Christine speaks with Dottie DeHart of DeHart and Company Public Relations about strategies for gaining media attention for a vacation rental home. How can you get journalists to write about your vacation homes rental property? Should you hire a PR agency? Should you write press releases? << MORE >>

Today’s question comes from Mike, he asks: I want to protect what is important to me. Our house, although close to attractions, is in an extremely isolated area and I view this as an asset. I am thinking about remote surveillance cameras. Not inside the house but to monitor outdoor activity. First, I would love to see people going in and out of the house(specifically how many people). Socond, to check up on my housekeeper. Third, to make sure guests follow our rules with our hot tub. You know, over-crowding , no small children, no glass, etc. So Christine, What do you think about the cameras? And do I legally have to inform the guests that there are cameras. << MORE >>

Christine speaks with Eva Pickens, Homeowners Association Manager for Newman Daily Resort Properties. They discuss the duties and responsibilities of HOA officers and board members. They also discuss the importance of your vote in your vacation home HOA. << MORE >>

Today’s question comes from Cory, she asks, I have a last-minute opening in my vacation rental. Are there any secrets you have to getting it booked? << MORE >>

Today’s question comes from Margarita. She writes: When we bought our vacation home, we intended on using mainly as our second home. We decided to rent it out to off-set some of the costs of ownership. We’ve been renting it for just about 5 years now and the rentals are going very well. But our problem is our vacation home seems as if it has become “all work and no play”. Whenever we visit, we spend most of our time doing maintenance, cleaning, supplying etc. Will I ever get to enjoy my vacation home again? << MORE >>

Today’s podcast is the continuation of Christine's conversation with Brian Sharples, CEO of HomeAway Inc., (HomeAway.com, VRBO.com, VacationRentals.com, etc.). Christine talks with Brian the IPO, the many changes with the company and ultimately what this means for the owners and property manager who list their homes on the company’s websites. This is part two of a two part interview with Brian Sharples. << MORE >>

Today’s guest is Brian Sharples, CEO of HomeAway Inc., (HomeAway.com, VRBO.com, VacationRentals.com, etc.). Christine talks with Brian the IPO, the many changes with the company and ultimately what this means for the owners and property manager who list their homes on the company’s websites. This is part one of a two part interview with Brian Sharples. Tune in next week for the continuation of their conversation. << MORE >>

Today’s question comes from Joseph, he asks, Christine, I have lowered my rates for my 3 bedroom cabin from $160/night all the way down to $99 per night and I’m giving free cleaning fee and free pet stays. With all of this I still cannot seem to get any bookings! Do you have any suggestions for me? << MORE >>

Christine speaks with frequent vacation rental traveler Julie. She’s been renting vacation homes three to five times per year for more than ten years. Feedback from guests can often give you important feedback for you or your home. Julie shares her recent experience in renting a vacation home and offers suggestions from a traveler’s perspective. << MORE >>

Today’s question comes from Susan, she asks, I often get inquiries for one-night bookings. I would love to hear your opinion on one-night stays, do you accept them at all? << MORE >>

Christine Speaks with Trina Savage-Christian, director of CITA (Cayman Island Tourism Association). Trina shares the advantages and benefits of joining your local Tourism Assn., Chamber of Commerce or Visitor and Convention Bureau. In many areas the tourism boards are free (or inexpensive) to join; if you don’t register your vacation rental business, it could be a missed-opportunity for you. << MORE >>

Today’s question comes from Andrew. He asks, if I take credit cards for my vacation rental, how should I handle the security deposit? Do I take it via credit card or should I require a check. And if I take it via credit card, how do I avoid the fees associated with charging then refunding their security deposit? << MORE >>

Christine speaks with Mary Song of Yuupon.com about advertising vacation rental properties through social coupon websites. Mary gives tactics for filling your last-minute dates and slower season using coupon websites services such as Yuupon.com, Groupon.com, LivingSocial.com, etc. << MORE >>

Christine answers todays question from Gina. She asks, I always have friends who call and ask me to stay “rent” or should I say stay for free at my vacation rental. How do you handle this? << MORE >>

How many times has a charity asked you to donate a week of your vacation rental for a charity’s silent auction? Before you do, you should listen to this podcast. Christine talks with Michal McFadden of VacationHomesforCharity.org. Michael tells listeners many things to consider about donating your home to a charity. << MORE >>

Today’s question comes from Angelo, he asks, I just got a reservation request for 19 months from today. What’s the best way to handle the payment schedule for a booking so far in advance? << MORE >>

Christine speaks with Rob Stephens, co-owner of HotSpotTax.com about collecting and remitting sales taxes for vacation rentals. Whoops—you didn’t know you had to pay sales tax? No worries, Rob explains how you can come clean. << MORE >>

Today’s question comes from George, he asks: I have noticed in my area, that property managers upload large blocks of properties onto VRBO which in turn buries the single homeowner. So how does the single homeowner differentiate ourselves on VRBO? << MORE >>

Christine interviews homeowner, Amy Greener of http://www.bluemistcabins.com/ . Amy shares some of her secrets to decorating vacation rentals on a tight budget. << MORE >>

Today’s question comes from Arlene, she writes: Christine, last week I had a very close call with my renters. They went to the beach and lost the key to our home. What do you do if your guests get locked out? << MORE >>

Christine talks with professional Real Estate Photographer, Michael James of http://www.digitalcoastimage.com/ about the ins and outs of hiring a professional photographer for vacation rental advertisements. Michael offers valuable insights into the specialized field of real estate photography. << MORE >>

Today’s question comes from Beth. She asks, I am just about done with a major refurbish of my vacation rental. As soon as I am done I plan on hiring a photographer to take photos. Can you sum up the most important thing I should consider when staging my photos? << MORE >>

Are you in the market to purchase a new vacation rental but running into roadblocks with the financing? Then you are not alone! Mortgaging in today’s financial market can be extremely challenging. Christine talks with author, columnist, and second home financing expert, Tom Kelly (www.TomKelly.com) who gives innovative options for financing a vacation home. << MORE >>

Successful vacation rental owner Louis asks today’s question: I am doing really well with my vacation rental business and over the years I have had a lot of people ask me if I would rent their homes for them. I was thinking about taking on some other people’s home to become a small property manager. What are some steps I should take? << MORE >>

Christine talks with Janice Mercieri, a new vacation rental owner who found marketing her vacation home to corporate executives even more lucrative than renting to travelers. Listen to some of the innovative marketing strategies Janice employs to get her home booked. << MORE >>

Getting the nomenclature correct for security deposits and reservation deposit is imperative especially if a guest cancels a booking. Christine explains why it is important to get it right. << MORE >>

Housekeepers are our lifeline for our rentals. Get the inside scoop from Linette Simper, a housekeeper who services vacation rental properties.<< MORE >>

Vacation rental owner, Nicolas says that his renters claim they never received the email responses to his inquiries. He knows he responded! Could Nicolas possibly be losing bookings over email problems? Christine explains tactic for replying to vacation rental inquiries. << MORE >>

Newbie owner, Deb Gabor tells Christine how she bought her new vacation rental property in Cottonwood Canyon, Utah in one day. << MORE >>

Renting a main house with a guest house as one booking or two? That is the question! This is a must-listen to podcast for anyone renting a unique property such as a lot with two houses or a duplex.<< MORE >>

Owner Leisa Tobler talks with Christine about how she came to own her very first vacation home— she won it! << MORE >>

Christine explains what is standard in the vacation rental business when it comes to providing essentials, like toilet paper.<< MORE >>

Austin, Texas-based vacation rental owner Malynda Williams talks about her huge successes in her very first year of renting. << MORE >>

Listener Gabby wants to take $5,000 and make one large upgrade to her vacation rental. Christine weighs in on which one will attract the most guests.<< MORE >>

Tony Buzbee, of Buzbee Law Firm, speaks with Christine on representing hundreds of Deepwater Horizon oil spill victims and strategies for dealing with BP during the final payment process.<< MORE >>

Listener Jerry writes in to ask us how he can best get keys to renters when his HOA does not allow lockboxes on the door.<< MORE >>

Debi Nelson-Maney is an owner in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin who goes against the grain on one hot button issue for vacation rental owners. Not only does Debi allow 25-year-olds and under to rent her property, she encourages it. Her story might have you rethinking your current marketing outreach!<< MORE >>

Listener Cheryl asks Christine to clarify if a weekly rental is 7 days, 6 nights or 8 days, 7 nights.<< MORE >>

Owner Larry Barlow inherited his parents home in northern Michigan and at the suggestion of his CPA, started to think about renting his house. Once he began to prepare the property for renters (and took a long hard look at all the money involved), he realized that less might be more.<< MORE >>

Debbie James started out as a real estate investor of rental properties in Atlanta, Georgia before taking on the role full time in Florida. She soon shifted gears to join the agent side of things, helping buyers and sellers of vacation property in the Destin area. Debbie is going to talk to us about the current state of the Destin market, including the impact of the oil spill as well as obtaining a mortgage.<< MORE >>

If you haven't been charging sales tax, the jig is up. Christine explains how to navigate these uncertain waters.<< MORE >>

Washington, D.C. property owner Jarek Mika started with his first listing on VRBO four years ago and he was amazed at the number of inquiries that started to pour in. Jarek is going to share with us some of his own best practices, his recent experience with a VRBO Bear Stay, how he came to manage properties for other owners, and even how he handled an onslaught of inquiries during the inauguration.<< MORE >>

Owner-to-property manager Ann Holdridge has been in the business of vacation rentals since 1992. Learn how Ann went from running her own property to managing others' properties to eventually owning her own property management business.<< MORE >>

Christine explains what owners can do to cool down their guests in lieu of an expensive air conditioner installation. << MORE >>

Pittsburgh-based vacation rental owner Melanie Patterson discusses her property, a retro-inspired home featuring decoration from the 40's-70's.<< MORE >>

Think that you provide everything your travelers could possibly need? Take a close look at your property to see if you're providing necessities like shampoo, conditioner, tissues and more.<< MORE >>

Owner Gail Armand rents out her vacation home on the Big Island of Hawaii, but it's not just any property. Gail owns a REAL treehouse! Click here and find out how she came up with this very unique idea. << MORE >>

Some owners with properties in remote destinations may find it costly to provide Internet access for their guests.  Christine addresses the options of not providing Internet access, charging renters for usage, or bundling the costs into your rates.

... << MORE >>

We’ve heard a lot about bed bugs lately, and many homeowners are concerned about getting these critters in their vacation homes. Missy Henrickson, Vice President of Public Affairs for the National Pest Management Association, will help put our minds at ease about what we can do to prevent these pests. << MORE >>

Are you working a full-time job, taking care of yourself (not to mention family and friends), AND managing your vacation rental? You are not alone. While it can sometimes seem daunting and tiring, there are ways of lightening the load. << MORE >>

Julie Ward Holland bought 11 vacation rental properties all at once and began the process of renovating them, but it wasn't all window treatments and flat screen TVs. Julie quickly became a master at basic maintenance— from changing the toilet gasket to pressure washing, Julie can do it all. << MORE >>

Believe it or not, it is possible to enjoy your own personal vacation while also managing your vacation rental business. Whether you go somewhere remote or you are just enjoying a staycation, we'll tell you how to make the most of your down time. << MORE >>

Wouldn’t it be nice to remotely change the lock codes for your vacation rental?  Christine interviews Steve Samolinski, the Solutions Manager for Connected Home Solutions at Ingersoll Rand, or simply, the guy who really knows everything about the Schlage Link!<< MORE >>

Listener Kathy wonders about the difference between a timeshare and a vacation rental, and if timeshares are allowed on HomeAway sites.<< MORE >>

Find out what you can do if you find out your renters have brought more people than listed on their rental agreement.<< MORE >>

Christine talks with Melissa Ray, a vacation homeowner on the Gulf Coast in Alabama, about the BP claims process and how the oil spill has impacted her rental business. << MORE >>

Callie Wellendorf runs a vacation rental bed and breakfast hybrid in the mountains of North Carolina. Listen to her story here.<< MORE >>

This Ask Christine is a must-listen for anyone who owns vacation rental property along the Gulf Coast.<< MORE >>

As a former lobbyist, vacation rental owner Dian Jordan felt particularly strongly when the local government proposed legislation that all vacation rental owners in the area would have to obtain real estate licenses. Dian considers herself to be more of a hotelier, and she fought (and won) to pass state legislation to maintain VRBOs as hotels in Oklahoma.<< MORE >>

A new vacation homeowner wonders if he can charge a fee to renters booking with a credit card.<< MORE >>

Christine explains how to confidently and safely include amenities like ATVs, golf carts, surfboards, bicycles, and yes, even baby gear with your vacation rental. << MORE >>

Christine talks with Dave Stech, a Las Vegas-area vacation rental investor. If you are thinking of investing in multiple vacation rental properties, this podcast is a must-listen. << MORE >>

Although moved furniture can be a pain, Christine explains why it may not always be a bad thing. ... << MORE >>

If you have a new vacation rental, most likely you also have a blank calendar. Learn how to make your property stand out amongst the often-rented properties even before the first booking.<< MORE >>

"Can we just stop by to check out the house before we book?" We've all had to face this question at some point! Christine will explain what's an appropriate answer.<< MORE >>

Kari Ann Gerlach has been renting her luxury property in Santa Barbara, California for about 2 years.   The second booking she ever accepted was actually for HomeAway executives traveling with the VRBO bear. If you haven't heard of it, learn more about it in Christine’s interview with Kari Ann.

... << MORE >>

In reality, it’s probably not possible to get both the deposit and the signed contract simultaneously, so Christine will explain how she handles her own bookings. << MORE >>

Christine explains why the location of your property affects the answer to this question.<< MORE >>

Are you on the fence about whether to meet with your renters at check-in or mail them the keys? Christine weighs in.<< MORE >>

Christine chats with Jim Leonard, a vacation homeowner in Austin, Texas who rented his condo for the first time during the SXSW music festival... to a rock band! << MORE >>

Want to allow travelers to see your rental agreement before the booking has been completed but don't want to compromise your address or amenities? Find out how on this episode! << MORE >>

Surfside, S.C. vacation rental owner Penny Black Rudinger shares herexperience and solutions when another owner plagiarized her listing. ... << MORE >>

Evelyn Gallardo, professional photographer and vacation homeowner, discusses buying property in Costa Rica and why she hired someone else to take property photos.<< MORE >>

Christine discusses how to use the size of your beds to take advantage of the maximum number of people you can sleep.<< MORE >>

Learn the advantages of using a merchant account like PPI from Robert Lawson, a PPI Sales Manager.<< MORE >>

Christine discusses whether listing an 800 number or a local phone number is better for your vacation rental business.<< MORE >>

Christine and Robert Lawson, sales manager at Payment Processing, Inc., discuss the process of accepting credit cards through merchant accounts, and the potential benefits of doing so.<< MORE >>

Beyond your typical screening process, is a background check really necessary?<< MORE >>

Christine interviews John Farago about falling in love with Budapest, Hungary through a home exchange, which led to buying his own property, converting it to a vacation rental, and managing it all the way from the States.
... << MORE >>

An owner writes, “I have so many great reviews that are sitting in my guestbook at my vacation home. I really want to get these reviews out there because these types of comments might help a renter choose my property. How can I encourage people to leave reviews in my online guestbook?”<< MORE >>

After negative experiences with long-term renting, Austin-based owner Cindy Hill and her husband chose to own 4 vacation rentals in anticipation of their retirement. Why did they choose vacation rentals and how did the choice impact their future plans? ... << MORE >>

Christine shares advice for preparing for the busy booking season between January and April.<< MORE >>

An owners asks: “I am new to vacation rentals and a little panicky about back-to-back cleanings. How do I know my housekeeper has time to finish everything before my next guest arrives?”<< MORE >>

Christine interviews Cindy Hill of Austin, Texas about how she started a local group of vacation homeowners to share insights, experiences and even referrals. << MORE >>

An owner had renters leave her vacation home with the back door wide open, resulting in an excessive heating bill. Plus, this left her home accessible to creatures and theft. She is wondering if she can charge the renters not only for the increase in heating costs but also for negligence. << MORE >>

Christine interviews Wesley Weidemann about the trials and tribulations of building an international vacation home and renting it to travelers. Despite the extra effort, Wesley shares his philosophy on finding a home that he and his wife would love no matter what happened with their investment.<< MORE >>

An owner asks, “What do you do with renters to follow up after their stay?” Christine shares some advice on obtaining honest feedback about your home, handling the logistics of security deposit refunds after checkout, and keeping in touch with past guests to secure future bookings.<< MORE >>

An owner asks: "I accepted a booking from a couple where the trip was a gift from their in-laws. Since the credit card was in someone else's name, should there be other steps involved in confirming the reservation?" Christine explains the proper procedures involved. << MORE >>

American Andrew Quicke provides a look at the confusing and often convoluted process he and his wife navigated in order to purchase and restore an historic 800-year-old Tuscan apartment (VRBO #253555). << MORE >>

An owner describes a situation in which his housekeeper didn’t notice damaged patio furniture in her post-check-out inspection. Christine explains best practices for inspecting for damages and returning security deposits. << MORE >>

Owner Scott McGuire has been renting his Sun River, Oregon vacation rental (VRBO#19056) for seven years, but since adding what he calls a “narrated montage” to his listing, he says he has seen his business revenue jump 15%. Pleased with the results, Scott started a company called Vacation Rental Videos Now to make videos for other owners. He explains how his professional photo montage slideshows differ from other types of promotional videos for vacation rentals, and provides some tips for owners interested in creating a YouTube video that provides results. << MORE >>

An owner asks: "Why do I get inquiries asking if my property is available when the week is booked on my calendar. Don't renters look at the calendars?" Christine explains this common frustration. << MORE >>

Christine speaks with owner Dave Vaughn about how he designed and markets his ADA-compliant, wheelchair-accessible lake cottage in Greenville, Maine.<< MORE >>

An owner asks, “We are debating whether or not to have the cable company display Pay-Per-View channels on the television in our vacation rental and then bill our renters for any charges incurred during their stay at a later date. Is this a valuable amenity or is it too much trouble?” Christine provides suggestions for how to manage these charges, opinions on whether it is worth your time, and alternatives to Pay-Per-View movies.<< MORE >>

Las Vegas vacation homeowner Jay Reese shares his experience in booking events at his property and promoting his vacation rental as a wedding venue - complete with an on-site wedding parlor! << MORE >>

An owner asks, “I just received an inquiry from a potential renter who would like to book a full year in advance. I was considering raising my rates to cover potential future expenses, but I don’t know how to quote my rates for this renter.”

Find more tips and advice at the HomeAway Owner Community.

[Download in iTunes]

...<< MORE >>

Holly Hunter, a financial planner by day, also owns several vacation rental properties – one in Maine, and two in Mexico. In this episode, she continues her discussion with Christine about the process of buying a “pile of rubble” in Guanajuato, Mexico and transforming it into a spectacular luxury rental. << MORE >>

Holly Hunter, a financial planner by day, also owns several vacation rental properties – one in Maine, and two in Mexico. In this episode, she talks with Christine about the process of buying a “pile of rubble” in Guanajuato, Mexico and transforming it into a spectacular luxury rental. << MORE >>

An owner asks: "We would like to know whether or not homeowners are legally required to provide a landline phone in their vacation rental. Having a young child and elderly parents, we would never consider renting a house without telephone service. We would like to know whether or not this is something homeowners are legally obligated to provide for their guests." << MORE >>

Judy Steinfeld, an English-speaking American, isthe owner of three vacation properties in Chile- one in the mountains one by the beach,and one in the heart of Santiago.Judy describes the unique aspects of buying and managing an international property...which in many ways, she says, is easier than renting in the United States! << MORE >>

Owner Shelley Hesse has been renting her vacation property on Okaloosa Island, Florida for the past four and a half years. Hesse recently rented another VRBO property for her family's recent summer trip to Wilmington, North Carolina, an experience she says brought her a wealth of new insights about her own vacation rental business practices.<< MORE >>

Owner Stacey Scott discusses how she has built up a loyal base of repeat guests to her vacation rental home in New Braunfels, Texas by focusing on the needs of weekend renters.<< MORE >>

An owner asks, "My home is located near a railroad track where trains come by all hours of the night. I'm wondering how to disclose this information to my renters." Christine explains how and when to disclose some of the less favorable aspects of your vacation home. << MORE >>

Owner Lisa Frost discusses how she markets her one-bedroom cabin in the Smoky Mountains of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee as a romantic getaway. << MORE >>

An owner asks, "What if I run a special and a guest who has already booked at a higher rate comes back to my site and notices the discount?" Christine shares some suggestions for appeasing the already-booked guest.<< MORE >>

Vacation rental owner Kirsten Apple has developed an innovative way to boost off-season revenues at her vacation home in the South of France: all-inclusive art workshops. Kirsten, a U.S. resident, explains how she runs her workshops from afar — and how she ended up buying a house in France to begin with.<< MORE >>

An owner asks: “I own a property in Whistler and I received an inquiry for a booking for the 2010 Olympics. This is much earlier than I typically confirm bookings. How should I handle the payments?” Christine explains the best way to handle far-in-advance bookings for special events. << MORE >>

Christine speaks with decorator Kerry Ann Dame of Posh Living, LLC, a full-service design firm in Surfside Beach, South Carolina that specializes in custom slipcovers.<< MORE >>

An owner asks: "I have a fairly unique vacation property. How can I set appropriate rates when I don't have any other properties to compare it to?" Christine offers guidance about setting rental rates for your vacation home. << MORE >>

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 >>

Christine suggests some guidelines for responding to inquiries by phone and email and following up with prospective renters.<< MORE >>

Christine chats one-on-One with Sandra Myklebust, an owner in Pasadena, California who rents her 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 >>

Jill Lepow, owner of a baby gear rental service in Maine, discusses the benefits of offering crib and highchair rentals to accommodate families with young children at your vacation home.<< MORE >>

Christine speaks to 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. << MORE >>

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. << MORE >>

Christine interviews vacation rental owner and web designer Robin Clapp of Web-Design-By-Robin.com about how owners could use a personal website to market their vacation rental properties.<< MORE >>

Author and attorney Janet Portman answers Christine's questions about screening vacation rental guests under the Fair Housing Act and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).<< MORE >>

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.<< MORE >>

Christine explains why accepting credit cards could increase bookings for your vacation rental.<< MORE >>

Christine shares some guidelines for when to charge guests for damage and when to consider it a cost of doing business.<< MORE >>

Christine talks to owner Marino Tomacelli about his unique vacation home, "Taninah" (as featured on HGTV's Most Extreme Homes) and about his partnerships with local tour operators.<< MORE >>

How to file a 1099 form for your vacation rental housekeeper with the IRS.<< MORE >>

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 also discusses her recent experience with break-ins.<< MORE >>

Christine provides tips on screening renters, including some potential red flags.<< MORE >>

Christine explains the benefits of updating your vacation rental listing regularly.<< MORE >>

An owner asks: "I would like to allow pets in my vacation home. However, I'm a little concerned about alienating people who might have allergies to pets." Christine discusses the benefits of accepting pets at your vacation rental and addresses an owner's concern about potential guests with pet allergies.<< MORE >>

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

Christine explains the importance of detailed location information in your vacation rental listing and what specifics you should highlight.<< MORE >>

Christine interviews real estate agent and vacation rental owner Brenda Schiemo-Smith about the real estate market in Minnesota and about her own lake-shore rentals.<< MORE >>

Christine chats with Kona, Hawaii vacation rental owner David Michael about his experience as an owner of a large vacation home.<< MORE >>

Christine addresses the balance between personalizing your home and making sure guests feel comfortable in it. << MORE >>

Christine discusses whether it's appropriate to feature people in photos of your vacation property.<< MORE >>

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

In her second interview with David Motley, president of Colonial Savings, Christine and David discuss the current mortgage situation, tips for buying vacation homes, and options for refinancing.<< MORE >>

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 high gas prices could affect your vacation home rentals.<< MORE >>

Christine chats with real estate agent Peter Lora about the real estate and vacation rental market in Taos, New Mexico.<< MORE >>

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

Christine talks with Palm Springs, California owner Gregg Rapp about the excitement and challenges of renting a high-end vacation home that has attracted celebrity guests.<< MORE >>

Christine talks with Lynn Atchison, the CFO of HomeAway, about her initial hesitation in renting her Rockport, Texas vacation home and why she eventually changed her mind. << MORE >>

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

Christine speaks to real estate agent and broker Kim Lucas about purchasing island property on St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands.<< MORE >>

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

What amenities are renters looking for in a vacation rental?<< MORE >>

Christine talks with David Motley, president of Colonial National Mortgage and a vacation home owner, about mortgaging and refinancing options for vacation homes.<< MORE >>

Christine discusses credit card "chargebacks" and how to prevent them.<< MORE >>

Christine explains the tell-tale signs of a typical vacation rental scam inquiry.<< MORE >>

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

Christine talks to Jerry Ray about the potential benefits of an international airport for vacation rental owners in Panama City, Florida.<< MORE >>

"I constantly have renters asking me for reduced rates or telling me that their budget is 'x'. How can I respond to them and still possibly keep them interested?" Christine explains how to respond to renters asking for lower rates.<< MORE >>

Christine interviews real estate broker Jim Dague about the resort and second home industry. << MORE >>

Christine discusses the Kissimmee and Orlando, Florida markets with vacation home real estate broker Raymond Butterfield. << 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/.
 
...<< MORE >>

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 real estate agent Ken Libby about the current market conditions in the ski haven of Stowe, Vermont.<< 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 >>

Christine speaks with expert Leslie Garrett about ways owners can make their vacation homes more eco-conscious and save money at the same time.<< MORE >>

Real estate agent John Jarvis discusses the vacation home market in Muskoka, Ontario.<< MORE >>

Christine advises a homeowner on how to convert her inquiries into actual bookings. << MORE >>

Real estate agent Shannyn Stevenson returns to foreclosures and short sales in the Destin, Florida real estate market. << 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 discusses the benefits and challenges of renting your vacation home yourself instead of going through a property management company. << 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/.

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If your bookings are slow, your rental rates could be too high, too low, too vague, too confusing, or too restrictive. << MORE >>

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 >>

An owner asks: "I own multiple properties in the same vacation destination. Isn't it better for me to leave my calendar blank so that I don't miss out on any potential renters?" Christine weighs in.<< MORE >>

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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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 >>

An owner asks: "Is it better to break up rental prices into rental rates, cleaning fees, taxes, etc.? Or is it better to offer an all inclusive rate?" Christine weighs in. << 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.
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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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An owner asks: "I am trying to find liability insurance on my second home so that I can rent it out on a short-term basis. I have called numerous insurance companies, and no one will offer me coverage. Surely, all of these homes for rent must have liability coverage. What am I doing wrong?" Christine weighs in. << MORE >>

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

An owner asks: "What is the standard way to forward and return keys to renters?" Christine discusses the advantages of using lockboxes or programmable locks for vacation rentals.<< 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, Colorado 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 >>

An owner asks: "I was wondering if you know any companies that would do damage insurance? I'd like to have insurance for smaller claim items that would not go against my homeowner's policy for my vacation home. I have a luxury property, and someone could easily do $5,000 worth of damage, and I wouldn't be able to get that amount in a refundable deposit. Any suggestions?" Christine explains the best way to prevent damages at your vacation rental.<< 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 >>

A owner wonders whether he should invest in a 3-bedroom or a 4-bedroom vacation rental home on Lake Hartwell. Christine weighs in.<< MORE >>

Christine speaks with real estate agent Dorothea Lowe about the vacation home market in Montana. << 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 >>