Disclaimer
This article reflects Bellamy House's personal investment research and opinions. It is not financial, legal, real estate, or tax advice. Short-term rental performance varies by property, management, regulation, and market conditions. Always conduct independent due diligence and consult appropriate professionals before purchasing.
I don’t buy real estate emotionally (well, maybe a little). I aim to buy where demand is durable, regulation risk is manageable, and the numbers have a defensible story five years from now and not just this season. Location & Niche remain at the forefront of decision-making.
Here are the four markets currently at the top of my Airbnb acquisition list and why they’re compelling to me.
1. Great Smoky Mountains (Tennessee or North Carolina side)
Why it’s at the top:
- #1 most visited national park in the United States
- Year-round tourism (fall foliage, winter cabins, spring wildflowers, summer family travel)
- Low property taxes
- Strong historic cabin performance
This is a volume market with an established infrastructure for short-term rentals that seems ready to expand. The demand base is broad: families, road-trippers, couples, bachelor/bachelorette groups, and holiday travel.
The key here is not just buying a cabin, it’s buying a differentiated cabin and making sure it stands out in a somewhat saturated environment. Design and amenities matter.
2. Payson, Arizona
Why it’s compelling:
- Strong destination appeal
- Located along a busy travel route
- Access to the Tonto National Forest and park systems
- Stargazing
- Elevation helps avoid the most intense Arizona heat
- Historically solid cabin performance
Arizona is crowded in Scottsdale and Sedona. Payson offers similar natural beauty with less pricing pressure.
3. Southern Seacoast, Maine
Why I like it:
- I’ve already run a successful Airbnb here
- Reasonable property taxes relative to other coastal markets
- Extremely strong summer pricing
- Reliable year-round demand
- Visually stunning coastline
This one is operationally comfortable for me. It’s a seasonal spike market with shoulder-season resilience.
4. Matanuska-Susitna Valley, Alaska
Why it’s interesting:
- Driveable to Anchorage
- Exceptional access to nature
- Underserved short-term rental supply
- Minimal regulations
- Alaska State Fair traffic
- Adventure tourism growth
Alaska is a different thesis entirely. This is not a casual market; it’s a strategic bet on under-supply and experiential travel. The Mat-Su Valley offers proximity to Anchorage while maintaining the wilderness draw that casual travelers want.
What Ties All Four Together
These markets share common traits:
- Strong tourism anchors (national parks, coastline, destination routes)
- Natural beauty that markets itself
- Established travel patterns
- Price points that still allow room for upside
How I’m Evaluating Each Market
Before purchasing, I’m analyzing:
- Regulation risk trajectory
- Insurance environment
- Seasonality
- Comparable nightly rates vs. acquisition cost vs. managing expenses
- Build or renovation potential
- Exit liquidity & appreciation
Short-term rentals are a business.
Final Disclaimer
This post is for educational and informational purposes only and reflects personal investment considerations. Real estate investments carry risk, including loss of capital. Regulations, tax laws, and market conditions can change. Always verify local short-term rental rules and consult with licensed financial, tax, and legal professionals before making an investment decision.
