The Pacaso blog

Whether you’re buying a primary residence, an investment property or a vacation home, it can be advantageous to share the financial burden with a family member. Purchasing a home with a relative can make home ownership more affordable, giving owners someone to share the cost and effort of maintenance and upkeep with. It can also help buyers with less-than-perfect credit scores to get access to better interest rates and loan terms.  Buying with a relative is especially common with second homes, where each party may not want to shoulder the entire cost of a second monthly mortgage payment on a place where they won’t live in full time.  While buying a house with a family member can often make smart financial sense, there are quite a few things to consider before signing on the dotted line.  What to look for in a house with multiple owners  Anytime you’re shopping for a home, it’s important to make a list of your needs and wants — and be sure to differentiate the two. For example, a need for a family with mobility challenges might be a one-story home  while a want might be a home with a swimming pool.  When you’re buying with a family member, you have more needs and wants to consider, which can make it take longer to find a house that fits the group’s criteria. Start by defining key must-haves for location, property size and amenities. In the case of a second home, decide if you need enough space for everyone to use the property at the same time, or if you’ll be trading off visits.  Pros and cons of owning a property with family members The biggest upsides to owning a home with relatives are mostly financial. With a co-owner, you’ll split big-ticket expenses like the down payment, monthly mortgage payment, property taxes and insurance. Down the road when the inevitable home repairs pop up, you won’t have to foot the entire bill yourself. It’s also worth noting that a 50-50 ownership split isn’t required. It’s up to the co-owners to decide what’s fair in their unique situation.  Another benefit of having a co-owner is having a stronger financial position with your lender. You may qualify for a better interest rate and loan terms based on having a higher combined monthly income and strong credit scores.  However, there are a few drawbacks to owning a home with a family member that you should keep in mind before moving forward. A home is one of the biggest purchases you make in a lifetime, and with a co-owner, you are counting on the other person’s dedication and ability to keep up with payments. If you and your co-owner are listed as co-borrowers on a mortgage and they either can’t or don’t keep up with payments, your credit score will be affected and your home could go through foreclosure if you aren’t able to pay the full amount every month.  Another downside is that it can be difficult to ensure that you and your co-owner will be on the same page in terms of how to care for the home during ownership. When does an issue require a repair? When is the right time to upgrade appliances? If something needs to be replaced, is it a DIY project or do you hire a professional?  To navigate these challenges, savvy co-owners can put a property ownership agreement into place from the date of purchase. This legally binding document can outline how financial responsibility is split, the approach to repairs. and what happens if one owner wants to sell and the other doesn’t. A real estate attorney can help you draft this type of agreement.  Types of ownership structures  When you buy a home with a family member, you can choose from a few different types of legal ownership structures.  Tenancy in common Joint tenancy Another option for co-ownership While it’s common for people to purchase primary residences with co-owners, it’s especially popular when buying a vacation home. After all, it gives you the opportunity to make family memories in your favorite destination without the big price tag.  Spending less is a key benefit to splitting a vacation property with a relative, but the effort to make it a reality can still be quite large. You’ll have to find a home that everybody agrees on, take the time to set up the required legal protections, and come up with an equitable way to split time.  Consider this alternative. Pacaso puts second home ownership within reach by bringing owners together to buy a home, offering ⅛ shares of luxury properties in top vacation destinations But Take a look at Pacaso homes currently available. From

When you decide to sell a whole home, you might take a look at recent home sales in your area, check your home value on various real estate sites, decide on a price, list the home and wait for offers to roll in. When you own a Pacaso, the sales process includes some of those steps, but you’ll find it simpler and more streamlined. Here’s how it works. 1. Sell on your terms Any Pacaso owner can choose to sell their ownership interest, at any time.* Each owner has independent control over the sale of their share, which is a key benefit of our professionally managed LLC co-ownership model and a big advantage over timeshares. Once you’ve decided to sell, simply let us know, and we’ll provide you with a current comparative market analysis (CMA) for your ownership interest. The CMA is compiled using local market data, comps, trusted valuation models, and our knowledge of what active second home buyers are willing to pay. You’re in control of the final price, however. You can use the CMA in addition to guidance from Pacaso or your own research to decide what the sale price should be. 2. Take advantage of an existing marketplace Unlike a typical home sale, Pacaso has two ways to assist you in the sale process Second, many homes have a wait list of interested buyers. Our sales Crew will tap into our buyer pipeline when a share is up for resale and inform any buyers who may have missed out on the opportunity initially, as well as buyers who’ve indicated interest in similar homes in that area. Between current owners and Pacaso’s buyer marketplace, you may be able to sell your share without listing it.  3. Get the full marketing treatment While we make inquiries among our buyer pool, we’ll also prepare your share for broad exposure on the open market to ensure you have every opportunity for a sale. If we don’t have an offer right away, we’ll include the home as an active listing on our website, and our local partner agent will market the listing through their network.  4. Experience a seamless and transparent transaction Pacaso’s role in the sale is to help facilitate the transaction and find buyers. There’s no lengthy closing process, no due diligence period, and no need for a title and escrow company, because the title doesn’t change. The LLC membership interest is simply reassigned to the new owner at closing. If the buyer is paying cash, closing can be as soon as the next day. If the buyer is financing their purchase, closing is still much faster than a typical sale, often just 1-2 weeks.  Pacaso resale in the real world A ready pool of buyers and a streamlined sale. Sounds good in theory, but does it match the reality of the seller experience?  In a word, yes. Chief Revenue Officer Andreas Madsen pulled the resale data, and it confirms that Pacaso’s marketplace is operating as intended.  Pacaso’s first homes were in Napa Valley, and when they became available for resale in mid-2021, they provided a good test of the market. “Looking at Napa resale, the value has averaged between 12-15% equity on shares at the 12-month mark,” said Andreas. “One of our Napa Valley homes recently sold for about 13% over the original share price from a year ago. The owner proposed the sale price, and we felt it was reasonable based on the market and the fact that we had a waitlist for that particular home. We were able to facilitate the sale without ever listing it.”  Andreas said that scenario was not an outlier: “It’s common to have buyers ready and waiting. We just had two shares in Malibu sell in under two weeks. I don’t know of any easier way to transact in real estate today.” Looking across all resales, Other avenues for Pacaso owners Owner selldown If you decide your Pacaso isn’t a good fit, or if you purchased more ownership than you’re using, you have options beyond a traditional resale. Own 1/4 or 1/2 of a Pacaso, but only use it 1/8 of the time? You can right-size your ownership by selling a portion of your ownership interest. A selldown works the same way as a resale transaction, but you retain a share of the home.  Pacaso gives sellers an exceptional level of flexibility, control and peace of mind. Hear from Pacaso owners about the ease of their resale experience. Frequently asked questions Can the seller really choose any sale price? Pacaso recommends a price, but the seller makes the final call. If the price seems too high, we’ll share the information we have about the buyers in our pipeline, including what we know about their price ranges. But the seller can choose to proceed with the price they’ve set and see what the market will bear.   What happens if a share isn’t selling? Pacaso will actively market the share, which may include hosting open houses and promoting the listing through email or direct mail marketing. If we’re not seeing buyer interest despite these marketing efforts, we might recommend lowering the asking price. Can buyers negotiate on price?  Yes, we think of the resale marketplace as fluid and moving in line with the open market, so buyers are welcome to bring offers. The seller can choose to accept or decline any offer.   Are there closing costs, commissions or other transaction fees?  For sellers, a 6% commission fee is deducted from the final sale price. For buyers, there are no title, inspection or service fees. Buyers fund the first two months of their home’s operating expenses at closing, similar to property tax and insurance “prepaids” in a traditional sale. Buyers who choose to finance their purchase also pay a financing fee at closing.

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

You’re thinking about becoming a homeowner but aren't sure you can afford to do it on your own. This is where Here is what you need to know about co-ownership, including how it works, its benefits and drawbacks, the differences between co-ownership and whole home ownership, and how to get started. What is co-ownership? Co-ownership is when an asset such as a home is jointly owned by two or more parties. In this arrangement, all owners are listed on the asset's title, signifying that each holds a specific percentage of ownership. Opting for co-ownership means entering both a legal and financial partnership with the other buyers, as well as an agreement about property access. What is a co-owned home? A co-owned home is a property that was purchased and is owned jointly by two or more people. All owners are included on the title of the home, and all parties hold a portion of ownership in the property. When you choose to buy a house with other buyers, you enter into a financial and legal partnership and a new living arrangement. Why is co-ownership on the rise? The practice of co-ownership has traditionally taken the form of a group of friends or family members coming together to buy a second home or a child who inherits a house from their parents or grandparents.  While co-ownership isn’t a new concept, it has become a more viable Understanding co-ownership of property There are different Tenancy in common A Joint ownership All tenants are granted their deeds at the same time and, upon death, agree to pass the property on to their co-owners via survivorship rights to avoid probate. Owners must demonstrate the “four unities” to qualify: Community property Married couples may co-own title as community property in nine states: Arizona, Texas, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Washington and Wisconsin. These states recognize couples as a single financial entity. A right of survivorship must be specified so that when one spouse dies, the other can automatically take over the title. Unlike JTWROS, there’s no guarantee of automatic survivorship rights. Tenancy by the entirety Married couples can also choose tenancy by the entirety (TBE) as their co-ownership model. TBE is a type of joint tenancy that comes with rights of survivorship. This ensures the property avoids a costly probate process and passes immediately into the widowed spouse’s hands. Tenancy by the entirety views couples as one financial entity as well, so the property is considered to be owned by “one person.” Pros and cons of co-owning a home As an alternative to buying a whole second home, co-ownership offers owners a unique set of benefits for buyers — as well as things to consider: Pros Cons What’s needed to start a co-ownership agreement? Whether you are doing Common elements of a successful co-ownership agreement include: A co-ownership agreement should be drafted before you even purchase the home to ensure a smooth purchase experience. You might also consider consulting a real estate attorney. Co-ownership involves many moving parts, and an agreement should be adapted to fit the owner group over time.  Types of co-owners You can co-own a home with a family member, friend and even a stranger. The people you’re looking to co-purchase a home with could influence the type of co-ownership. For example, friends, partners and strangers might consider a TIC or joint ownership, while married couples might benefit from community property and TBE. Regardless of the co-owner, buying a home with other people is a major undertaking. Not only is Co-ownership mortgage differences If you decide to purchase a home through co-ownership, you and your co-owners will likely take out one mortgage loan — unless you plan on paying all in cash. One of the advantages of co-ownership is that buyers can combine their income and debts to improve their chances of getting a larger loan. A solid credit score, however, is still essential, as many mortgage lenders will use the lowest credit score to determine qualifications. A key consideration for securing a co-ownership mortgage is payment risk. If one owner is unable to make their payments, the financial responsibility falls on the other co-owners. Otherwise, it results in penalties on the account and even foreclosure. If you are co-purchasing a home part of a TIC, you may be able to qualify for a fractional loan that reduces your financial responsibility to only your loan and not your co-owner’s. However, mortgage interest rates are usually higher for a fractional loan, and they are only offered in certain locations. Differences between a co-signer and co-buyer A co-buyer (or co-owner) is different from a co-signer as it relates to ownership and payment. Co-signers take full responsibility for a loan along with a primary signer, but they do not have any ownership rights to the home. In contrast, a co-buyer has equal or similar rights to other buyers co-owning the home. Another difference is that co-buyers are responsible for payment from the start of the loan. Co-signers, however, only assume responsibility if the primary signer is unable to make their mortgage payments. Selling a home with co-owners If you decide to sell your home, there are scenarios to consider: The first is where all owners want to sell, and the second is when one owner wants to sell their ownership interest but the others do not. If all owners of a co-ownership property decide to sell, the situation is less complicated, as there would be no debate over the right to sell. Outlining these terms in the co-ownership agreement from the beginning is critical. What happens when only one person wants to sell? With certain co-ownership models like Tenancy in Common or joint ownership, you have a right to sell your interest in the home. While you cannot sell without the permission of the other owners (as you do not hold sole ownership), you can still share your share at any given time once approved. The buyer of your share — which could be another co-owner — would take on the same portion of ownership that you held in the property.  Co-ownership vs. fractional ownership While co-ownership and Here are the most important things you need to know about co-ownership: In more detail: How is co-ownership established? Co-ownership is established in a property deed and title, and you can also find details in your mortgage paperwork. If nothing is specified and you’re not married to the other tenant, the state will list the property as a tenancy in common or joint tenancy by default. What is probate, and why does it matter for co-ownership? After someone dies, probate is the legal process where debts are paid and the assets of the estate are allocated. Co-owned property with survivorship rights bypasses probate because there’s nothing for the court to decide — the owners are listed on the deed, which superseded the will.  How do you sell a shared ownership property?  It depends on the kind of co-ownership. A tenancy by the entirety is only valid while the owners are married, so a divorce or death dissolves the co-ownership. For a In most cases of co-ownership, individual shareholders can independently sell their shares to exit the property. What kind of co-ownership does Pacaso offer? Pacaso offers fully managed LLC co-ownership. Designed as a straightforward approach to co-owning a second home, Pacaso’s model allows up to eight owners to each have a 1/8 ownership interest in the LLC, and the LLC is the entity that is named as the owner on the deed. You own 1/8 to 1/2 of your Pacaso, with maintenance, management and day-to-day updates handled by our Crew. View our residential listings and

What is fractional ownership? For instance, if you invest in a fractional ownership of a holiday home, you're essentially purchasing the right to use that property for a predetermined number of days or weeks annually. This approach allows individuals to enjoy the benefits of owning premium assets without bearing the full financial burden alone. In this post, you’ll learn what fractional ownership is, explore its pros and cons, and get answers to some frequently asked questions. Understanding fractional ownership You’ll typically find fractional ownership for real estate like vacation homes. However, fractional ownership can also come into play for art, stocks and fashion items. When owners purchase real estate assets with fractional ownership, they are issued deeds representing their fraction of the property.  Fractional ownership is a great way to buy and own a property or another asset without purchasing it alone. It means all owners of an asset have divided percentage shares of a specific item or property. While families sometimes share ownership, fractional property owners can be unrelated. Types of fractional ownership There are two main types of fractional ownership structures:  Fractional ownership through an entity Some properties split ownership by using a structural entity like an Tenancy in common (TIC) means each tenant holds an individual deed for a fraction or percentage of a commercial or residential property. However, no one person or company is in charge. With a TIC, individuals can own different percentages of the property but share it equally. Some TIC agreements are self-managed. Fractional ownership vs. timeshares Fractional ownership Timeshares may be shared by as many as 52 owners (one person or group for every week of the year) while fractionally owned properties can have as few as two owners.  Fractional ownership advantages There are several advantages to owning a property through fractional ownership. Expanded opportunity to own Fractional investments allow you to own a portion of Deeded ownership Unlike a timeshare, fractional ownership gives you a deed to a fraction of the property itself (sometimes called a fractional interest). This means that the value of your share in the property increases or decreases in line with the property's real estate value. Any increase in value is divided equally and becomes gained equity for all fractional owners. Usage rights Unlike short-term Shared upkeep and maintenance costs Using the fractional ownership model, you're also responsible for only a fraction of the upkeep and Lower upkeep and maintenance burden Most fractional ownership agreements include provisions for long-term property management, with owners deciding how to handle any issues. Maintenance of When you have fractional vacation home ownership through an entity, it will include preventative and routine maintenance, cleaning and property management in its Potential rental income A fractionally owned property can be rented out as a long- or Fractional ownership cons Though fractional ownership has its advantages, there are a few drawbacks to consider as well. Fewer financing options Fewer banks provide mortgages for those looking to buy properties fractionally. You may need to shop around or consider other ways to finance your fractional ownership property, like special Less flexibility and freedom All decisions about maintenance, repairs and decor must go through all ownership partners, which Some fractional ownership clubs also require you to maintain an agreement with the club or property management company associated with the home, with no option for self-management or management outside the company.  Limited travel opportunities While it's not unheard of to own shares in multiple fractional ownership properties in different locations, investing in fractional ownership also means investing in the location you’re going to revisit. Of course, you can still vacation elsewhere, but it's something to factor into your travel plans and budget.  An alternative to fractional ownership Where fractional ownership falls short, Pacaso steps up. Pacaso's professionally managed LLC co-ownership model gives you all the perks and lower co-ownership costs with key differences that set it apart from fractional ownership resort clubs.  Unlike fractional ownership resorts, Pacaso offers LLC

Getting to your vacation destination is only part of the journey. When it comes to traveling with family and friends, you have a few options for accommodations: a hotel, a For a smart way to spend time away, however, consider co-owning a Pacaso second home. Here are a few of the reasons owning a Pacaso is the smarter alternative to a vacation rental. The cost of luxury vacation rentals Vacation If you want to make better use of your money, Pacaso might be for you. Pacaso vs. vacation rental  With Pacaso, you co-own a luxury second home where you can create memories today and build possible equity for tomorrow. This is how Pacaso differs from a short-term vacation rental. Owning a Pacaso instead of booking a rental is similar to owning a home instead of renting an apartment. Rather than paying someone else’s mortgage, you’re investing in a home where you’ll make lifelong memories. You can easily book stays in a familiar home  in a destination you love, all while reaping the benefits of home ownership.  Why Pacaso is smarter than a vacation rental You might be asking: Is now a good time to buy real estate? Real estate has proven to be And if you're not crazy about being responsible for a whole property but still want to own a luxury vacation home, Pacaso’s fully managed co-ownership model is ideal. You choose the amount of ownership that’s right for you at a fraction of the cost. Plus, Pacaso takes it up a notch with unique benefits: 1. Pacaso delivers a consistent experience While short-term rentals are varied, you can expect your Pacaso to be fully appointed, 2. You have a dedicated home manager Another Pacaso perk is that you own the home, and we manage everything. Your home is taken care of by a — 3. Your home is never rented out As a Pacaso owner, you enjoy all the rewards of home ownership. Your Pacaso is a real estate asset that will move in line with the whole home market. You can build equity and enjoy the home for personal use, and if you decide to sell your second home, Pacaso has an established marketplace of interested buyers. 4. No renters are allowed in your home As a co-owned home, each Pacaso is reserved for use only by owners and their guests. Pacaso vets owners, who agree to a 5. You spend less time planning Because you own, you spend your time enjoying your second home, not searching for a rental. And with Co-ownership done right On top of being a smarter choice than vacation rentals, Pacaso is the leading global brand in co-ownership. With a $1 billion real estate portfolio, high customer satisfaction scores and over 1,000 Pacaso homes sold, Pacaso is well positioned to deliver on service, value, satisfaction and trust for years to come.

A property is viewed as a Understanding tax laws and your second home A second home is a personal residence for part of the year. The rest of the time it may remain vacant or be rented out to guests. Here are other common characteristics of second homes: Vacation homes are typically located in Buyers may purchase a second home for retirement or to vacation in another part of the country. It’s not required for a first home to be paid off before buying a second home, however.  Reserving your second home for family-only use rather than using it as a rental property keeps things simpler at tax time. Like a primary residence, you can deduct a portion of your second home’s mortgage interest and property taxes. Tax benefits of second homes Second homes come with a host of possible tax benefits from the IRS, but they depend on two key factors: whether you’re living in your second home more than you rent it out and how much money you’re taking in income from tenants. Let’s dive into the specifics: If you rent out your home for less than 15 days a year, it’s considered a personal residence and you’re eligible for itemized deductions like any other homeowner. You can deduct mortgage interest up to $750,000 on principal for properties purchased after 2020. Rental income (under the 15-day limit) is also exempt, so you don’t need to report earnings to the IRS.  Staying 14 days per year means your second home is considered a residence. In addition to deducting mortgage interest, you may also be able to write off interest paid on a home equity loan. To qualify, you’ll need to have a mortgage on your second home and use the home equity loan for property improvements. You can Takeaways In more detail: If you change your mind about your property and want to rent out your second home, you can change your occupancy status. It’s best to do this after you’ve owned property for at least a year, and you’ll need to report any new rental income to the IRS.  Selling a second home is a different experience than selling your primary residence. Your first home earns you capital gains exclusions: Single tax filers can exclude $250,000, and couples filing jointly can exclude up to $500,000 on their return. That isn’t the case for second homes. The IRS sees secondary properties as investments, meaning that unless you’ve lived there for an extended period of time before the sale, you may pay up to 20% in capital gains tax. Yes, because your Pacaso is a single-family residence that you own. By buying a share in a property-specific LLC, you

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

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

The median home price in the United States is $439,716, which is a 5% increase compared to the same time last year, according to This approach to property acquisition allows you to But before diving in, weighing the pros and cons is crucial. Let's explore how shared ownership works, its advantages and potential drawbacks before deciding if it's the right path for you. How shared ownership works In Some programs even allow you to gradually increase your ownership percentage over time, known as “staircasing.” This can give you more control and potentially greater equity growth. The type that’s best for you will depend on your goals, financial situation and desired structure with your co-owners. Always talk through your options with an attorney. Joint tenancy One downside to joint tenancy is that you can’t choose anyone outside your co-owners to inherit your share in the property. It’s also worth knowing that if your co-owner has unpaid debts, a creditor can force a sale, which will also affect your share. Tenancy in common With You can also sell your shares without the consent of other tenants. But remember that if another co-owner passes away or chooses to sell, you may be stuck sharing ownership with an unfamiliar new co-owner. Limited liability corporation (LLC) When you form a LLCs have been used primarily for investment purposes, but companies like Pacaso now use co-ownership LLCs to make purchasing second homes easier. The only downsides of an LLC are that you can’t deduct your property taxes or mortgage interest on your Shared ownership pros and cons Weighing the pros and cons of home ownership and Benefits of shared ownership Shared ownership offers a unique path to property ownership, especially for those facing challenges with traditional affordability hurdles. Here's a breakdown of the key advantages: The lower upfront costs, shared expenses, and potential for equity growth make shared ownership compelling. However, it’s also crucial to carefully consider your financial situation, risk tolerance, and long-term goals. Cons of shared ownership While shared ownership offers an attractive entry point, it's essential to consider the potential drawbacks before deciding: The limitations on control, challenges in finding compatible co-owners, and complexities associated with exiting the scheme require careful consideration.  Reasons to try shared ownership homes There are multiple reasons why you may want to Here are a few reasons why people choose shared ownership in a primary or secondary home. Reduce the purchase price  The most common reason to share ownership in a home is to reduce the financial burden on the owners. Two or more individuals can apply for a joint mortgage and share the payments. The lender will consider every applicant’s income, credit score and debt-to-income ratio. If some of the applicants are stronger financially in areas where others are weaker, this can benefit all parties involved. Make a purchase possible when one party has poor credit If one person’s credit could negatively impact a mortgage application, they might not want to pursue a joint mortgage. In this case, they might supply the down payment on the home and let the other parties with better credit hold the mortgage in their name. Depending on their agreement, they may leave it at that, or the person with poor credit may continue to pay a portion of the mortgage payment each month to increase their share in the home over time.  Relieve a financial burden on an existing property If an individual faces financial hardship but has owned their first or Achieve vacation home ownership Owning a vacation home can be a dream come true. However, traditional Co-own a vacation home with Pacaso Shared ownership presents a compelling option for those seeking a foothold on the property ladder or a more affordable route to If you value flexibility and affordability — and are comfortable with shared responsibility — shared ownership could be your gateway to property ownership. Mitigate the

Whether you dream of a quaint chateau in the Loire Valley or a sun-drenched villa in Provence, buying property in France can be exciting. However, as a foreigner, the differences in property regulations and legalities may seem daunting. Our step-by-step guide covers everything you need to know, from finding the right house to understanding residency requirements. By the end, you’ll be well-equipped to make your French property dream a reality.  1. Pick a region  There are many French regions to explore, each with its own unique charms. From busy cities to the serene countryside, here are a few popular regions for real estate in France:  2. Find the right house Once you've chosen your dream region, the next step is to find the perfect French property. Consider your budget, desired lifestyle and long-term plans when selecting a home. Whether you're looking for a cozy apartment, a spacious family home or you want to To find the right property, you can explore listings online or work with a local real estate agent. For a hassle-free way to buy a second home in France, consider owning a Pacaso second home. Pacaso 3. Make an offer Once you’ve found the ideal Be aware of local customs and negotiation tactics when buying a house in France. A local real estate agent can guide you or 4. Do your due diligence Once your offer is accepted, be sure to conduct thorough due diligence to ensure a smooth transaction. This involves hiring a French notary who will handle the legal aspects of the purchase. The notary will draft a It’s wise to meet with a French attorney to review the 5. Get financing Securing financing for a foreign property can be complex. Traditional lenders may have specific requirements and limitations for international real estate purchases. To simplify the process, consider working with a company like Pacaso. They can handle the financing aspect of If you plan to explore traditional financing options, research international mortgage lenders specializing in French property. Be prepared to provide additional documentation, such as proof of income and assets, to qualify for a loan. 6. Pay a deposit  After the Keep in mind that this deposit is usually non-refundable, so make sure you’re confident in your decision before signing the 7. Transfer ownership Once all the necessary paperwork is completed, the final step is to transfer ownership of the property to your name, a process known as After signing the Why buy real estate in France Can Americans buy property in France? Yes, Americans can buy property in France. While there are certain legal and tax considerations to be aware of, buying real estate in France as a foreigner is permitted. It's wise to work with qualified professionals, such as a French notary and an attorney, to ensure compliance with all regulations as you walk through the buying process.  How much does it cost to buy French properties? The cost of buying a property in France depends on the region, property type and size. Here's a breakdown of the factors influencing overall cost: Average price of properties in France  Properties in popular regions like Paris, Lyon and Bordeaux tend to be more expensive than those in less sought-after areas. In 2024, the Taxes and fees   In addition to the purchase price, there are various taxes and fees associated with buying a home in France:  French real estate scams to avoid  While owning property in France can be a rewarding experience, you should also be aware of common real estate scams. Watch out for:  Make buying property in France easy with Pacaso By following these steps, you can successfully navigate how to buy a house in France. If you’re not ready to commit to a full-time move, consider co-owning a Pacaso second home. When you co-own a vacation home, you can simplify the home buying process and enjoy hassle-free ownership of your French property. 

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

Imagine waking up in a charming Parisian apartment and eating croissants on your balcony. Or perhaps a rustic cabin nestled amidst towering Redwoods sounds more your speed. Everyone has different travel preferences and budgets, and the best vacation rental sites will cater to yours.  To help you find the ideal Let’s get booking, shall we? 1. Airbnb The variety in listings has undoubtedly aided the company’s success, making it one of the largest vacation rental companies in the world. Airbnb operates internationally, with over 6 million listings. It also lets hosts list properties for free, taking a percentage of the booking price.  2. Vrbo Due to its limited listings, Vrbo makes it easy for families to sift through options to find the perfect rental that can house everyone.  3. FlipKey Although its total number of listings is still a far cry from those on Airbnb, FlipKey does have one competitive edge: It is owned by Tripadvisor, which provides insights into travelers’ experiences. Guests who book on FlipKey get more than just a rental — they get actionable user tips to make planning easier.     4. Booking.com   By specializing in hotel rooms and vacation rentals, the site allows travelers to easily compare the available options in the area to ensure they’re getting the best deal for their money. Even if hotels aren’t right for your vacation plans, the site provides a search feature to find only vacation rentals.  5. Agoda While it specializes in Asian travel, Agoda also operates in Europe and North America. It offers a range of accommodations, from hotels to private residences, making it a viable option for nearly every traveler. While most travelers looking for vacation rentals focus on the short term, Agoda also has options for long stays exceeding seven days.   6. Plum Guide While many vacation rental sites focus on giving users the most options,  Plum Guide uses extremely selective criteria in its approval process, with its team individually judging every property. Only around 3% of rentals pass. In addition to this attention to detail, its team is available around the clock to assist guests, so you won’t be stuck waiting for a resolution if an issue arises.  7. HomeToGo If you’re tired of jumping around to multiple rental platforms, you might want to start using Its search functions operate similarly to what you’ll find on sites like Vrbo and Airbnb. Travelers can filter results based on prices, amenities, ratings and more. Whether you’re looking to stay in a houseboat or a castle, HomeToGo might be your best bet for success.  8. Casamundo Their transparent 9. Tripadvisor Vacation Rentals The platform operates in over 200 countries and promises a full refund if the rental property is falsely advertised or if the guest can’t access it. In addition to its robust listings, Tripadvisor allows vacationers to book some accommodations directly with the owner. There’s a payment protection guarantee for added peace of mind.  10. HolidayLettings Just like FlipKey, it is owned by Tripadvisor, so it benefits from the platform’s extensive customer reviews and travel guidance. Holiday Lettings has a slightly larger inventory of listings than FlipKey, with 700,000 rentals worldwide.  11. Tripping.com Its precise filtering makes it easy to find the perfect rental from over 12 million listings. Since it pulls results from other platforms, you can easily compare prices to get the best deal.    12. Homestay.com Some hosts even operate on a barter basis, allowing guests to stay in exchange for work around the property. Homestay.com has over 63,000 rooms in over 176 countries.     13. Atraveo Operating primarily in Europe, Along with verified customer reviews, atraveo offers secure booking, where the renter pays atraveo and then settles with the host. This added security eliminates the 14. Onefinestay Focused on Accor, a hospitality company that owns Fairmont and Raffles, manages onefinestay. This expertise adds to the experience with features like professional housekeeping, round-the-clock service and being welcomed in person upon arrival. There’s even the option to personalize your stay with perks like a private driver or chef.  15. Sonder Sonder operates in 40 cities around North America and Europe, although its primary focus is in the United States. An added benefit of the service is that it offers both short- and long-term stays.  16. 9flats While 9flats.com isn’t on the same tier as some luxury brands, it does offer some great perks. Guests can enlist the help of their hosts for tips on local entertainment, with some even willing to act as unofficial tour guides. The company carefully evaluates all hosts for added guest safety.   17. Love Home Swap As the name implies, The service offers a free trial, after which homeowners must pay a membership fee. Before the house swap, both owners can agree to certain terms — like cleaning and pet sitting — to ensure each person’s space is respected.    18. Getaway The cabins include a mini kitchen, plus an outdoor fire pit and grill grate. The service intentionally spurns technology, providing no Wi-Fi to guests. A landline in every cabin compensates for spotty cell reception in case of emergencies.  19. Interhome Interhome and its partners maintain a local presence, executing key handovers and resolving issues on-site. The team even performs a quality check of every property before the guests’ arrival.    20. Homes and Villas by Marriott Bonvoy Marriott enlists the help of professional property managers to ensure that its rental homes and villas are held to the company’s high standards. Rooms come with premium linens, Wi-Fi and bathroom amenities that are standard in hotel rooms. By renting through Homes & Villas, guests receive increased privacy and living space. 21. Paris Perfect These aren't your average rentals — they are beautifully decorated and include a modern twist on classic Parisian style. They also come equipped with top-of-the-line amenities that rival a luxury hotel. Plus, with prime locations throughout Paris, you'll be perfectly situated to explore all that the City of Light has to offer. 22. Expedia You can filter your search by location, price, amenities and even property type — making it easy to find vacation rentals that tick all your boxes. Plus, with the site’s commitment to finding the best deals, you can relax knowing you secured a comfortable and affordable home-away-from-home. 23. Welcome Beyond The site caters to the adventurous traveler who seeks a place to stay that reflects the destination's character. Welcome Beyond properties go beyond the standard apartment or house, often featuring treehouses, glamping sites and historic properties accompanied by spectacular views.  Another option: Owning a vacation home The vacation rental sites on this list each have their strengths, but they’re all limited to single trips. If you love a vacation destination, you have an alternative for a lifetime of luxurious stays. If you have a destination you return to year after year — or multiple times a year — it might be time to Owning a vacation home does come with added responsibilities, so you’ll want to thoroughly research your options before deciding.  Tired of vacation rentals? Try Pacaso If you're seeking an With

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

Whether you’re buying a primary residence, an investment property or a vacation home, it can be advantageous to share the financial burden with a family member. Purchasing a home with a relative can make home ownership more affordable, giving owners someone to share the cost and effort of maintenance and upkeep with. It can also help buyers with less-than-perfect credit scores to get access to better interest rates and loan terms.  Buying with a relative is especially common with second homes, where each party may not want to shoulder the entire cost of a second monthly mortgage payment on a place where they won’t live in full time.  While buying a house with a family member can often make smart financial sense, there are quite a few things to consider before signing on the dotted line.  What to look for in a house with multiple owners  Anytime you’re shopping for a home, it’s important to make a list of your needs and wants — and be sure to differentiate the two. For example, a need for a family with mobility challenges might be a one-story home  while a want might be a home with a swimming pool.  When you’re buying with a family member, you have more needs and wants to consider, which can make it take longer to find a house that fits the group’s criteria. Start by defining key must-haves for location, property size and amenities. In the case of a second home, decide if you need enough space for everyone to use the property at the same time, or if you’ll be trading off visits.  Pros and cons of owning a property with family members The biggest upsides to owning a home with relatives are mostly financial. With a co-owner, you’ll split big-ticket expenses like the down payment, monthly mortgage payment, property taxes and insurance. Down the road when the inevitable home repairs pop up, you won’t have to foot the entire bill yourself. It’s also worth noting that a 50-50 ownership split isn’t required. It’s up to the co-owners to decide what’s fair in their unique situation.  Another benefit of having a co-owner is having a stronger financial position with your lender. You may qualify for a better interest rate and loan terms based on having a higher combined monthly income and strong credit scores.  However, there are a few drawbacks to owning a home with a family member that you should keep in mind before moving forward. A home is one of the biggest purchases you make in a lifetime, and with a co-owner, you are counting on the other person’s dedication and ability to keep up with payments. If you and your co-owner are listed as co-borrowers on a mortgage and they either can’t or don’t keep up with payments, your credit score will be affected and your home could go through foreclosure if you aren’t able to pay the full amount every month.  Another downside is that it can be difficult to ensure that you and your co-owner will be on the same page in terms of how to care for the home during ownership. When does an issue require a repair? When is the right time to upgrade appliances? If something needs to be replaced, is it a DIY project or do you hire a professional?  To navigate these challenges, savvy co-owners can put a property ownership agreement into place from the date of purchase. This legally binding document can outline how financial responsibility is split, the approach to repairs. and what happens if one owner wants to sell and the other doesn’t. A real estate attorney can help you draft this type of agreement.  Types of ownership structures  When you buy a home with a family member, you can choose from a few different types of legal ownership structures.  Tenancy in common Joint tenancy Another option for co-ownership While it’s common for people to purchase primary residences with co-owners, it’s especially popular when buying a vacation home. After all, it gives you the opportunity to make family memories in your favorite destination without the big price tag.  Spending less is a key benefit to splitting a vacation property with a relative, but the effort to make it a reality can still be quite large. You’ll have to find a home that everybody agrees on, take the time to set up the required legal protections, and come up with an equitable way to split time.  Consider this alternative. Pacaso puts second home ownership within reach by bringing owners together to buy a home, offering ⅛ shares of luxury properties in top vacation destinations But Take a look at Pacaso homes currently available. From

Cryptocurrency is proving to be less of a trend and more of a force that’s here to stay. And with a single Bitcoin ringing up at a value of over $60,000 (as of October 2021), it makes sense that cryptocurrency investors are thinking big when it comes to tapping into the power of their crypto stashes.  Can you use cryptocurrency to buy a house? If you’re considering using Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin, Litecoin or one of a number of other cryptocurrencies to purchase a home, you’re not alone. It’s becoming increasingly common, but there are some challenges to be aware of, and the volatility of the cryptocurrency market can make some transactions complicated.  Former child actor Brock Pierce, now an entrepreneur and director of the Bitcoin Foundation, is reportedly the first person to While not everyone can be a “Bitcoin billionaire” like Pierce, you can convert your cryptocurrency into real estate. Here’s how (and some pitfalls to watch out for).  How do you buy a home with cryptocurrency? There are a few options for using cryptocurrency to Convert cryptocurrency to cash One of the simplest ways to use your cryptocurrency nest egg to buy a home is to sell the cryptocurrency for fiat money (dollars) using a service like Borrow against cryptocurrency Companies like Transfer cryptocurrency directly to the seller While it can be challenging to find a seller willing to accept cryptocurrency as payment for a home, many sellers are warming up to the idea. In fact, some sellers are looking to acquire Bitcoin, Ethereum and other cryptocurrencies. In those cases, offering cryptocurrency might push your offer to the front of the pack.  What are the pros to buying a home with cryptocurrency? While pros and cons of buying a home with cryptocurrency may be different depending on which method you choose, here are a few pros to consider:  What are the cons to buying a home with cryptocurrency? As enticing as cryptocurrency may be, it’s still something of an unknown entity in the real estate industry. When considering buying a home with cryptocurrency, watch out for these drawbacks: The bottom line If you want to buy a home with cryptocurrency, do your homework and be prepared to face some hurdles. If you’re not sure you’re cut out to be a cryptocurrency pioneer, consider giving the real estate industry a few years to get more comfortable with digital currencies before dropping any cryptocurrency on a house.  But if you don’t want to wait, consider using cryptocurrency to buy a share of a Pacaso second home. The process is streamlined  — no hurdles!

Florida has a lot to offer vacationers: year-round sunshine, gorgeous beaches, fun-filled attractions and more. According to Sun-worshiping vacationers flock to Florida during every month of the year, but if you’re hoping to ensure a great travel experience — and avoid crowds, hurricanes and high prices — here are a few things to consider.  What to expect each season in Florida Winter December, January and February are great months to visit Florida. While much of the country is battling cold weather and winter storms, the Sunshine State boasts temperatures in the 60s and low 70s in the northern region, and 70s and low 80s in South Florida. Rainy days are rare this time of year, making it a great time to explore.  You’ll enjoy fewer crowds than other times of the year, but keep in mind that Florida has roughly one million seasonal residents (aptly named “snowbirds” who flock to Florida during the colder months) so you’re not likely to have the beach all to yourself.  Spring Weather-wise, March, April and May are some of the best months in Florida. Sunny days abound and rain levels are minimal. Unsurprisingly, it’s also a busy time of year for tourists, so be prepared for higher-than-average hotel costs and plenty of people in and around popular tourist attractions.  If you plan to visit beach towns like Panama Beach and Daytona Beach but don’t want to relive your college years, avoid March and April. These towns, and a few others on the Florida Panhandle, turn into spring break hotspots for young revelers from around the country.   Summer Some like it hot, and if that’s you, visit Florida in June, July and August. Temperatures are regularly in the 80s and 90s, with high humidity and frequent afternoon storms. Temperatures can be even hotter inland, where you won’t have ocean breezes to cool you off.  Speaking of storms, it’s important to note that the Atlantic hurricane season traditionally begins in June, so be sure to pay attention to the weather forecast before and during your trip. Despite the soaring temperatures and hurricane risk, summer is still a popular time for visitors, especially families.  Fall Autumn brings slightly lower temperatures and smaller crowds, making it a great time to visit. Across the state, you’ll find fall festivals, from the Hotel rates start to drop after Labor Day, making the fall a more affordable time to visit. It’s important to remember that the Atlantic hurricane season runs through the end of October, with the most activity occurring between August and October. If you’re traveling to Florida during any part of hurricane season, it’s smart to buy travel insurance.   The best time to visit Florida theme parks  The Orlando area, the epicenter of American theme parks, is home to Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort and LEGOLAND Florida, among others. You’ll also find no fewer than seven water parks to cool off on hot days. Any Disney aficionado will tell you there is no crowd-free day at Disney World or other area parks. However, you will find Florida theme parks to be less crowded right after the holiday season (January and February) and in September, once schools are back in session. Regardless of the season, your best bet is always a weekday trip.  The best time to visit Miami Miami is an action-packed South Florida destination every month of the year, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. Winter offers the mildest weather, without the sky-high temperatures or sticky humidity. Yet you’ll have to contend with crowds and high hotel prices.  In summer, the temperature is hot but the deals are next level. The best time to visit the Florida Keys A 125-mile-long archipelago off the coast of South Florida, the Florida Keys are a unique destination. With island vibes and incredible natural beauty, the Keys are a bucket-list destination for many. But The Keys have distinct rainy and dry seasons. The rainy season runs from May to October, during which time the islands get the majority of their yearly rainfall — not to mention hurricane risk. The dry season is the most popular time to visit, as you’ll enjoy average temperatures in the 70s with very little rain. As with much of the state, prices and crowds are lower in the summer, but the weather can be unpredictable.  Find your year-round Florida getaway with Pacaso  If Florida is your favorite vacation destination, perhaps it’s time to make it official! As a second home owner in the Sunshine State, you’ll enjoy a place to call home, without the unpredictability of hotel costs. Pacaso has luxury vacation homes Have a property in mind?

Getting the best prices on your vacation can be tricky, and there’s nothing worse than booking non-refundable travel only to discover that the price has since gone down. While this can be unfortunately common when booking air travel, it can also happen on Airbnb, since many listings use dynamic pricing. Read on to get all your questions answered about when to book your Airbnb for the best prices.  Is there a best time to book?  Finding the best price on an Airbnb is an art and a science. Many factors go into pricing (more on that below), but according to recent Here’s one exception: If you’re planning a longer-term rental, it’s better to book as early as possible for the best availability.  What factors affect Airbnb prices? According to the same NerdWallet research, 84% of properties listed on Airbnb use dynamic pricing, where an algorithm automatically changes per-night pricing based on a variety of factors. Many things affect the price of a specific Airbnb property, including:  Do Airbnb prices get cheaper closer to my trip?  It is possible to score last-minute deals on Airbnb listings, as both dynamically priced and statically priced homes may drop prices a few days ahead of time to prevent a property from sitting empty. However, this tactic is best employed by flexible travelers. When you book last minute, you may find yourself with limited options and end up in a home or part of town that isn’t your first choice. If you’re okay with that, you might be able to save quite a bit.  What do I need to know about cancellation policies? How early you’re comfortable booking often comes down to the cancellation policy, and on Airbnb, property owners have their choice of multiple options. As a traveler, be sure to review the cancellation policy for the property before booking to make sure it works for your travel plans.  While there are many cancellation policy types at Airbnb, here are a few of the most common you’ll encounter. Be sure to read the full policy before booking, as there are some rules regarding partial payments:  Tips for getting the best price  Ready to seek out the best possible price for the Airbnb you’re eyeing? Here are a few tips for getting the best price:  Skip the stress of short-term rentals with a place of your own Airbnb prices are always changing, which can make it hard to feel like you’ve gotten a good deal. If you want to avoid the headaches of booking short-term rentals and prefer a vacation home over a hotel, Interested in a Pacaso but aren’t ready for full ownership? Give us a try with our

There’s nothing better than a vacation. But the planning part? That can be stressful. Between airline tickets, Many travel companies use dynamic pricing, where pricing for a specific flight, room category or rental car type changes automatically based on demand. This demand can fluctuate due to several factors, including seasonality, day of the week, large events nearby and how far in advance you book.  For most travelers, getting a great deal is important, and a lot of it comes down to timing. Here’s what you need to know about when to book specific types of travel for the best chance of getting a great deal. The best time to book a flight Airfare is often the most expensive part of a vacation budget. And timing your ticket purchase correctly is complicated. Book too early and you may pay too much. Wait too long and you may have limited options for flight times, connections and seats.  According to The best time to book hotels Like airfare, hotel rates are always fluctuating due to demand. Yet unlike airfare, there are often last-minute deals to be had. According to a The best time to book vacation rentals Unlike hotels, many The best time to book vacation packages  Vacation packages are a popular choice for deal-seeking travelers. Usually including some combination of flight, hotel and car rental, they can be cheaper than booking each portion of the trip independently. Because the components of a vacation package vary, there are no guidelines about how far in advance to book. However, you can sometimes find great last-minute package deals on unsold inventory.  The best time to book cruises Planning to take a cruise this year or next? It’s important to note that cruise prices can vary significantly. The best advice is to plan far enough in advance to wait for a sale. Overall, the best time to book a cruise is between January and March. Known in the industry as “wave season,” this is the time of year when you’ll find the very best discounts and promotions, as cruise lines are looking to load up their ships for the coming year.  If you miss the wave season window, though, you can still find great deals. Keep an eye out for promotions that help your budget go further. Popular promotions include free stateroom upgrades, complimentary or discounted airfare, discounted beverage packages or free kids’ fares.  The best time to book car rentals When it comes to rental cars, booking in advance doesn’t always pay off. A 2022 If you are planning to rent a car in a destination with plenty of rental car availability — near an international airport with a large rental car center — you’re probably safe to wait until you’re very close to your trip. However, if you’re traveling to a high-demand destination at a popular time or if you need a very specific vehicle type, it may be prudent to plan ahead.  A headache-free way to book travel Pacaso owners benefit from a stress-free, no-hassle way to book stays at their vacation home. With our

Ah, retirement. Forget about taking an annual trip that maximizes your time off work. Retirement opens up a world of opportunities, including time for carefully planned or more spontaneous travel. And you won’t be alone: According to a Many travel lovers go into their retirement years with a wish list of destinations, but it can be a bit overwhelming with so many options. Check out our list of top retirement trip options, including domestic and international destinations, as well as a few special ideas.  Domestic retirement trips  According to the AARP survey, 61% of travelers focus solely on domestic travel. There are so many places to visit, yet travel tends to be more accessible and easier to plan.  1. San Diego California’s southernmost major city, San Diego is so much more than just year-round sunshine and moderate temperatures. “America’s Finest City” offers 2. Napa Valley Toast your retirement in California Wine Country. Bucolic Napa Valley boasts more than 400 wineries, 90 tasting rooms and 14 Michelin-starred restaurants. Multiple 3. Miami For an action-packed vacation, head to vibrant Miami. A true melting pot of cultures, this South Florida metropolis offers incredible experiences, day and night. Spend sun-drenched days lounging on picturesque beaches or exploring nearby wildlife areas and evenings indulging in 4. Florida Keys The 5. Chicago You could visit Chicago every year and never finish exploring. A vibrant city located on the banks of sprawling Lake Michigan, the Windy City is known for its colorful history, incredible architecture, and, yes, deep-dish pizza. Museums are an absolute must here, with the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum of Natural History leading the charge.  6. Palm Springs  Channel your inner Rat Pack member or silver screen queen in 7. Jackson Hole If you spent most of your working years in bustling cities or sprawling suburbs, you may enjoy a little more space to roam. Wyoming’s 8. Aspen A Colorado town of 7,200 nestled in the White River National Forest, Aspen offers four seasons of fun. In winter there’s world-class skiing and snowboarding, while spring delivers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. In the warm summer months, the renowned Aspen Ideas Festival is a must-attend. 9. Scottsdale A charming Arizona town on the outskirts of Phoenix, Scottsdale boasts 330 days of sunshine a year. Make the most of it by golfing the 50+ golf courses in the region, attending the 10. New York City There’s no place in the world quite like New York. Lose yourself in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, take in a Broadway show, stroll through Central Park or across the Brooklyn Bridge or sample flavorful cuisine from all over the world.  International retirement trips  Planning on spending your golden years around the globe? Here are five great countries to explore.  11. Italy In the AARP survey, Italy topped the list of European destinations — and it’s easy to see why. Book a trip of at least two weeks (maybe more!) so you have time to marvel at ancient ruins, immerse yourself in Renaissance artwork, indulge in pasta and wine, and explore pristine landscapes.  12. France Say “oui” to the sparkling lights of the Eiffel Tower and all that Paris, the City of Lights, has to offer. France is a country of beautiful landscapes, quaint hamlets, chic beach resorts and rugged mountain towns.  13. Mexico  Mexico’s most alluring destinations are less than a day’s travel from major U.S. cities, making Mexico a popular vacation destination. Each spot offers unique experiences, from the rugged beauty of the Baja coastline near Cabo San Lucas to the charming town squares of Guadalajara and the incredible Mayan ruins outside of Mexico City.  14. Australia No matter which part of the United States you depart from, it takes a long time to get to Australia. This makes it the perfect trip for travelers with flexible schedules. Spend a couple of weeks Down Under, exploring iconic sites like the Sydney Opera House and Uluru, then get out of town — experiencing the unique flora and fauna of the Great Barrier Reef, Kangaroo Island and Tasmania.  15. Japan Futuristic cities meet centuries-old traditions in Japan. A bucket list destination for travelers interested in art, history and culture, Japan doesn’t disappoint. Invite your favorite travel buddies and embark on a journey through Japan’s fascinating cities, bucolic landscapes and most iconic sites. Don’t miss a stay at an invigorating onsen (hot spring). Outside-the-box retirement travel  Every traveler has different goals, so don’t be afraid to chart your own course during your retirement. Here are some less common ways to see the world during your retirement years.  Embark on a cross-country road trip Tune up the car, queue your favorite playlist, pack some snacks and hit the road on a good old-fashioned road trip. Whether you’re the type to plan your entire itinerary stop by stop or just see where the road takes you, a road trip is a great way to see the country. Consider a national park trip, a summer journey through the Rocky Mountains, a fall leaf-peeping journey or a historic exploration through New England.  Take an around-the-world cruise If your goal is to see as much of the world as possible, consider an around-the-world cruise. Ranging in length from a few months to a whole year, these cruises tempt savvy travelers with an incredible collection of ports of call, without having to deal with all the logistics of air travel, customs and immigration, and hotel accommodations. Some retirees even cruise continually, linking together cruise after cruise, instead of living in a traditional home.  Buy your dream second home If you’ve already fallen in love with a destination and are ready to put down some roots, consider purchasing a vacation home. You’ll avoid the spendy hotel nights and have a true sense of belonging in your favorite vacation spot.  Pacaso makes second home ownership easy. We offer homes in top destinations across the United States and beyond, and our

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Angela and Nkem had been thinking about buying a second home for a while. A place on the beach was their dream, and they’d considered several areas along the Southern California coast — a manageable drive from their home in Ventura County. Their family loves to travel, but it’s not always easy. “Having 5 kids close in age, it’s challenging to do big trips or find a hotel room with enough space to accommodate us. We were constantly looking for places where we could create a home-like environment,” said Angela. Not long after they started getting serious about their second home search, Angela came across an ad for Pacaso on Facebook. “We’d been looking at real estate and second homes, and the Pacaso concept was completely different. I showed it to my husband and we started to explore their offering.”  They were impressed with what they found. “We looked at a bunch of different homes and narrowed it down to two locations,” said Nkem. “Then we started looking at homes in detail — it was important to understand the layouts and imagine all of us living in the space. When we saw a home right on the beach in Malibu, it fit all the parameters. Once we toured it in person, we could see it had everything we were looking for, and we made the decision to buy it later that day.” Crunching the numbers Among the key factors in choosing a Pacaso were cost, convenience and location.  And convenience? Angela added, “We have demanding careers, so Pacaso fits really well with our vision of how we want to spend our limited free time together.”  Life’s a beach As for location, a home on the beach with ocean views from every room is a dream come true. “Being able to say, ‘Let’s go to the beach’ and have that be a 20-second journey down the stairs is amazing,” said Nkem. Angela agreed, describing her ideal day at their Pacaso: “I look outside and see the kids playing and enjoying the ocean, and when they’re done, they can come right up and take warm showers. There’s no rush to clean up and pack and get all the sand off before getting in the car. We can just go about our day, living our lives without stress or schedules.” The kids are thrilled too. Their older daughter said, “We all love going to the beach, so getting a house right on the beach was perfect for us. I do beach volleyball tournaments right down the coast, so it’s great if we want to relax the day before we get there.” Her sister added, “We love to travel and create new experiences and memories that we can share. It’s important to have time to get away from the normal routine.” One of their sons chimed in with his favorite downtime activities at their Pacaso, which all the kids could get behind: “Sleeping in, watching TV, and eating pizza and sushi.”  Most of all, Angela, Nkem and their kids are just happy to have found a beautiful place to spend quality time together. “I can’t wait to invite family and close friends,” said Nkem. “I look forward to making memories there, whether it’s birthdays, holidays or no special occasion at all. Just a change of scenery in a place that feels like home.” Meet Angela, Nkem and their kids, and hear what they love most about their Pacaso.  Live the SoCal life with Pacaso  When you become a co-owner of a Pacaso vacation home, you just arrive, unpack and relax. And our Family-Friendly Second Homes™ make it easy to just show up and have fun — from cribs and high chairs, to games, pool floaties, streaming services and more, we have you (and your kids) covered. Explore our

Curious about buying and owning a Pacaso? In this exclusive webinar, you’ll hear directly from two Pacaso owners about why they chose Pacaso, their experience with scheduling, and tips for potential Pacaso owners.  "The scheduling has been super easy — we’ve been able to get all the weeks we’ve wanted to get," shared Scott. "We live close to our Pacaso so we’re able to take advantage of last-minute weekend trips when they’re available." "As soon as I walked in, I knew it was the right decision," said Marilyn. With Pacaso, families can own a second home without the hassle and spend more quality time together. Explore our

Purchasing (and owning) a vacation home can often feel like a maze of decisions and commitments. But A whole different value proposition Tracy's introduction to Pacaso was through an unexpected source: YouTube. "We watched every YouTube video until we understood the concept of shared ownership and were able to articulate it," she explains. For Tracy, taking time to research and understand Pacaso’s unique shared ownership model made it easy to grasp the benefits and logistics. One common misconception she gets among friends and family is the comparison of Pacaso to a timeshare. "I get questions about timeshare but the value proposition is completely different," she shares. "I’ve spent a good deal of time trying to educate people on what Pacaso is all about, and they use the same word: no-brainer. Why wouldn’t everybody buy a Pacaso?" A key feature that caught her and her husband’s attention was Pacaso's A place for loved ones to vacation One of the main motivations for Tracy was the desire to have an impressive space where she could bring her friends and family together. "We want to bring friends and family to a place where they could vacation too," she says. This vision has become a reality, with their Pacaso home becoming a beloved gathering spot. In fact, Tracy's Isle of Palms Comfort is also paramount for Tracy, and Pacaso also delivers on that front. "My whole family sleeps very well when we're in our Pacaso," she says with a smile. "I need that same bedding situation in my primary home!" It's the little details in a Pacaso home that make stays truly special. Memories that last forever Among her favorite memories are the simple, cherished moments spent with her loved ones. She recalls having lunch with her family for the first time in forever in her Pacaso, without the rush of a restaurant setting. Another treasured memory is an experience with her dad. "We were having a quiet moment sharing a glass of wine. My dad turned me to said, 'You’ve done good, kid,'" she reminisces, highlighting the real pride and happiness her Pacaso home has brought to her family. "Honestly, tears." Tracy’s journey with Pacaso illustrates the joy and convenience of the co-ownership model. It’s not just about owning a property — it’s about creating a haven for unforgettable moments with those who matter most. "It's the full package for us," she exclaims. With Pacaso, families can co-own a luxury second home in their happy place and make lasting memories year-round — without any of the hassles. Explore our

I’m Austin,  CEO and Co-Founder of As 2024 came to a close, we watched changes that could impact both buyers and sellers. The year ended with home sales up, mortgage rates still elevated, and price growth slowing, leaving some optimism for the year ahead. Here’s a closer look at the latest trends as we close out the year and what’s ahead in 2025. 2024 in review  1. Home sales surge at the end of ‘24 November saw a 6.1% year-over-year increase in sales, marking the largest gain since mid-2021. U.S. existing-home sales also rose 4.8% from the previous month, reaching a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.15 million—the highest level since March, according to the 2. Rate rollercoaster While the Federal Reserve has For most of 2024, rates were lower than the previous year, but by the end of December, they were up 21 basis points annually. The average rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage with conforming loan balances (up to $766,550) edged up from 6.89% to 6.97%, as analyzed by 3. Home price growth slow Nationwide, home prices grew by 3.6% in October compared to the previous year, down from 3.9% in September. This marked the seventh consecutive month of slowing annual gains, as reported by the 2025 Predictions The outlook for 2025 is cautiously optimistic, according to experts from NAR, Zillow, Redfin, and Realtor.com.  When it comes to mortgage rates, we might see a slight dip, but they’re likely to stay above 6%, keeping things challenging—but improving—for buyers. Inventory is also expected to improve. In fact, We'll continue to check in with updates, and encourage you to contact us with any questions about a market of interest.

This year has been incredible for Pacaso — 2024 brought major growth and exciting momentum, thanks to the amazing support from our community. Recently, we extended an exclusive opportunity to our community to join our mission of making vacation homes more accessible for more people through our growth round. Because of strong demand and substantial growth in the first half of the year, our share price will increase after For more information on Pacaso and how you can join the journey, please visit

Recent interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve have spurred enthusiasm in the real estate market because even small changes can have a significant impact on real estate purchasing power.  The Fed cut rates .5% in September and .25% in November, lowering its benchmark borrowing rate by three quarters of a point in 2024. While the Federal Reserve does not directly set mortgage rates, the changes in its benchmark rate does influence real estate borrowing. With this lower benchmark target, first and second home buyers should have more purchasing power and the ability to capitalize on real estate purchases. For Pacaso clients, who purchase shares of a luxury vacation home through our co-ownership model, lower borrowing rates translate directly to more affordability, better financing options and a generally enhanced ownership experience. In general, a lower Federal Reserve benchmark rate means lower borrowing costs for real estate buyers. Pacaso’s model already excels at supercharging buying power, making high-end properties accessible by splitting the purchase price and ongoing costs among multiple co-owners.  The recent cuts amplify this affordability. For example, rather than buy 100% of a $10 million Aspen home that you might only use 1-2 months a year, Pacaso enables you to purchase ⅛ to ½ of that same home, for a fraction of the price. You get the same enjoyment of the home, without the large price tag, and Pacaso tackles all of the headaches associated with owning the home.  Additionally, buyers can finance their purchase. Lower borrowing rates lead to smaller monthly payments. And with direct financing, Pacaso is already offering great financing options. With lower rates, your potential savings extend over the life of the loan, translating to more luxury living for a smaller price tag.  Pacaso gives buyers Pacaso also offers financing directly in order to make the purchase, and your ownership, as seamless as possible. You may be able to find a loan with your bank to purchase a second home, but the rates you find through Pacaso will likely be even more competitive and affordable than a traditional loan.  This is in large part due to our lending partnerships, and our growing experience in financing hundreds of vacation home purchases. Plus, Pacaso closings can happen in as little as one day so you can start enjoying vacation home ownership right away. One of the biggest advantages of decreased interest rates is the reduction in monthly payments. This can make owning a share of a luxury property more cost-effective than ever before. Lower monthly expenses allow buyers to allocate more resources to other important priorities while still enjoying the benefits of ownership.  For example, let’s take a $500,000, 7-year loan. At 10%, the total interest for this simple loan would amount to about $197,000. At 9%, even just 1 percentage point lower, the same borrower would save about $22,000, a roughly 11% savings, over the course of the loan. This shows how even small changes in borrowing rates significantly impact the overall price of a loan.  Timing of these cuts presents an opportunity for those looking to enrich their lives. In a recent The value of spending time with family and friends in combination with dollar maximizing strategies position Pacaso to serve you and your goals. From reduced monthly costs to enhanced financing, your buying power is truly amplified, and the benefits are clear. Pacaso’s

Picture this: You’ve been researching Although the luxury real estate market continues to change due to economic factors like inflation and interest rates, your dream of owning a luxury home doesn’t have to. Read our guide to learn about the top eight luxury real estate trends of 2023. 1. Small homes are becoming more luxurious Smaller homes are becoming more popular among luxury home buyers, with small luxury houses selling Smaller homes may also be cheaper and easier to buy with cash. Downsizing into a smaller primary residence or 2. Luxury houses are in a seller's market The housing market as a whole has seen impressive growth over the last couple of years, but the luxury real estate market still managed to surpass the lower tiers. In May 2023, the luxury real estate market saw a sales ratio of One explanation for this growth is that wealthy Americans are less affected by volatile job markets. Being able to work remotely without interruptions to their income has put them in a prime position to take advantage of lower mortgage rates. 3. The luxury real estate market becomes more globalized Due to a strong U.S. dollar, international real estate purchases are expected to increase in 2023. In fact, Meanwhile, foreign investors are taking an interest in states like Texas, California and Florida. China was the biggest investor, purchasing over 4. Large market luxury home median prices are increasing Metropolises like Los Angeles and Austin are experiencing higher median prices for their luxury listings in 2023. In fact, over 24% of Austin homes are being listed at The increase in luxury home prices is redefining what the luxury market will look like in desirable locations across the United States. For example, the small luxury market of East Honolulu may lack the volume of buyers that big cities have, but 5. Buyers are paying for luxury homes in cash All-cash sales comprised 26% of transactions in November 2022, up from 24% a year earlier, according to Since luxury real estate is a highly desirable and competitive market where buyers often face multiple offers and bidding wars, paying in cash can give them an edge over other buyers who need to finance their purchase with a mortgage.  This, coupled with recent 6. Rising interest rates are causing fear in the luxury real estate market The current state of the economy is causing some buyers to hold off on their luxury home prices, with Over 7. Luxury second home ownership is on the rise Many people have avoided Now that more people aren’t tied to one specific location for work, they feel they can get the most out of their money with a second home. In fact, The luxury home market is also seeing gains in And with a 8. Investors are adding to their portfolio In 2022, there was a Luxury real estate has the tendency to be less volatile and more resilient than other types of real estate, especially during economic downturns. Investors can also create a cash flow opportunity from these properties by turning them into luxury vacation rentals. High-end real estate often appreciates faster and higher than average properties, due to their scarcity, exclusivity and desirability. Investors can benefit from capital gains and equity growth over time. The luxury real estate market is no stranger to change, and 2023 has a lot in store for high-end home seekers. Whether you're searching for a new primary or secondary residence, our insights can help you find the

Pacaso's H1 2024 Earnings Call will provide an in-depth look at the company's financial performance and investment opportunities. Join Co-Founder and CEO Austin Allison, alongside CFO Alvaro Cortes. During this session, they’ll unveil key H1 performance metrics, share insights into Pacaso’s plans for growth, and explain how you can participate in our mission to make second home ownership more accessible. For more information on Pacaso and how you can join the journey, please visit

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

Inflation has reached its highest level since 1981 as the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased 9.1% in June. In addition, mortgage rates in April surpassed 5% for the first time in over a decade and have remained elevated since. This is the first time in recent history that inflation is meaningfully higher than mortgage rates. As the cost of consumer goods in the U.S. rises faster than mortgage rates, there are financial decisions consumers should consider to hedge against inflation. Many advocate putting money into long-term assets such as real estate, including second homes, as a way to hedge against inflation. Although mortgage rates have nearly doubled since the start of 2021, it is important to remember that rates are still well below historical norms. For the past 50 years, 30-year fixed mortgage rates have averaged approximately 8%, even crossing above a staggering 18% in the early 1980s.  Inflation has reached levels we have not seen in over 40 years. Many economists believe that the CPI will remain elevated for the rest of this year and may hold up into 2024. As inflation rises, the cost of everything goes up, including real estate. However, when the CPI growth rate is higher than the current 30-year fixed mortgage rates, homeowners’ will be spending the same monthly amount but with inflated dollars. As a result, smart home shoppers tend to be less concerned about the current levels of mortgage rates when inflation is high. This could provide home buyers with a rare opportunity to make a stable-value investment and take advantage of the growing rate of depreciation of money. In an inflationary environment, consumers want to park their money somewhere that will lose the least amount of value. For that reason, real estate is often considered one of the best ways to hedge against — or beat — inflation. 

I’m Austin, CEO and co-founder of The housing market is picking up steam well into the spring home buying season. Although fewer homes than usual are being sold this spring, buyers are quickly snatching up those that are on the market — even when mortgage rates may be fluctuating. An uptick in mortgage applications indicates that people are optimistic about the market. Some things we’re seeing: 1. Sellers staying put, inventory hits pre-pandemic low According to 2. Fierce competition for desirable homes The current state of the real estate market continues to be highly competitive, as evidenced by the fact that almost half (48%) of the homes sold in the four weeks ending on April 30th were under contract within two weeks according by This spring, the scarcity of inventory is resulting in fewer homes being sold, but those that are 3. Home prices rise for third consecutive month According to a report originally 3. Homebuyers keep a watchful eye on fluctuating mortgage rates According to Meanwhile, the We'll continue to check in with updates, and encourage you to contact us with any questions about a market of interest.

Second home buyer trends: Key takeaways Sales of luxury second homes increased nearly 25% year-over-year during the second quarter of 2022 and approximately 235% compared to Q1 2020, prior to the pandemic intensifying in the U.S.* What’s motivating these second home buyers and more is captured in the This report uses data from a July 2022 survey conducted online among more than 1,000 current and aspiring second homeowners with household incomes equivalent to or above $150,000 in the United States, United Kingdom and Canada. The findings shared in this report are specific to the U.S. “The newfound flexibility many Americans are afforded has made demand for second homeownership stronger than ever as people look to put quality of life front-and-center in their lifestyle,” said Pacaso CEO and Co-Founder Austin Allison. “When you buy a second home, you’re unlocking a new chapter in life, becoming a part of the fabric of the community, and above all else, finding a special place to spend time with friends and family.” “Existing second homeowners have experienced firsthand the life enriching possibilities of second homeownership and thus we expect to have more realistic responses as they have a peak under the hood of how often they use their home as opposed to dreamers who haven’t yet seen their preferred usage,” said Allison. “Our data shows that only  29% of people plan to visit their second home, more than 7x per year. This stat further cements co-ownership as a more efficient and sustainable option, as buyers have the power to own only what they will use. Owning 100% of a home you barely use is wasteful and antiquated.” Location, Price, and Size Drive Second Home Buying Decision  For both existing second homeowners and aspiring second homeowners, location (67% vs. 70%), price (49% vs. 66%) and home size (44% vs. 48%) are the top three most important considerations in purchasing decisions for their families when buying a second home.    Location, location, location! As the desire to own a second home grows, the role of location in the buying decision does as well with 67% of current second homeowners and 70% of aspiring second homeowners choosing location as their number one consideration when thinking about purchasing a second home. However, existing second homeowners (45%) tend to value the appeal of the neighborhood more than non-owners (30%). An inability to afford the second home they want is holding non-second homeowners (66%). Of the people who desire to own a second home but don’t already, four in ten (42%) show concern about the associated costs and more than one-third (35%) are hesitant about the effort to maintain a second home.  Nearly half of all current (44%) and non-second homeowners (48%) consider the size of the property when buying their second home. Both value travel time and amenities as other important considerations. “Maintaining a home at a luxury level with contemporary design, high-end furnishings and decor, top-notch amenities and appliances, regular cleaning and maintenance, comes at high cost and a large time commitment as to care for the home properly,” said Allison. “These buyers are still in the process of considering their lifestyle and how they plan to use their home, how often, and who will take care of it when they’re not there. There are options outside of traditional second homeownership, like co-ownership, that mitigate some ownership issues and provide better value.” Second home dreamers and owners aren’t crazy about catching a plane to head to their second home, but love a road trip Nearly two-thirds of people (64%) commute or expect to commute to their second home in four hours or less and the majority (87%) want to drive. One exception is that current second homeowners are slightly more likely to have longer commutes than those intending to own a second home would expect, as 43% of existing second homeowners commute more than four hours to their second home, while only 31% of intenders expect to travel more than four hours. Without major differences between owners versus non-owners, people overwhelmingly expect to drive to their second home (approaching nine in ten) than those who expect to fly (three in ten) or commute by train (one in ten). How the pandemic changed the definition of second home destinations  The permanent shift toward work-from-home has forever changed the way people work and is giving second home buyers more flexibility to spend time away from their primary home and office. “Both existing second homeowners and aspiring owners prefer domestic second homes because they are more accessible, allowing them to visit more often. These owners and aspiring owners are attracted to a second home to share with their family and friends so they can live life to the fullest,” said Savanta Director Research, Insights and Consulting, Amit Sahni. For second home dreamers, their second home is on the water When asked about their desired location type for purchasing a second home, 61% of non-second homeowners want to be near the water. Non-second homeowners ranked a beach house (42%) at the top of their list, followed by lake (19%) and mountain (14%). More people want their second homes in domestic locales  91% of existing second homeowners own domestically and 15% own internationally, which is in alignment with the desires of non-second homeowners.  Second home owners visit their homes less frequently but stay for longer  Non-owners and existing owners feel nearly the same about the number of trips they make and expect to make to their second home each year with only 29% of people planning to visit their second home more than six times per year. More than half (59%) of existing and intending owners visit and expect to visit their homes more than four times per year, with nearly a third (29%) visiting more than six times per year.   Existing second homeowners (61%) are generally more likely to spend two or three plus weeks on vacation, while people who desire to own a second home are more likely to spend one week or less on vacation (58%). 65% of owners and buyers spend or expect to spend two or fewer weeks per stay. “People who intend to own a second home are daydreaming of a perfect place to run to for a quick escape or for occasional weekend getaways throughout the year,” said Allison. “Whereas people who are already second homeowners may be a bit more comfortable with working from their second home or going for two or more weeks at a time, but just less frequently.” Methodology  Pacaso commissioned market research firm Savanta is a fast-growing data, market research, and advisory company. Savanta informs and inspires clients through powerful data, empowering technology, and high-impact consulting, all designed to help clients make better decisions and achieve faster progress. *

Ready to buy your first home — or With the state of real estate always changing as new homes enter the market, every year showcases new Home financing is becoming more flexible Getting approved for a home loan is a first step for people dreaming of owning a house. The following real estate facts explore home financing options in more depth.  Residential home-buying trends While some buyers may have felt pushed to buy quickly at the onset of Covid-19 lockdowns, many consider their home to be a long-term commitment rather than a temporary alternative (like a short-term 13. A larger share of buyers opted for new homes vs older homes at the end of 2022. ( 14. Luxury second home transactions increased by 25% during Q2 2022. ( 15. 10% of home sales are from new builds in Q1 2023. ( 16. 11% of home buyers bought their home directly from the previous owner. ( 17. 51% of home buyers found their listing on the internet. ( 18. Luxury second homes maintained their value through 2022. ( 19. 81% of Americans value the location of a home over its size. ( 20. In April 2023, new single-family home purchases increased by 4.1% month-over-month. ( 21. Historically, homes listed during April 18-24 sold 14.1% faster than the average week. ( 22. Luxury second home sales have increased by 235% since Q1 2020. ( 23. 54% of millennials want to live close to bars and nightlife. ( 24. Home appreciation was up 21% nationwide in April 2022. ( 25. Existing home sales are down by 9.3% in 2023. ( 26. Unit sales are predicted to increase by 10% in 2024. ( 27. 80% of home buyers prefer a move-in-ready house over a fixer-upper. ( 28. Homes are spending an average of 43 days on the market in May 2023. ( 29. The number of homes on the market in May 2023 increased by 21.5% compared to May 2022. ( 30. The number of homes pending listings declined in May 2023 by 18.1% year-over-year. ( 31. 12.7% of homes sold in May 2023 had a price reduction. ( Housing shortage facts The unexpected increase in the demand for homes led to an understandable shortage in supply. The desire for primary and 32. In 2023, approximately 1.2 million single-family housing units will be under construction. ( 33. Active home listings dropped 28% between 2020 and 2021. ( 34. The US housing market faced a six million home housing shortage at the end of 2022. 35. Home sales in metro areas increased by 20.8% in May 2023 despite housing shortages. ( 36. Apartment builds are expected to reach a 40-year high in 2023. ( 37. 86% of home sellers listed their properties on multiple listing services. ( 38. 56% of home buyers said finding the right property was the most difficult part of the home-buying process. ( 39. 28% of home buyers found the availability of larger lots to be an influence on neighborhood choice. ( 40. New listings of homes for sale fell 25% in June 2023, compared to June 2022 data. ( 41. The average distance between previous and new residences is 50 miles. ( The rising cost of real estate As the price of real estate rises, so does the belief in its long-term value. Home buyers see real estate as a reliable store of value, and in some cases, the houses are being used as a secondary source of income. While a spotlight has been placed on corporations purchasing houses, real estate statistics reveal that the majority of 42. Home sales are predicted to decrease by 3.4% in 2023. ( 43. 72.5% of rental property investors in the U.S. are individuals. ( 44. 13% of home buyers found saving for the down payment to be the most difficult part of the home-buying process. ( 45. 10% of home buyers were dissatisfied with the home-buying process. ( 46. 11% of buyers wanted their real estate agent to help them with price negotiations. ( 47. 25% of home buyers reduced their spending on luxury items to purchase their home. ( 48. 88% of home buyers think that buying a home is still a good financial investment. ( 49. 45% of home buyers had a household income over $100,000. ( Second home-buying statistics Not everyone who buys property in suburban and rural areas is looking for a permanent change in location. Many home buyers 50. In summer 2021, second home transactions held a market share of 4.3%. ( 51. The U.S. vacation rental occupancy rate is forecast to be 56.4% in 2023. ( The state of home prices today It stands to reason that the current housing shortage would lead to an increase in home prices. Although many home buyers were motivated to leave their city, not all metro areas saw their populations decline. Many cities saw boosts to their populations and housing prices — likely aided by the implementation of 52. 72% of home listings were sold without ever reducing their price. ( 53. 9% of all home sales were identified as urgent. ( 54. In the first quarter of 2021, Boise, Idaho, saw a 28% year-over-year rise in house prices, the highest among metro areas. ( 55. In the first quarter of 2021, Austin, Texas, saw the second highest year-over-year rise in house prices at 23%. ( 56. Renting was more popular than buying in the vast majority of the largest U.S. metros in December 2022. ( 57. 24% of home sales were above the listing price. ( 58. 8% of home buyers sold a distressed property. ( 59. Debt delayed most home buyers by four years before they were able to purchase a home. ( 60. 27% of buyers compromised on the price of their home purchase. ( Allow these real estate facts to guide you as you consider purchasing your first or

February is an often-overlooked travel month, nestled between the busy holiday season and the excitement of spring break. Yet, its quieter crowds and milder temperatures make it an ideal time for a more laid-back getaway to popular destinations. Whether you’re looking to connect with nature, explore cultural hubs or feel the rush of adrenaline, these top February destinations promise to make your vacation one for the books. Scottsdale Escape the winter chill with a visit to La Jolla A beach town might not be the first place that comes to mind when considering places to travel at the tail end of winter, but New Orleans If a festive atmosphere and rich cultural experiences are what you seek, then look no further than New Orleans. February in The Big Easy offers a vibrant array of cultural events, from the world-renowned Mardi Gras to the Tet Fest, which celebrates Vietnamese New Year through food, music, and dance. February is also Black History Month, and the city hosts a series of performances and showcases in tribute. While it is peak season in New Orleans, the energy and excitement make it well worth the visit. Mardi Gras, in particular, is an experience everyone should witness at least once in their lifetime. In the days leading up to the big event, the city is filled with parades, lively street celebrations, music and, of course, beads. Plus, you can enjoy the city’s famous Creole cuisine without the sweltering summer heat. Savor traditional dishes like crawfish, gumbo, and the iconic king cake. Breckenridge February may be the best time to visit Paris Valentine’s Day in the City of Love may sound cliché, but there’s no denying that Looking for the perfect February getaway?

San Diego is a year-round destination with beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and action-packed sports. To help you make the most of your time in sunny SoCal, we've put together a list of some of our favorite seasonal events and activities to ensure there's always something exciting to do during your visit. Winter (December - February) Winter in San Diego provides a welcome escape from the snow and cold that blankets much of the nation. While temperatures may be cool by California standards, the mild weather allows the city's outdoor activities and attractions to be enjoyed throughout the season. From festive holiday celebrations to exciting spectator sports, San Diego’s winter months offer a perfect blend of relaxation and activity. Top events: Spring (March - May) Spring is one of the best times to visit San Diego, with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and a colorful display of flowers in bloom. San Diego’s event calendar kicks it up a notch this season as the days get longer and the sunshine gets warmer. Whether you’re dressing up for a sophisticated soirée or heading outdoors to soak in the scenery, spring in San Diego promises to be unforgettable. Top events: Honorable mention: Summer (June - August) Sun-drenched days and evenings under the stars await during the summer months, when San Diego truly comes alive. With an energetic beach scene and an equally as lively social scene, there is no shortage of activities or events to partake in. From enjoying the surf to the vibrant nightlife, San Diego’s hottest season is impossible to resist. Top events: Honorable mention: Fall (September - November) Autumn in San Diego is like golden hour, with clear skies and breathtaking sunsets over the ocean. The warm sea temperatures extend beach days into the fall months, while seasonal festivals usher in the excitement of the upcoming holidays. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the city’s natural beauty and festive atmosphere. Top events: Honorable mention: Make the most of San Diego’s idyllic weather and rich culture with the purchase of a second home. Explore Pacaso’s luxury vacation homes in La Jolla and the greater San Diego area and start living the life you’ve always dreamed of with those you cherish most.

With warm weather, ocean breezes and an impossibly beautiful coastline, it’s hard to go wrong with a trip to Cabo San Lucas. But with sunshine seemingly year-round, determining the best time to visit Cabo depends on what kind of experience you crave. Here’s our breakdown of the best time to travel to Cabo based on the seasons, costs, avoiding tourists and more.  Best months to visit Cabo While Cabo enjoys a warm, tropical climate year-round, certain months offer more ideal weather conditions. Here’s the best time to visit Cabo San Lucas based on weather preferences:  Cabo in December through April  This period is considered the peak season in Cabo due to consistently dry, sunny weather and comfortable temperatures. The ocean is typically calm, making it great for swimming, snorkeling and diving. While you may encounter larger crowds and higher prices during this time, the stunning weather and vibrant atmosphere make it well worth it. For those looking for a unique experience, Cabo in May and June  May and June mark the transition from the dry season to the rainy season. While temperatures remain warm, humidity starts to rise. This period offers a more relaxed atmosphere with fewer crowds and lower prices. It's a great time to experience local culture, indulge in outdoor activities and enjoy the lush greenery. Cabo in July through September July, August and September fall within the rainy season in Cabo. While you can find lower prices on flights and accommodations, be prepared for higher humidity, occasional rain showers and potential tropical storms. While hurricanes are rare, tropical storms can bring heavy rainfall and strong winds. That said, the off-peak season also offers a more tranquil experience with fewer crowds. Cabo in October and November  October and November are shoulder months in Cabo, with a mix of good weather and great deals. While the weather can be hot and humid, the ocean remains calm, and the crowds are significantly smaller compared to the peak season. This period is ideal if you want a balance between affordability and pleasant weather. Cheapest time to visit Cabo If you're looking to score the best deals on flights and accommodations, consider visiting Cabo during the off-peak seasons. The shoulder months offer more affordable rates for Best time to avoid tourists in Cabo If you want to escape the crowds, the best time to go to Cabo is during the shoulder seasons. While you may encounter some crowds, especially during weekends and holidays, the overall atmosphere is significantly more relaxed than in the peak season. Key events in Cabo to plan around Cabo hosts a variety of exciting events throughout the year. If you want a taste of the local culture and festivities, consider planning your trip around these special occasions: Make Cabo your second home with Pacaso Once you know the best time to visit Cabo, you can tailor your trip to the experience you’re looking for.  And if you’re ready to make Cabo your personal paradise, consider a Hassle-free Pacaso vacation home. For just one-eighth of the cost, find your luxury vacation home in the

Both Aspen and Breckenridge are known for epic peaks and alpine atmospheres, but which is a better choice for your ski vacation this winter? To help you decide, we’ve dug into what each of these Colorado towns has to offer and how they differ.   Location, location, location First, let’s talk logistics. How easy is it to get to Aspen vs. Breckenridge?  Breckenridge is about a 90-minute drive from Denver, making it easily accessible whether you live in the city or you’re flying into the Denver airport. But Breckenridge’s proximity to a big city means its slopes can get pretty crowded during peak season. Aspen, about four hours from Denver, has its own small airport serviced by a limited number of major airlines. You might pay more for the convenience of flying in, but it’s nice to land right in the middle of the action. Ski space When it comes to skiable acres, Aspen comes out the clear winner. Aspen’s core village consists of three ski resorts — Aspen Highlands, Aspen Mountain and Buttermilk — which comprise 2,185 skiable acres across 238 runs. Add in Aspen Snowmass, just 30 minutes away, and you have another 3,132 acres and 94 runs, giving you a total of 5,317 skiable acres across 332 runs within a 10-mile radius. Breckenridge comes in at 2,908 skiable acres across 155 runs, but it’s all contained within a single ski resort, so you have more options than you might have at a single Aspen resort. Breckenridge also has five peaks, while Aspen has four. Aspen has a total of 37 lifts vs. 34 at Breckenridge, but Breckenridge also boasts the tallest chairlift in North America, the Bang for your buck Skiers and their money are soon parted, but if you’d like to postpone the sad farewell, Breckenridge will keep you and your cash together longer. For the 2021-22 ski season, a Breckenridge lift pass will cost you $80-$150 a day, while at Aspen you’ll spend $120-$180.  According to Alpine atmosphere and fun for non-skiers Not everyone is a fan of shredding the slopes, and fortunately both Aspen and Breckenridge have loads of fun winter activities for any non-skiers in your group. Check out opportunities for fat biking, ice skating, snowmobiling, dog sledding, fly fishing and more in and around both towns.  Breckenridge and Aspen are also walkable, with downtown shopping, galleries and museums when you need a break from the slopes. Aspen is a favorite ski destination among celebrities, so it has a more upscale, posh feel. Breckenridge is more laid-back, but still well-maintained and charming.  Mountain munchies When it comes to food, Breckenridge and Aspen offer a multitude of dining options, though Aspen leans toward fine dining while Breckenridge has a variety of casual eateries. If you’re looking for slopeside service, keep in mind that Breckenridge has only one full-service restaurant on the mountain, while Aspen has several. Winter events and festivities Finding a great During the winter months, Breckenridge is best known for its tree lighting and Race of the Santas to kick off the holiday season. December also brings Aspen takes its Ullr appreciation to a whole new level with family-friendly The bottom line When it comes to Aspen vs. Breckenridge, where should you go skiing this winter?  It depends on what you’re looking for.  You’ll spend a little more on travel, food, lodging and skiing at Aspen, and you might have fewer crowds to contend with. Breckenridge doesn’t have quite as many acres to ski and fewer dining options than Aspen, but it’s also less expensive, easier to access and has a more laid-back vibe.  The good news is that no matter which town you pick, both have plenty of slopes, runs and lifts to keep you busy, and both have enough festivals, eateries and fun activities to make Learn more If you’re dreaming of a second home in either of these ski destinations, check out Pacaso listings in

Florida has a lot to offer vacationers: year-round sunshine, gorgeous beaches, fun-filled attractions and more. According to Sun-worshiping vacationers flock to Florida during every month of the year, but if you’re hoping to ensure a great travel experience — and avoid crowds, hurricanes and high prices — here are a few things to consider.  What to expect each season in Florida Winter December, January and February are great months to visit Florida. While much of the country is battling cold weather and winter storms, the Sunshine State boasts temperatures in the 60s and low 70s in the northern region, and 70s and low 80s in South Florida. Rainy days are rare this time of year, making it a great time to explore.  You’ll enjoy fewer crowds than other times of the year, but keep in mind that Florida has roughly one million seasonal residents (aptly named “snowbirds” who flock to Florida during the colder months) so you’re not likely to have the beach all to yourself.  Spring Weather-wise, March, April and May are some of the best months in Florida. Sunny days abound and rain levels are minimal. Unsurprisingly, it’s also a busy time of year for tourists, so be prepared for higher-than-average hotel costs and plenty of people in and around popular tourist attractions.  If you plan to visit beach towns like Panama Beach and Daytona Beach but don’t want to relive your college years, avoid March and April. These towns, and a few others on the Florida Panhandle, turn into spring break hotspots for young revelers from around the country.   Summer Some like it hot, and if that’s you, visit Florida in June, July and August. Temperatures are regularly in the 80s and 90s, with high humidity and frequent afternoon storms. Temperatures can be even hotter inland, where you won’t have ocean breezes to cool you off.  Speaking of storms, it’s important to note that the Atlantic hurricane season traditionally begins in June, so be sure to pay attention to the weather forecast before and during your trip. Despite the soaring temperatures and hurricane risk, summer is still a popular time for visitors, especially families.  Fall Autumn brings slightly lower temperatures and smaller crowds, making it a great time to visit. Across the state, you’ll find fall festivals, from the Hotel rates start to drop after Labor Day, making the fall a more affordable time to visit. It’s important to remember that the Atlantic hurricane season runs through the end of October, with the most activity occurring between August and October. If you’re traveling to Florida during any part of hurricane season, it’s smart to buy travel insurance.   The best time to visit Florida theme parks  The Orlando area, the epicenter of American theme parks, is home to Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort and LEGOLAND Florida, among others. You’ll also find no fewer than seven water parks to cool off on hot days. Any Disney aficionado will tell you there is no crowd-free day at Disney World or other area parks. However, you will find Florida theme parks to be less crowded right after the holiday season (January and February) and in September, once schools are back in session. Regardless of the season, your best bet is always a weekday trip.  The best time to visit Miami Miami is an action-packed South Florida destination every month of the year, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. Winter offers the mildest weather, without the sky-high temperatures or sticky humidity. Yet you’ll have to contend with crowds and high hotel prices.  In summer, the temperature is hot but the deals are next level. The best time to visit the Florida Keys A 125-mile-long archipelago off the coast of South Florida, the Florida Keys are a unique destination. With island vibes and incredible natural beauty, the Keys are a bucket-list destination for many. But The Keys have distinct rainy and dry seasons. The rainy season runs from May to October, during which time the islands get the majority of their yearly rainfall — not to mention hurricane risk. The dry season is the most popular time to visit, as you’ll enjoy average temperatures in the 70s with very little rain. As with much of the state, prices and crowds are lower in the summer, but the weather can be unpredictable.  Find your year-round Florida getaway with Pacaso  If Florida is your favorite vacation destination, perhaps it’s time to make it official! As a second home owner in the Sunshine State, you’ll enjoy a place to call home, without the unpredictability of hotel costs. Pacaso has luxury vacation homes Have a property in mind?

Whether you’re looking for flower-filled meadows, roaring waterfalls or mountain vistas, hiking in Easy Telluride hikes Moderate Telluride hikes Challenging Telluride hikes

Fort Lauderdale revels in its natural setting, offering visitors enticing beaches, exotic botanical gardens and exciting boat tours. We did some digging beyond The Yard in Wilton Manors  This lush and serene village-like area of Fort Lauderdale is a cluster of quirky boutique shops and restaurants tucked away from the bustling downtown. Local favorites in The Yard include Anglins Fishing Pier If you’re looking for a bit of “vitamin sea” minus the sand, Broward County Main Library If an afternoon thunderstorm has you seeking shelter or you just need a break from the Florida sun, consider visiting the Yellow Green Farmers Market Local vendors offer fresh produce, handmade goods, craft beer and more at the Secret Woods Nature Center Like its name suggests, the 15th Street Fisheries Part restaurant, part entertainment, Coconuts Restaurant For fine dining with a lovely water view, Marando Farms and Ranch Milk Money Bar & Kitchen If you’re not into the seafood scene, Art walks For a dose of culture, you can stroll through Fort Lauderdale Beach Lastly, we include If you’re looking for other beach options, check out our list of the Looking for a second home? Now that you know where to find  hidden gems in Fort Lauderdale, you’ll need a home base. Pacaso can help you find your dream second home in the Fort Lauderdale area. Start today by checking out our

Depending on how you count, there are somewhere around 100,000 lakes in the United States, from tiny spots to the iconic Great Lakes, and everything in between. With so many bodies of water, it’s no wonder so many of us dream of lakefront living.  The lakes offer a myriad of charms: indescribable natural beauty, endless water sports and sandy beaches. Check out 10 of our favorite American lakes, then learn how you can discover your lakeside home away from home with Pacaso.  1. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada Surrounded by the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains, Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America. Known for its crystal-clear waters, in some places the visibility is more than 70 feet. In the summer months, When snow falls and Tahoe’s many ski resorts open up, the beauty of Lake Tahoe is best seen from the side of a mountain. Take in gorgeous lake views from high atop ski runs at 2. Lake Arrowhead, California Lake Arrowhead is less than two hours from Los Angeles, but it’s a world away. Sitting among the San Bernardino Mountains in what’s affectionately known as the “Alps of Southern California,” this lake is the On the southwest side of the lake, 3. Flathead Lake, Montana As the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, Montana’s For a truly memorable experience, take a boat or ferry to Wild Horse Island. The largest island in the lake, this pristine natural area is home to wild horses, bighorn sheep, mule deer and bald eagles. Many visitors to Flathead Lake leave time to visit another famous Montana destination: 4. Lake Coeur d’Alene, Idaho When the last glaciers receded from the Pacific Northwest almost 15,000 years ago, Lake Coeur d’Alene was born. A crown jewel of the Pacific Northwest, the lake is at the center of all the action in this area. Beautiful beaches and an award-winning resort line the shore, and the In the summer months, explore the 25-mile body of water on your choice of watercraft, from relaxing chartered boat cruises to the adrenaline-pumping fun of a jet ski excursion. Stand-up paddleboards and kayaks are also popular. Want a birds-eye view of the beauty of Idaho? Take a scenic flight on a seaplane.  5. The Finger Lakes, New York As the name suggests, this vacation destination isn’t a single lake, but rather, a collection of eleven long, narrow lakes in picturesque upstate New York. Within driving distance from New York City, Toronto, Boston and Philadelphia, the While the Finger Lakes put on a beautiful show every month of the year, the fall is an idyllic time for a visit. Think warm days, cool nights and a rainbow of fall colors on the hillsides that surround the lakes. Still need convincing? The Finger Lakes area is also New York’s premier wine region, with more than 100 different vineyards and wineries and a reputation for a great riesling.  6. Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire You may very well have to ask a local how to pronounce its name when you arrive, but Every summer, vacationers from the Eastern Seaboard flock to this 72-square-mile lake for boating, fishing, beachcombing, hiking and generally enjoying life at a slower pace. Return in the winter for ice fishing, snowmobiling, dogsledding and more.   7. Crater Lake, Oregon  Perhaps the most unique lake on our list, Unlike other lakes on the list, accessing the water in Oregon’s only national park is part of the adventure. It features steep cliffs on all sides, so you’ll need to take a two-mile hike down the Cleetwood Cove Trail, descending 700 feet of switchbacks to the shoreline. From there, you can board a boat tour that tells you all about the lake’s history and stops on storied Wizard Island, a volcanic cinder cone.  8. Lake Powell, Arizona/Utah Sure, Lake Powell may be a human-made creation —  it’s the second-largest reservoir in the United States, created by the damming of the Colorado River at Rent a houseboat or a speedboat and spend long summer days exploring the twists and turns of some 90 side canyons that make up this massive lake. Be sure to find your way to 9. Lake Lanier, Georgia  Also the result of the damming of a river — the Chattahoochee River, in this case — Georgia’s Despite the large number of visitors, there’s plenty of space, thanks to 700-plus miles of shoreline. Stop by a local marina to rent a pontoon boat, houseboat or jet ski. Book a fishing excursion in search of bass and walleye. Or enjoy food truck fare and live music every Friday at 10. Lake Champlain, New York and Vermont It’s not every day that you can splash around in a lake that has played a pivotal role in not one, not two, but three American wars. But you can do it on Lake Champlain, located on the border of New York and Vermont. Pop into the In the warm weather months, enjoy a kayak excursion, cast a line for largemouth bass or swim from the shore of a sandy beach. Intrepid winter travelers return for ice fishing, snowmobiling and even a classic game of pond hockey.  Discover lakefront luxury Pacaso makes it easy to become a second home owner in a l

Cape Cod National Golf Club in Brewster Named one of the top 20 courses in Massachusetts by Golf Digest, the Farm Neck Golf Club in Oak Bluffs on Martha’s Vineyard Take the ferry to the island of Martha’s Vineyard and play a round at the Miacomet Golf Course on Nantucket The Captains in Brewster  In the self-proclaimed “golf capital of the Lower Cape,” Highland Links in Truro Established in 1892, the 9-hole Cape Cod Country Club in East Falmouth Billed as the classic Cape Cod golf experience, Tee it high and let it fly on Cape Cod How long would it take you to golf all 40+ courses on Cape Cod and the surrounding areas? There’s only one way to find out! Make a

Sit back, close your eyes and picture your dream vacation destination. Are you envisioning warm tropical breezes, swaying palm trees and tropical drinks with little umbrellas? Or are you thinking of white-capped mountain peaks, falling snow and a crackling fire?  When it comes to the eternal beach vs. mountains debate, both are clear winners for differing reasons. Check out our list of five things to love about each option.  Why beaches are best  1. Year-round warm weather  Especially for travelers looking to escape harsh winters, most beach destinations offer sunny skies, balmy weather and warm breezes much of the year. Did you know Miami’s average high temperature in February is 75 degrees? Even Southern California beach communities like 2. Wonderful watersports  While many beachgoers simply want a lounge chair and a good book, beach getaways are also great for the more active set. Depending on the beach you choose, you’ll find all kinds of great on-the-water (and in-the-water) activities. Spend sunny days sailing, fishing, kayaking, swimming, paddle boarding, surfing or even parasailing.  3. A sunny social scene You’re not the only one who loves the beach — a vibrant social scene usually emerges as people flock to the shore. Whether you prefer casual beachside restaurants, al fresco fine dining, or clubs and nightlife, you can find it all in many beach towns. 4. Ample opportunities to relax  There’s something about the sound of crashing waves that washes away all your worries. Go ahead: Tie up that hammock between two palm trees, climb in and start to unwind!  5. Easy to access  Getting to a great beach doesn’t require lots of logistics and multiple modes of transportation. Jetsetters can easily access popular beach destinations on both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts with direct flights, even if you only have a few days to spend.  Why mountains are a must 1. Cozy time Is there anything more idyllic than a mountain home in winter? With snow falling outside and a warm fire inside, a mountain retreat is the perfect place for a winter getaway. Who needs to go outside, anyway?  2. Outdoor adventures When the mountains are calling, bundle up and head out to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling or even dogsledding! Plus, if you’re lucky enough to have a second home in a popular resort destination like 3. Apres-ski activities  After a long day on the slopes, there’s no better way to relax than with a craft cocktail and an award-winning meal. In popular ski destinations like Breckenridge and 4. Natural beauty  There’s something almost magical about life in the mountains. A mountain retreat encourages disconnecting from the hustle and bustle (set the smartphone down!) and reconnecting with the simpler pleasures of life. Gorgeous mountain vistas and incredible flora and fauna don’t hurt, either!  5. Superb solitude  Do you hear that? It’s the sound of … silence. People seeking peace and quiet often head to higher altitudes to escape the crowds, surround themselves with nature and enjoy the myriad benefits of a little time to themselves.  Beach vs. mountain: Find your ideal escape  No matter your choice, Pacaso offers a smarter way to buy and own a second home. As a co-owner of a Pacaso, you never have to worry about maintenance or management. Simply arrive, unpack and hit the beach — or the slopes. Check out our