Real estate LLC: What it is and how to set one up in 8 steps

Many dream of What makes beachfront property management different? Owning a beachfront property comes with unique demands that set it apart from other types of property care. In addition to the standard responsibilities of property maintenance, guest management, vendor coordination, and preventive care, Homes along the shore face year-round exposure to salt air, humidity, storms, and the daily wear of sand and sun. These elements can quickly erode finishes, corrode metal, and cause structural damage if not properly managed. That’s why beachfront properties require more frequent inspections, specialized materials, and proactive upkeep to preserve both their beauty and long-term value. Beachfront vs. coastal property management At first glance, beachfront property management and coastal property management may sound interchangeable as they both deal with homes near the water. But there’s a world of difference between a property that sits on the beach and one located a few blocks or miles inland, and each requires a different level of Key distinctions: What are common challenges of beachfront property management? Beachfront homes face constant exposure to the elements which brings a unique set of maintenance challenges. Owning a beachfront home demands a proactive approach to protect both the home’s structure and long-term value. While every beachfront property faces these challenges, the severity and focus of care vary by location. A home in Maine, for instance, faces different risks than What does beachfront property management look like by region? Every coastline has its own unique characteristics, weather patterns, and environmental factors that can impact coastal homes. While all beachfront homes share common upkeep concerns, the day-to-day realities of managing them differ across the East Coast, West Coast, and Southern beaches. Northeast beachfront property management From the Jersey Shore up through Cape Cod and Nantucket, Northeast beachfront properties face harsh winters, nor’easters, and the year-round effects of salt and moisture. Management here focuses on protecting homes from cold, storms, and coastal wear. In Cape Cod and Nantucket, for example, winter prep is essential. This includes protecting pipes from freezing, servicing heating systems, and sealing gaps to keep the cold out. Every property requires attention to seasonal rhythms to stay safe, comfortable, and well-maintained. Key focus areas: West Coast beachfront property management Along the Pacific, weather is generally milder, but erosion, salty air, and strict environmental regulations create their own set of challenges. Beachfront homes in California, like this Key focus areas: Southern and Gulf Coast beachfront property management In the South, where humidity, heat, and tropical storms dominate the forecast, maintenance revolves around moisture control and weather resilience. Beachfront homes in Florida, along with those in Texas, Louisiana, and Alabama, face long summers, heavy rainfall, and intense sun exposure that can quickly wear down exterior finishes. In Miami Beach, for example, it’s important to keep a close eye on king tides, which can bring flooding even on sunny days. Homes with water access or docks require owner education on tide levels, timing, and safety. The same is true for popular destinations like South Carolina beachfront vacation homes, where consistent upkeep is key to comfort and longevity. Key focus areas: Why do many owners choose professional beachfront property management? Owning a beachfront home is rewarding but maintaining one is rarely simple. Between constant exposure to salt air, unpredictable coastal weather, and high guest expectations, the demands can quickly overwhelm even experienced homeowners. That’s why many choose to work with a professional Key advantages: Many owners find the How Pacaso elevates beachfront property management Every Pacaso home comes with a dedicated local Home Manager who supports owners and cares for the property before, during, and after each stay. Acting as a centralized point of contact, they coordinate all aspects of beachfront property management, from maintenance to day-to-day tasks, ensuring an easy and enjoyable experience for owners. In coastal destinations, where salt air, humidity, and storm exposure add extra layers of complexity, Pacaso Home Managers provide invaluable support. They keep homes well-maintained, secure, and always ready for owners to simply arrive and enjoy their oceanfront retreat. Here’s what you can expect from your Pacaso Home Manager: Comprehensive property care Personalized service and thoughtful touches Financial and vendor oversight Why co-own a beachfront home with Pacaso? Beachfront living should be about enjoying the view, not worrying about upkeep. With Pacaso, homeowners benefit from a full-service approach to beachfront property management that protects their investment, preserves the home’s beauty, and ensures every visit is effortless.  Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or sharing ownership year-round, Pacaso provides the peace of mind that comes with professional oversight — so you can focus on making memories, not managing the property.

Is owning a second home starting to feel more like a hassle than a joy? Consider selling it with Pacaso. If you own an amazing second home but use it less than 16 weeks each year, Pacaso might be right for you. You can maintain partial ownership for your use. Make your second home work for you With our co-ownership model, you have the option to keep the portion of your second home while no longer bearing the full responsibility of having a whole home. You leave maintenance and hassles behind, while still enjoying the home you love and the benefits of ownership. When you So, whether you want to tap into your equity or finally have a hassle-free retreat, let us make your second home the right fit for you. How the program works Selling with Pacaso is easy and streamlined. We sell your home share-by-share until you have your preferred amount of equity or are completely divested. Here’s how it works: "Selling with Pacaso has enabled us to sell a few shares and have money in our pockets, but hang on to the house a little longer too," says Jay, an owner who sold part of his second home to Pacaso. "We could still have time in the home but without the headaches of maintaining it." Which homes does Pacaso buy? Every Pacaso is different, but these are some of the features we look for in a If your second home sounds like a match, take advantage of our co-ownership program today.

A Understanding property managers Owners typically 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.

A property is viewed as a How the IRS defines a second home for tax purposes The IRS defines a second home based on how much you use it personally versus how much you rent it out. For a property to qualify, your personal use of it needs to be more than the greater of either 14 days or 10% of the days you rent it out at a fair market price.  While the tax rules are key, lenders also have their own requirements. They often look for things like the property being a single home (not a Here are other common characteristics of second homes: Tax implications when your second home is a personal residence Second homes come with a host of possible Mortgage interest deduction If you rent out your home for less than 15 days a year, it’s considered a personal residence and you’re eligible for itemized deductions like any other homeowner.  For properties purchased after December 15, 2017, you can deduct mortgage interest on up to $750,000 of qualifying home acquisition debt across both your primary and second homes. Under Home equity interest deduction In addition to deducting mortgage interest, you may also be able to write off interest paid on a This means you can't deduct interest on a home equity loan if you use the money for other purposes, like consolidating credit card debt or paying for a child's college tuition. This deduction is also subject to the same $750,000 combined mortgage debt limit that applies to your primary mortgage. Property tax deduction You can This limit, which was recently increased by H.R. 1, applies to the total of these taxes paid on all of your personal residences if you Tax implications when your second home is a rental property If you rent out your second home for more than 14 days per year, the property is considered a rental for tax purposes. This changes the tax rules significantly, as the property can no longer be classified as a personal residence. What about capital gains when selling? When you sell a second home, any profit you make from the sale is generally subject to capital gains tax on a second home. This is a key difference from selling a primary residence, which may qualify for a significant tax exclusion. Where the Pacaso model fits in The Once you understand the tax rules, it’s easy to maximize the financial benefits of your second home. Pacaso allows you to enjoy a luxury property and its tax benefits without the stress of managing it all on your own. Check out our

Hosting loved ones should be joyful, not stressful. But most hosting tips barely scratch the surface when it comes to managing the entire event and still enjoying yourself. Between planning the food for a holiday party, coordinating travel, navigating family dynamics, and keeping the kids entertained, the holidays can quickly shift from festive to frantic. Beyond side dish recipes and seating charts, these holiday hosting tips will help make your holiday party feel easy, enjoyable, and truly memorable. How to host like a pro 1. Plan ahead Set your holiday party up for success by giving yourself the gift of time. Create a simple timeline for shopping, cooking, and setting up so you’re not scrambling at the last minute. Double-check that you have all the essentials, from tableware and linens to serving dishes, napkins, and that all-important wine opener, so when guests arrive, you’re relaxed, present, and ready to mingle. 2. Create an impressive (but manageable) menu Don’t rely solely on family favorites or untested online recipes. Choose a menu that feels special yet manageable, with dishes that can be prepped or finished ahead of time. Food for a holiday party 3. Leave room for guests to contribute Hosting a holiday party doesn’t mean doing it all yourself. Encourage guests to bring something special to share — a favorite side dish, dessert, or bottle of wine — which lets them feel part of the celebration. Even if you tell them their presence is enough, many will still want to contribute. Make sure to leave a dedicated space in the kitchen or on the dining table to showcase their thoughtful additions. 4. Set the mood Décor, music, and lighting do more than fill a room, they create an atmosphere that makes your guests feel instantly welcome. A curated playlist, a few candles, and fresh florals can transform any space into a warm, inviting setting. It’s one of those simple hosting tips that delivers the biggest impact with the least effort. 5. Create cozy gathering spots Beyond the dining table, set up inviting spaces where guests can gather before and after the meal — on the patio, around the fire pit, or in a cozy corner with plush chairs and blankets. These little retreats encourage conversation, laughter, and connection, helping your holiday party feel relaxed, warm, and welcoming. 6. Keep the little ones entertained Often overlooked, this simple hosting tip 7. Keep the fun going Once the meal is done, consider adding a light game or activity if the mood strikes. A simple trivia round, a festive card game, or a conversation starter can spark laughter and friendly competition, keeping energy high and the evening memorable for everyone. The most important hosting tip Once everything is in motion, take a deep breath and be present. The best holiday party gatherings aren’t about perfection — they’re about connection, laughter, and creating memories that last long after the last guest has gone. When you co-own with Pacaso, hosting a holiday party is easy. Beyond spacious and beautifully designed interiors are

Timeshares have been around since 1969, and continue to grow in popularity, with sales increasing an average of 7.2% each year. Today, millennials make up a significant portion of timeshare owners. With more disposable income and a desire for flexible, experience-based travel, they’re helping to reshape the market. This steady growth proves that vacationers are still drawn to this model, especially now that ownership options are more diverse, catering to a wide range of travel styles and preferences. How do timeshares work? A timeshare is a shared vacation property ownership model, most often connected to hotels or resorts. Instead of one buyer owning the property outright, the ownership is divided among multiple people (typically up to 52) so each person has the right to use it for a set number of days or weeks per year. Think of it as purchasing time rather than the property itself. Owners don’t hold full real estate ownership but instead secure the right to stay in the same accommodation at recurring intervals. For example, if a unit is divided among 52 owners, each person usually gets one week of use annually. This arrangement makes vacation homes more affordable while guaranteeing consistent access to popular destinations. However, it’s important to note that timeshares generally tie you to a single property, unlike Real-world timeshare example Let’s say your family buys a timeshare property in If you vacation there for ten years straight, you’ll have spent $38,000 ($25,000 initial cost + $1,300 annual fee x 10 years) plus any additional maintenance fees. Divided across 140 nights (14 per year), that adds up to $271 per night, which may be cheaper than the cost of the room if you book on the resort’s website. The potential savings via a long-term contract are why some people find timeshares so appealing. The success of the timeshare model depends on each unit being owned by multiple parties, often dozens at a time. Owners don’t always live nearby either— the average distance between a timeshare and an owner’s primary residence is over 1,000 miles. According to a With so many options available, it helps to understand the different types of timeshares and how each one works. There are many types of timeshares, but most fall into two main contract structures. Deeded timeshares Deeded timeshares divide ownership of a property into smaller shares that reflect how long you can stay. For example, a property split into two-week intervals would have 26 owners. The most common model is a 52-part split, one for each week of the year. With a deeded timeshare, you hold real ownership that can be sold, willed to family, or transferred. Most timeshares in the U.S. are deeded. Right-to-use (lease) timeshares Right-to-use (RTU) or leasehold timeshares operate more like a long-term rental. Instead of owning a portion of the property, you lease the right to stay for a set number of years—commonly 20 to 99. Once the contract expires, your usage rights end. Like deeded models, you’ll still share the property with other owners, often up to 52 families. With an understanding of the two main types of timeshare contracts, let’s explore the three primary ways vacation time is divided among owners. To avoid a Ultimately, ask yourself: "Is this a place I want to stay year after year?" This can help you determine if a timeshare is right for you. Fixed-week timeshare Fixed weeks mean you’re locked into the same week every year (say, the third week in April). While this offers the predictability of always having your vacation secured at a specific time, it also means your travel dates are rigid. Changing your fixed week usually comes with a hefty price tag in the form of an upgrade fee, if it's even possible, making it less flexible for those whose schedules vary from year to year. Floating-week timeshare Floating weeks let you choose your week seasonally. This offers more flexibility than a fixed-week model, since you're not tied to the exact same dates every year. However, that flexibility comes with a trade-off: floating week systems are very competitive among timeshare owners, and the best slots during high season get snatched up quickly.  You'll often need to book far in advance to secure your preferred dates. If keeping your Points-system timeshare Some timeshare properties operate with a points system where you “pay” for your stay with points, giving you greater flexibility in how you travel. This means you're not restricted to a single property or a specific time slot each year.  Choosing an off-season, weekday stay or downgrading to a smaller room may cost fewer points overall, allowing you to stretch your points for more frequent, shorter getaways or save them up for something bigger.  By contrast, you can also use points to upgrade components of your vacation, such as getting a bigger room or a better view — or even enjoy another How much does a timeshare cost? A timeshare's cost involves two main components: an initial purchase price and ongoing annual fees. In addition to the upfront payment, you'll be responsible for Be sure to check the terms of your timeshare contract before signing. This document should outline all of the one-time and ongoing costs, including: Financing a timeshare Banks typically do not offer loans for timeshares, leaving buyers with limited financing options outside of the timeshare company itself. With little competition, some companies rely on high-pressure sales tactics and may charge interest rates between 14% and 20%—significantly higher than most second-home loans on the open market. These factors can greatly increase the overall cost of a timeshare, making it crucial for buyers to carefully review the full financial commitment before signing any agreements. Using a What are the pros and cons of a timeshare? However, there are downsides to consider. Annual fees and special assessments can be costly, and selling a timeshare on the secondary market can be challenging if it’s no longer the right fit. The industry has also gained a reputation for high-pressure sales tactics. Additionally, timeshare ownership typically does not provide the financial benefits of traditional real estate, such as equity growth, What does exiting a timeshare look like? If a buyer eventually decides to sell their timeshare, recouping the initial investment and yearly maintenance fees can be difficult. While new timeshare sales continue to grow, the resale market is flooded, with While exiting a timeshare is notoriously challenging, there are six Learning each strategy’s associated costs and understanding which strategy works best for you will help streamline the overall process. What are some timeshare alternatives? With the high costs and limitations associated with timeshares, it’s recommended you first From second home co-ownership and vacation home ownership to vacation rentals, travel clubs, and resorts, each timeshare alternative comes with its own set of features. Options differ in flexibility, ownership structure, fees, and overall cost, allowing vacationers to choose what best fits their needs and lifestyle. What’s the difference between fractional ownership and timeshares? When comparing The benefits of fractional ownership become clear across factors like the number of owners, scheduling flexibility, equity, management, maintenance, building type, cost, and resale value. Fractional ownership generally means fewer owners, more flexible scheduling, and a share that can appreciate over time. Owners also enjoy the comfort of luxury vacation homes rather than individual units within hotels or resorts. What’s the difference between vacation clubs, timeshares, and second homes? The main Owning a second home — usually a vacation property separate from your primary residence — offers you the freedom to visit multiple times per year, potential property appreciation, and the ability to avoid the challenges of reselling a timeshare. How does Pacaso differ from timeshares? And should you decide to sell, you can sell at any time, at the price you set. Learn more about how co-ownership of a second home works with Pacaso and Benefits Pacaso offers

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

Mountain property management is essential for keeping mountain vacation homes in top condition year-round. These properties offer a stunning backdrop for any getaway thanks to towering pine trees, sparkling mountain lakes, and endless outdoor adventures. But their unique challenges, from harsh weather to seasonal maintenance, require specialized care and support. What makes managing mountain vacation homes different? Mountain vacation homes have unique needs that set them apart from second homes in other destinations and require a bit more of These factors make specialized mountain property management crucial. Owners benefit from professionals who understand the unique demands of mountain living and can handle everything from seasonal preparations to ongoing mountain home maintenance, ensuring the home stays safe, comfortable, and ready for every visit. What are the seasonal responsibilities of mountain property management? Managing a mountain vacation home requires careful planning, local expertise, and proactive care throughout the year. Mountain home property management goes beyond Winter Winter is often the most demanding season when it comes to Spring As snow melts and temperatures rise, homes need careful attention to transition from winter to the warmer months. Key tasks include: Summer Summer brings longer days and more opportunities to enjoy a mountain vacation home, but it also requires maintenance to keep the property in top condition: Fall As temperatures drop, preparing mountain vacation homes for winter is crucial to avoid costly damage: By addressing these seasonal tasks, mountain property managers ensure that these mountain vacation homes remain safe, functional, and ready for use year-round. What makes Pacaso property management unique? Every Pacaso home comes with a dedicated Home Manager—a local expert who goes above and beyond In destinations like the Here’s what you can expect from your Pacaso Home Manager:  Comprehensive property care Personalized service and thoughtful touches Financial and vendor oversight With Pacaso’s dedicated home managers, mountain property management is effortless, with exceptional service and the peace of mind that comes from knowing every detail is expertly handled. Why should I own a mountain vacation home with Pacaso?  Mountain homes highlight both the rewards and the challenges of second home ownership in mountain destinations. From snow-packed winters to festive summer seasons, each shift in weather demands attentive care.  With Pacaso’s dedicated home managers, owners enjoy all the beauty of the mountains without the burden of constant upkeep. And the best part? This service is fully included with co-ownership, so there are Instead of managing seasonal checklists or coordinating vendors, Pacaso owners arrive at a home that is well-maintained, stocked, and personalized to their preferences. It’s an approach to mountain property management that turns the dream of