May 2024
REAL ESTATE NEWS
Brought to you by Mary Tosca
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Rental Investments: Short-Term vs. Long-Term
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Dear Friends,
Many people have asked me about getting into the rental market. If you're exploring the idea of investing in rental properties, understanding the difference between short-term and long-term rentals is a key starting point. Both paths offer unique opportunities and challenges depending on your investment goals and lifestyle. Let's start with some essential steps to consider before starting your investment journey.

For Rent

Initial Steps for Future Investors:
  1. Financial Assessment - Evaluate your financial health. This includes evaluating your current assets, liabilities, and cash flow. Ensure you have the financial buffer to manage initial costs and unforeseen expenses.
  2. Market Research - Familiarize yourself with both the broader market trends and the specifics of your local area. Understanding demand, average rental rates, and occupancy trends is crucial.
  3. Legal and Tax Implications - Research the legal and tax aspects of owning a rental property. Consider consulting a real estate attorney or tax advisor to understand landlord-tenant laws and tax obligations.
  4. Investment Goals and Risk Tolerance - Clearly define your investment goals. Are you looking for quick returns or a long-term income stream? Assess your risk tolerance and how much time you're willing to dedicate to managing your property.
Short-Term Rentals: Dynamic and Potentially Lucrative
Short-term rentals, facilitated by platforms like Airbnb and VRBO, cater to travelers and those seeking temporary lodging. This option is particularly appealing if you're interested in a more active role in property management and seeking potentially higher returns.

Pros:
  • Higher Income Potential: These rentals can yield higher returns, particularly during tourist seasons or local events.
  • Market Adaptability: You have the flexibility to adjust prices in response to demand fluctuations.
Cons:
  • Intensive Management: This option demands more hands-on involvement, from managing bookings to ensuring the property is guest-ready.
  • Regulatory Considerations: Stay informed about local regulations affecting short-term rentals, as they can significantly impact your operation.
Key Considerations:
  1. Location is Key: Properties in tourist-friendly locations or near major attractions tend to have higher occupancy rates.
  2. Stay Informed: Keep abreast of local laws and community guidelines to ensure compliance.
  3. Create an Experience: Offering a unique or tailored guest experience can enhance reviews and repeat bookings.
Long-Term Rentals: Steady and Less Hands-On
If you prefer a more hands-off approach and value consistency, long-term rentals could be a better fit. These typically involve leases of six months or more and offer a more predictable, steady income stream.

Pros:
  • Predictable Income: The stability of regular rent payments makes financial planning easier.
  • Reduced Turnover: Longer lease terms mean less frequent tenant changes and associated costs.
Cons:
  • Limited Rent Flexibility: Your ability to adjust rent is generally constrained by the lease terms.
  • Long-Term Tenant Relations: Managing tenant relationships over an extended period requires careful tenant selection and communication skills.
Key Considerations:
  1. Tenant Screening is Crucial: Implementing a thorough tenant screening process can help ensure reliable and responsible occupants.
  2. Understand the Market: Familiarize yourself with local rental rates and tenant laws to optimize your investment.
  3. Property Maintenance: Plan for ongoing maintenance and occasional repairs to keep your property attractive and functional.
If you're exploring the idea of rental property investment, weigh your personal goals, time commitment, and market conditions against these two paths. Successful real estate investing is about strategy, understanding your market, and aligning choices with your investment goals. Please call me about any specific questions you have. 

April Real Estate Statistics + My New Listings and Sales
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The Southern Arizona Multiple Listing Service has released the April statistics. 

New Listings 1,796 (+24.7%)
Closed Sales 1,298 (-2.7%)
Days on Market Until Sale 20 days (-3 days)
Median Sales Price $370,840 (+8.4%)
Average Sales Price $463,058 (+14.1%)
Average % Over Asking Price -1.6% (-.13%)
Inventory of Homes For Sale 3,294 properties for sale 
Months Supply of Inventory 2.54 months 


Coming Soon
4951 N. Valley View located in the heart of the Foothills near Swan and Sunrise. District 16 Schools. $1,350,000
If you are looking in the Foothills or know someone who is, this is a must see property on .88 of acre with its own walking path, desert garden, pool and golf hole! Fully gated with four electronic gate access points, an oversized 3-car garage + parking for five additional vehicles (space for RV or a boat). 
4 Bedrooms/3 Baths, 3122 sqft, Great Room concept + Flex space that can be an additional living room/office/game room or home theater, Chef's kitchen, Butler's pantry and an air-conditioned exercise room. Bring the outdoors inside with two sets of stackable sliding doors that lead to an outdoor kitchen, upgraded turf area and fire feature with seating for ten! This home is highly upgraded and move-in ready. Click on the link to view the detailed Floor Plan.

4951 N Valley View Floorplan


Active 
12851 N Whitlock Canyon Drive in Oro Valley $929,000
4BR/3BA, 2908 sqft, one-story home, Great room concept with 20' ceilings and designer finishes throughout the home. The backyard oasis has a pool/spa/outdoor fireplace/built-in barbeque/upgraded turf and a putting green. Cul-de-sac lot with no neighbor behind you and unobstructed sunset and desert views.  Click on the link to view the property website, floorplan and gallery of photos. 

Property Website Tour




Under Contract

7091 W Maple Ridge Drive in Continental Ranch $515,000
5 Bedroom/3 Bath, 2132 sqft updated home with a welcoming courtyard entry, owned solar, outdoor kitchen and a pool! This gem received multiple offers and we were thrilled to hear the seller accepted my clients offer. The buyers are looking forward to getting settled in Tucson, using their new pool and being close to restaurants, hiking trails, schools and shopping. 



Under Contract
62222 E Northwood Road in Saddlebrooke $529,000
2 Bedroom+Den, 2 Bath, 2,368 sqft home with a 295 sqft casita. A private North facing yard, screened in Arizona Room and built-in cabinetry in three rooms made this home stand out from all the others.  My clients are ready to play pickleball, golf and enjoy the Saddlebrooke lifestyle. 


As always, I am a resource to you as you consider buying or selling any type of real estate.  Don’t hesitate to reach out if you want to learn more about your options.

Have a wonderful month and I look forward to bringing you another real estate update in June. Thank you for your business! 
Mary 
QUESTIONS? VISIT www.marysellstucson.net