Paris turns a packed cultural calendar into an easy ritual. From film premieres to gallery nights, Paris luxury homes and London townhouses place you steps from headline events, neighborhood bistros, and quiet parks between engagements. With Pacaso, you enjoy the city lifestyle without the day-to-day burden of solo second home ownership. Buying a home in Europe for a curated fall season Pacaso co-ownership gives you a professionally designed, fully furnished home and seamless management, so your time goes to exhibitions, performances, and dinners, not logistics. If you want a deeper understanding of how modern co-ownership works, see our explanation in London in autumn culture highlights October brings film, design, and private views across the city. Anchor your plans around these cultural touchpoints, then fill in afternoons with parks and gallery walks. Paris in autumn culture highlights For those buying a home in Europe to deepen their arts calendar, Paris delivers from neighborhood festivals to global fairs. The season layers heritage with contemporary voices across the city. Across the Seine, Why a private base beats busy hotels in peak season Both cities see strong demand each fall, as new hospitality projects and reimagined historic buildings signal ongoing appetite for high-end stays. Owning your Pacaso home means consistency, privacy, and the ability to host comfortably during marquee weeks. How Pacaso simplifies city ownership Find your base in London and Paris If you are thinking about buying a home in Europe, anchor your fall calendar with a Pacaso in these culture capitals. Browse

Before you To help you get started, we’ll break down the Let’s dive in.  IRS classifications: How your second home is taxed The availability of second home tax deductions largely depends on how the IRS classifies your property. Understanding these classifications is crucial for knowing what you can and cannot deduct. The three classifications are: Consult a tax professional to determine your home’s rental status and which tax form you need to file.  Tax deductions for second home ownership  Basking in luxury and relaxation isn’t the only advantage to owning a vacation home. Here are a few second home tax breaks you don’t want to miss.  Mortgage interest deduction Mortgage interest is the amount you pay to borrow money from the bank when you buy a home. A mortgage interest deduction is a tax benefit that allows owners of one or two qualified homes to write off the interest they paid on their mortgage. But remember that you can only Property tax deduction Another key second home tax deduction is for property taxes. Property tax is an annual fee charged to homeowners based on the value of their property. These taxes usually go toward funding local schools, public safety, roads and infrastructure, parks, library services and more. Home equity loan interest deductions You can Energy efficiency tax breaks The U.S. government offers two main tax credits for homeowners who make eco-friendly upgrades: the 5. Capital gains deduction A capital gain is the profit you make from selling a capital asset, such as a second home. The amount of your gain is the difference between your adjusted basis (what you paid for the property, plus the cost of any major improvements) and the net earnings from the sale (the selling price minus expenses like realtor fees and closing costs). One of the best ways to avoid tax on second home sales is to Understanding the 14-Day Rule and its tax implications The 14-day rule determines whether your property is classified as a personal residence with minimal rental activity or a full-fledged rental business, which impacts how your rental income and expenses are taxed. Tax-free rental income (14 days or less) If you use your second home as a personal residence and rent it out for 14 days or less during the year, a special rule applies: You don’t have to report any of the rental income earned on your tax return. However, it's a trade-off: You’re also not allowed to deduct any rental-related expenses, such as advertising, cleaning or property management fees. Reporting rental income (more than 14 days) If you rent out your second home for more than 14 days a year, you must report all the rental income you earn to the IRS. This is done using Schedule E (Form 1040), where you will report your gross rental income and can then deduct a wide range of expenses to calculate your taxable profit or loss. Additionally, you're allowed to depreciate the property. If the cabin’s value (not including land) is $240,000, the annual depreciation would be about $8,000. Rental expense deduction Rental depreciation deduction If you are using your second home exclusively as an You may recover the total cost of your expenses if the amount is less than $1,080,000, doesn’t surpass your taxable income and meets the requirements for a qualified property, service or improvement.  Here’s how you can qualify for a rental depreciation deduction on your second home: Many second home tax deductions are similar to those of a primary residence, however, the specific perks you can claim often depend on your usage of the property. Be sure to consult a licensed tax professional to better understand how second home tax laws might affect your tax situation. Find your perfect vacation home with Pacaso Understanding the tax benefits of a rental property is an important part of the journey. Once you're ready to find a property that suits your lifestyle, Pacaso offers a simplified path to

If owning a million-dollar home is one of your life goals, you’re not alone. But you might be wondering: How are people affording houses in the million-dollar range? With some clever planning, a sprinkle of financial savvy and a pinch of determination, it’s possible to turn that dream home into a reality. We’ll examine what it takes to afford a million-dollar home, including annual income, mortgage payments and other ownership costs. While learning how to afford a million-dollar home, you’ll also see the unexpected costs, tax implications and possible advantages of buying a million-dollar Key financials to afford a million-dollar house To comfortably This range, however, is subject to variation depending on your: It’s crucial to consider these factors to determine your financial ability to manage a mortgage on a $1 million home. Your income may ultimately determine whether you Examples of a monthly mortgage payment for a million-dollar home Even if your after-tax earnings are $200,000 annually, that’s still a quarter of your income going just to principal and interest. If your credit or down payment is low, expect the monthly cost to be substantially more. When it comes to how to afford a million-dollar home, understanding the monthly payment is key. The table below shows how different interest rates impact your monthly principal and interest payments on a $1 million loan. This assumes a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with a 20% down payment. With a 20% down payment, typical closing costs can be more than 2%, meaning an additional $16,000 on top of the $200,000 you’ll put down. That initial payment, DTI and credit score will determine your monthly mortgage. Expected and unexpected expenses of owning a million-dollar house It’s important to plan for expenses beyond the mortgage. Here are a few things to factor in:  It’s important to know what to expect so you can factor all expenses into your financial plan. Tax implications of a million-dollar home You might not anticipate how your new home will affect your The If you decide to rent out your $1 million second home, you won’t be able to claim the mortgage interest deduction, but you could end up with tax-free rental income due to the various deductions for landlords.  However, this can be a complicated adjustment, and finding renters and managing a rental — or Financing strategies to afford a million-dollar house Financing a mortgage on a million-dollar home doesn’t have to be stressful. In fact, there are three financing strategies available for those who have the income for a million-dollar home. Paying interest on a large loan for a million-dollar Make a large down payment Paying a larger Get a jumbo mortgage If your home’s price exceeds the conventional loan limits Leverage home equity A Liquidate other assets For some, a key financing strategy involves liquidating assets like stocks, bonds or a current property if you Co-ownership models What if your million-dollar dream home is for vacations, not your Prospective second home owners are embracing Pacaso’s Pacaso offers a modern way to buy a million-dollar second home. Our Hassle-free ownership of a million-dollar home Owning a million-dollar house as a vacation home is more attainable through Check out our