re: Vacation properties as investments

I have looked into this extensively. You will need to rent the property out 80% of the time to break even, on average, give or take a couple of percent. 80% is doable but you will cut it close every year. The insurance costs are high and the monthly fees range from 600-1300 a month.

If you want to do this you must be financially solvent. Do not take an 80% occupancy for granted, no matter the history of the property.

If you buy one do so for your own enjoyment. Think of the 80% occupancy goal as a bonus that will enable you to build equity and have a low cost vacation home of your own. Be prepared to shell out cash during off months and years.