The Pacaso blog

Vacasa is a full-service vacation rental property management company that markets and operates short-term rental homes on behalf of owners. Vacasa lists each property on Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, and its own site, then handles guest communication, dynamic pricing, cleaning, maintenance coordination, 24/7 guest support, and revenue reporting. Owners receive monthly statements with bookings, fees, and net payouts. How Vacasa works in practice: an owner signs a management agreement (typically multi-year in some markets, with a 90-day notice cancellation policy), Vacasa onboards the home with professional photos and a listing, and the company keeps a percentage of every nightly booking in exchange for running the rental business. One important context point: in late 2024, Casago acquired Vacasa for roughly $128.6 million — a steep drop from Vacasa's former $4.5 billion valuation. Casago is rolling Vacasa onto a local franchise model, so service quality, fee schedules, and onboarding consistency now vary by market. Owners report staff turnover and service gaps during the transition. Airbnb is a peer-to-peer marketplace that connects guests with hosts of short-term rentals. Airbnb does not manage your home. Airbnb provides the listing platform, the search algorithm, the payment rails, the review system, and the customer-facing booking flow — and that's the end of the company's involvement. How Airbnb works for a host: you create a listing, set your own nightly rate (or use Smart Pricing), write the house rules, accept reservations, communicate with guests, coordinate cleaning and turnovers, handle maintenance, deal with damage claims, manage compliance with local short-term rental ordinances, and file the taxes. Airbnb takes a service fee on each booking. Hosts can hire individual co-hosts or a third-party property manager (including Vacasa) to absorb the operational load, but the platform itself does not provide management services. For owners who want the location and lifestyle of a second home without the operational load, For second-home owners weighing Vacasa vs Airbnb, the core differences come down to who runs the business, how much it costs, and how much of your week it eats. The headline question for an owner isn't really Vacasa or Airbnb, it's whether running a rental business is the right way to own a second home in the first place. For many buyers, the answer is no. That's where Vacasa's owner commission is not posted publicly and is negotiated property by property. Based on owner reports and industry analysis: The net-net for owners: on a property grossing $60,000 per year, the difference between a 30 percent Vacasa fee and a 12 percent competitor fee is about $10,800 of annual payout, before factoring in insurance deductions, damage program participation, and other line items. Airbnb charges a service fee on every booking. There are two structures: Airbnb began phasing out the split-fee model on August 25, 2025. Hosts using property management software were automatically migrated to host-only starting October 27, 2025. What the service fee does not cover: cleaning, linens, restocking, lockbox or smart-lock hardware, dynamic pricing software, accounting, damage claims, guest disputes, your time, and your local short-term rental permit. Those are all owner expenses, and they add up. The clearest way to weigh Vacasa vs Airbnb against The takeaway: Vacasa and Airbnb both treat your home as a small business. Pacaso treats your stake as a home, not a rental. If your goal is reliable income or full-service hospitality management, a traditional short-term rental is the better path, assuming your market still issues STR permits, you can absorb the management fees, and you're prepared to run what amounts to a hospitality operation. If the goal is using and owning a luxury second home without the operating business behind it, co-ownership solves the problem at a fraction of the capital outlay. See The hidden cost in the Vacasa vs Airbnb debate is the assumption that owning a second home requires running a small hospitality business. It doesn't. Pacaso allows buyers to purchase a share (1/8 to 1/2) of a What Pacaso handles end-to-end: furnishing and design, property management, housekeeping between stays, maintenance, utilities, insurance, taxes, and HOA coordination. Owners pay predictable monthly dues for their share. The When an owner decides to exit, they can list their share, keeping any appreciation on their share. The home itself remains; only ownership rotates. That's a fundamentally different proposition from selling a Vacasa or Airbnb rental, where the home must be cleared of bookings, prepped for showings, and listed for months on the open market. For owners who want the lifestyle of a second home without becoming an accidental hotelier, Pacaso is the cleanest answer to the Vacasa vs Airbnb question — because it removes the question.

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

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

Inspirato is a luxury vacation club founded in 2010 that gives members access to a curated portfolio of managed vacation homes, hotel and resort partners, and guided travel experiences across more than 100 destinations worldwide. Rather than owning a property, members pay ongoing fees for the right to book stays within the Inspirato collection. Inspirato currently offers two primary membership options: Both tiers include Inspirato's signature services: personal vacation advisors, on-site concierge support, and pre-trip planning. What neither tier provides, however, is any form of real estate ownership. Members hold a right-to-use license, not a deed or equity stake in any property. Pacaso is a luxury second home co-ownership platform that allows buyers to purchase a share (1/8 to 1/2) of a fully managed luxury home through a Unlike a vacation club membership, a Pacaso share is real property. Every home is A dedicated Home Manager handles everything before, during, and after every stay, from cleaning and maintenance to personalized touches that make each visit feel like it was prepared just for you. Owners can also finance their purchase, benefit from potential appreciation, and resell their share through And here is where Pacaso has a decisive edge over any vacation club: the Learn more about Cost structure is one of the starkest differences in a co-ownership vs. Inspirato comparison.  Here is a side-by-side look at both models: While Inspirato's lower upfront cost may appear more accessible, it is important to note that members do not build any equity and cannot recoup their fees by reselling. With Pacaso, your purchase price goes toward a real asset, one that can appreciate over time and be sold when you are ready to exit. Pacaso also offers Scheduling is another major distinction in any co-ownership vs. vacation club comparison. With Inspirato Club, members book nightly stays on a first-come, first-served basis through the Inspirato app, competing with the entire Inspirato community, which has historically numbered around 15,000 members, for availability. The Pass program allows members to hold two trips simultaneously, with no additional per-night fees, and access to hundreds of homes across Inspirato's portfolio. With Pacaso, scheduling is governed by the Pacaso owners also have access to the This is the most fundamental difference between Pacaso and Inspirato, and the most important consideration for anyone evaluating these as Inspirato alternatives. Inspirato operates on a right-to-use license. Members pay for access, not ownership. When you cancel your membership, you walk away with nothing. There is no equity, no appreciation, and no residual asset value from the fees paid over the years. Pacaso is structured around real estate co-ownership. Each home is held through a For buyers who want a second home that doubles as a long-term asset, co-ownership vs. Inspirato is not a close comparison. To explore how co-ownership works in more detail, see Pacaso's guide to Both Pacaso and Inspirato serve luxury travelers, but they appeal to meaningfully different buyer profiles. For a broader look at how co-ownership compares to vacation clubs and other models like timeshares, see our deep dive on For luxury travelers who want more than just access, Pacaso offers a fundamentally different, and more enduring, value proposition. Here’s what sets it apart as an ideal Inspirato alternative: Ready to explore luxury second homes in your favorite destination? Browse Pacaso's

Navigating the responsibilities and complexities of second home ownership can feel overwhelming. That’s where equity sharing comes in.  Equity sharing lets you purchase a portion of a second home with other like-minded owners, giving you access to a property you love without bearing the full burden alone. With this approach, you own a share of the home and contribute to expenses in proportion to your share. Rather than taking on the full responsibility of a second home, you may use it only part of the year, offering a more balanced way to enjoy elevated living.  Here's everything you need to know about What is equity sharing? Home equity sharing is a real estate model where multiple parties share the costs and value of a property. Instead of one owner taking on the full financial responsibility, ownership is divided among multiple owners.  This allows each owner to benefit from the home's appreciation over time while sharing in its use and upkeep. It’s a more flexible path to What are the different types of home equity sharing agreements? A home equity sharing agreement can take different forms. In some cases, it’s a financial arrangement tied to a primary home. In others, it underpins co-ownership, where you hold a deeded share of a property with others.  Common types of home equity sharing include:  How equity sharing works At a high level, equity sharing can take several forms, but the core idea is the same: you partner with another party to share the costs of a home in exchange for a portion of its future value. In some cases, that partner is an investor. In others, it’s a group of co-owners sharing a second home. Here’s how the process typically works, using vacation home co-ownership as a real-world example: For a real-life example, imagine a couple considering a modest cabin on their own. Instead, they choose an equity-sharing agreement and buy a ⅛ share in a luxury mountain home, giving them access to a higher-end property for a similar overall outlay. They enjoy the home during the weeks they actually use it, while their equity grows over time. Equity sharing gives them a more intentional way to match what they own with how they want to live and travel. How Pacaso reinvents equity sharing  So, At the center of this model is a property-specific LLC. Each Pacaso home is owned by its own LLC, and when you purchase a share, such as ⅛, you’re buying a stake in that entity. This gives you real property rights and a secure path to building equity in a high-end home. Just as importantly, this is not a Pacaso also removes the friction that typically comes with shared ownership. As a professional, neutral manager, we handle everything from 5 benefits of equity sharing with Pacaso  Now that you understand what a home equity investment is, here’s how Pacaso’s approach to equity sharing translates into advantages for second-home buyers. 1. Increased purchasing power  Increased purchasing power means access to a higher-end home than you’d buy on your own. Instead of owning 100% of a $1M property, you could own ⅛ of an $8M home. This way, you can enjoy better locations and amenities while aligning your spending with how often you use it.  2. Reduced carrying costs  With equity sharing, you only pay for your portion of the home’s expenses. Costs like maintenance, property taxes and utilities are split based on your ownership share. For example, if you own 1/8 of the home, you pay for 1/8 of the ongoing costs.  3. Professional management  Pacaso handles the day-to-day details, so you don’t have to. There’s no coordinating with contractors or scheduling cleaners — everything from maintenance to upkeep is  4. Resale liquidity Should you decide to sell, Pacaso offers a more streamlined path than traditional private arrangements. With an active marketplace and built-in demand, it’s easier to list and  5. Right-sized ownership Right-sized ownership means purchasing a share that aligns with how often you actually plan to visit — so you’re not overpaying for unused time.   Equity sharing vs. tenancy in common While both models involve shared or Pacaso’s model is more streamlined than a traditional With Pacaso, ownership is held through a property-specific LLC for a more efficient and secure experience. This provides an added layer of liability protection for owners and smoother day-to-day management, so routine decisions don’t require constant coordination or individual approvals.  Equity sharing considerations  Equity sharing offers many clear advantages, whether you hope to Is equity sharing right for you? Equity sharing is ideal if you want to own a luxury vacation home without taking on the full responsibility of doing it alone. If you value access to high-end properties in desirable destinations, but don’t plan to use a home year-round, this approach lets you match ownership to how you actually use the home while still building long-term value. It’s especially appealing if you want a more streamlined experience. If you’d rather spend your time enjoying the home instead of coordinating maintenance and managing logistics, equity sharing makes it possible. The Pacaso way to real estate equity  Pacaso brings a modern, thoughtful approach to shared ownership — combining the benefits of equity sharing with a seamless, professionally managed experience. If you’re ready to explore a smarter path to vacation home ownership,

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

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

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

Understanding short-term rentals You’ve likely come across vacation home listings on Over the last decade, short-term rentals have grown immensely in popularity. Brands like Homeowners are drawn to short-term rentals for their income potential, flexibility, marketing automation, and tax benefits. Unlike long-term rentals, these properties can also serve as personal retreats. Seasonal demand may affect availability, and during peak periods, owners might need to adjust personal use. Additionally, keeping a property guest-ready requires attention to cleaning, coordination, and maintenance. How do short-term rentals work? Many people who Short-term rentals typically accommodate stays ranging from a few nights to several weeks, and in some cases, up to a month. Properties rented for longer than six months are usually considered long-term rentals, while anything shorter generally falls under the short-term category. Local regulations ultimately define what qualifies as a short-term rental in each area. When comparing a vacation home vs. short-term rental, the distinction is clear: a vacation home is primarily for personal enjoyment, while a short-term rental is managed as an income-generating investment. Understanding this difference helps potential owners make informed decisions about property use, financial planning, and regulatory compliance. What is considered a short-term rental in each state? Local restrictions are a critical factor for anyone considering What qualifies as a short-term rental by state? Owners should verify local regulations, zoning, taxes and licensing with their city or state government website for specific details about what qualifies as a short-term rental in their area before leasing their property. What are the different types of short-term rentals? Short-term rentals generally fall into three main categories: entire homes, accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and individual rooms. The type of property you list can influence how you operate your vacation rental business, including tax obligations and zoning requirements, so accurate categorization is essential. Entire homes Airbnb and Accessory dwellings Also called in-law suites, ADUs are often detached studios on the same property as the primary residence. They typically include an en-suite bathroom, comfortable furnishings, and sometimes a private entrance — perfect for guests looking for a cozy, independent space. Individual rooms Some jurisdictions allow homeowners to rent out a room in their primary residence as a short-term rental. The room can accommodate one or more guests and sometimes offer access to shared spaces like a kitchen or yard. Like ADUs, some private rooms can include separate entrances for added privacy. Short-term rental vs. long-term rental: what’s the difference? Both short-term and long-term rentals are investment properties that homeowners can use to generate rental income. The length of the lease between owner and tenant often determines which type of rental agreement both parties will abide by. A long-term rental is generally a lease agreement for tenants who live at a rental property for at least 90 days, although some landlords require a minimum of 180 days or a full calendar year.  A short-term rental, however, is generally available to lease for less than 30 consecutive days. Compared to a long-term rental, What should I consider before investing in short-term rentals? Investing in a short-term rental can be a lucrative opportunity, but it comes with responsibilities that go beyond simply owning a second home. There are several factors to consider before investing in a short-term rental. To operate a short-term rental, owners need to: While short-term rentals can generate income, they also demand time, effort, and organization. If your priority is relaxation rather than running a business, Should I buy, co-own, or rent a vacation home? Short-term rental: Buying a whole second home: Co-owning a vacation home: Which option works best depends on… How does Pacaso compare with luxury short-term rentals? Instead of renting a vacation home night by night, Pacaso offers co‑ownership — a way to enjoy a luxury second home while also building equity. Why Pacaso stands out Compared with other vacation home options, Short-term rentals provide flexibility and variety, but they come with unpredictability: changing hosts, inconsistent quality, and no long-term return. Pacaso combines privacy, stability, and a true “home away from home” experience, letting you enjoy the perks of luxury second-home ownership without the full-time operational responsibilities. Co-owning a luxury second home has never been easier. Unlike vacation rentals,

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

Lake Tahoe is consistently ranked among the top second home markets in the United States,  and for good reason. The lake straddles the California-Nevada border at 6,225 feet elevation, offers 72 miles of shoreline, and draws buyers who want year-round recreation anchored by two distinct peak seasons: world-class skiing in winter and lake access in summer. For buyers weighing whether to purchase, a few fundamentals stand out: The short answer: yes, Lake Tahoe is a strong vacation home market, but buyers who do well are those who understand the specific submarket dynamics, particularly around short-term rental regulations and operating costs, before they buy. More on both below. Ready to explore your options? Start with our guide on There is no single "Lake Tahoe" — the area encompasses several distinct communities across two states, each with its own character, price range, and regulatory environment. The right location depends on how you want to use the home, whether you're focused on ski access or lakefront living, and whether short-term rental income is part of your plan. North Lake Tahoe is anchored by Tahoe City, Kings Beach, Tahoe Vista, and the surrounding unincorporated Placer County communities. The North Shore is prized for its quieter atmosphere, closer proximity to Palisades Tahoe (formerly Squaw Valley) and Alpine Meadows, and direct lake access from towns like Tahoe City, which sits where the Truckee River meets the lake. Median prices in North Lake Tahoe communities are generally in the $900K-$1.3M range for homes suitable as vacation rentals, with luxury lakefront properties commanding significantly more.For families looking for family vacation homes in Lake Tahoe, the North Shore's walkable town centers, calmer lake coves, and access to multiple ski resorts make it a natural fit. South Lake Tahoe is the largest city on the lake, straddling the California-Nevada border at the base of Heavenly Mountain Resort. It offers the most amenities of any Tahoe community, such as restaurants, shopping, casinos on the Nevada side, and direct beach access, and is typically the most affordable major submarket, with median sale prices around $575K-$715K depending on the period. South Lake Tahoe has historically attracted buyers interested in vacation rental income, though its short-term rental regulatory environment has changed significantly in recent years (covered in the next section). For buyers focused on personal use, the South Shore's combination of ski-in/ski-out access at Heavenly, lakefront parks, and walkable amenities makes it one of the most versatile locations on the lake. Incline Village sits on Nevada's North Shore, tucked against the slopes of Mt. Rose and Diamond Peak. It occupies a distinct category among Tahoe communities: luxury mountain estates with true Nevada advantages, including no state income tax. Median home prices in Incline Village remain above $1.5M, with the high-end market staying stable due to constrained supply. For buyers seeking luxury vacation homes in Lake Tahoe, Incline Village's combination of mountain privacy, Nevada tax benefits, and more permissive short-term rental rules makes it worth serious consideration. The Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, mountain biking, and two private beaches exclusive to residents round out the lifestyle. Truckee sits just north of the lake in the Sierra Nevada, roughly 12 miles from North Shore. Its charming Old West downtown, access to seven ski resorts (including Palisades Tahoe), and slightly lower price points than lakefront communities have made it a favorite for buyers who prioritize ski access over direct lake views. Olympic Valley, home to Palisades Tahoe base, is within 30 minutes of Truckee and is widely regarded as one of the best ski destinations in the U.S. Short-term rental (STR) regulations are among the most consequential (and most misunderstood) factors in Tahoe vacation home buying. The rules vary dramatically depending on which jurisdiction your home falls in, and they have changed significantly in recent years. Buying without understanding the STR landscape in your target area is one of the most common and costly mistakes Tahoe buyers make. South Lake Tahoe's STR history is the most turbulent around the lake. The city declined to appeal and passed a new STR ordinance in June 2025, which took effect July 17, 2025, capping STR permits in residential areas at 900 and issuing them on a first-priority basis to previous permittees. As of April 2026, updated amendments replaced the earlier buffer rules with the 900-permit cap system. The bottom line for South Lake Tahoe buyers: STR permitting is now legal citywide but capped, meaning permit availability is not guaranteed. Non-permitted properties in South Lake Tahoe are effectively non-starters for rental income strategies. Placer County, which covers most of North Lake Tahoe including Tahoe City, Kings Beach, and Tahoe Vista, operates under a cap of 3,900 STR permits in unincorporated eastern Placer County. As of early 2025, roughly 500 permits remained available before the cap, though that number changes. The framework is established and broad, covering multiple desirable North Shore communities, making it one of the more reliable STR markets around the lake for buyers who verify permit availability before purchasing. Incline Village operates under Washoe County jurisdiction on the Nevada side. There is no countywide permit cap and no waitlist; owners simply obtain a Washoe County business license and register for Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) collection. The process typically takes a few weeks. This regulatory flexibility makes Incline Village significantly more accessible for buyers whose ownership plan includes rental income, compared to California-side communities. Truckee operates its own STR permitting program with a cap of 1,255 certificates. As of early 2025, that cap had already been reached, and a waitlist is in effect. Additionally, new owners face a 365-day waiting period after a home sale before they can even apply for an STR permit. STR regulations affect traditional rental investors heavily, but they have almost no impact on co-ownership buyers through Pacaso. Pacaso homes are used exclusively by owners and their guests; they are never rented out. This means Pacaso owners are entirely insulated from the permit caps, lottery systems, and regulatory uncertainty that affect traditional Tahoe vacation rentals. You can own in any of these jurisdictions and focus on enjoying your home without navigating the permit landscape. Tahoe's mountain climate and dual-season demand create an ownership cost structure that is meaningfully different from beach or desert second home markets. Understanding these costs upfront, and planning for them, is essential to getting the full picture of what ownership actually looks like. Lake Tahoe receives an average of 200-plus inches of snow per year. Snow removal is not optional; it's a safety and access requirement. Owners of standalone homes are responsible for their own driveways, walkways, roofs, and decks. Most Tahoe locals recommend setting up a seasonal snow removal contract before the first storm of the year, particularly for out-of-area owners who may not be present during early-season events. Budget for $4,000-$8,000 annually for contracted snow removal services, depending on property size, driveway length, and snow year intensity. Condo and HOA communities often include driveway plowing in monthly dues, but private decks, entry stairs, and unit-specific areas are frequently the owner's responsibility. Properties that are not continuously occupied and heated during winter require winterization to prevent frozen and burst pipes. The process involves draining water systems and adding antifreeze to traps, and typically costs $300-$600 per winterization. For remote owners who aren't present through the coldest months (December through March), proper winterization is non-negotiable. Tahoe homes face extreme temperature variations. Propane or natural gas heating for a 2,000-square-foot home can run $300-$600 per month during peak winter months. Older homes with vaulted ceilings and less efficient windows have significantly higher heating costs. Electricity typically adds another $150-$400 monthly. Semi-annual HVAC servicing runs $150-$300 per visit, with full system replacements costing $3,000-$15,000+ for larger homes. Condos, resort communities, and gated neighborhoods typically carry HOA fees of $4,800-$14,400 annually, covering shared amenities, exterior maintenance, and sometimes snow removal. Standalone homes outside HOAs don't face those dues but absorb the equivalent costs individually. Annual maintenance for vacation homes in Tahoe's harsh climate typically runs 3%-5% of property value. The The full cost of ownership adds up quickly. For buyers who want Tahoe access without absorbing 52 weeks of ownership costs for a fraction of the use, Financing a vacation home in Lake Tahoe follows the same general framework as any second home purchase, but with a few nuances worth knowing. Read our full guide to If you plan to use the property personally (rather than as a pure investment rental), you may qualify for second home mortgage rates, which are typically 0.25-0.5 percentage points higher than primary residence rates. To qualify, lenders generally require that the property be at least 50 miles from your primary home, that you're not renting it out for more than 14 days a year (if you want the favorable tax treatment), and that you intend to occupy it yourself for some portion of the year. Second home mortgages typically require a minimum 10% down payment, with 20% or more being more common in practice for Tahoe's price points. Larger down payments reduce the interest rate and improve approval odds. Our guide to If you plan to rent the property for more than 14 days a year, lenders may classify it as an investment property rather than a second home. Investment property loans typically require 20-25% down and carry higher rates. For buyers in STR-heavy markets like South Lake Tahoe who are depending on rental income to offset carrying costs, this classification is important to understand early in the financing process. For buyers purchasing a Pacaso share, For most people weighing whether to buy a vacation home in Lake Tahoe, the math on full ownership raises a question worth asking honestly: will you actually use it enough to justify the cost? According to Pacaso's own Second Home Sentiment Report, only about 25% of second home owners used their property more than four weeks per year. For a $1.5M Tahoe home carrying $80,000-$100,000 in annual costs, that's a significant expense for limited use, and that's before the management burden of coordinating snow removal, maintenance, and winterization from afar. There are three reasons co-ownership is particularly well-suited to Tahoe specifically: Explore

A second home down payment is more manageable than most buyers expect, as long as the funding source actually fits your financial picture. Most articles on the topic list ten options and leave you to figure out which one applies. This guide does the opposite: it shows you how much you actually need by loan type and price point, then walks through the smartest down payment options for four common buyer profiles. It also shows where co-ownership fits, because for many would-be buyers it solves the down payment problem before you ever fill out a mortgage application. For a conventional loan on a single-family second home, expect to put down at least 10% if your credit, debt-to-income ratio, and cash reserves are strong. In practice, most lenders push that closer to 15% to 20%, and jumbo loans on higher-priced vacation homes typically require 20% to 25% down.  The reason is risk: lenders assume that if a borrower runs into financial trouble, they will keep paying the mortgage on their primary residence before their vacation home, so they offset that risk with a larger second home down payment, a higher credit score floor, and stricter cash reserve requirements. Beyond the down payment itself, you should be ready to document two to six months of cash reserves on top of closing costs, hold a credit score of at least 640 (700+ is ideal), keep your total debt-to-income ratio at or below 43%, and confirm the home meets Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac second home occupancy rules, typically a one-unit, year-round property located at least 50 to 100 miles from your primary residence. Not every loan product is on the table when you are The percentage is only half the picture. The other half is the dollar figure you actually need at the closing table. Here is what a down payment on a vacation home looks like across common second home price points. For most buyers shopping in the $750,000 to $1.5 million range that defines today's second home market, that means $75,000 on the low end and $375,000 on the high end, before closing costs, furnishings, and reserves. The size of that check is exactly why If you’re wondering how to buy a second home with a low down payment, co-ownership rewrites the math because the second home down payment is calculated against the share you actually buy, not the full value of the home. Pacaso allows buyers to purchase a share (1/8 to 1/2) of a fully managed luxury home through a For a deeper walk-through of how co-ownership works alongside conventional financing, see Pacaso's The right down payment options for second home purchases depend on where most of your wealth sits today. Four profiles cover the majority of real-world buyers. If your primary residence has appreciated and you have at least 30% to 40% equity, a HELOC or cash-out refinance is usually the cheapest and fastest source of down payment cash. You access the equity without selling, deduct mortgage interest where eligible, and avoid liquidating investments. Pacaso has a focused walk-through on using High earners often run into a timing problem rather than a wealth problem. The best down payment options here are a conventional loan with 10% down (accepting PMI), gift funds from family (documented per Fannie Mae guidelines), seller financing for part of the down payment, or co-ownership, which reduces the cash hurdle by an order of magnitude. If your wealth is concentrated in retirement accounts, taxable brokerage, or your existing home, asset-depletion mortgages and securities-backed lines of credit let you qualify and fund a second home down payment without selling appreciated positions or triggering big tax bills. Co-ownership is also a natural fit at this life stage, since you get the home you want without tying up retirement liquidity in a single illiquid asset. Expect to put at least 10% to 15% down, and budget for closing costs of 2% to 5% on top. If you are unsure whether to go full ownership or test the waters first, co-ownership is the lower-risk on-ramp: a deeded share, fully managed, with a clear resale path. Pacaso's Across the buyer profiles above, six funding sources do most of the work. The smartest choice is the one that fits your balance sheet, not the one with the lowest headline rate. For a side-by-side cost comparison of these paths, the Pacaso shrinks the second home down payment problem in three concrete ways.  The result is a true real estate asset, with a deeded LLC interest, in a luxury market you might otherwise be priced out of. To see what is available in your preferred destination,

Yes, France places no restrictions on foreign ownership of residential real estate. You can buy a Paris apartment, a Provence farmhouse or a Côte d'Azur villa as a non-resident, regardless of whether you hold an EU passport. Americans buying property in France have the same legal rights to purchase, hold, and resell as French nationals. What ownership does The sticker price is only part of the picture. Buying property in France as an overseas buyer typically adds 7% to 8% in closing costs on existing homes, plus agency fees and any financing costs. Here is what to budget for: Once you close, three recurring taxes shape your annual carrying cost. Paid annually by the owner, calculated on the property's cadastral rental value. Paris has historically had one of the lowest taxe foncière rates among major French cities, with a 2026 global rate of roughly 13.5%. For a typical 70 square meter apartment, that translates to approximately €450 per year, although prime properties with higher cadastral values pay more. Taxe d'habitation was abolished on primary residences in 2023, but it still applies to secondary residences. Paris levies a 60% surcharge on the municipal portion of taxe d'habitation for second homes, which is the highest surcharge band allowed under French law. If your French home is a vacation residence and not your declared primary residence, budget accordingly. France's real estate wealth tax. Non-residents are subject to IFI only on French real estate. The threshold to file is €1.3 million of net French real estate assets as of January 1 each year, and the progressive rate scale starts at €800,000. Rates range from 0.5% to 1.5% across brackets. For owners with a single Paris apartment under the threshold, IFI does not apply. For buyers stacking multiple French properties or a single high-value home, it becomes a meaningful annual line item. Non-residents selling French real estate pay capital gains tax on the profit. The headline rates: 19% income tax plus 17.2% social charges, for a combined 36.2% on the gain before relief. France then applies a generous taper relief (abattement pour durée de détention) the longer you hold. Under the Loi de Finances pour 2026, the income tax taper was accelerated. Full exemption from the 19% income tax portion is now reached after 17 years of ownership, down from 22 years. The social charges taper was not changed and still takes 30 years to reach full exemption. In practice, that means holding a French property long enough materially reduces the bite when you sell, but a sale within the first decade carries the full combined rate on most of the gain. EU and EEA nationals who were previously fiscally resident in France can also claim a lifetime €150,000 exemption on the net taxable gain. American sellers do not qualify for that specific allowance, but US-France tax treaty provisions help avoid double taxation on the same gain. A French tax advisor familiar with cross-border treatment is worth the fee. The right region depends on how you actually want to spend time in France. A few of the most-searched destinations among overseas buyers: Among the regions above, Paris stands apart for two reasons: liquidity (resale demand is consistent across cycles) and infrastructure (international flights, English-speaking professionals, robust property management). For overseas buyers asking where to buy property in France when they plan to visit on weekends or holidays rather than relocate, Paris remains the default answer. If you are weighing France against the UK, our guide on Ready to make Paris your second home? The French closing process is notaire-led and more structured than what most American buyers expect. The notaire is a public official who handles the legal transfer and represents the transaction itself, not the buyer or seller specifically. For overseas buyers, the practical friction is rarely the legal mechanics; it is the language, the paperwork volume, the time difference, and managing the home from afar once you own it. If you want the broader playbook beyond France specifically, our in-depth guide on Pacaso markets homes in France as luxury second homes, not investment vehicles. That framing matters: the right reason to buy in France is to actually spend time there, not to optimize a return. That said, the financial picture for a long-hold owner is reasonable. Paris real estate has shown decades of resilience across cycles, supported by limited central inventory, tight new-build supply, and consistent international demand. Taxe foncière is low relative to comparable global cities. Capital gains taper relief rewards long holds. And the dollar-priced fractional model removes some currency risk for US buyers. Where the math gets harder is on shorter holds, ownership of a high-value home that triggers IFI, or a property used too lightly to justify full ownership and management costs. That last point is where fractional ownership genuinely changes the equation. Use this comparison table as a real-world reference for Paris, specifically: The Paris price range above is grounded in two examples of Paris Pacaso homes in the 6th and 7th arrondissements: Most overseas buyers who want a home in France hit the same wall: the dream property in Paris is $5 million or more, sits empty 40 weeks a year, and brings a stack of cross-border management work along with it. Pacaso was built to solve that specific problem. Pacaso allows buyers to purchase a share (1/8 to 1/2) of a You can

Finding the best places to buy a vacation home comes down to matching the location to your lifestyle, hobbies and climate preferences. Consider how you want to spend your free time, who will be traveling with you, and where you can see yourself returning year after year. To help you narrow down the choices, we've organized the top vacation home destinations into four groups: beach destinations, desert and sun destinations, mountain destinations, and international destinations. We've also added California-specific highlights and a full comparison table so you can easily evaluate every market at a glance. Beach destinations consistently rank among the most sought-after markets for second home buyers. Warm weather, outdoor lifestyle and strong rental demand make these locations perennial favorites. Miami is one of the best places to buy a vacation home in Florida because of its unique blend of coastal luxury and urban energy. South Florida has warm weather year-round, headline-making dining and art, and convenient access to Latin America and Europe. The vacation home market here has maintained strong momentum at the top end, reflecting consistent demand from domestic and international buyers. Hilton Head Island is one of the best places to buy a vacation home in South Carolina for buyers who want a mix of active outdoor living and relaxed coastal charm. The area offers warm weather year-round and easy access to world-class golf, nature trails and wide sandy beaches. It's also one of the best East Coast beach towns for buyers seeking solid long-term market growth. Charleston consistently tops lists of the best places to live and visit, and it's equally strong as a second home market. The city's subtropical climate, cobblestone streets and proximity to beaches like Isle of Palms and Sullivan's Island give it year-round appeal. It's a great option for those looking at the best places to buy a vacation home in South Carolina beyond the well-known resort islands. Desert markets offer a distinctive combination of over 300 days of sunshine, world-class golf, and a luxury lifestyle that appeals to buyers escaping cold or grey climates. Scottsdale is a premier destination for those looking at the best places to buy a vacation home in Arizona. Its desert landscape, strict zoning that preserves natural trails and a history of market resilience make it one of the most reliable luxury second home markets in the country.  Mountain towns offer four-season appeal, with skiing in winter and hiking and festivals in summer, and tend to attract buyers who want nature access paired with fine dining and luxury amenities. Aspen balances powder days with gallery nights, a rare combination that keeps real estate demand consistently high. Aspen is one of the best places to buy a vacation home in Colorado for buyers who want both winter skiing and a vibrant summer season.  Vail is one of the best places to buy a vacation home in Colorado for buyers who want a walkable mountain town with a pedestrian street system and resort-level amenities. When the snow melts, the town becomes a standout summer destination with whitewater rafting, farmers markets and outdoor concerts. Jackson Hole sits in one of the most dramatic natural settings in North America, flanked by Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. The combination of world-class skiing, zero state income tax, and a tight inventory of luxury homes gives it consistently strong market fundamentals.  Steamboat Springs offers a more laid-back mountain lifestyle than some of Colorado's higher-profile resorts, while still delivering world-class skiing and year-round outdoor activities. Canoeing on Pearl Lake, soaking in geothermal springs, and access to Routt National Forest make it one of the most well-rounded mountain markets for second home buyers. California offers an extraordinary range of second home markets, from beach cities and wine country to desert retreats and mountain ski towns. Several markets have consistently demonstrated strong buyer demand and home value appreciation. San Diego consistently ranks as one of the best places to buy a vacation home in California because of its remarkably consistent climate and deep lifestyle appeal. The vacation rental market here is strong due to the city's massive draw for domestic and international travelers.  Palm Springs is one of the best places to buy a vacation home in California for buyers drawn to its striking desert scenery, more than 300 days of sunshine and iconic mid-century modern architecture. Cathedral City, just six miles away, is also worth considering for buyers seeking a more affordable entry into the Coachella Valley lifestyle. Truckee and Lake Tahoe to the north provide an entirely different California second home experience, with mountain lodges and year-round outdoor recreation.  Lake Tahoe is consistently one of the most desirable second home markets in California. Truckee, just north of the lake, has an allure of its own: an Old West aesthetic paired with epic ski resorts and proximity to Donner Lake. The area saw an extraordinary demand surge from Bay Area buyers in recent years. For a deeper look at this destination, explore Pacaso's Napa Valley offers a lifestyle centered on culinary excellence, natural beauty, and a quieter pace. The rolling vineyard scenery, Michelin-starred restaurants, and concentration of luxury estates make it one of the best places to buy a vacation home in California for buyers who prioritize food, wine and relaxation over resort activities. For globally mobile buyers, the best places to buy a vacation home internationally are places that deliver culture, connectivity, and everyday ease, along with strong property markets. Here are the top international destinations in Pacaso's portfolio, plus additional global markets worth considering. Paris rewards second home owners with a walkable city, world-class arts and food, and seamless rail and air connections across Europe. It is one of the best places to buy a vacation home in Europe for buyers assembling a global portfolio. London is one of the most globally connected cities in the world, making it an exceptional base for international second home buyers. The diversity of its neighborhoods, from the historic charm of Kensington to the energy of Shoreditch, means buyers can find a setting that matches almost any lifestyle. Tuscany is the quintessential Italian second home destination. Rolling hills, ancient walled towns, Michelin-starred restaurants, and proximity to Florence and Siena create a lifestyle that is hard to replicate anywhere else. It is one of the best places to buy a vacation home in Europe for buyers who want cultural richness paired with natural beauty. Los Cabos is widely considered one of the best places to buy a vacation home in Mexico. Located at the southern tip of Baja California, it combines desert canyons, turquoise water, world-class golf, and a growing luxury real estate market. From mornings on the water to evenings watching the sunset from a private terrace, the lifestyle here is easy to settle into.  Beyond Pacaso's portfolio, several other global markets consistently attract second home buyers: Use this table to quickly compare the top vacation home destinations across climate, price range, who each destination is best for, and Pacaso availability. Price range key: $$ = under $700K median · $$$ = $700K–$1.4M · $$$$ = $1.4M+ No matter which destination appeals to you, four key factors should shape your decision. How long does it take to get to your vacation home? A destination within driving distance encourages more frequent use. If you're flying, direct flights from your home airport significantly improve the ownership experience. Markets like Miami, San Diego, and Palm Springs all have major international airports nearby. For international destinations like Paris and London, consider the availability of nonstop transatlantic routes. Do you want a winter escape, a summer retreat or year-round access? Beach destinations like Miami and San Diego deliver year-round appeal, while mountain markets like Aspen and Vail are especially strong in winter and summer. Desert markets like Scottsdale and Palm Springs are best in winter and spring, with intense summers. European destinations like Paris and Tuscany offer a rich spring and autumn experience. Think about how you want to spend your time at your second home. If skiing and mountain scenery are priorities, Aspen, Vail or Jackson Hole are the right fit. If beaches and outdoor water activities are your focus, Miami, San Diego or Hilton Head deliver. For food, wine and cultural experiences, Napa, Tuscany or Paris offer something few other destinations can match. Review the Consider how often you realistically plan to use the home. If you expect to be there four to twelve weeks a year, whole ownership means paying for 52 weeks of upkeep for a fraction of the use. If you're evaluating the best places to buy a vacation home in the world, there are additional factors to keep in mind: Pacaso is a smarter way to own a luxury vacation home in the destinations that matter most to you. Pacaso allows buyers to purchase a share (1/8 to 1/2) of a fully managed luxury home through a Pacaso takes care of everything: With homes across destinations mentioned above, including beach markets in Florida and South Carolina, desert retreats in Arizona and California, mountain towns in Colorado and Wyoming, California wine country, and urban destinations in Europe and Mexico, Pacaso makes it possible to own in the place that fits your lifestyle. Explore

Yes, there are no legal restrictions on foreign nationals buying residential property in the UK. Whether you are an American, a European citizen, or a buyer from anywhere else in the world, you can purchase a freehold or leasehold property in England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland without any ownership cap or special government approval. Foreign buyers can also apply for UK mortgages, though lender requirements vary and can be stricter than for UK residents. Visa status, residency duration, and the length of time you have held a UK bank account can all affect your mortgage eligibility. Hiring a UK-based solicitor is strongly recommended; they handle the legal and conveyancing process and ensure all documentation complies with UK regulations. SDLT is calculated in progressive bands where you pay each rate only on the portion of the price within that band. How much you pay depends on three things: the purchase price, whether the property is your only home or an additional property, and whether you are a UK or non-UK resident. If the property you are buying is not your only home, whether it is a holiday home, a buy-to-let, a pied-à-terre, or a second residence in town, you trigger the Higher Rates for Additional Dwellings (HRAD). This means you pay standard SDLT plus a 5% surcharge on the entire purchase price, applied from the first pound. The surcharge took effect at 5% on 31 October 2024, up from the previous 3% rate. It applies even if the other property you own is located overseas. Since April 2021, buyers who do not meet UK tax residency requirements pay an additional 2% surcharge on top of all other applicable SDLT rates. For SDLT purposes, you are considered a UK resident only if you were physically present in the UK for at least 183 days in the 12-month period ending on your completion date. This is purely a physical presence test, separate from income tax residency rules. For overseas buyers purchasing a second home or holiday property in England or Northern Ireland, the 5% additional dwellings surcharge and the 2% non-resident surcharge stack on top of standard rates for a combined 7% surcharge above standard SDLT. If any one buyer in a joint purchase is non-UK resident, the surcharge applies to the entire transaction. Note: Scotland uses Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT), and Wales uses Land Transaction Tax (LTT). Both have their own rate structures and additional dwelling surcharges. Consult a local solicitor if you are buying in either country. SDLT is the most significant tax at purchase, but overseas buyers should also be aware of the following ongoing and exit taxes. Yes, foreign nationals can obtain UK mortgages, though the process is more demanding than for UK residents. Here is what to expect: Pacaso provides an alternative financing pathway for buyers who want co-ownership in the UK. Pacaso partners with banks and acts as a corporate guarantor, helping buyers qualify for financing of up to 70% of the property's share value, meaning you put down just 30% and finance the rest. This can be significantly more accessible than going through the standard UK mortgage application process as a foreign national. For buyers specifically looking for a luxury second home in London, Pacaso has curated a portfolio of fully managed co-ownership properties in central London neighborhoods including Mayfair, Belgravia, and Chelsea. View current The UK property market offers a range of home types, each with different ownership structures and price points. The UK buying process differs significantly from what American and international buyers may be used to. Here is a step-by-step overview. The entire process from offer acceptance to completion typically takes two to four months, though it can take longer for complex transactions or in slow markets. You will need proof of identity, proof of address, bank statements, proof of income, and any relevant visa or residency documentation ready throughout. When you co-own a Pacaso home, we are your trusted advisor throughout the buying process, helping you skip the mountain of preparation needed to buy property in the UK. Our local expertise and resources, combined with our innovative co-ownership model, make it easier to afford, buy and manage your home abroad. For overseas buyers who want the lifestyle of a UK second home without the full weight of sole ownership, Pacaso allows buyers to purchase a share (1/8 to 1/2) of a fully managed luxury home through a property-specific LLC, giving them a true real estate asset. Each home is professionally designed, fully furnished, and managed end-to-end, so you never have to coordinate maintenance, cleaning, utilities, or vendor relationships from across the Atlantic or wherever you are based. The financial case is compelling, particularly for buyers looking at the luxury end of the UK market. Here is how co-ownership addresses the key challenges outlined in this guide. Pacaso's London portfolio includes properties in Mayfair, Belgravia, and Chelsea, among the most sought-after addresses in the world for international buyers. To explore available co-ownership homes, visit

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 vacation budget to go as far as it did in past years, you may be in for a surprise. According to Daily average cost of a vacation per person The daily cost of a vacation varies widely depending on your travel style and destination. A budget trip in the U.S. costs around $121 per day, a mid-range trip averages $325 per day, and a luxury trip can reach $925 per day.  Compare the breakdown of typical daily spending (excluding long-distance airfare) for each travel style below: Additional vacation cost: Airfare Airfare is typically the single largest one-time expense of any trip. The average domestic flight in the United States costs Cost of travel by group size The cost of a vacation heavily depends on how many people are traveling. While solo travelers cover all expenses themselves, couples and families can split certain costs — like lodging and rental cars — to lower the per-person price.  That said, larger groups also come with additional expenses like extra flights, bigger accommodations and more meals. Below is a breakdown of what to expect by group size for a one-week domestic trip. Average couple's vacation cost Traveling as a couple offers some of the best per-person value of any group size. The average vacation cost for two people is $3,982-$4,550 per week, double the solo rate, since couples share lodging, but each still pays for their own flights, food and activities.  Where couples save the most is on accommodations. A double-occupancy hotel room or vacation rental, divided two ways, immediately cuts the single biggest daily expense in half.   Average family vacation cost A family of four spends an average of $7,964 on a one-week domestic vacation. International travel raises that figure substantially — a mid-range For families, the vacation tax often comes from convenience — eating out because there’s no kitchen, or booking two hotel rooms to get enough space. This is where co-ownership in Co-ownership directly addresses these family travel hurdles. By owning a 1/8 share of a luxury home, families secure the space and kitchen use they need without the recurring convenience fees of hotels. It transforms the way families budget for travel, trading high-cost rentals for the predictable expenses of a permanent, shared second home. Key vacation cost drivers No two vacations cost the same, and the gap between a budget trip and a luxury one can mean thousands of dollars. Understanding what moves the needle on trip expenses is the first step toward building a realistic budget.  The main factors that shape how much your vacation costs are: 8 tips for budgeting on vacation A good vacation budget is less about spending less and more about spending smarter. Apply these tips while planning your next trip: Get ahead of average vacation costs with a second home in your favorite destination Instead of giving in to rising vacation costs, consider the long-term benefits of vacation home Pacaso’s

Owning a second home in the UK  comes with an upfront tax cost that’s easy to underestimate. On a £300,000 property, for example, you could pay thousands more in stamp duty on second home purchases compared to a primary residence.  If you’re planning to buy a vacation home, that added cost can quickly shape your overall budget. So, what exactly is this tax?  Stamp duty on second homes is a UK-specific tax applied when you buy an additional property. With rate changes introduced in October 2024, here’s everything you need to know about how stamp duty works. What is the stamp duty? Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) — formally known as the Higher Rates on Additional Dwellings surcharge — is a tax you pay when buying property in England and Northern Ireland. It’s not the general transfer tax you might see in other countries, which is why it’s important to understand how it works if you’re exploring If you’re planning to Note that SDLT doesn’t apply everywhere in the UK. Scotland uses Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT), while Wales has Land Transaction Tax (LTT). These systems are similar in structure but have different thresholds and rates, so the amount you pay can vary depending on where you buy. This can feel similar to transfer taxes in other countries, but they operate under different rules. For second homes, an additional charge applies. Known as the Higher Rates on Additional Dwellings (HRAD), this surcharge was introduced in 2016 to help cool investor demand and support first-time buyers. It applies to properties like buy-to-let investments, vacation homes and even some inherited properties that aren’t used as your main residence.  Importantly, this surcharge is added to the standard SDLT rates (not instead of them), which is why the total stamp duty on second home purchases is significantly higher. Current stamp duty rates for second homes Starting October 31, 2024, the Higher Rates on Additional Dwellings (HRAD) surcharge is 5%, applied on top of standard SDLT rates. That means the total stamp duty on second home purchases is calculated using combined rates — and importantly, those rates apply across each price band, not as a flat fee. Prior to 2024, the surcharge was previously 3%, so today’s rates can add thousands to your upfront costs. Compared to other real estate transfer tax systems globally, the UK’s structure can feel more layered due to this additional surcharge. Like standard SDLT, the tiered rate structure is banded. You only pay each rate on the portion of the property price within that band, not on the full purchase price. The example calculations below show how quickly costs can rise as property values increase:  Example 1: £250,000 second home Example 2: £500,000 second home Understanding, in real terms, how much stamp duty is payable on a second home can help you plan more confidently. It may even lead you to explore how to avoid tax on second home purchases through legitimate reliefs or timing strategies. How rates differ across the UK Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) only applies in England and Northern Ireland. If you’re purchasing elsewhere in the UK, you’ll be dealing with different systems. If you’re This variation is one reason the broader UK stamp duty landscape can feel complex at first. While the structure is similar — tiered rates based on property value — the exact thresholds and percentages differ. For simplicity, the rest of this guide focuses on England and Northern Ireland unless stated otherwise, so you can clearly understand how stamp duty applies in those markets. How to calculate your stamp duty bill Working out your total can feel complicated at first, but once you understand the steps, it becomes much more manageable.  If you’re exploring 4. One of the most common mistakes is assuming the surcharge only applies above a certain threshold. In reality, it applies from £0, which is why this step matters.  If you don't want to run this calculation yourself, you can use Stamp duty for UK residents buying property abroad Owning property outside the UK can still impact what you pay at home. If you already have a home abroad, buying in England or Northern Ireland may trigger higher stamp duty on second home rates, even if it’s your first UK purchase. If you’re buying an international home, keep in mind you may face taxes both abroad and in the UK. A knowledgeable tax advisor or conveyancer can help you plan ahead and avoid unexpected costs. Additional stamp duty for non-UK residents If you’re not a UK resident for tax purposes, you may pay an extra 2% on top of existing rates — bringing total stamp duty to as much as 19%, depending on the price. Keep in mind that residency rules are specific: it’s not about citizenship, but whether you’ve spent at least 183 days in the UK over the past 12 months. If you’re splitting time between countries or planning a move, it’s worth confirming your status early, as it can impact your overall tax bill. How a stamp duty on second homes applies to Pacaso’s co-ownership model With Pacaso's If any buyer in the group already owns another property, higher stamp duty rates for second homes may apply to the full purchase price. Even so, sharing ownership can reduce the overall cost by spreading it across multiple owners.  Confidently purchase a second home in the UK with help from Pacaso Pacaso allows buyers to purchase a share (1/8 to 1/2) of a fully managed luxury home through a property-specific LLC, giving them a true real estate asset for a fraction of the cost. New to the model? Our explainer on On top of the lower stamp duty bill, Pacaso UK ownership also includes: Ready to see what your real cost of ownership looks like? Browse our By understanding how stamp duty on second home purchases works, you can better plan your budget and avoid surprises along the way. Explore what's possible with Pacaso and browse available homes in London to see how co-ownership can help you enjoy a second home — without the commitment of going all in alone.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Will and Julia live in the Bay Area, just south of San Francisco in the communities of Redwood City and Menlo Park, respectively. They each have two teenage children, and they enjoy spending time with their combined family in the quieter, more verdant Napa Valley.  “We both have a love of Napa, and we were going up there five or six times a year,” said Will. Over time, we started talking about getting a place there — we were spending a fortune on hotels.”  Even though hotels weren’t cheap, a second home in the Working through the details Julia had some initial concerns and questions about the Will said that Pacaso’s level of service was an important factor in their purchase, giving him and Julia the confidence to move forward. “From the start to today, working with Pacaso at all levels, everyone has been fantastic. If there’s been an issue, they’ve consistently worked through it and found equitable solutions.”  The joy of shared home ownership From their first stay, Will and Julia knew they’d made the right decision. “It was a ‘pinch me’ moment,” said Julia. “I remember thinking, ‘Is this real? Did we really do this?’ And then I said, ‘We’re home!’” Since trading up hotel stays for time at their Pacaso, they can attest to the difference that ownership brings. “Having a piece of something, somewhere, that you can come to and call your own is a wonderful feeling. It’s easy to fall in love with the home and the community,” said Will. And, unlike a hotel, it’s a special gathering place for their loved ones, said Julia. “Being able to come together and make memories with family and friends is one of my favorite parts of owning our Pacaso.” Plus, said Julia, it’s always ready for them when they arrive. “It’s such a benefit being able to come in and have our home be clean and set up with everything we need, and then not having to worry about doing a bunch of cleaning before we leave.” Life at their Pacaso Whether they’re spending time at their second home with family, friends or just each other, the experience is one of ease, pleasure and joy. “We live differently when we’re there,” said Will. “We’ll walk downtown to get croissants, then come back and open up the doors to the backyard and the sun will be streaming in — it’s something else.” Julia added, “Whenever we arrive, Will always says, ‘I can feel my blood pressure drop.’ It’s such a good feeling.”  They like to walk around the neighborhood, strolling through the forest to enjoy the magnificent redwoods, or walking downtown to have dinner or pick up groceries. “The neighborhood is really friendly. Everyone says hello and good morning — it’s a nice, small-town feel.” And if they’re not up for a walk? “Sometimes we just stay at the pool all weekend to relax and rejuvenate,” said Julia. It was during one of those poolside moments that Will realized how fortunate he and Julia were to have this experience of owning a second home: “I brought a lawn chair down to the pool, put the umbrella up, and was reading an Agatha Christie book, drink in hand — it was beautifully sunny, and Julia was next to me, and I was thinking to myself, ‘If this ain’t why we’re living, I don’t know what is.’ It was just a wonderful moment.” Find your second home in California wine country Ready to enrich your life with a second home in Napa Valley? Explore

Before becoming Pacaso owners, frequent travelers Byron and Elizabeth hadn't thought much about buying a second home — at the time, they didn't own their primary residence, and they enjoyed seeing new places. While they liked exploring different towns along the Northern California coast, it took planning. "We were spending a lot of time and energy finding places to stay," said Elizabeth.  They had several friends in St. Helena, a Napa Valley town within an easy drive of their Bay Area home, and they visited the area fairly often. They had toyed with the idea of buying property there, but it didn't seem like a realistic option. "It's really hard to find properties in St. Helena, and a full-time second home wasn't in the cards," said Byron. But then an interesting opportunity presented itself: Some friends of theirs, Jay and Michael, had decided to "sell down" part of their St. Helena home to Pacaso. The home, known as the Poolhouse, was Pacaso's first property, and Byron and Elizabeth had fond memories of the times they'd spent there in the past.  Seizing the opportunity  Being able to buy a share of the Poolhouse seemed like a stroke of good fortune. "Owning a whole second home was a barrier financially, and it didn't make sense for us when we considered the maintenance and upkeep for a place where we wouldn't spend that much time," said Byron.  Co-ownership with Pacaso seemed like an ideal option — they already knew and loved the home and the area, they wouldn't have to worry about any maintenance headaches, and the ability to right-size their ownership provided the flexibility they craved. "We like to travel a lot and didn't want to have to spend all of our vacation time at a second home."  Most importantly, it was financially attainable, with the help of Pacaso's financing option. "Financing made it possible and kept costs down to a reasonable amount. It balanced out to about what we pay for the average weekend a month we spend on a short family trip, or less than what we would spend on a vacation rental." Still, it was a new model, and they needed to feel assured that it worked for their needs. " "Once we understood the transaction and how everything worked, we felt comfortable and it was really a no-brainer at that point,"said Byron. Time in their Napa home Having young children — 3-year-old twins — hasn't dampened Byron and Elizabeth's interest in travel, but it has changed their perspective on second home ownership. "We really like the feeling of ownership over a vacation rental because we get to spend time in a place where we can make memories together. The kids look forward to coming here, and they understand that it's our Napa house and they get to play in the pool and see friends who live up here," said Elizabeth.  And that sense of connection and consistency is unique to ownership, said Elizabeth. "We feel like we're part of the community even though we're part time. You don't get that familiarity and memories at a rental or a hotel. You have a nice time, but there's nothing sentimental or special."  Sometimes those memories are part of the flow of daily life, like meeting up with local friends to watch their son's Little League game at Crane Park. Other times they are moments to cherish, like celebrating the twins' birthday at their Pacaso with both sets of grandparents who they hadn't been able to see in over a year.  And best of all, creating memories doesn't come with any added stress. "Owning our Pacaso is effortless," said Elizabeth. "We don't have to do any extra planning or work, and we know the house will be the same as when we left it. It's turnkey ownership, and we just show up and enjoy ourselves — we don't have to worry about the details."

Pacaso is more than just a place to stay — it's a gathering place where your extended family can create memories made possible only in a vacation home. This is true for Derick and Karen Ball, who found Pacaso's luxury amenities, dedicated property management and exceptional financing to be the perfect fit for their needs. "The memories that we make here, with family and friends — these are experiences that you can’t buy and you can’t get at a hotel,” said Derick. "It’s quantity time, but also the quality time within it." Watch below to learn more about the Ball family and how they create extended family moments in their Pacaso home. Pacaso makes a second home possible and enjoyable for more people.

Chris and Julie previously owned a second home in South Lake Tahoe, using it for family vacations and as a rental. “We love the idea of having a home, but we didn’t need it full time. The workload that went into renting it out — there was a lot,” Chris said. “We did great with it, but it was a lot of work.” They sold the property in 2020 and started looking for a more manageable home on the north end of Lake Tahoe. During their search, they came across Pacaso’s co-ownership program. Chris and Julie were won over by Pacaso’s price, flexibility and amenities, and the true ownership experience stood out. New, comfortable and impressive The couple loved the idea of owning new construction at a price within their budget. “We figured, the new home aspect would be less wear and tear in the long term,” Julie shared. In addition, since Julie and Chris consider themselves as more “summer people,” a new home in a different area of Tahoe would provide more options for enjoyment.  But it’s not just the newness of the property — the couple is amazed by the home’s design and feel. “I think the most difficult part is having to come home to our main home,” said Julie, who’s a fan of interior design. “I love this house, and it is amazing. I think the design team did a phenomenal job.” As owners who had rented out their second home, the couple also appreciates how Pacaso takes care of the maintenance and adds special touches to make them feel at home. “The hot tub, furnishings, outdoor furniture and fire pits are all comfortable. You have everything you need that you can think of, and that makes me feel really good,” said Chris. “We’re going to impress our family and friends whenever we go there. And we’re always going to have a comfortable stay because of that.” Julie added, “It’s really nice just to be able to walk in and not have to do anything.” Julie and Chris aren’t the only ones who are impressed. On a recent stay, the couple’s daughter and dog didn’t want to leave. “That was a really good sign the Pacaso team did well,” Chris said. The perks of true ownership Simplicity and comfort aside, a massive benefit for Chris and Julie was having true ownership in their second home. “There’s a sense of pride when you own a piece of a home. One thing that resonated with me during our last experience was that we did build a lot of traditions,” Julie said. “And it felt nice to have the same place to go to and make it your own. And it is your own.” This feeling of ownership makes their new Pacaso different from other offerings on the market. “I think there’s a lot of misconception out there with it being a timeshare,” said Julie. “It’s not a timeshare — we’re owning a home with eight people. We are able to have access to Tahoe and a beautiful home that we would not be able to afford on our own.” A second home is a special place With more moments on the schedule and plans to pass the home to their daughter, the couple views their Tahoe home as more than just a second home — it’s about going to a beloved destination that holds special meaning in their family. “I think our second home is an extension of our primary home and an extension of our family,” said Chris. “We can’t say that about our current home as much as we love it, because — at some point — you transition out of your primary home. But with a second home, it’s always going to be a place we go to that matters.” Look forward to coming to Tahoe Looking for a place to make memories in Lake Tahoe? When you co-own a Pacaso, you enjoy hassle-free ownership in a beautiful property that feels like home — because it is. Check out our

For Susan and Jason, Napa Valley had long felt like a home away from home. They live less than two hours away in Burlingame, and wine is Jason’s business — in fact, he owns a wine bar, and frequent trips to Napa and Sonoma Valley are part of the job. But wine country means more than that to the family, said Susan. “Jason is in the wine industry, so Napa is important for that reason, but we also love the community and the change in pace of life it brings while we’re there, so it has a lot of sentimental value for us.” From ‘maybe someday’ to ‘let’s do it!’ They had thought about a second home in Napa, but the idea never went anywhere. “We’d been considering it for years, but the most we ever did was look online, and we always had the same conversation,” said Susan. “It seemed like a lot of upkeep and maintenance considering our busy jobs and lives. How often are we going to use it? Is it worth it? And then this home showed up online and we realized it was partial ownership and we thought that seemed ideal.” Although they hadn’t heard of Pacaso, they understood the concept. “We have friends in Tahoe who own a fractional property, so we were familiar with the idea. Jason was able to tour in person and took me along via FaceTime. We decided that night, and it wasn’t a hard decision! We loved the property and it seemed like a minimal risk for what we would get out of it.”  What they would get was space, true ownership in a home, and an opportunity to put down roots in an area they loved. “When you have a family and go on vacation, you end up cramming four people in a hotel or paying for a suite or multiple rooms each time,” said Susan. “That’s not nearly as appealing as having space for not just family, but also friends, and being able to own it and sell it — those were all the things our friends loved about their Tahoe place, which, in part, is what convinced us to move forward with Pacaso.”  A short drive, a world away Getting out of the city and having a place to relax, with minimal effort, is a dream come true, said Susan. “Being able to just pack up and be there in under two hours is wonderful. You just feel the stress melt away as you get closer to the house.”  Susan and Jason’s Pacaso is situated on an acre and a half in a neighborhood they described as almost farmlike. “It’s close to downtown but you feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere. The kids love to walk down the drive and feed the goats across the street. We live in a city, so having all this space, a pool, playing bocce ball, making s’mores — it’s great, and the kids don’t want to leave.” In addition to making friends with the neighborhood goats, the family looks forward to developing closer connections within the Comfort and ease Leisurely days spent by the pool or exploring local parks are possible in part because Susan and Jason don’t have to invest time and energy in the home itself. “The house is very thoughtfully appointed, and the fact that we don’t have to worry about the maintenance is even better,” said Jason. “From our first stay, it immediately felt very comfortable, and there was clearly a lot of thought put into the way the home was stocked from appliances to glassware and bedding. The personal touches like games are really nice too.” Susan added, “There’s a lot less screen time when we’re there because there’s so much other stuff to do, like playing family games.” The themes of home, ownership and ease have been core to Susan and Jason’s And for Jason, the consistency you can expect from a home you own offers peace of mind — especially when you don’t have to deal with the hassles yourself. “There’s a comfort level in going back to the same place — you know where everything is, you know how to work the TV and the pool and set everything up the way you want it. But we’re not responsible — it’s the actual joys of homeownership.”  Make Napa your second home destination Pacaso puts second home ownership within reach for families, with listings in some of the most desirable destinations. And our Family-Friendly Second Homes™ make it easy to just show up and relax — from cribs and high chairs, to games, pool floaties, streaming services and more, we have you (and your kids) covered. Check out our

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

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

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

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

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

Beautiful American cities attract big businesses, and big businesses pay well for top talent, making metropolitan areas flush with million-dollar homes. But which cities lead the high-priced real estate pack? A 1. San Jose, CA Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, San Jose is the hotspot for 2. San Francisco, CA Just north of Silicon Valley, San Francisco has 42% of its homes valued at over $1 million. But the size of million-dollar homes in San Francisco varies widely depending on location and condition, with 700-square-foot condos in popular neighborhoods going for $1 million, and suburban homes with close to 3,000 square feet listed at the same price. The neighborhoods with the highest appreciation in San Francisco are just east of Lake Merced and bordering San Francisco State University.  3. Los Angeles, CA Are you starting to see a California trend? Los Angeles has long been known for pricey real estate, and its selection of million-dollar homes make up 19% of the market. The average size of million-dollar homes in the City of Angels is 1,720 square feet, with 92% of them built before 1999. The priciest neighborhoods include Bel Air, Brentwood, West Sunset Boulevard, and areas along the Pacific Coast Highway.  4. San Diego, CA San Diego continues the trend of expensive West Coast real estate, with 14% of the homes valued at over $1 million. Median home values in San Diego are around $665,000, with the majority of homes in the area priced between $596,000 and $894,000.  5. Seattle, WA Seattle’s 91% white-collar workforce is a contributing factor to having 11% of its homes valued at a million dollars or more. You’ll find the most expensive neighborhoods near Edgewater Park/Broadmoor, Laurelhurst, and East Roy Street at 24th Avenue East. Newer construction dominates the scene, with nearly 24% of all homes built since 2000.  6. New York, NY New York City is known for its expensive real estate, so it’s no surprise that the Big Apple made this list: 10% of homes are valued at a million dollars or more. But unlike many other urban areas in the U.S., New York’s dense population means that 95% of the city’s homes are apartments, not detached houses. One-bedroom apartments make up 39% of those units, and it’s rare to find a home with five bedrooms or more in the city.  7. Boston, MA In Boston 9% of the housing inventory is valued over $1 million. You’ll find Boston’s priciest real estate at Beacon Street near Fisher College and Boylston Street near Presidential Plaza. Boston is known for its history, and it’s not just monuments and museums — in fact, 50% of the city’s real estate was built before 1940. As a college town, Boston also has a high percentage of renters, with only 33% of homes occupied by owners. 8. Washington, D.C. Like Boston, Washington is a hotspot for American history, but with a larger inventory of newer construction homes: 34% of homes in the district were built before 1940. Million-dollar homes make up 7% of the D.C. real estate market, with Dupont Circle’s historic mansions, Georgetown and The Palisades among the city’s most expensive neighborhoods. Typical home values range from about $236,000 to $1.2 million, with no single price bracket cornering the D.C. market.  9. Miami, FL With glamorous mansions lining its waterways, million-dollar homes are part of Miami’s scenery, making up nearly 5% of the city’s homes. Miami also has some of the newest homes, with 27% of its housing constructed after 2000. Up-and-coming Miami neighborhoods include Buena Vista, City Center and Biscayne Boulevard at Miami Dade College.  10. Denver, CO The Rocky Mountain gem of Denver rounds out the list with 4% of its market consisting of million-dollar homes. Home values are pretty evenly distributed between $122,000 and $914,000, with 86% of them falling in this range. The city is also divided nearly equally between owners and renters, at 49% and 51%, respectively.

Time to celebrate—Pacaso is turning five! In just five years, we’ve broken new ground in the second home market and introduced a model that is reshaping real estate. None of it would be possible without our team of innovators, thought leaders, and most importantly, our incredible owners. As we look ahead to the next chapter, we remain grateful to the community that fuels our success and inspires us to keep innovating and raising the bar. Thank you for being part of our journey. Now, let’s take a look back at the milestones that made our first five years so memorable. Here’s to the next five years of memories, meaningful connections, and innovation. The best chapters of the Pacaso story are still to come.

Luxury real estate trends: Paris & London 2025 Luxury real estate trends in Paris and London point to a year of selective growth, more choice at the top end, and faster deal timelines. For a second home, that translates to better access to prime addresses and turnkey quality in both cities. Globally, prime prices rose 2.8% year over year in Q1 2025, underscoring steady demand for high-caliber homes in world capitals. Pacaso makes ownership in these prestigious markets more attainable through fractional ownership. Instead of buying an entire property, buyers purchase a share of a luxury home in Paris or London. This approach lowers costs while preserving the benefits of equity, appreciation, and personal use, making world-class real estate more accessible to second-home buyers. Paris in 2025 market signals buyers should watch Paris rebounded decisively to start 2025. Lower mortgage rates below 3% and stable pricing have doubled the pool of active buyers and shortened timelines, especially for renovated, move-in-ready residences in prime districts. That momentum is also evident on the Left Bank, where Saint-Germain combines classic architecture with updated comforts, a profile exemplified by Beaux Arts. Set steps from galleries and the Seine, London in 2025 pricing, policy and prime demand London is set for modest 2025 gains of about 2%, supported by strong cash-buyer demand and improving choice at the top end. Across luxury segments, inventory is at a two-year high, with single-family listings up 40.4% and multifamily up 42.6% year over year. Price performance is bifurcated: the best-designed, turnkey listings still command premiums, while buyers have more room to negotiate on homes needing updates. For everyday access to Key luxury real estate trends shaping buyer choices Paris vs London lifestyle essentials for a second home Paris offers How co-ownership supports 2025 buyer behavior Today’s buyers value time and certainty. Pacaso co-ownership provides access to high-demand neighborhoods with professional management and streamlined scheduling, so you spend your time enjoying the city rather than handling home logistics. In Paris, that can look like a classic Left Bank address steps from museums, cafes and the Seine, such as What it means for your next move Here is the bottom line for 2025. Paris is accelerating, with faster transactions in top districts and a broader base of active buyers. London should post around 2% annual growth with more inventory at the high end, giving shoppers greater choice. With global prime prices trending higher and considering these luxury real estate trends, selecting a property that is truly turnkey and well-located remains the clearest path to lasting enjoyment. Ready to explore prime addresses in two world capitals? Browse Pacaso listings in

Luxury home buying in a stabilizing market Luxury home buying is entering a more balanced phase across flagship destinations, and the shift is reshaping luxury real estate market trends. In Paris, Q1 2025 transaction values rose 69% as rates dipped below 3% and buyers returned. London’s prime addresses faced sharp price adjustments and rising inventory, creating room to negotiate. Cabo posted one of its strongest quarters on record, while select U.S. resort hubs show more listings and longer decision windows. In Miami, most April sales closed below asking, another sign of cooler conditions and buyer leverage. What market stabilization means for luxury home buying Stabilization is showing up in three ways: more choice, more time and more precision on price. For luxury home buying, these shifts translate to improved selection, pacing and pricing clarity. Prime central London listings rose nearly 16% year over year, stretching time to sell and shifting power to buyers. In Miami, a larger share of sales closed below ask, signaling realistic pricing wins. In Vail, nearly 45% of active listings saw price reductions in the 2025 summer window, reinforcing the value of disciplined offers and well-priced, move‑in ready homes. Signals by destination How co-ownership performs in a cooler market With luxury real estate market trends pointing to steadier pricing and more selection, co-ownership offers a precise way to align use with value. Pacaso provides professionally managed, designer furnished homes in blue chip locations, so you enjoy the lifestyle and avoid the burden of sole ownership. In a market that rewards optionality and speed, coordinated scheduling and local care teams keep your time focused on experiences, not logistics. For Cabo days centered on golf, water and dining, In the Rockies, Next steps for buyers If you are evaluating luxury home buying across stabilized markets, start by shortlisting destinations with clear usage fit and resilient demand drivers. Browse Pacaso listings in

With summer winding down and the year’s midpoint behind us, the luxury real estate landscape looks clearer, and brighter, than it did just a few months ago. Buyers and sellers are navigating calmer waters: prices at the high end have held steady, interest in co-ownership keeps climbing, and industry trends point to more meaningful travel. Here are some key takeaways  as we head into the second half of 2025, and why the outlook for second-home owners has never felt more promising. When we launched Pacaso in 2020, many buyers still assumed “real” ownership meant holding 100% of a home, even if it was rarely used.. That mindset is changing fast. In Cost and ease of management are the main drivers behind co-ownership. Though overall home sales cooled in early 2025, the top of the market keeps defying gravity. High-end properties outperformed every other price segment in 2024 and Q1 2025, according to Realtor.com’s What’s driving demand? A combination of strong stock-market returns, limited home inventory in some markets and the appeal of tangible assets you can Global living isn’t just for digital nomads. London is a prime example. Beauchamp Estates reports U.S. citizens now account for roughly That global appetite is why Pacaso is expanding beyond North America. We’re continuing to focus on adding more Pacaso homes in Europe, bringing our seamless co-ownership model and simplified transaction process to some of the world’s most coveted vacation destinations. Whether you’re traveling or buying a home, experience is quickly becoming the true measure of luxury. This same experiential mindset is reshaping real estate: “The feeling a home delivers matters as much as the address,” observes Tammy Fahmi of Sotheby’s International Realty—a change that’s prompting buyers to pay premiums for properties aligned with their lifestyle ideals ( Luxury real estate is evolving on two parallel tracks: shared ownership is accelerating, and lifestyle-led demand is strengthening at the high end. Together, those forces create an unprecedented opportunity to enrich your life through the purchase of a second home. Pacaso takes the complexity out of second home ownership, giving you effortless access to extraordinary properties around the world. Whether you’re eyeing a Austin Allison CEO and Co-founder of Pacaso

Finding the best places to buy a vacation home comes down to matching the location to your lifestyle, hobbies and climate preferences. Consider how you want to spend your free time, who will be traveling with you, and where you can see yourself returning year after year. To help you narrow down the choices, we've organized the top vacation home destinations into four groups: beach destinations, desert and sun destinations, mountain destinations, and international destinations. We've also added California-specific highlights and a full comparison table so you can easily evaluate every market at a glance. Beach destinations consistently rank among the most sought-after markets for second home buyers. Warm weather, outdoor lifestyle and strong rental demand make these locations perennial favorites. Miami is one of the best places to buy a vacation home in Florida because of its unique blend of coastal luxury and urban energy. South Florida has warm weather year-round, headline-making dining and art, and convenient access to Latin America and Europe. The vacation home market here has maintained strong momentum at the top end, reflecting consistent demand from domestic and international buyers. Hilton Head Island is one of the best places to buy a vacation home in South Carolina for buyers who want a mix of active outdoor living and relaxed coastal charm. The area offers warm weather year-round and easy access to world-class golf, nature trails and wide sandy beaches. It's also one of the best East Coast beach towns for buyers seeking solid long-term market growth. Charleston consistently tops lists of the best places to live and visit, and it's equally strong as a second home market. The city's subtropical climate, cobblestone streets and proximity to beaches like Isle of Palms and Sullivan's Island give it year-round appeal. It's a great option for those looking at the best places to buy a vacation home in South Carolina beyond the well-known resort islands. Desert markets offer a distinctive combination of over 300 days of sunshine, world-class golf, and a luxury lifestyle that appeals to buyers escaping cold or grey climates. Scottsdale is a premier destination for those looking at the best places to buy a vacation home in Arizona. Its desert landscape, strict zoning that preserves natural trails and a history of market resilience make it one of the most reliable luxury second home markets in the country.  Mountain towns offer four-season appeal, with skiing in winter and hiking and festivals in summer, and tend to attract buyers who want nature access paired with fine dining and luxury amenities. Aspen balances powder days with gallery nights, a rare combination that keeps real estate demand consistently high. Aspen is one of the best places to buy a vacation home in Colorado for buyers who want both winter skiing and a vibrant summer season.  Vail is one of the best places to buy a vacation home in Colorado for buyers who want a walkable mountain town with a pedestrian street system and resort-level amenities. When the snow melts, the town becomes a standout summer destination with whitewater rafting, farmers markets and outdoor concerts. Jackson Hole sits in one of the most dramatic natural settings in North America, flanked by Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. The combination of world-class skiing, zero state income tax, and a tight inventory of luxury homes gives it consistently strong market fundamentals.  Steamboat Springs offers a more laid-back mountain lifestyle than some of Colorado's higher-profile resorts, while still delivering world-class skiing and year-round outdoor activities. Canoeing on Pearl Lake, soaking in geothermal springs, and access to Routt National Forest make it one of the most well-rounded mountain markets for second home buyers. California offers an extraordinary range of second home markets, from beach cities and wine country to desert retreats and mountain ski towns. Several markets have consistently demonstrated strong buyer demand and home value appreciation. San Diego consistently ranks as one of the best places to buy a vacation home in California because of its remarkably consistent climate and deep lifestyle appeal. The vacation rental market here is strong due to the city's massive draw for domestic and international travelers.  Palm Springs is one of the best places to buy a vacation home in California for buyers drawn to its striking desert scenery, more than 300 days of sunshine and iconic mid-century modern architecture. Cathedral City, just six miles away, is also worth considering for buyers seeking a more affordable entry into the Coachella Valley lifestyle. Truckee and Lake Tahoe to the north provide an entirely different California second home experience, with mountain lodges and year-round outdoor recreation.  Lake Tahoe is consistently one of the most desirable second home markets in California. Truckee, just north of the lake, has an allure of its own: an Old West aesthetic paired with epic ski resorts and proximity to Donner Lake. The area saw an extraordinary demand surge from Bay Area buyers in recent years. For a deeper look at this destination, explore Pacaso's Napa Valley offers a lifestyle centered on culinary excellence, natural beauty, and a quieter pace. The rolling vineyard scenery, Michelin-starred restaurants, and concentration of luxury estates make it one of the best places to buy a vacation home in California for buyers who prioritize food, wine and relaxation over resort activities. For globally mobile buyers, the best places to buy a vacation home internationally are places that deliver culture, connectivity, and everyday ease, along with strong property markets. Here are the top international destinations in Pacaso's portfolio, plus additional global markets worth considering. Paris rewards second home owners with a walkable city, world-class arts and food, and seamless rail and air connections across Europe. It is one of the best places to buy a vacation home in Europe for buyers assembling a global portfolio. London is one of the most globally connected cities in the world, making it an exceptional base for international second home buyers. The diversity of its neighborhoods, from the historic charm of Kensington to the energy of Shoreditch, means buyers can find a setting that matches almost any lifestyle. Tuscany is the quintessential Italian second home destination. Rolling hills, ancient walled towns, Michelin-starred restaurants, and proximity to Florence and Siena create a lifestyle that is hard to replicate anywhere else. It is one of the best places to buy a vacation home in Europe for buyers who want cultural richness paired with natural beauty. Los Cabos is widely considered one of the best places to buy a vacation home in Mexico. Located at the southern tip of Baja California, it combines desert canyons, turquoise water, world-class golf, and a growing luxury real estate market. From mornings on the water to evenings watching the sunset from a private terrace, the lifestyle here is easy to settle into.  Beyond Pacaso's portfolio, several other global markets consistently attract second home buyers: Use this table to quickly compare the top vacation home destinations across climate, price range, who each destination is best for, and Pacaso availability. Price range key: $$ = under $700K median · $$$ = $700K–$1.4M · $$$$ = $1.4M+ No matter which destination appeals to you, four key factors should shape your decision. How long does it take to get to your vacation home? A destination within driving distance encourages more frequent use. If you're flying, direct flights from your home airport significantly improve the ownership experience. Markets like Miami, San Diego, and Palm Springs all have major international airports nearby. For international destinations like Paris and London, consider the availability of nonstop transatlantic routes. Do you want a winter escape, a summer retreat or year-round access? Beach destinations like Miami and San Diego deliver year-round appeal, while mountain markets like Aspen and Vail are especially strong in winter and summer. Desert markets like Scottsdale and Palm Springs are best in winter and spring, with intense summers. European destinations like Paris and Tuscany offer a rich spring and autumn experience. Think about how you want to spend your time at your second home. If skiing and mountain scenery are priorities, Aspen, Vail or Jackson Hole are the right fit. If beaches and outdoor water activities are your focus, Miami, San Diego or Hilton Head deliver. For food, wine and cultural experiences, Napa, Tuscany or Paris offer something few other destinations can match. Review the Consider how often you realistically plan to use the home. If you expect to be there four to twelve weeks a year, whole ownership means paying for 52 weeks of upkeep for a fraction of the use. If you're evaluating the best places to buy a vacation home in the world, there are additional factors to keep in mind: Pacaso is a smarter way to own a luxury vacation home in the destinations that matter most to you. Pacaso allows buyers to purchase a share (1/8 to 1/2) of a fully managed luxury home through a Pacaso takes care of everything: With homes across destinations mentioned above, including beach markets in Florida and South Carolina, desert retreats in Arizona and California, mountain towns in Colorado and Wyoming, California wine country, and urban destinations in Europe and Mexico, Pacaso makes it possible to own in the place that fits your lifestyle. Explore

Dreaming of strolling through perfectly manicured gardens, sipping tea in historic cafes or attending world-class theater? If so, exploring the posh areas in London is likely at the top of your travel itinerary. Whether you’re planning a short getaway or researching the From the stucco-fronted terraces of Belgravia to the artistic heritage of Chelsea, we cover the top posh spots to visit below to help you decide where to stay or even 1. Mayfair As far as posh neighborhoods in London go, Mayfair stands out for its timeless elegance and refined luxury. Located in the heart of the West End, Mayfair is known for its grand Georgian architecture, upscale art galleries and You’ll find there's no shortage of Properties in Mayfair reflect its status as a premier address, with average prices among the highest in the world. Typical luxury residences average around $78.4 million ( For those seeking a refined and strategic way to enjoy life in Mayfair, explore Pacaso co-ownership opportunities at stunning listings, including the 2. Belgravia Belgravia is located just southwest of Buckingham Palace and is characterized by its elegant white stucco townhouses, serene garden squares and a palpable sense of timeless sophistication. The neighborhood offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle while remaining conveniently located near major attractions. Enjoy leisurely strolls through Hyde Park, explore the upscale boutiques of Elizabeth Street or savor fine dining experiences at Michelin-starred restaurants like Pétrus by Gordon Ramsay or Muse by Tom Aikens. The area’s proximity to cultural landmarks and its own refined atmosphere make it one of the most highly desirable London neighborhoods.  According to 3. Knightsbridge Knightsbridge stands as a global symbol of luxury and exclusivity, making it among the most posh neighborhoods in London. Home to iconic department stores like Harrods and Harvey Nichols, this area is synonymous with high-end shopping, opulent hotels and world-class dining.  Enjoy designer boutiques along Sloane Street, explore art galleries and savor Michelin-starred restaurants like Dinner by Heston Blumenthal. The area’s proximity to Hyde Park and its own refined atmosphere make it a prime location if you’re seeking a luxurious urban lifestyle. Expect to find grand period conversions, luxurious apartments and discreet mews properties. According to 4. Kensington Kensington is found in West London and is home to iconic landmarks such as Kensington Palace, Royal Albert Hall and the world-renowned South Kensington museums. The museums include You can enjoy leisurely walks in Kensington Gardens or indulge in high-end shopping along Kensington High Street and Kensington Church Street, famous for its antiques. Like many neighborhoods of London, properties include elegant Victorian townhouses and luxurious apartments.  According to the 5. Chelsea For a quintessential example of London's refined elegance, Chelsea is a must-visit. Nestled along the north bank of the River Thames, this prime location offers a charming blend of historic architecture, garden squares and high-end boutiques.  King’s Road, the area's iconic thoroughfare, is filled with chic shops, art galleries and gourmet Chelsea restaurants like the Michelin-starred Restaurant Gordon Ramsay. You’ll find stunning Victorian townhouses, elegant apartments and secluded mews homes along picturesque streets like Bywater Street, each offering a unique glimpse into London’s rich history. Due to its desirability, Chelsea remains one of London’s most expensive residential areas, as noted in the previous Kensington section showing their combined average property cost. Co-ownership with Pacaso provides buyers seeking 6. Notting Hill If you’re looking for the Notting Hill offers a lively atmosphere with a touch of artistic flair that visitors and locals can enjoy. From browsing antique stalls and vintage shops along Portobello Road to enjoying the eclectic mix of cafes and independent boutiques, there’s much to discover here. The blend of vibrant culture, trendy amenities and elegant residences makes Notting Hill a highly sought-after location.  According to 7. Holland Park Holland Park offers a more secluded and tranquil alternative to its bustling neighbors, characterized by its winding tree-lined streets and massive white stucco villas. At the heart of the district lies the park itself, widely considered one of London’s most romantic and well-maintained green spaces.  Visitors and residents alike are drawn to the Kyoto Garden, a stunning Japanese landscape with a koi pond and waterfall, and the open-air Opera Holland Park. Properties in Holland Park are the most exclusive in the world, particularly on streets like Ilchester Place and the famous Millionaire’s Row on Addison Road.  According to 8. Hampstead Hampstead offers a unique blend of village charm and urban sophistication. Located in North London, Hampstead is known for its vast green spaces, including Hampstead Heath, offering breathtaking views of the city. Hampstead's tranquil atmosphere and rich literary history have attracted artists, writers and intellectuals for centuries. Explore the charming boutiques and cafes along Hampstead High Street, view art at Kenwood House or simply escape into the abundance of green space available for a break from the busy city. If you’re looking to The property market in Hampstead reflects its exclusivity as one of the most prestigious areas of London. According to 9. Marylebone Marylebone is located between Regent’s Park and Oxford Street and boasts a blend of Georgian architecture and independent boutiques. In this sophisticated village-like atmosphere, you can explore the world-renowned Wallace Collection, browse the shops along Marylebone High Street or enjoy a stroll through Regent’s Park. The area is central while still providing a tranquil ambiance, making it a unique location among London’s real estate options. If you’re looking for property in Marylebone, you’ll find elegant Georgian townhouses and stylish apartments. According to 10. Westminster As the historic epicenter of British political power, Westminster stands as one of London’s most prestigious and architecturally significant districts. It’s located along the banks of the River Thames and is home to world-famous landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey.  Beyond the landmarks, the neighborhood reveals a quieter side with morning strolls through the manicured greenery of St. James’s Park or an evening spent in the wood-paneled atmosphere of a historic pub tucked away on a side street. Westminster is a great choice for its central location and proximity to major cultural attractions. Expect to find grand period conversions, luxurious apartments with river views and discreet townhouses tucked away on quiet streets. According to provisional 11. St. John's Wood St. John’s Wood is famous for being home to Lord’s Cricket Ground, the “Home of Cricket,” and Abbey Road Studios, where The Beatles recorded many of their iconic albums. The area offers a peaceful escape from the city, with the vast expanse of Regent’s Park nearby. St. John’s Wood is filled with grand detached villas, elegant townhouses and luxurious apartments, all contributing to the area’s timeless appeal.  According to 12. Richmond upon Thames Richmond upon Thames consistently ranks among the happiest and safest neighborhoods of London, and in 2026, it was officially named the Best Place to Live in London by The property market in Richmond is highly resilient, offering a mix of grand Georgian houses and charming Victorian cottages. According to 13. Winnington Road When walking down Winnington Road, you’re entering a world of gated, quiet prestige where properties command their space. Often overshadowed by its neighbor, The Bishops Avenue, Winnington Road is favored by quiet ultra-high-net-worth individuals for its setback properties, larger plots and more refined architecture. The street is comprised entirely of grand detached mansions, many featuring private cinemas, indoor pools and staff quarters. According to Experience the luxury of posh neighborhoods in London with Pacaso Each of these posh areas in London offers a unique glimpse into the city’s rich history and sophisticated lifestyle. If you want to enjoy the refined city lifestyle without the full-time commitment or price tag, consider

Are you and your partner in need of some quality time? Somewhere with stunning views where you can explore to your heart’s content? You’re in luck — we’ve curated a list of the best vacation spots for couples around the world. From the tropical locale of Maui to the snowcapped mountains of Vail, we’ve assessed the luxury environments and must-see attractions of each destination to create our guide. Whether you are looking for a weekend escape or a permanent 1. Maui, Hawai’i The For a more indulgent experience, grab a snorkel and flippers to swim with the sea turtles at Turtle Town in Maluaka Beach. Or share a traditional shaved ice before spending the day sailing around the neighboring island of Lana’i. Thrill seekers can brave the infamous The 2. Napa Valley, California Napa Valley is widely considered one of the most romantic places in the U.S., offering a sensory journey through rolling vineyards and historic estates. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a week, Napa Valley has plenty of couples vacation options. While the valley is stunning year-round, it’s particularly famous as a Of course, you’ll want to squeeze in a winery visit — or three. The For those who find themselves returning to the valley every harvest, Pacaso offers the opportunity to co-own a luxury retreat in the heart of wine country. Featured These homes represent the ultimate Pacaso lifestyle: effortless ownership with a dedicated management team that lets you focus entirely on the romance of the region. 3. Palm Springs, California Then, After hiking and checking out the must-see destinations, you can pamper yourselves with a couples spa day. The End your day at The effortless elegance of Palm Springs is perfectly captured in the Pacaso lifestyle, where modern design meets desert tranquility. Some standout 4. Scottsdale, Arizona Whether you’re looking to lounge poolside or spend your days on the golf course, Scottsdale provides the perfect desert backdrop for couples seeking relaxation and recreation.  For a rejuvenating experience, Scottsdale offers various wellness retreats focused on holistic healing, yoga and detox programs. These retreats are designed to help couples unwind and reconnect through relaxation, mindfulness and spa treatments.  Between spa sessions, enjoy the local flavor:  Embracing the Pacaso lifestyle in Scottsdale means moving from a visitor to a local, with a home base designed for entertaining and tranquility. Explore 5. Jackson Hole, Wyoming For couples who find romance in the great outdoors, Jackson Hole is the ultimate high-altitude escape, consistently ranking among the best vacation spots in the U.S. for couples. Unleash your inner cowpoke with a horseback ride through nearby Although skiing is popular in the area, there are a variety of other winter activities in Jackson Hole, like tubing, dog sledding and visiting Granite Hot Springs for a restorative soak. Sip a cold drink and dance to live music at local saloons like the iconic Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, then recover with a spa day at Owning a second home in Jackson Hole allows couples to transition from tourist to trailblazer. Pacaso’s 6. Los Cabos, Mexico Los Cabos is a perennial favorite for the best romantic vacations, offering a dramatic landscape where the desert meets the deep blue of the Sea of Cortez. The Have your meals on the beach or opt for terraced seating at For couples who want more than just a temporary escape, the Pacaso lifestyle in 7. Punta de Mita, Mexico Tucked away on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, Punta de Mita offers pristine beaches and an air of exclusivity that makes it one of the best vacation spots for couples seeking true seclusion. Spend your days lounging on white sand or snorkeling in the azure waters of the Marietas Islands, where you can visit the hidden Beach of Love. For ultimate relaxation, indulge in a couple’s spa treatment like a traditional Temazcal ceremony at one of the luxurious resorts. Savor freshly caught seafood at a beachfront restaurant while watching the sunset over Banderas Bay, or book a private yacht to explore hidden coves.  Punta de Mita’s charm lies in its tranquility, making it one of the best places for a relaxing vacation for couples who want to disconnect from the world and reconnect with each other. The Pacaso lifestyle in 8. London, England There are endless things to do in London, from iconic landmarks to rich history, that create a captivating setting for couples. Begin with a ride on the London Eye for sweeping city views at sunset. Stroll hand in hand along the South Bank or visit the charming streets of Notting Hill, famed for its colorful houses and cozy cafés. Catch a West End show or dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant in the most The Pacaso lifestyle in London offers a rare opportunity to co-own a piece of British history without the traditional barriers to entry. Explore 9. Paris, France Paris is the gold standard for best romantic travel destinations, offering a magical blend of history and luxury. Known as the City of Love, couples can wander through the cobbled streets of Montmartre or share a kiss atop the Eiffel Tower. Visit the Louvre to admire classic art or take a relaxing cruise on the Seine River. Dine by candlelight in one of Paris’s gourmet bistros in the vibrant 6th or 7th arrondissements. Don’t forget to enjoy wine and macarons while gazing at the city’s twinkling lights. Paris effortlessly lives up to its reputation as the most romantic city in the world. A single visit might leave you dreaming of The Pacaso lifestyle allows you to embrace “art de vivre” as a resident rather than a tourist. Imagine returning to your own professionally managed apartment year after year at our 10. Madrid, Spain Madrid is an electrifying vacation spot for couples, where every street corner pulses with history and “alegría.” Start your day with a visit to the Prado Museum to see masterpieces by Goya and Velázquez. For a truly local experience, wander the Literary Quarter (Barrio de las Letras) and find a quiet cafe to share traditional churros with chocolate. As the sun sets, head to the The Pacaso lifestyle in 11. Tuscany, Italy Tuscany is a dreamscape for couples, offering a timeless backdrop of cypress-lined roads and golden hillsides that define the Italian “dolce vita.” Escape to the smaller hill towns like Pienza or San Gimignano to share a glass of Brunello di Montalcino at a family-run winery. Adventure and intimacy go hand-in-hand here, whether you're taking a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Pacaso transforms the dream of an Italian villa in From the historic architecture to the modern interior finishes, your home is kept in pristine condition so you can focus on mastering the art of the Italian lifestyle. 12. Cape Cod, Massachusetts Cape Cod is a quintessential choice among weekend getaways for couples, offering a timeless landscape of windswept dunes and historic lighthouses. It’s often cited as one of the Eat like a local and grab a lobster roll at a roadside shack, and find a quiet spot at Pacaso’s Experience coastal luxury at 13. Charleston, South Carolina Catch a performance at the The Pacaso lifestyle in Experience the best of the coast at 14. Hilton Head, South Carolina Hilton Head Island is a gem of the Lowcountry, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and refined island living that makes it one of the best vacation spots for couples. Beyond the pristine beaches, couples can spend their days exploring the 60 miles of bike trails that wind through moss-draped oaks.  Head to Harbour Town at sunset to climb the iconic lighthouse or enjoy live music at a waterfront cafe. For those who love activity, the island is a haven for racquet sports and championship golf. Take a private kayak tour through the salt marshes to spot local Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, or simply relax at a coastal spa.  The island’s commitment to preserving its natural environment ensures that your getaway feels like a true escape into a lush, green sanctuary. Co-owning 15. Vail, Colorado Vail stands out among romantic cities in the U.S., offering a charming pedestrian village that feels like a slice of the Swiss Alps in the heart of the Rockies. Couples can spend their mornings carving through the legendary Grab a table at a slope-side bistro for fondue or take a scenic gondola ride to watch the alpenglow over the Whether you’re sharing a blanket on a horse-drawn sleigh or enjoying an outdoor concert at the Pacaso allows couples to own a piece of this premier mountain destination without the second-home burnout of property upkeep. As a co-owner, you skip the hassles of snow removal and seasonal maintenance, ensuring your alpine retreat is warm and welcoming the moment you step off the plane.  Explore Pacaso How to choose the right vacation spot for a second home Selecting a destination for a Relax in your Pacaso home at the best vacation spots for couples Now that you know the best vacation spots for couples, which destination will you and your partner travel to first? If you can see yourself frequenting one of these romantic getaways, you may As a Pacaso

Few states do fall like California. From alpine meadows turning gold in late September to Napa's harvest-season glow, the destinations here are worth the trip — and worth owning nearby. Here's where to go, plus the Pacaso second homes that bring owners back every autumn. 1. Big Bear Lake Lace up your hiking boots and head to 2. Lassen Volcanic National Park Lassen Volcanic National Park promises an unforgettable beautiful experience in the fall. You’ll be awed by the expansive views of golden aspen leaves from atop Cinder Cone and the iconic Lassen Peak. Enjoy volcanic features like steaming fumaroles and bubbling mud pots, and immerse yourself in the serenity of the alpine lakes, their surfaces reflecting the golden hues of autumn. 3. Napa Valley Drive along If you plan to visit multiple seasons, consider buying a 4. Bass Lake Fall is a great time to take leisurely hikes along the well-marked trails around Bass Lake, a 5-mile-long reservoir in the Sierra National Forest. Just a half-hour south of Yosemite National Park, the recreation area also offers kayak rentals. Autumn colors make this the perfect setting for picnics, fishing and watching serene sunsets. 5. Sonoma County In fall, Sonoma also stands out for its variety. Beyond the wineries, you’ll find fall beauty along the If you plan to visit the region annually or more often, consider 6. June Lake  7. Lake Tahoe If you’re considering a vacation home in the area, check out 8. Bishop Creek Canyon 9 10. ​​Hope Valley Hit the road to enjoy picturesque routes like Highway 88 or Blue Lakes Road, and witness Hope Valley adorned in a stunning palette of fall colors. Explore the hiking trails and immerse yourself in the golden beauty of aspen groves and sweeping meadows at 7,000 feet. Check out the meandering West Carson River and the 2,869-acre Hope Valley Wildlife Area. 11. Julian This small Gold Rush mining 12. Lake Arrowhead If you’re considering a vacation home in the area, explore 13. Oak Glen 14. Mammoth Lakes Plan your fall escape Returning to California every fall is even better when you have a place to call your own. Pacaso's LLC co-ownership model lets you own a second home in wine country, the mountains, or the coast — with professional management, scheduling technology, and a fully furnished home ready when you are. No booking scramble, no maintenance headaches. Just the places you love, waiting for you each season. Explore

From historic coastal villages to lively seaside hubs, East Coast beach towns capture the feel of a classic American summer. They’re also popular choices for vacation homes, thanks to their charming communities and easy access to the ocean.  If you’re weighing where to buy or book next, this guide highlights the 15 best East Coast beach towns worth considering, as well as beautiful Pacaso homes along the coast. 1. Bar Harbor, Maine Bar Harbor, Maine, a quintessential example of charming northeast beach towns, is a gateway to the beauty of Beyond the park, Bar Harbor has a vibrant atmosphere. Stroll along the waterfront, explore local shops and art galleries and savor fresh seafood around town. Whale-watching tours and boat cruises let you explore the surrounding marine life. 2. Newport, Rhode Island Newport, Rhode Island is often considered one of the more sophisticated northeast beach towns. It's known for its stunning mansions along Bellevue Avenue, offering a glimpse into a historic era of opulence. Tour these architectural marvels, remnants of the summer "cottages" of wealthy industrialists, and experience the grandeur of the past. Explore Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach), with expansive sandy shores perfect for sunbathing and swimming. The rugged coastline dotted with scenic coves is the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities and exploration.  Beyond the harbor, enjoy the charming cobblestone streets lined with boutiques, art galleries and acclaimed restaurants. 3. Nantucket, Massachusetts For those drawn to the unique allure of Nantucket and considering a second home, check out Pacaso’s 4. Chatham, Massachusetts Chatham, Massachusetts, sits at the southeastern tip of The town has a more relaxed, residential feel than some of Cape Cod’s busier destinations, making it especially appealing for longer stays.  If you’re looking for a charming retreat in Chatham, Pacaso’s 5. Montauk, New York Montauk, New York, is known for its rugged beauty, world-class surf breaks and thriving fishing scene. This coastal gem offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. The iconic Montauk is also a haven for anglers, with numerous charter boats offering deep sea fishing excursions. The town's harbor is filled with marinas, seafood restaurants and shops. Beyond the beaches and fishing, Montauk’s rugged charm is great for hiking, biking and exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding area.  6. Cape May, New Jersey Cape May, New Jersey, is known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture and relaxed seaside feel. Gaslit streets and colorful historic homes give the town a distinct character, while its beaches are clean, quiet and well-suited for swimming or a low-key day by the water. The Cape May Lighthouse offers wide coastal views, and boat tours provide chances to see whales and other marine life. The town also has a mix of boutiques, restaurants and inns that keep it lively without feeling overdone. 7. Avalon, New Jersey Avalon, New Jersey, is known for its “ In town, Avalon offers a small but polished mix of boutique shops, restaurants and local gathering spots. The overall atmosphere is relaxed and community-oriented, making it a popular choice for those looking for a low-key beach destination that still feels well cared for and easy to enjoy. If you’re considering a vacation home on the Jersey Shore, explore Pacaso’s 8. Ocean City, Maryland Ocean City, Maryland, is a quintessential East Coast beach town known for its vibrant atmosphere and family-friendly appeal, making it one of the Beyond the boardwalk, Ocean City offers a variety of attractions that make it an ideal second home destination. Explore Assateague Island, home to wild ponies, or enjoy a day of fishing or boating in the bay. With its classic beach town charm and modern amenities, Ocean City provides a lively environment for those looking for the best beach towns on the East Coast. 9. Virginia Beach, Virginia Virginia Beach is one of the best East Coast beach towns if you want to enjoy natural beauty and exciting attractions. It's among the best family vacation spots thanks to its expansive beaches and lively boardwalk. The iconic Virginia Beach Boardwalk offers amusement rides and arcades, or you can take your kids to the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center for entertaining exhibits about marine life. Beyond the bustling boardwalk, Virginia Beach offers a diverse range of outdoor activities. First Landing State Park, where English colonists first landed in 1607, provides opportunities for hiking, kayaking and exploring natural habitats. The area also boasts a thriving culinary scene, with fresh seafood and a variety of dining options. Virginia Beach was also rated among Pacaso’s 10. Charleston, South Carolina  The city is also a major food destination, with everything from traditional Lowcountry cooking to modern coastal restaurants. King Street anchors downtown with shops, galleries, and dining, and nearby beaches like Sullivan’s Island and Folly Beach provide easy access to the water. Looking to own your own slice of paradise in South Carolina? Explore Pacaso’s 11. Kiawah Island, South Carolina  The island is also known for its golf, including the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, which has hosted major tournaments and sits directly along the Atlantic. Beyond golf, residents and visitors spend time biking the island’s extensive trail system, kayaking through tidal creeks, or relaxing on its long, uninterrupted beaches. Surrounded by lagoon views, Pacaso’s 12. Hilton Head, South Carolina Beyond the beaches and golf, Hilton Head offers a wide range of activities, including biking along miles of paved trails, kayaking through scenic waterways and exploring the island's nature preserves. Hilton Head is also known for its sophisticated dining scene, upscale shopping and vibrant cultural events. With an outdoor fireplace, grill, pool, and hot tub, Pacaso’s 13. St. Augustine, Florida St. Augustine, Florida, offers a unique blend of historical significance and coastal allure. The city's rich past is evident in its well-preserved architecture, like the iconic Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, a 17th-century fortress overlooking the Matanzas River. Walking through the cobblestone streets of the historic district feels like stepping back in time, with numerous museums and art galleries to explore. St. Augustine also has beautiful beaches, including St. Augustine Beach and Anastasia State Park. The city's vibrant cultural scene, with its festivals, live music and diverse culinary offerings, adds to its appeal, especially if you’re interested in 14. Rosemary Beach, Florida  Rosemary Beach, Florida, is a community along the state’s scenic The beach is just steps from town, with soft white sand and clear Gulf waters that are ideal for swimming and long beach days. Rosemary Beach also has a small but polished town center with cafés, boutiques, and restaurants, keeping everything easily accessible without a car. If you’re looking for a second home on one of the best East Coast beaches, explore Pacaso’s 15. Fort Lauderdale, Florida  Beyond the water, Fort Lauderdale has a mix of walkable neighborhoods, including Las Olas Boulevard, where you’ll find restaurants, shops, and galleries. The beach runs directly along the city, offering a long stretch of sand backed by a lively but more relaxed promenade than nearby Miami. If you want a second home within walking distance of Las Olas Blvd, check out Pacaso’s Find your perfect East Coast beach town vacation home From quiet coastal towns to lively waterfront cities, the best East Coast beach towns are some of the most sought-after places for a second home. Pacaso makes it easier to own in these markets through co-ownership. With Pacaso's LLC co-ownership model, you purchase a share (⅛ to ½) of a professionally designed, fully managed luxury home in the coastal destination you love, and Pacaso handles the rest — from furnishing and maintenance to scheduling and bill pay. The result is a vacation home that's actually ready when you are, in a location you'll want to return to again and again. Browse

Retirement is arguably the best time of life to travel. The alarm clock is gone, the schedule is yours, and decades of hard work have earned you the freedom to go where you want, when you want. It's no surprise that travel consistently ranks as one of retirees' top priorities for discretionary spending. According to The reasons go beyond leisure. Nearly 95% of survey respondents said travel is good for their mental health, and 85% said it benefits their physical health. For couples, solo travelers, and multi-generational families alike, retirement travel is one of the most rewarding ways to spend this chapter of life. The challenge? Finding the right destinations and figuring out the smartest way to return to the places you love most. The majority of retirees focus on domestic travel, and the United States has no shortage of exceptional destinations suited to a range of interests and activity levels. Here are the top retirement vacation destinations within the U.S., many of which also happen to have Pacaso co-ownership properties available. Few destinations match Napa Valley for sheer relaxation paired with world-class experiences. With more than 400 wineries, 90 tasting rooms, and 14 Michelin-starred restaurants, Napa is built for the kind of unhurried, indulgent travel that retirement makes possible.  The charming towns of Yountville, St. Helena, and Calistoga each have their own distinct character, and the valley's spa, wellness, and outdoor recreation offerings round out a truly complete destination. Pacaso has a curated portfolio of With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, Palm Springs has been a favorite for retirees for generations, and for good reason. Located two hours from Los Angeles in the stunning Coachella Valley, the city combines Mid-Century Modern architecture, world-class golf, excellent dining, and access to Joshua Tree National Park. It's easy to see why Palm Springs consistently ranks as one of the most sought-after second home destinations in the country. Browse Aspen offers four full seasons of enrichment in one of the most beautiful settings in North America. In winter, world-class skiing and snowboarding draw visitors from around the globe. Spring and summer bring spectacular hiking, fishing, and the renowned Vail is synonymous with alpine luxury, and it's one of the most popular retirement and celebration trip destinations in the country. Whether you're marking a milestone birthday, an anniversary, or simply the joy of finally having the time to ski a full week, Vail's world-class mountain, walkable village, and outstanding dining make it an unforgettable destination. Spring and summer bring hiking, mountain biking, and a If the goal is wide-open natural beauty and genuine adventure, Jackson Hole is hard to beat. Situated at the gateway to both Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park, this Wyoming valley is simply stunning in every season. World-class skiing in winter, world-class wildlife viewing in spring and fall, and endless outdoor recreation in summer, plus a charming town square with excellent restaurants and galleries. Pacaso has co-ownership homes in With 330 days of sunshine a year and more than 50 golf courses nearby, Scottsdale is a perennial favorite for retirement vacations. The combination of a walkable Old Town with great restaurants and galleries and a world-class spa and wellness scene makes it one of the most complete retirement vacation destinations in the Southwest. Pacaso's Year-round mild weather, world-class beaches, a thriving food scene, and a rich cultural calendar make San Diego one of the best retirement trips for couples and solo travelers. "America's Finest City" also offers easy access to Torrey Pines State Reserve, Balboa Park's museums, and day trips to wine country in Temecula. For those who love waking up to the Pacific Ocean, Pacaso's Miami combines beach living, culinary diversity, and a vibrant arts scene in a way that few American cities can match. Spend sun-filled days on South Beach or exploring the Everglades, then indulge in outdoor dining and world-class entertainment after dark. Miami is also a natural jumping-off point for Caribbean cruises and day trips to the Florida Keys. Pacaso has A more relaxed alternative to Napa, Sonoma County offers incredible wine, farm-to-table cuisine, and a laid-back coastal and agricultural landscape that is perfect for retirement. Towns like Healdsburg, Sonoma, and Guerneville each have their own distinct charm. The proximity to the Pacific Coast makes it easy to combine wine country and coastal scenery in a single trip. Browse Retirement is the ideal time for international travel. Extended stays are possible, the crowds of summer can be avoided by traveling in shoulder seasons, and the freedom to slow down and truly experience a destination, rather than rushing through a checklist, makes every trip richer. Here are some of the best retirement vacation destinations abroad. Italy consistently tops lists of the best international retirement trips, and for good reason. The combination of ancient history, Renaissance art, extraordinary cuisine, and incomparable natural landscapes, from the Amalfi Coast to the Dolomites, makes Italy a destination that rewards repeat visits. Tuscany in particular is beloved by retirees for its gentle pace, gorgeous countryside, and exceptional wine and food. Pacaso offers France is endlessly rewarding as a retirement destination. Paris offers world-class culture and walkable neighborhoods that suit any pace. The Loire Valley, Provence, and the Dordogne each offer a different flavor of French life. For active retirees who love skiing, the French Alps deliver world-class slopes at destinations like Chamonix and Megève. Pacaso's portfolio includes Spain's excellent healthcare system, warm climate, vibrant culture, and affordable cost of living make it one of the most attractive countries for retirement travel and long-term stays. Madrid in particular offers a lively arts scene, incredible food, and excellent transport links to the rest of the country and Europe.  For retirees seeking world-class beaches, championship golf, and the ease of a destination just hours from major U.S. cities, Los Cabos is one of the best retirement trips available. The combination of desert landscapes, the Sea of Cortez, and a thriving culinary and resort scene is uniquely compelling. Pacaso offers London's cultural depth, including world-class museums, theater, historic neighborhoods, and easy access to all of Europe, makes it a perennial favorite for retirees who want to immerse themselves in history and city life. For a slower-paced alternative, the Cotswolds offer quintessential English countryside beauty. Pacaso has For those who want a more secluded, boutique beach experience than Los Cabos, Punta de Mita on Mexico's Riviera Nayarit is an exceptional choice. Stunning beaches, world-class surfing, excellent dining, and a relaxed atmosphere make it one of the most beautiful and underrated retirement vacation destinations in Latin America. Browse Standard hotel stays and resort weeks are just the beginning. Retirement gives you the freedom to travel in ways that simply weren't possible during your working years. Here are some of the most rewarding retirement trip ideas beyond the typical vacation. One of the most cited motivators for retirement travel is spending time with family and friends. Multi-generational trips, where adult children, grandchildren, and extended family all travel together, have become increasingly popular. A spacious vacation home is far better suited to this style of travel than a hotel: private bedrooms, shared common spaces, a full kitchen, and outdoor areas create the kind of experience that brings families together. Co-owned Pacaso homes, which are fully furnished and managed, are purpose-built for Rather than racing through a checklist of destinations, slow travel means spending several weeks in one place — getting to know the neighborhood, the local restaurants, and the rhythms of daily life. Retirees are uniquely positioned to travel this way, and it often leads to the most meaningful trips. Having a co-owned second home in a favorite destination makes slow travel even easier, since your home is always waiting for you. A classic American road trip takes on a whole new dimension in retirement. Without the pressure of maximizing a limited vacation window, you can take your time through national parks, small towns, and scenic byways. Consider a fall foliage journey through New England, a national park loop through the Southwest, or a summer drive through the Rocky Mountains. For retirees whose travel wish list spans multiple continents, an around-the-world cruise is one of the most seamless ways to see as much as possible. Ranging from a few months to a full year, these voyages handle the logistics of transportation and accommodation, leaving you free to simply enjoy each destination. Some retirees even string cruises together, using a co-owned home in a favorite port city as a home base between voyages. Many retirees find that travel centered on health, food, and learning is the most deeply satisfying. Wine country trips to Napa Valley or Sonoma, cooking classes in Tuscany, spa retreats in Scottsdale, or yoga retreats in Punta de Mita are all examples of wellness and culinary travel that pairs beautifully with a second home in the same destination. See our guide on Retirement is the chapter you've been working toward — the one where time finally belongs to you, and the places that matter most become more than just destinations on a calendar. Maybe it's the mountain town where you always said you'd spend more time, or the coastal retreat where your family has made memories for years. After decades of brief vacations and rushed goodbyes, retirement gives you the chance to truly settle into the places you love: to wake up slowly, to host your grandchildren in a home that feels like But retirement travelers also face a real tension: more freedom than ever before, yet still the frustration of hotel rooms that don't feel like home and vacation rentals that may not be available when you actually want them. You've earned better than that. This is precisely where Pacaso allows buyers to purchase a share (1/8 to 1/2) of a fully managed luxury home through a property-specific LLC, giving them a true real estate asset for a fraction of the cost. Each share comes with a proportional amount of annual time at the property, scheduled through an easy-to-use app. And because Pacaso handles all property management, such as maintenance, cleaning, repairs, utilities, insurance, and taxes, owners spend their time enjoying their home, not managing it. Here's why co-ownership is particularly well-suited to retirement: If you're exploring

A snowbird destination is a warm-weather location where people, typically retirees or remote workers, relocate seasonally to escape cold northern winters. Snowbird season typically runs from October through April, sending millions of people to sun-belt cities and coastal towns across the South, Southwest, and beyond. The lifestyle itself centers on trading ice and grey skies for beach walks, golf rounds, and outdoor dining. For those who own a second home in their destination of choice, the experience becomes far richer: you arrive to a familiar space, a known neighborhood, and a routine that feels genuinely yours. Not every warm city is an equally great place to spend four to six months each year. The best snowbird destinations tend to check several boxes: Florida, Arizona, California, and Texas account for the vast majority of domestic snowbird traffic each year. Here is a breakdown of the best snowbird destinations within each state, along with what makes each market worth considering. Florida is the most popular snowbird state in the country, drawing millions of seasonal residents each winter with its warm Gulf and Atlantic coastlines, abundant golf, and strong healthcare infrastructure. The most sought-after Florida snowbird destinations span both coasts and offer a wide range of lifestyle options. Miami is the East Coast's premier snowbird destination, pairing oceanfront energy with world-class dining, art, and nightlife. Winter highs hover in the upper 70s, and the city's cultural calendar never slows; Art Basel Miami Beach in December draws a global crowd to South Beach and the Design District. Biscayne Bay offers morning boating, and the broader South Florida coast gives snowbirds access to a range of beach communities from Fort Lauderdale to Key Biscayne. Sarasota combines world-class arts (the Ringling Museum, a vibrant theater scene, and St. Armands Circle shopping) with easy beach access on Siesta Key, consistently recognized among the best beaches in the U.S. for its fine quartz sand. The city's walkable downtown, strong cultural calendar, and relaxed Gulf Coast pace make it one of the most livable Florida snowbird destinations for those who want beauty without the pace of a major metro. Naples skews toward high-end golf communities and a quieter, more residential pace — a strong fit for snowbirds who want privacy alongside top-tier amenities. The city sits near the Ten Thousand Islands Wildlife Refuge, offering kayaking and sportfishing excursions just beyond the manicured fairways. For a side-by-side look, Nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay, Clearwater is known for its white-sand beaches and consistent recognition among the country's top beach destinations. Clearwater Beach's 3-mile barrier island is lined with restaurants and waterfront options. St. Petersburg complements it with a compact, walkable arts district with museums, galleries, and restaurants. Both cities benefit from easy connectivity to Tampa International Airport for snowbirds flying in from the Northeast and Midwest. Arizona is the top snowbird state for those who prefer dry desert warmth over coastal humidity. With over 300 sunny days per year and winter highs consistently in the mid-60s to mid-70s, snowbird destinations in Arizona offer a dependable and active seasonal lifestyle built around golf, hiking, and outdoor dining. Scottsdale is the most popular of all the snowbird destinations in Arizona, combining desert sunshine with a lively urban edge. The McDowell Sonoran Preserve offers more than 200 miles of trails, while Scottsdale Fashion Square anchors a premier dining and retail scene with roughly 2 million square feet of shopping.  Golf is deeply embedded in Scottsdale's identity. The metro area has more than 200 courses, including TPC Scottsdale, home to the annual Waste Management Phoenix Open. Old Town Scottsdale's walkable restaurant and gallery district makes evenings effortless.  While technically in California, the greater Coachella Valley, encompassing Palm Springs, Palm Desert, La Quinta, and Rancho Mirage, sits just across the Arizona border and serves as a natural extension of the Arizona snowbird corridor. See the California section below for full coverage. Mesa is one of the most popular snowbird destinations in Arizona for sports fans and outdoor enthusiasts. The city is a spring training home for Major League Baseball teams, making it a particularly lively snowbird destination from February through April. With access to nearly 200 golf courses in the Phoenix metropolitan area and outdoor adventures like kayaking the Lower Salt River, where wild horses roam the banks, Mesa delivers an active and affordable alternative to Scottsdale for snowbirds on a broader budget. California snowbird destinations offer a range of climates and lifestyle options, from the sun-drenched desert of the Coachella Valley to the year-round coastal perfection of San Diego. California draws snowbirds from across the Pacific Northwest and Mountain West, as well as from the Midwest, who prize the state's outdoor culture, dining scene, and luxury second home market. Palm Springs is one of the most iconic California snowbird destinations. Nestled in the Coachella Valley against the backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains, the city averages around 350 days of sunshine annually. Winter highs typically sit in the upper 60s to low 70s — warm enough for golf, hiking, and poolside afternoons.  The city's mid-century modern architecture, design-forward culture, and Modernism Week each February make it a destination with genuine character. El Paseo in nearby Palm Desert offers over 250 galleries, boutiques, and restaurants along a walkable stretch, and the Greater Palm Springs area has over 100 golf courses, including PGA West in La Quinta with six championship layouts. San Diego's combination of ocean access, walkable neighborhoods, and near-perfect weather makes it one of the top California snowbird destinations for those who prefer a coastal lifestyle. Winter temperatures rarely dip below the mid-60s, and the city's year-round farmers markets, craft food scene, and Balboa Park cultural institutions give snowbirds an active and varied daily routine.  The city's bays, beaches, and neighborhoods transition naturally from active mornings (paddleboarding in Mission Bay, hiking Torrey Pines) to unhurried evenings in vibrant restaurant districts. For snowbirds who want to extend their stay with a coastal road trip, check out Texas is an often-overlooked but genuinely compelling option for snowbirds, particularly those driving from the Midwest or central U.S. The best snowbird destinations in Texas combine warm winters, no state income tax, affordable cost of living relative to Florida and California, and a growing luxury second home market. South Padre Island, located on a barrier island at the southernmost tip of Texas, is the most popular snowbird destination in the state. The island sits just 30 miles from the Mexican border and enjoys some of the warmest winter temperatures in the country with average January highs in the mid-60s. The Gulf of Mexico beach, bird watching at the World Birding Center, and a relaxed coastal pace make it a natural fit for snowbirds who want a quieter, affordable escape. The Rio Grande Valley, encompassing McAllen, Harlingen, and Brownsville, is one of the most established snowbird corridors in the country, particularly popular with retirees from the Midwest and Canada. The region's warm winters, low cost of living, and proximity to Mexican border towns for shopping and dining have made it a perennial destination. The area's strong network of RV parks, retirement communities, and long-stay rental properties is specifically built around the snowbird lifestyle. Corpus Christi offers a true Gulf Coast experience with wide beaches, world-class sportfishing, and a laid-back waterfront downtown, all at a price point well below comparable Florida destinations. The city's proximity to Padre Island National Seashore, the longest undeveloped stretch of barrier island in the world, is a major draw for nature-minded snowbirds. A growing number of snowbirds are looking beyond U.S. borders for warm places to spend winter, especially as international second home markets have become more accessible. Los Cabos sits at the southern tip of Baja California, where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific. Winter days bring swimmable coves, deep-sea fishing excursions, and a vibrant marina dining scene, all within a short direct flight from most major U.S. cities. Demand from U.S. buyers has grown steadily, and the destination now anchors one of the strongest international luxury second home markets in the Western Hemisphere. Golf is a major draw; the area's desert bluff courses offer spectacular ocean views alongside first-class facilities. San José del Cabo's historic art district and regular gallery walks add cultural depth to what is otherwise one of the most relaxed and scenic snowbird markets available.  The right snowbird vacation home does more than provide a roof over your head for winter; it becomes the hub of your seasonal life. Here is what to prioritize when evaluating snowbird vacation homes: Getting ready for a multi-month stay takes some advance planning. A solid snowbird checklist helps ensure you leave your primary home in good shape and arrive at your destination ready to settle in. Snowbirds are, in many ways, the ideal audience for a co-ownership model. You want a true home, not a hotel, in a warm-weather market you return to season after season. But full ownership of a luxury second home in Palm Springs, Scottsdale, or Miami represents a significant capital outlay, plus year-round carrying costs for a property you use seasonally. Pacaso offers a purpose-built solution. Pacaso allows buyers to purchase a share (1/8 to 1/2) of a For snowbirds, the model is particularly well-suited: owners who purchase a 1/4 or larger share access enough time each season to establish a real routine, without paying for the months the home sits empty. The management model means there is no property upkeep to coordinate from your primary residence. You simply book your dates and arrive at a home that is cleaned, stocked, and ready. Pacaso operates in more than 40 markets, including top Florida snowbird destinations like Miami, popular snowbird destinations in Arizona like Scottsdale, and premier California snowbird destinations like Palm Springs and San Diego. A warm-weather second home doesn't have to mean full ownership costs and year-round upkeep.

Arizona's appeal is its range. In a single week you can hike the South Rim of the Grand Canyon at sunrise, tee off in North Scottsdale at noon and watch the red rocks of Sedona glow at sunset. The must-visit places in Arizona tend to fall into four buckets: design-forward desert cities, red rock and canyon country, national parks and natural wonders, and lake or mountain getaways. A short list of the top Arizona destinations to anchor any trip: Scottsdale is one of the most popular entry points for an Arizona trip. It sits at the edge of the Sonoran Desert just outside Phoenix, gets more than 300 days of sunshine a year, and is consistently ranked among the country's top second home markets. Maricopa County, where Scottsdale sits, has ranked as the single most active second home county in the U.S. in recent years. If you are looking at buying a second home in Arizona, three Scottsdale neighborhoods consistently come up first: Troon North for golf-course living and McDowell Mountain views, Ancala for gated quiet near the preserve, and North Scottsdale for new-build estates and access to the Loop 101. You can About two hours north of Scottsdale, Sedona is the photogenic heart of red rock country. Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and the Chapel of the Holy Cross (a chapel built directly into a sandstone cliff) are some of the most photographed places to visit in Arizona, and the town has built a parallel reputation as a wellness and arts destination. Sedona pairs naturally with Scottsdale on a longer trip: fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor, spend a few days in the desert, then drive north to the red rocks. For repeat visitors, both markets are credible answers to the question of where the best place to buy a second home in Arizona actually is. No list of must-visit places in Arizona is complete without the state's headline natural wonders. These are the trips most travelers take once and never forget. The Grand Canyon draws more than 4.5 million visitors a year and is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The South Rim is open year-round, easier to reach and home to most of the iconic viewpoints (Mather Point, Yavapai Point, Bright Angel Trail). The North Rim is higher, cooler, less crowded and only open mid-May through mid-October. From Scottsdale, the South Rim is roughly a 3.5-hour drive. On Navajo land near Page, Antelope Canyon is one of the most famous slot canyons in the world. Upper Antelope is easier walking and known for its light beams; Lower Antelope is narrower with more ladders and stairs. Both require a Navajo-licensed guide. Horseshoe Bend is a 15-minute walk from a parking lot just south of Page and is one of the most photographed places to visit in Arizona. The giant saguaro cactus only grows in the Sonoran Desert, and Saguaro National Park outside Tucson is the densest forest of them in the country. Pair the park with a stay in Tucson (a UNESCO City of Gastronomy) and side trips to the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Mount Lemmon and the dark-sky preserves around Kitt Peak. Lake Havasu has roughly 400 miles of shoreline and around 300 days of sunshine a year, and it is home to the original London Bridge, which was disassembled in England and reconstructed here in the late 1960s. It is the state's go-to for boating, paddleboarding and houseboating. Flagstaff sits at 7,000 feet in the largest contiguous ponderosa pine forest in the country, with four real seasons and roughly 108 inches of snow a year. It is also the gateway to the Grand Canyon's South Rim and to Monument Valley on the Arizona-Utah border, where towering sandstone buttes have framed countless Westerns. Beyond the headline destinations, the best things to do in Arizona break down by season and by region. Arizona is a year-round state, but the right window depends on where you are going. If you are deciding between trips and might want to revisit, you may want to consider what it would cost to own a second home rather than booking a short-term rental or hotel each time. Arizona is one of the most popular second home markets in the country, and Maricopa County (Scottsdale, Phoenix, Paradise Valley) regularly leads the U.S. in second home transactions. Owning a second home in Arizona, instead of booking a hotel every winter, changes the trip in three ways: The catch is that the average, luxury single-family home in Scottsdale or Sedona is well into seven figures, and most owners only use a second home a handful of weeks a year. That is exactly the gap Pacaso’s co-ownership model allows buyers to purchase a share (1/8 to 1/2) of a Every Pacaso home in Arizona comes turnkey: fully furnished, professionally managed, with stocked essentials and local support on the ground. If Arizona keeps showing up on your travel list, ownership is worth pricing out.

Santa Barbara earns its nickname, the "American Riviera," every single day. Backed by the rugged Santa Ynez Mountains and facing the Pacific Ocean, the city enjoys roughly 300 days of sunshine annually and a mild Mediterranean climate that makes outdoor activities possible year-round. Its iconic Spanish Colonial Revival architecture — white stucco walls, red clay tile roofs, arched doorways — gives downtown a cinematic quality you won't find anywhere else on the California coast. But what truly sets Santa Barbara apart is how much it packs into a relatively compact city. Within an afternoon, you can go from hiking a mountain trail to tasting award-winning wines in the Funk Zone to watching the sun sink over the Pacific from Butterfly Beach. Whether you're planning a romantic weekend, a family trip, or a solo escape, the activities, dining, and natural beauty here more than justify the visit, or the stay. Santa Barbara's outdoor scene is one of its greatest strengths. The mountains and the ocean bracket the city on both sides, giving visitors an unusual range of activities within easy reach of downtown. Santa Barbara's beaches stretch for miles along the waterfront, and each has its own character. One quirk worth knowing: because of the curve of the California coastline, most Santa Barbara beaches actually face south rather than west, which means sunsets over the water are best viewed from specific spots. Santa Barbara County is one of California's most acclaimed wine regions, and unlike Napa or Sonoma, much of the tasting experience is right in the heart of the city. Santa Barbara's dining scene punches well above its size. The city's access to fresh Pacific seafood, Central Coast produce, and local wines gives chefs an exceptional pantry to work with, and several restaurants have earned regional and national recognition for it. Santa Barbara has a rich cultural life that often surprises first-time visitors. Its arts institutions are world-class, its architecture is worth exploring in its own right, and its performing arts calendar runs year-round. Romance is almost built into Santa Barbara's DNA: the warm light, the wine, the dramatic sunsets, the unhurried pace. Here are the experiences that consistently stand out for couples. Santa Barbara is an excellent family destination. The compact, walkable downtown, the mild weather, and the range of engaging attractions make it easy to keep children of all ages happy. Santa Barbara has a handful of experiences you won't find anywhere else that are worth seeking out on any visit. Santa Barbara's location makes it an ideal base for exploring a wider stretch of the California coast. Several excellent day trips are within easy reach. Spending a weekend in Santa Barbara is one thing. Having your own home base here that you can return to whenever you’d like is another. That's where Santa Barbara has long attracted second home buyers for its beaches, wine country access, arts scene, and near-perfect weather. The challenge has always been the price of entry: quality homes in desirable neighborhoods like the Riviera, The Mesa, and Mission Canyon command significant prices, and full sole ownership means paying for a property you may only use a fraction of the year. Pacaso allows buyers to purchase a share (1/8 to 1/2) of a For a destination with as many things to do in Santa Barbara as this one, having your own home base changes the experience entirely. You're not rushing through a checklist; you're building a rhythm. Sunday mornings at the farmers market, afternoons on the Cabrillo Bike Path, evenings in the Funk Zone. Over time, Santa Barbara stops being a place you visit and starts being a place you belong. Browse

What are the best things to do on the Ocean City boardwalk? The Ocean City Boardwalk is the undisputed heart of the town. Stretching 2.5 miles along the Atlantic, this wide, wood-planked promenade has been drawing visitors since the late 1800s and remains one of the most iconic boardwalks on the Jersey Shore. You can explore it on foot, rent a bike or a surrey (multi-person cycle), and easily spend an entire day soaking it all in. Playland's Castaway Cove The premier amusement destination on the boardwalk, Music Pier One of Ocean City's most storied landmarks, Boardwalk food institutions No visit to the Ocean City boardwalk is complete without sampling its legendary eats. Stop by Shriver's Salt Water Taffy The oldest business on the boardwalk, Jilly's Arcade Whether you're chasing a rainy afternoon activity or a nostalgic evening out, What are the top beach activities in Ocean City, NJ? Ocean City's eight miles of clean, family-friendly Atlantic shoreline are the main event. The beaches are consistently ranked among New Jersey's finest. The town has been voted New Jersey's Favorite Beach ten years running by the NJ Sea Grant Consortium, and for good reason. The sand is wide, the water is clear, and the vibe is welcoming. Swimming and surfing Ocean City designates specific areas for surfing, and local rental shops offer boards and lessons for beginners. The town maintains lifeguarded swim areas throughout the summer season, making it a comfortable choice for families with young children. Kayaking and paddleboarding The calm bay side of the island offers ideal conditions for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. Several outfitters rent equipment by the hour, half-day, or full day. For a more adventurous paddle, head out to the ocean-side breaks on a calmer morning. Boating and water sports Ocean City is a natural hub for water sports. You can rent pontoon boats, jet skis, or charter a fishing or sightseeing vessel from several local marinas. Parasailing is popular with visitors looking for a bird's-eye view of the coastline. Companies like OC Parasail and Advanced Marina offer a range of on-water experiences. Fishing Whether you're casting off the 14th Street Fishing Pier on the boardwalk, surf fishing on the beach, or heading offshore on a charter boat, fishing is a beloved Ocean City tradition. The bay side is ideal for crabbing and clamming, and the open ocean provides access to bluefish, flounder, striped bass, and more. Please note anyone 16 or older fishing in fresh waters in New Jersey is required to have a valid New Jersey freshwater fishing license, which can be purchased through the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife. What outdoor adventures does Ocean City offer? Beyond the beach and boardwalk, Ocean City and its surroundings are home to some beautiful natural areas worth exploring. Corson's Inlet State Park Located at the southern end of the island, Bird watching Ocean City and the surrounding Cape May region sit along the Atlantic Flyway, making them world-class bird watching destinations. Corson's Inlet, the bay side marshes, and the barrier island's diverse habitats attract hundreds of species. Serious birders will want to cross over to Cape May Point during fall migration, one of the premier raptor and songbird watching spectacles in North America. Bike riding Ocean City maintains dedicated bike paths and a car-free boardwalk for cyclists. Rent a bike or surrey at one of the many boardwalk rental shops and explore the island from one end to the other. The flat terrain makes it accessible for all fitness levels. Golf Where should you eat in Ocean City, NJ? As a dry town, Ocean City's restaurant scene leans toward family dining and casual coastal fare, with a few standout local institutions worth seeking out. Best seafood restaurants Fresh-caught seafood is the calling card of any Shore visit. Boardwalk bites Beyond the marquee spots, the boardwalk offers plenty of beloved snack stops. Downtown dining on Asbury Avenue Asbury Avenue, Ocean City's main commercial corridor between the beach and the bay, is home to more than 100 shops and restaurants. What family activities are there in Ocean City, NJ? Ocean City has long been a top family beach destination. The Travel Channel once named it the "#1 family beach community in the country." Here are some of the best family things to do in Ocean City, NJ. Playland's Castaway Cove Already mentioned for its thrill rides, Castaway Cove is the essential stop for families with kids of all ages. The mini-golf courses and go-kart track give younger visitors their own highlights while older kids and adults tackle the bigger rides. Water parks Ocean City has a waterpark that hosts group events and family activities, perfect for a hot summer day when the beach crowds feel overwhelming. Life jackets are provided for younger swimmers, making it accessible even for non-swimmers. Mini golf Mini golf is practically a Shore rite of passage. Ocean City has multiple courses to choose from, including the Ocean City Historical Museum Located inside the Ocean City Community Center at 1735 Simpson Avenue, Sunset and sightseeing cruises Several operators run narrated bay and ocean cruises from the local marinas. Sunset cruise options are popular for families and couples alike and offer a different perspective on the barrier island and its surrounding waters. What unique and cultural things can you do in Ocean City, NJ? Glazed Over Studios One of Ocean City's most distinctive and unique things to do, Stainton's Gallery of Shops This Asbury Avenue marketplace gives more than 70 independent vendors a home under one roof. You'll find handmade jewelry, art, pottery, candles, toys, and one-of-a-kind gifts. It's a far cry from the typical boardwalk souvenir experience and well worth a browse. Downtown Asbury Avenue shopping The walkable downtown corridor is a mix of boutiques, galleries, and local specialty shops. Barefoot Trading Company is a standout stop for eclectic clothing and goods from Bali and beyond. Live music and events Throughout the summer season, free outdoor concerts take place at various venues along the boardwalk and in the downtown area. Check the local events calendar for Thursday evening outdoor movies at several parks and a rotating lineup of performers at Music Pier. What are the best things to do in Ocean City, NJ when it rains? Rainy days on the Shore are more manageable than you might think. There are plenty of fun things to do in Ocean City, NJ when the weather doesn't cooperate. Indoor mini golf Old Pro Golf features two indoor themed courses, an undersea adventure and a jungle safari, that are open year-round, rain or shine. They're a reliable anchor activity for families looking to burn a couple of hours indoors. Jilly's Arcade and Encounters Jilly's Arcade is a beloved boardwalk institution for arcade and pinball fans. For something more immersive, Encounters features an alien-themed mirror maze with LED lighting effects and interactive exhibits that kids consistently rave about. Escape Room Ocean City Multiple escape room experiences in town offer 60-minute puzzle adventures for groups and families. The 118th Street location is open year-round, making it a great off-season or rainy-day option. Glazed Over Studios The pottery and ceramics studio mentioned above is a natural fit for rainy days. Walk-in sessions are available, and the relaxed pace of painting or sculpting is a welcome change from the usual beach rhythm. Ocean City Historical Museum Free admission makes the museum an easy choice for a wet afternoon. The exhibits on shipwrecks, the Victorian era, and the Kelly family connection are more engaging than you'd expect. Shopping on Asbury Avenue and Stainton's Gallery Rain makes downtown Asbury Avenue an ideal destination. Stroll through more than 100 shops and cafes, browse Stainton's Gallery, or simply duck into a coffee shop and wait out the weather. Hoyts Moorlyn Theatre For classic movie-going, the historic Moorlyn Theatre on the boardwalk at 10th Street has been showing films in Ocean City since 1929. It's a charming piece of local history and a perfectly comfortable rainy-day escape. What are the best things to do in Ocean City, NJ in the fall and off season? Fall is one of the best times to visit Ocean City, NJ. Crowds thin dramatically after Labor Day, the weather stays warm well into October, and the town comes alive with seasonal events. Here's what to look forward to. Endless Summer Cruisin' Each October, Ocean City hosts one of the East Coast's most beloved classic car events. More than 3,000 classic and custom vehicles take over the boardwalk for a free morning parade, with additional shows and competitions throughout the week. It draws enthusiasts from across the country. Corvette show Every September, one of the largest Corvette gatherings on the East Coast fills the boardwalk from 6th to 14th Street with more than 350 collectible Corvettes dating back to the first 1953 models. Owners can register to compete; visitors can walk the display for free. 5K runs and community events Ocean City hosts a series of charity 5K races through the fall and winter, including the popular Sunfest Held at the end of September, Off-season dining and downtown Many of Ocean City's best restaurants stay open year-round, and the fall and winter months offer a more intimate dining experience. It's also a great time to explore downtown Asbury Avenue, which remains active with local shops and cafes even after the summer crowds depart. Day trips to nearby Berlin, NJ The small historic town of Berlin is just six miles from Ocean City and worth a half-day trip during the off season. The pedestrian-friendly main street is lined with antique shops, art galleries, and locally owned restaurants, making it a charming contrast to the bustle of the Shore in summer. What are the best things to do in Ocean City, NJ in the winter? Winter in Ocean City is quieter, but far from empty. The boardwalk never closes, the community stays active, and a few seasonal highlights make it a rewarding destination even in the coldest months. Winterfest of Lights Ocean City's signature holiday event, Winter boardwalk walks The nearly three miles of car-free boardwalk are arguably more pleasant in the off-season than in the height of summer. The pace is slower, the crowds are gone, and the ocean views are dramatic on a crisp winter morning. Grab a coffee at one of the year-round boardwalk shops and take in the scenery at your own pace. Bird watching and nature Winter is actually one of the best seasons for bird watching along the Jersey Shore. The rock jetties at the Ocean City Inlet attract species rarely seen in warmer months, including Harlequin Duck, Common and King Eider, Purple Sandpiper, and Great Cormorant. The bay marshes remain active, and a short drive to Cape May Point opens up even more winter birding opportunities. First Night and First Day events Ocean City's New Year's celebration includes a family-friendly First Night gathering on New Year's Eve and a First Day 5K and Polar Plunge on January 1st. These community events are a great way to ring in the new year with a sense of Shore tradition. How can Pacaso help you experience more of Ocean City? After a few days in Ocean City, it's easy to understand why families return year after year. When a destination feels this much like home, renting starts to feel like a limitation. Pacaso makes it possible to own a true piece of the Jersey Shore, without the burden of full-price ownership or solo property management. Through Pacaso's co-ownership model, buyers can purchase a share (1/8 to 1/2) of a Pacaso homes on the New Jersey Shore come professionally designed, fully furnished, and managed by a dedicated local team that handles maintenance, scheduling, and upkeep year-round. All you do is show up and enjoy. Scheduling is handled through For families who want to stop renting and start owning on the Shore,

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

There are far better vacation options, including: Let’s explore each alternative and explain how it differs from the typical reasons not to 1. Second home co-ownership  Second home co-ownership is when a property is jointly owned by multiple people. Buying a vacation home is a greater upfront expense than a timeshare, but you don’t have to be the sole owner. With this timeshare and Whether you’re buying with a group of friends or buying a Pacaso second home, you still have true real estate property ownership. You’re not just buying the right to use a hotel or condo-sized space for a set period. Timeshares are notoriously difficult to sell due to the many rules and limitations owners must abide by. The timeshare is also one of many identical units, creating an imbalance between supply and demand. On the other hand, unique homes attract buyers who must compete against each other in the whole housing market.   Browse a plethora of luxury co-ownership options all over the world with Pacaso’s 2. Vacation rentals Vacation rentals are furnished spaces that are rented out on a short-term basis. Airbnb is as popular as ever, with 265 million users and over 7.7 million listings, according to Lighthouse. People choose vacation rentals because renting a property from a private owner is often cheaper than comparable hotel rooms, and they often give travelers added perks like kitchens and convenient locations. However, vacation rentals can come with charges like cleaning fees, sometimes making them even more expensive than hotels.  Vacation rentals are considered preferable alternatives to timeshares because they give greater flexibility in where and when you can vacation. You’re only paying for specific days, so you aren’t on the hook for yearly fees on top of the purchase price of a timeshare.   Timeshare owners often sell their timeshare days when they can’t use them, giving vacationers the option to visit the same timeshare facility without the long-term commitment.  3. Hotels Although Hotels often provide discounts to certain groups (like the military and AAA) or offer discounted rates throughout the year, making them even more affordable. Some hotel chains offer rewards programs, so the more you stay there, the more you get back. 4. Hostels  A hostel is a budget-friendly alternative to hotels with dormitory-style rooms and communal areas. They’re ideal for backpackers and young travelers seeking a social vacation where they might meet people from all walks of life.  Hostels are typically sparse in accommodations compared to timeshares, but the trade-off is worth it for people who enjoy different locations every year. You can find various types of hostels on apps and sites like Booking.com. In a budget hostel, you may stay in a room with six or more people. A boutique or luxury hostel may offer more upscale vibes and cleaner amenities, while party hostels host social activities and late active hours.  5. Resorts Resorts offer an all-inclusive appeal of many of the best timeshares, such as private beach access, live entertainment, gourmet food and guided tours. You’ll spend less time planning all the details of your vacation, leading to less stress and more time enjoying your break.  Just like hotels, resorts give you the flexibility to stay for longer or shorter durations than a timeshare. You won’t be boxed into traveling at predetermined times of year, and you can visit whenever you want. One example of a famous luxury resort is the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai in Hawaii, which boasts many amenities like spas, pools, beach access, multiple restaurants and exceptional customer service. 6. Travel clubs Travel clubs offer group travel rates to various destinations. Travel clubs operate similarly to timeshares and vacation clubs, while being slightly more affordable. Travel clubs require yearly membership fees, and some clubs also charge maintenance fees. These combined costs are often lower than those of vacation clubs. The benefit of travel clubs is that they arrange for group rates, making your stay cheaper while giving you the benefit of travel companions. Oftentimes, the club is centered around a shared trait, like a hobby or age group.  Aside from the social aspect of travel groups, travel clubs also free you from long-term commitments. Even the cost of an inexpensive timeshare begins to add up over the years if you aren’t able to sell it. Since membership in a travel club is yearly, you’ll only lose what you’ve already spent.  7. Vacation home ownership One big draw of owning a timeshare is the dependability of returning to the same destination year after year while avoiding the rising costs of accommodations. Buying a second home in a vacation destination gives you those same benefits and more.  Unlike a timeshare, buying a vacation home gives you real equity in the property, so you have the potential to recoup the money you put into it over the years. Timeshares rarely appreciate in value, and due to the many When you have your own vacation home, you have the freedom to use it as much as you want. In contrast, most timeshare options only allow you to use them once per year and have fixed scheduling limitations.  8. Vacation clubs Vacation clubs are travel services that offer members access to different vacation locations and amenities within their network of affiliated properties. For example, a Holiday Inn Club membership works by purchasing credits. However, many clubs have blackout dates that restrict your ability to travel unless you pay more money. Depending on the club you join, it could cost more per year than even luxury timeshares, but you’ll have easier access to multiple destinations. 9. Fractional ownership Fractional ownership is a collaborative investment where multiple parties share ownership of a vacation property. Each investor maintains specific ownership rights and entitlements to the asset based on their contribution. Fractional ownership is similar to vacation home co-ownership in that you can schedule specific usage times and/or access to different parts of the property.  Splitting the costs of a vacation home comes with benefits like owning a home in a luxury location that you might not otherwise be able to afford. You also share upkeep and maintenance costs. However, it also means all major decisions must go through all ownership partners. You’re also splitting benefits, leading to potential disagreements between owners. How to resell your timeshare?  As you browse timeshare exit vacation alternatives, you may wonder how to best get out of a timeshare. Though it can be difficult, there are a few ways to resell your timeshare. Here are some options: Consider second home co-ownership These timeshare alternatives may help you avoid a major scam and stick to your original goal of enjoying a beautiful vacation with your loved ones.  Unlike a timeshare,

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

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

Beautiful American cities attract big businesses, and big businesses pay well for top talent, making metropolitan areas flush with million-dollar homes. But which cities lead the high-priced real estate pack? A 1. San Jose, CA Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, San Jose is the hotspot for 2. San Francisco, CA Just north of Silicon Valley, San Francisco has 42% of its homes valued at over $1 million. But the size of million-dollar homes in San Francisco varies widely depending on location and condition, with 700-square-foot condos in popular neighborhoods going for $1 million, and suburban homes with close to 3,000 square feet listed at the same price. The neighborhoods with the highest appreciation in San Francisco are just east of Lake Merced and bordering San Francisco State University.  3. Los Angeles, CA Are you starting to see a California trend? Los Angeles has long been known for pricey real estate, and its selection of million-dollar homes make up 19% of the market. The average size of million-dollar homes in the City of Angels is 1,720 square feet, with 92% of them built before 1999. The priciest neighborhoods include Bel Air, Brentwood, West Sunset Boulevard, and areas along the Pacific Coast Highway.  4. San Diego, CA San Diego continues the trend of expensive West Coast real estate, with 14% of the homes valued at over $1 million. Median home values in San Diego are around $665,000, with the majority of homes in the area priced between $596,000 and $894,000.  5. Seattle, WA Seattle’s 91% white-collar workforce is a contributing factor to having 11% of its homes valued at a million dollars or more. You’ll find the most expensive neighborhoods near Edgewater Park/Broadmoor, Laurelhurst, and East Roy Street at 24th Avenue East. Newer construction dominates the scene, with nearly 24% of all homes built since 2000.  6. New York, NY New York City is known for its expensive real estate, so it’s no surprise that the Big Apple made this list: 10% of homes are valued at a million dollars or more. But unlike many other urban areas in the U.S., New York’s dense population means that 95% of the city’s homes are apartments, not detached houses. One-bedroom apartments make up 39% of those units, and it’s rare to find a home with five bedrooms or more in the city.  7. Boston, MA In Boston 9% of the housing inventory is valued over $1 million. You’ll find Boston’s priciest real estate at Beacon Street near Fisher College and Boylston Street near Presidential Plaza. Boston is known for its history, and it’s not just monuments and museums — in fact, 50% of the city’s real estate was built before 1940. As a college town, Boston also has a high percentage of renters, with only 33% of homes occupied by owners. 8. Washington, D.C. Like Boston, Washington is a hotspot for American history, but with a larger inventory of newer construction homes: 34% of homes in the district were built before 1940. Million-dollar homes make up 7% of the D.C. real estate market, with Dupont Circle’s historic mansions, Georgetown and The Palisades among the city’s most expensive neighborhoods. Typical home values range from about $236,000 to $1.2 million, with no single price bracket cornering the D.C. market.  9. Miami, FL With glamorous mansions lining its waterways, million-dollar homes are part of Miami’s scenery, making up nearly 5% of the city’s homes. Miami also has some of the newest homes, with 27% of its housing constructed after 2000. Up-and-coming Miami neighborhoods include Buena Vista, City Center and Biscayne Boulevard at Miami Dade College.  10. Denver, CO The Rocky Mountain gem of Denver rounds out the list with 4% of its market consisting of million-dollar homes. Home values are pretty evenly distributed between $122,000 and $914,000, with 86% of them falling in this range. The city is also divided nearly equally between owners and renters, at 49% and 51%, respectively.

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

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

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

According to second home mortgage rate lock data analyzed by Pacaso’s research team, sales of luxury second homes and “Overall, luxury real estate exceeded expectations and outperformed the rest of the second home category and the overall real estate market in Q2 2022,” said Pacaso Co-Founder and CEO Austin Allison. “Despite a rising interest rate environment and growing concerns of a recession, it is clear that demand for this type of asset remains strong.”   The last two years, particularly during the peak of the pandemic, the housing market experienced record growth. Home price appreciation seemingly peaked in April of 2022, when it was up 21% nationwide. Today, the market is beginning to normalize from those unprecedented levels. In May, home prices decelerated for the first time in five months, but were up double digits year-over-year for the 16th consecutive month. The deceleration was partially driven by rising interest rates, an uncertain economy and geopolitical unrest in the Ukraine. Contrary to some headlines, many economists believe that the housing market will continue to grow through 2022, albeit not at the same pace as 2020 and 2021. The current volatility in the stock market has impacted many consumers’ overall net worth in recent months. This in turn drives many to look to more stable asset classes, such as real estate. “Affluent consumers tend to be more insulated from the impacts of an economic downturn,” continued Allison. “Some consumers will look to real estate as a more stable place to park their money during times of increased market volatility. Although they may trim their budgets, this group is less likely to completely drop out of the market. As a result, demand for luxury real estate remains strong, but the acceleration of home price appreciation for this category will likely continue to slow as we saw during Q2 2022.”  While interest rates are rising compared to record low rates during the pandemic, the housing market is still experiencing very healthy demand, particularly in the luxury second home segment. Thirty-year fixed rates rose above 5% in April for the first time in more than a decade. In the second week of June, interest rates rose by 55 basis points, which was the largest one-week increase since 1987. However, for the past 50 years, 30-year fixed mortgage rates have averaged approximately 8%, even crossing above a staggering 18% in the early 1980s. With rates averaging around 5% today, they are still relatively low comparatively. It is important to note that the total share of second home mortgage rate locks was 2.7% in Q2 2022, dropping below the pre-pandemic national average of 3.5% (based on second home mortgage rate locks between 2015-2019). The luxury category makes up approximately 12% of all second home mortgage rate locks. The median price for all second home mortgage rate locks during Q2 2022 was $435,000, which was up 19% year-over-year. Looking specifically at the luxury category, the median price was approximately $1.4 million, which remained relatively flat on a year-over-year basis. However, when it comes to second homes, more than 50% of buyers pay in all cash*. For this reason, looking simply at second home mortgage rate lock data is not the best indicator of true second home sales in the U.S. The median-to-lower end of the housing market, which makes up approximately 88% of all second home mortgage rate locks is being hit particularly hard, thus driving down total second home mortgage rate lock growth on a year-over-basis. In fact, numerous discount brokerages and mortgage companies are reportedly laying off agents in mass due to decreasing demand for median to lower priced homes.  Second home buyers were focused on locally-relevant destinations that feature outdoor attractions, many located along waterfronts, as the peak summer travel season approached.  “For the past two years, premier second home destinations like Aspen, Malibu and Tahoe experienced strong buyer demand,” said Allison. “As inventories were constrained and prices accelerated in those markets, buyers began looking to more locally-relevant destinations for their second home. In those markets, buyers can get a lot more for their money without sacrificing on the quality of their home or proximity to outdoor activities.” Coeur d’Alene, ID and Williamson County, TN experienced the largest year-over-year increase in the median purchase price for luxury second homes of 52% and 42%, respectively. These destinations offer a wealth of outdoor activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, and fishing, making them optimal second home destinations. Situated along Washington’s Puget Sound, Kitsap County, WA, which boasts miles of beautiful shoreline, golf courses, water activities, and boat excursions, saw the median price of luxury second homes increase 39% year-over-year. Cape Cod, MA experienced the largest increase in second home rate lock transactions during Q2 2022 (+236% year-over-year). Located just south of Boston, Cape Cod offers a wealth of outdoor activities, pristine beaches, five star restaurants and some of the best mini golf courses in the nation for family-friendly fun. Beachfront counties dominated the top ten list of destinations by transaction count, including  St. Johns County, FL which saw a 220% increase. Sevier County, TN, which is known as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Clark County, NV, home to The Last Vegas Strip, also experienced strong growth in second home rate locks, up 147% and 108%, respectively. Pacaso identified the nation’s top second home markets by compiling census data on counties with a percentage of seasonal homes and median home values at or above the top 20th percentile, and by excluding those below the bottom 10th percentile of counties with the fewest households. Pacaso then analyzed real estate activity in the top second home markets by observing mortgage rate lock data, a leading indicator of second home buying activity. When applying for a mortgage rate lock, a home buyer must specify whether they are securing a mortgage rate for a primary home, secondary home or an investment property. Approximately 80% of mortgage rate locks result in home purchases. Mortgage rate lock data was provided by real estate analytics firm Optimal Blue and includes a sizable share of the market that is taken to be representative of the whole. For this analysis Pacaso’s research team looked at mortgage rate lock volume for both second homes and investment properties for Q2 2022 with a purchase price of greater than $1 million to focus on the luxury end of the second home and investment property category. Rate lock transactions and median purchase price data were sourced at the county level for counties that had a minimum of 5 second home transactions and aggregated quarterly, with Q2 representing the months of April through June 2022. * National Association of REALTORS®, June 2021

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