Louise Owenby and her husband have owned their vacation home in Bend, Oregon since April 2004, but they only recently decided to convert it to a vacation rental. Louise speaks with Christine about the challenges and rewards of launching a vacation rental business. << MORE >>

"I usually send an email follow up along with a brief voicemail within an hour of receiving an inquiry, but I never hear back. At what point does customer service become an annoyance?"<< MORE >>

Two fridges? The unique considerations of renting your primary home as a vacation rental.<< MORE >>

What is a monthly rental, anyway? (30 days? 31 days? 4 weeks?)<< MORE >>

"What do I do if I quoted a potential renter the wrong rate?" Christine explains various ways to handle this sticky situation.<< MORE >>

The unique aspects of renting a vacation home on an island only accessible by boat.<< MORE >>

At what point during the booking process should an owner mark their calendar as "booked"? When a renter says, "yes, I want to book," or when you've received their check? And how do you answer inquiries you receive in the interim? Christine advises the best way to handle this situation.<< MORE >>

What to do if a renter damages an expensive item during their stay and the amount to repair it costs more than the amount of the security deposit? Christine provides several suggestions for how to handle this difficult situation. << MORE >>

Christine speaks with Traci Stevens of Classic Home Care about the benefits of working with a housekeeper who understands the vacation rental business.<< MORE >>

Condo owner Marti Swift shares her experience dealing with a maintenance disaster on New Year's Day and talks with Christine about how she now handles preventative maintenance.<< MORE >>

Christine talks with real estate agent Meredith McKenzie about the benefits of buying condos vs. single family homes for use as a vacation rental. << MORE >>

A California owner talks with Christine about the unique challenges of living in the same duplex where your vacation rental is located. << MORE >>

The benefits of offering crib and highchair rentals to accommodate families with young children at your vacation home<< MORE >>

Christine interviews Bob Moore about his experience as a long-distance vacation rental owner and learns his perspectives on selecting vacation rental websites and responding to inquiries.  http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com
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An owner asks: "I'm considering allowing pets in my vacation rental. What steps do I need to take before I allow guests to bring their pets?" Christine explains the steps involved in a comprehensive pet policy.<< MORE >>

Stephen Fishman, author of Every Landlord's Tax Deduction Guide, shares tips on how to file your vacation rental income taxes, deduct for depreciation, and address the hobby loss rule.  http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com
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Christine interviews vacation rental owner and web designer, Robin Clapp of Web-Design-By-Robin.com, about the use of personal websites for marketing vacation rental homes. http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com.
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In their second interview, Janet Portman, author and attorney, answers Christine's questions about screening vacation rental guests under the Fair Housing Act and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).  http://OwnerCommunity.HomeAway.com
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Christine interviews Janet Portman, an attorney specializing in landlord/tenant law, on the subject of Limited Liability Corporations and why they may create a false sense of security for vacation rental owners.
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Christine explains why accepting credit cards could increase bookings for your vacation rental.<< MORE >>

Christine shares some guidelines for when you might charge guests for damage and when to consider it a cost of doing business or normal wear and tear.
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Christine interviews Marino Tomacelli about his unique vacation home, "Taninah", featured on HGTV's Most Extreme Homes, and his partnerships with local tour operators.
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Christine provides information on filing a 1099 for your vacation rental housekeeper.
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Jeannie Laird, Photo Department Manager for VRBO.com, shares her strategies for managing vacation rentals from afar and working with a property management company and her recent experience with break-ins.
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Christine provides tips on screening renters, including some specific red flags to watch for. 

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com.

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Christine explains the benefits of updating your vacation rental listing.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

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Christine shares her opinions on the benefits of accepting pets at your vacation rental and addresses the concern about guests with allergies.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

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Christine interviews Tim Hart about his experience as a vacation rental owner and real estate agent in Big Sky, Montana.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

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Christine explains the importance of detailed location information in your listing and what specifics you should highlight.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Christine interviews real estate agent and vacation rental owner, Brenda Schiemo-Smith about the real estate market in Minnesota and operating her lakeshore vacation rentals.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Christine chats with Kona, HI vacation rental owner, David Michael, about his experience and successes as an owner of a large vacation home.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com.

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Christine addresses the balance between personal items and guest comfort.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

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Christine answers the common question of whether you should feature people in photos of your vacation property.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

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Christine tells owners how they can learn what makes a good listing by visiting Listings 101 on the Owner Community.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

In her second interview with David Motley, President of Colonial Savings, Christine discusses the current mortgage situation, tips for buying vacation homes, and options for refinancing.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

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This has run through my mind a million times before, and I really think that you can still call it beachfront. The way that I've justified this is I think about a hotel. << MORE >>

Christine addresses how an uncertain economy and gas prices could affect your vacation home rentals.<< MORE >>

Christine talks about the real estate and vacation rental market in Taos, NM with real estate agent Peter Lora.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Christine talks with Mireya Schmidt about her background as both a real estate agent and vacation rental owner of multiple properties.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Christine talks with Gregg Rapp about the excitement and challenges of renting a high-end vacation home that has attracted celebrity guests.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Christine talks with Lynn Atchison, the CFO of HomeAway, about her hesitation in renting and why she eventually changed her mind.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Christine talks with Mary Byerly of Furniture Land South about decorating tips for your vacation home and the benefits of using a design consultant.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Christine learns about purchasing island property on St. Croix from real estate agent and broker, Kim Lucas.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Christine discusses the benefits of renting your home for short-term versus long-term rentals.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Christine shares ideas for indoor and outdoor amenities to add to your vacation rental.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Christine talks with the President of Colonial National Mortgage and vacation home owner, David Motley, about mortgaging and refinancing options for vacation homes.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Christine discusses the definition of "chargebacks" and how to prevent them.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Christine explains some common signs of scam inquiries.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Christine continues her discussion with Jerry Ray about the benefits of building an international airport in Panama City, FL.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Christine talks to Jerry Ray about the progress and benefits of an international airport for vacation rental owners in Panama City.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Christine shares some ideas for working with budget-conscious travelers.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Christine interviews Real Estate Broker, Jim Dague, to learn about his expertise in the resort and second home industry.
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Christine discusses the Kissimmee and Orlando markets with vacation home real estate broker, Raymond Butterfield.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Christine continues her discussion on the challenges of renting and maintaining a vacation property from abroad.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.
 
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Christine discusses the challenges of owning and renting a vacation home in Canada while living in the UK.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Christine chats with Stowe real estate agent, Ken Libby about the current market conditions.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Christine interviews lakehouse owner, Michelle Helterbran, who had the first vacation rental on Richland Chambers Lake, TX.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Learn how to stay environmentally conscious at your family's vacation home or cottage.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Real Estate Agent, John Jarvis, discusses the vacation home market in Muskoka.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Christine advises a homeowner on how to convert her many inquiries into actual bookings.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Real Estate Agent, Shannyn Stevenson, is back to discuss the Destin, FL market, along with foreclosures and short sales.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Second part of Christine's talk with Naples real estate agent, Lynn Wilber. ...<< MORE >>

Christine and real estate agent, Lynn Wilber, discuss the vacation home market in Naples, FL.  
...<< MORE >>

Christine touts the pros and cons of renting your vacation home by owner.

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Christine talks with vacation rental owner, Bob Kelly, about why he chose renting by owner in Pacific Beach, WA. 

For transcripts of the podcasts, as well as, tips and advice for second home owners, visit http://ownercommunity.homeaway.com/.

...<< MORE >>

Christine discusses common pitfalls when pricing your vacation rental property. 
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Christine talks with vacation rental owner, Ed Reese, about his experience trying to sell one of his vacation homes. ...<< MORE >>

Christine talks with new owner, Ross Buhrdorf, about preparing his property, starting the rental process and what he'd like to change about the HomeAway sites. ...<< MORE >>

This week, Christine interviews Steamboat Springs realtor, Randall Hannaway, about the vacation home market in his area. << MORE >>

Christine talks with seasoned owner and virtual tours expert, Ed Reese. << MORE >>

Christine talks with Santa Fe, New Mexico owner, Deborah Haws.<< MORE >>

Christine chats with Keystone area owner, Bev Babich, about her experience renting her home and the unique, co-op that Bev participates in with her rental neighbors.<< MORE >>

Should owners of more than one property leave their calendar blank?

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Christine chats about the vacation real estate market in Tahoe with South Lake Tahoe realtor, Deb Howard.
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Christine interviews experienced owner, Richard Pretl, about his vacation rental in Baltimore, Maryland.
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Christine talks with Trey Herschap, HomeAway's Director of Trust & Safety, about the Rent With Confidence Guarantee and what it means for vacation rental owners. << MORE >>

I know having a vacation rental property can make your utility rates go up astronomically. I was just speaking to an owner yesterday who was complaining that travelers leave their doors open and leave the air conditioning on, and their utility bill was over $600, whereas in the normal off-season, it's usually around $85 to $100. That could really cut into your bottom line.<< MORE >>

Christine answers a question from an owner who wants to know if it's better to charge one all-inclusive rate or to break the rental rate into parts (cleaning fee, sales tax, etc.). 
...<< MORE >>

Christine answers a question from an owner about whether it is better to provide linens or to require your guests to bring their own. 
...<< MORE >>

Ever thought about buying in Mexico? Christine talks with Los Cabos realtor, Julie Kershner.
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This week, Christine answers a question from a Dillon Beach owner, who wonders if she can ask for a credit card in case of excess damage.

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Christine interviews Park City realtor, Dennis Hanlon about the Park City vacation home market. << MORE >>

Christine answers a question about how to handle keys. << MORE >>

Christine talks with realtor, Rick Tourgee about the vacation rental market in Provincetown. << MORE >>

Christine talks with Sevier County Trustee, Jettie Clabo about the new 3% occupancy/lodging tax effective July 1st. << MORE >>

This week, Christine answers a question from a North Myrtle Beach owner about how to handle requests for weeks that don't fit into the typical Saturday to Saturday model. << MORE >>

Christine talks with realtor Pat Malone about the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge vacation rental market. << MORE >>

This week, Christine answers a question about buying a property that doesn't work with standard the break-even formula. << MORE >>

Christine talks with Orlando property manager, Steve Trover about how to find a good property manager. << MORE >>

Christine answers a question from a Winter Park, CO owner whose property was inaccessible due to closed roads.<< MORE >>

Christine talks with realtor, Meredith McKenzie about the California Gold Coast vacation home market. << MORE >>

This week, Christine answers a question from a Bodega Bay owner who wonders if there are any companies that provide damage insurance for vacation rental homes. << MORE >>

Christine talks with Branson vacation rental owner Valerie Budd about her decision to switch from a property management company to renting by owner. << MORE >>

We're introducing a new segment to the How to Rent Vacation Properties by Owner podcast series, "Ask Christine". This week, Christine answers a question asked by a potential owner who wonders whether he should invest in a 3BR or a 4BR house on Lake Hartwell. << MORE >>

Christine talks with realtor, Dorothea about the Montana vacation home market. << MORE >>

Second part of Christine's interview with co-ownership expert and attorney, Andy Sirkin. << MORE >>

Have you ever thought about buying a second home with friends? Christine talks with attorney and co-ownership expert, Andy Sirkin. << MORE >>

Christine talks with Destin owner, Gayla Berry, about how she came to buy her first vacation rental property and why she rents by owner. << MORE >>

Interview with Palm Desert owner, Melinda Diperna about her experience battling a vacation rental ban in her complex. << MORE >>

In the second part of this two-part interview, Christine talks with Destin realtor, Shannyn Stevenson. << MORE >>

In this episode Christine interviews Destin realtor, Shannyn Stevenson. << MORE >>

Christine talks with successful vacation rental owner and rent by owner "purist," Robin Clapp about why she bought her vacation home, what she enjoys about the process, and how's she's handled the unusually warm winter. << MORE >>

Christine addresses the issue of vacation, short-term, and transient rental bans. << MORE >>

Second half of Christine's interview with Belinda Watson of the Florida Department of Revenue. << MORE >>

Christine Karpinski speaks with Belinda Watson of the Florida Department of Revenue about collecting sales taxes for vacation rental properties. << MORE >>

Christine talks about the different kinds of vacation rental properties from RVs to teepees to cabooses, as well as, the number one mistake that vacation rental owners make and how to get financing. << MORE >>

Christine discusses the current best buy areas for vacation homes, how to find a real estate agent, and what she would say to someone interested in the vacation rental business. << MORE >>

Christine chats about how to find the perfect housekeeper, the importance of liability insurance, and why vacation rental owners should contact a lawyer before setting up an LLC. << MORE >>

Christine outlines the reasons for renting your vacation home and discusses common fears. << MORE >>

Christine talks about the business side of the vacation rental owner experience including why to write a business plan, how the real estate bubble is affecting vacation properties, and how to effectively advertise. << MORE >>

Christine talks about the basics of buying a vacation rental home. << MORE >>

Christine speaks with the HomeAway UK office about global advertising advantages, challenges and differences. << MORE >>

Christine speaks with CPA and co-owner of HotSpotTax.com K. Stephens about collecting and paying sales taxes for vacation homes. << MORE >>

Christine speaks with insurance expert D. Workman about getting insurance for vacation homes. << MORE >>