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The Benefits Of The 15 Year Loan
By Ki Gray
Some people choose to use a real estate agent and some people choose to go it alone. One thing I have noticed over the years is that a number of seasoned investors looking in a new city will seek out a good agent while novice investors will frequently go it alone. I have even had a number of successful real estate agents seek out my help when they are moving to our city. Why do some of these seasoned investors choose to work with an agent? Below is a list of 7 benefits of using an agent.

1. Understand potential restrictions of the property. I recently heard a story from a friend at the city development office in Austin Texas. A couple had saved up for their retirement. They wanted to retire and live out in the hill country. They went to the foreclosure auctions. At the auction they purchased a lot for 500,000. It had great views and they were going to build their dream house on it. They had researched the lot before the auction and found it was zoned SFR which means a single family residence can be built on it. After purchasing the lot they started plans to build their retirement house. At this time they discovered the lot was in the 25 year floodplain. My friend at the city development office explained that the lot could not be built on and was basically worthless.

2. Know about new developments that might affect a properties value. A good realtor will know of proposed new developments that might affect different properties in which a buyer is interested. Whether these developments are positive or negative can be valuable information when weighing different housing options.

3. Find potential problems with a property. It is always a good idea to have a home inspector look at a potential house. However, a Realtor is a good first line of defense to see if a house has inherent problems. A Realtor that can know about common problems, such as foundation or electrical, that affect a particular neighborhood.

4. Understand contracts specifics. Whenever you buy or sell a house you are entering into a large personal transaction. It helps to have someone on your side that deals with these types of transactions on a daily basis. A Realtor can help you understand contracts and can explain what is typical for your area. The most common pitfall into which I see unrepresented buyers fall is to become involved in an atypical contract that is not to their benefit. For instance a seller will sign an offer that has an option period that is 4 times longer than what is typical. A buyer might put in offers on multiple properties with long option periods. The buyer will wait and see if the market appreciates. If the market has appreciated the buyer buys the house at now and undervalued price. If the market has gone down the buyer walks away.

5. Misperception of a benefit of going it alone. Buyers frequently think that by not using a buyers agent they will get a better deal from the seller. In most situation the listing agent asks for 6 percent from the seller. If a buyer comes with an agent the listing agent splits the 6 percent with the buyers agent. If an unrepresented

Ask Christine #28: How Often Should I Update My Listing?
Christine explains the benefits of updating your vacation rental listing. 
Ask Christine #27: Should I Accept Pets?
Christine shares her opinions on the benefits of accepting pets at your vacation rental and addresses the concern about guests with allergies. 
One-on-One with Big Sky, MT Vacation Rental Owner Tim Hart
Christine interviews Tim Hart about his experience as a vacation rental owner and real estate agent in Big Sky, Montana. 
Ask Christine #26: Describing Your Vacation Rental's Location
Christine explains the importance of detailed location information in your listing and what specifics you should highlight. 
Buying an Investment Property in Minnesota
Christine interviews real estate agent and vacation rental owner, Brenda Schiemo-Smith about the real estate market in Minnesota and operating her lakeshore vacation rentals. 
One-on-One with Kona, HI Vacation Rental Owner, David Michael
Christine chats with Kona, HI vacation rental owner, David Michael, about his experience and successes as an owner of a large vacation home. 
Ask Christine #25: Is It Okay to Leave a Family Photo?
Christine addresses the balance between personal items and guest comfort.
Ask Christine #24: Should You Hire Models for Property Photos?
Christine answers the common question of whether you should feature people in photos of your vacation property. 
Ask Christine #23: Examples of Listings
Christine tells owners how they can learn what makes a good listing by visiting <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/tip-list//Resources/Public_Pages/Tips/Home_Owner_Tips/Listings_101">Listings 101</A> on the Owner Community. 
Mortgaging and Refinancing Vacation Homes, Part 2
In her second interview with David Motley, President of Colonial Savings, Christine discusses the current mortgage situation, tips for buying vacation homes, and options for refinancing. 
Ask Christine #22: Beachfront or Not?
Christine addresses the question of how to advertise your condo if your complex is beachfront but your unit doesn't face the beach. 
Ask Christine #21: How the Economy is Affecting the Vacation Rental Industry
Christine addresses how an uncertain economy and gas prices could affect your vacation home rentals.
Buying an Investment Property in Taos, NM
Christine talks about the real estate and vacation rental market in Taos, NM with real estate agent Peter Lora. 
One-on-One with La Jolla, CA Vacation Rental Owner, Mireya Schmidt
Christine talks with Mireya Schmidt about her background as both a real estate agent and vacation rental owner of multiple properties. 
One-on-One with Palm Springs, CA Vacation Rental Owner Gregg Rapp
Christine talks with Gregg Rapp about the excitement and challenges of renting a high-end vacation home that has attracted celebrity guests. 
One-on-One with Rockport, TX Vacation Rental Owner (and HomeAway CFO) Lynn Atchison
Christine talks with Lynn Atchison, the CFO of HomeAway, about her hesitation in renting and why she eventually changed her mind. 
Furnishing and Decorating Your Vacation Rental
Christine talks with Mary Byerly of Furniture Land South about decorating tips for your vacation home and the benefits of using a design consultant. 
Buying an Investment Property in St. Croix, US Virgin Islands
Christine learns about purchasing island property on St. Croix from real estate agent and broker, Kim Lucas. 
Ask Christine #20: The Benefits of Short-Term Rentals
Christine discusses the benefits of renting your home for short-term versus long-term rentals. 
Ask Christine #19: Selecting Amenities
Christine shares ideas for indoor and outdoor amenities to add to your vacation rental. 
Mortgaging and Refinancing Vacation Homes
Christine talks with the President of Colonial National Mortgage and vacation home owner, David Motley, about mortgaging and refinancing options for vacation homes. 
Ask Christine #18: Preventing Chargebacks
Christine discusses the definition of "chargebacks" and how to prevent them. 
Ask Christine #17: Signs of Scam Inquiries
Christine explains some common signs of scam inquiries. 
Building an Airport in Panama City, Part 2
Christine continues her discussion with Jerry Ray about the benefits of building an international airport in Panama City, FL. 
Building an International Airport in Panama City, FL
Christine talks to Jerry Ray about the progress and benefits of an international airport for vacation rental owners in Panama City. 
Ask Christine #16: Renters Asking for Reduced Rates
Christine shares some ideas for working with budget-conscious travelers. 
The Resort and Second-Home Market
Christine interviews Real Estate Broker, Jim Dague, to learn about his expertise in the resort and second home industry. 
Buying an Investment Property in Kissimmee, FL
Christine discusses the Kissimmee and Orlando markets with vacation home real estate broker, Raymond Butterfield. 
One-on-One with Canmore, AB Vacation Rental Owner Richard Colwell, Part 2
Christine continues her discussion on the challenges of renting and maintaining a vacation property from abroad.
One-on-One with Canmore, AB Vacation Rental Owner Richard Colwell, Part 1
Christine discusses the challenges of owning and renting a vacation home in Canada while living in the UK.
Buying an Investment Property in Stowe, Vermont
Christine chats with Stowe real estate agent, Ken Libby about the current market conditions. 
One-on-One with Richland Chambers Lake, TX Vacation Rental Owner, Michelle Helterbran
Christine interviews lakehouse owner, <A href="http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p150350" target=_blank>Michelle Helterbran</A>, who had the first vacation rental on Richland Chambers Lake, TX. 
Going Green at Your Vacation Rental
Learn how to stay environmentally conscious at your family's vacation home or cottage. 
Buying an Investment Property in Muskoka, Ontario
Real Estate Agent, John Jarvis, discusses the vacation home market in Muskoka. 
Ask Christine #15: How to Convert Inquiries to Bookings
Christine advises a homeowner on how to convert her many inquiries into actual bookings. 
Foreclosures and Short Sales in the Destin, FL Vacation Rental Market
Real Estate Agent, Shannyn Stevenson, is back to discuss the Destin, FL market, along with foreclosures and short sales. 
Buying an Investment Property in Naples, FL: Part 2
Second part of Christine's talk with Naples real estate agent, Lynn Wilber.
Buying an Investment Property in Naples, FL: Part 1
Christine and real estate agent, Lynn Wilber, discuss the vacation home market in Naples, FL.   
Ask Christine #14: The Pros and Cons of Renting by Owner
Christine touts the pros and cons of renting your vacation home by owner. 
One-on-One with Washington State Vacation Rental Owner Bob Kelly
Christine talks with vacation rental owner, Bob Kelly, about why he chose renting by owner in Pacific Beach, WA.  
Ask Christine #13: Common Pricing Mistakes
Christine discusses common pitfalls when pricing your vacation rental property.  
Selling a Vacation Rental Home
Christine talks with vacation rental owner, Ed Reese, about his experience trying to sell one of his vacation homes.
One-on-One with Port Aransas Owner (and HomeAway CTO), Ross Buhrdorf
Christine talks with new owner, <A href="http://www.homeaway.com/index.cfm/tgt/ha_newsroom_ross_bio" target=_blank>Ross Buhrdorf</A>, about preparing his property, starting the rental process and what he'd like to change about the HomeAway sites.
Buying an Investment Property in Steamboat Springs, CO
This week, Christine interviews Steamboat Springs realtor, <A href="http://www.mybrokers.com/randallhannaway/" target=_blank>Randall Hannaway</A>, about the vacation home market in his area. 
Virtual Tours
Christine talks with seasoned owner and virtual tours expert, Ed Reese. 
One-on-One with Santa Fe Vacation Rental Owner, Deborah Haws
Christine talks with Santa Fe, New Mexico owner, Deborah Haws.
One-on-One with Colorado Vacation Rental Owner, Bev Babich
Christine chats with Keystone area owner, Bev Babich, about her experience renting her home and the unique, co-op that Bev participates in with her rental neighbors. 
Ask Christine #12: Multiple Property Owners and Calendars
Should owners of more than one property leave their calendar blank? 
Buying an Investment Property in the Lake Tahoe Area
Christine chats about the vacation real estate market in Tahoe with South Lake Tahoe realtor, <A href="http://www.realtordeb.com/">Deb Howard</A>. 
One-on-One with Baltimore Vacation Rental Owner, Richard Pretl
Christine interviews experienced owner, Richard Pretl, about his vacation rental in Baltimore, Maryland. 
One-on-One with Princeville Vacation Rental Owner, Hank Drayton
<DIV>Christine chats with Hawaii owner, <A href="http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p111424i" target=_blank>Hank Drayton</A>, about how and why he bought his property and how the vacation rental business has changed since he started 19 years ago. </DIV>
The Scoop on HomeAway's Rent With Confidence Guarantee
<DIV></DIV>Christine talks with Trey Herschap, HomeAway's Director of Trust & Safety, about the Rent With Confidence Guarantee and what it means for vacation rental owners. 
Ask Christine #11: Is It Okay to Charge Renters for Utilities?
<DIV></DIV>Christine answers the question of charging your guests for electricty, gas, or water. 
Ask Christine #10: Should You Break the Rental Rate Up into Rate, Fees, Taxes, etc.?
<DIV></DIV>Christine answers a question from an owner who wants to know if it's better to charge one all-inclusive rate or to break the rental rate into parts (cleaning fee, sales tax, etc.).  
Ask Christine #9: Should You Provide Linens or Have Your Guests Bring Their Own?
<DIV></DIV>Christine answers a question from an owner about whether it is better to provide linens or to require your guests to bring their own.  
Buying an Investment Property in Los Cabos, Mexico
<DIV></DIV>Ever thought about buying in Mexico? Christine talks with Los Cabos realtor, <A href="http://www.loscabosluxuryhomes.com/" target=_blank>Julie Kershner</A>. 
Ask Christine #8: Can You Ask for a Credit Card in Case of Excess Damage?
<DIV></DIV>This week, Christine answers a question from a Dillon Beach owner, who wonders if she can ask for a credit card in case of excess damage. 
Buying an Investment Property in Martha's Vineyard
<DIV>Christine talks with Edgartown realtor, Fred Roven about the Martha's Vineyard vacation home market. </DIV>
Ask Christine #7: How to Find Short-Term Rental Insurance
<DIV>Christine answers a question from an owner who can't find an insurance company to cover her property. </DIV>
Buying an Investment Property in Park City, Utah
Christine interviews Park City realtor, Dennis Hanlon about the Park City vacation home market. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. To get a feel for the Park City Vacation Rental Market or to find a great vacation property to rent, browse <A href="http://www.homeaway.com/park-city/s/5912/fa/find.squery" target=_blank>Park City Vacation Rentals</A> on <A href="http://www.homeaway.com">HomeAway.com </A>.  
Ask Christine #6: How to Get Keys to Renters
<DIV></DIV>Christine answers a question from a Denver owner about how to handle keys.  For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. To get a feel for the Denver Vacation Rental Market or to find a great vacation property to rent, browse <A href="http://www.homeaway.com/denver/s/8338/fa/find.squery" target=_blank>Denver Vacation Rentals</A> on <A href="http://www.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com</A>.  
Buying an Investment Property in Provincetown, MA
Christine talks with realtor, Rick Tourgee about the vacation rental market in Provincetown. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. To get a feel for the Provincetown Vacation Rental Market or to find a great vacation property to rent, browse  <A href="http://www.homeaway.com/provincetown/s/143/fa/find.squery" target=_blank>Provincetown Vacation Rentals</A> on <A href="http://www.homeaway.com/">HomeAway.com</A>. 
New 3% Lodging Tax in Sevier County Tennessee
Christine talks with Sevier County Trustee, Jettie Clabo about the new 3% occupancy/lodging tax effective July 1st. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. 
Ask Christine #5: Requests for Multiple (But Not Complete) Weeks
This week, Christine answers a question from a North Myrtle Beach owner about how to handle requests for weeks that don't fit into the typical Saturday to Saturday model. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. 
Buying an Investment Property in Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge, TN
Christine talks with realtor Pat Malone about the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge vacation rental market. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. To get a feel for the Gatlinburg Vacation Rental Market or to find a great vacation property to rent, browse <A href="http://www.homeaway.com/gatlinburg/s/5416/fa/find.squery" target=_blank>Gatlinburg Vacation Rentals</A> on <A href="http://www.homeaway.com/">HomeAway.com</A>. 
Ask Christine #4: What if Your Property Doesn't Fit into the Break-Even Formula?
This week, Christine answers a question about buying a property that doesn't work with standard the break-even formula. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. 
How to Choose a Property Manager to Manage Your Vacation Rental Home
This week, Christine answers a question about buying a property that doesn't work with standard the break-even formula. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. 
Ask Christine #3: Refunds for Inclement Weather
Christine answers a question from a Winter Park, CO owner whose property was inaccessible due to closed roads. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. 
Buying an Investment Property on the California Gold Coast
Christine talks with realtor, Meredith McKenzie about the California Gold Coast vacation home market. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. To get a feel for the California Gold Coast Vacation Rental Market or to find a great vacation property to rent, browse <A href="http://www.homeaway.com/ventura/s/6897/fa/find.squery" target=_blank>Central Coast Vacation Rentals</A> on <A href="http://www.homeaway.com/">HomeAway.com</A>. 
Ask Christine #2: Damage Insurance
This week, Christine answers a question from a Bodega Bay owner who wonders if there are any companies that provide damage insurance for vacation rental homes. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. 
One-on-One with Branson, Missouri Vacation Rental Owner, Valerie Budd
Christine talks with Branson vacation rental owner Valerie Budd about her decision to switch from a property management company to renting by owner. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>.  Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. 
Ask Christine #1: Should You Buy a 3BR or 4BR House?
We're introducing a new segment to the How to Rent Vacation Properties by Owner podcast series, "Ask Christine". This week, Christine answers a question asked by a potential owner who wonders whether he should invest in a 3BR or a 4BR house on Lake Hartwell. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. 
Buying an Investment Property in Montana
Christine talks with realtor, Dorothea about the Montana vacation home market. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/">HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A> Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. To get a feel for the Montana Vacation Rental Market or to find a great vacation property to rent, browse <A href="http://www.homeaway.com/montana/s/943">Montana Vacation Rentals</A> on <A href="http://www.homeaway.com/">HomeAway.com</A>. 
Buying a Vacation Home with Friends or Family: Part 2
Second part of Christine's interview with co-ownership expert and attorney, Andy Sirkin. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. 
Buying a Vacation Home with Friends or Family: Part 1
Have you ever thought about buying a second home with friends? Christine talks with attorney and co-ownership expert, Andy Sirkin. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. 
One-on-One with Destin, Florida Vacation Rental Owner, Gayla Berry
Christine talks with Destin owner, Gayla Berry, about how she came to buy her first vacation rental property and why she rents by owner. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. 
Fighting a Short-Term Rental Ban within an HOA
Interview with Palm Desert owner, Melinda Diperna about her experience battling a vacation rental ban in her complex. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. Listen to the podcast.
Buying an Investment Property in Destin, Florida: Part 2
In the second part of this two-part interview, Christine talks with Destin realtor, Shannyn Stevenson. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. To get a feel for the Destin Vacation Rental Market or to find a great vacation property to rent, browse <A href="http://www.homeaway.com/Panhandle-vacation-rentals/Destin-vacation-rentals.htm">Destin Vacation Rentals</A> on <A href="http://www.homeaway.com">HomeAway.com</A>. 
Buying an Investment Property in Destin, Florida: Part 1
In this episode, Christine interviews Destin realtor, Shannyn Stevenson. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. To get a feel for the Destin Vacation Rental Market or to find a great vacation property to rent, browse <A href="http://www.homeaway.com/destin/s/10161/fa/find.squery">Destin Vacation Rentals</A> on <A href="http://www.homeaway.com/">HomeAway.com</A>. 
One-on-One with New Hampshire Vacation Rental Owner, Robin Clapp
Christine talks with successful vacation rental owner and rent by owner "purist," Robin Clapp about why she bought her vacation home, what she enjoys about the process, and how's she's handled the unusually warm winter. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. 
Vacation Rental Bans
Christine addresses the issue of vacation, short-term, and transient rental bans. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. 
Florida Sales Tax Regulations: Part 2
Second half of Christine's interview with Belinda Watson of the Florida Department of Revenue. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. 
Florida Sales Tax Regulations: Part 1
Christine Karpinski speaks with Belinda Watson of the Florida Department of Revenue about collecting sales taxes for vacation rental properties. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. Listen to the podcast.
Different Types of Vacation Rentals
Christine talks about the different kinds of vacation rental properties from RVs to teepees to cabooses, as well as, the number one mistake that vacation rental owners make and how to get financing. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. 
Vacation Rental Hot Spots
Christine discusses the current best buy areas for vacation homes, how to find a real estate agent, and what she would say to someone interested in the vacation rental business. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. 
How to Find a Reliable Housekeeper or Cleaning Service
Christine chats about how to find the perfect housekeeper, the importance of liability insurance, and why vacation rental owners should contact a lawyer before setting up an LLC. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. 
Making the Decision to Rent Your Second Home
Christine outlines the reasons for renting your vacation home and discusses common fears. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. 
The Business of Owning and Renting a Vacation Home
Christine talks about the business side of the vacation rental owner experience including why to write a business plan, how the real estate bubble is affecting vacation properties, and how to effectively advertise. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. Listen to the podcast.
Introduction to Vacation Rentals: The Basics of Buying a Vacation Rental Home
Christine talks about the basics of buying a vacation rental home. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. 
Go International-- The Merits of Advertising Worldwide
Christine speaks with the HomeAway UK office about global advertising advantages, challenges and differences. For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit the <A href="http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/" target=_blank>HomeAway.com Community for Vacation Rental Owners</A>. Have a question for Christine? Leave a message at (512)493-4340 and she'll answer your question on the air. 

buyer comes the listing agent keeps the whole 6 percent. On the selling side, For Sale By Owners (FSBO) often think they are saving alot of money by avoiding a listing agent. Nationally, FSBO homes sell for 14 percent less than agent listed homes in the same neighborhoods. In addition alot of FSBO‘s still end up having a buyers agents involved. There is also money spent on advertising. Since an agent has experience marketing homes the agent often can spend money more effectively on advertising. Agents often know which advertising sources produce the most potential buyers.

6. Save time when looking for listings. Looking for listings without an agent can take up large chunks of time. When looking with an agent you can see several homes in a few hours. When going it alone you have to call the listing agent for each house and wait at the house for the agent to arrive and open up the house. In addition agents often know houses which are not listed or may have already identified potential problems with a particular house of interest.

7. Insure Security. When a home is listed with a broker, agents coming to the house have to usually log in. This allows the listing agent to keep a record of every party coming into the house. Since their business is on the line, agents are more likely to protect the house from damage or theft. For a variety of reasons, it is generally not a good idea to have random people you do not know come into your house. Often sellers simply have a phone number, but that phone could be their house, a friend‘s house, a pay phone, or even a stolen phone.

Searching for a home can be stressful and difficult but it can also be fun. Whether you choose to look for a home on your own or with a Realtor its a good idea to be a extremely careful when you seek out your dream home.

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