Exploring the Rise of Resort Condo Hotels as Vacation Homes

Apr 6
13:03

2024

Mary Hanna

Mary Hanna

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The latest trend in securing a vacation home marries the luxury of resort living with the comforts of private ownership. Resort condo hotels, a hybrid of upscale hotels and private condominiums, are becoming an increasingly popular choice for those seeking a hassle-free second home. These properties offer the allure of a vacation retreat without the traditional burdens of home maintenance and can even generate income when not in use by the owner.

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The Growing Market for Resort Condo Hotels

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reported that in 2004,Exploring the Rise of Resort Condo Hotels as Vacation Homes Articles investment homes made up 25% of all home purchases, with vacation homes adding another 13%. This trend has only grown, with resort condo hotels emerging in hotspots like Miami Beach and Ft. Lauderdale and expanding to international destinations such as Belize and Dubai.

The Appeal of Condo Hotels

Condo hotels offer a unique investment opportunity, combining the personal use of a vacation home with the potential for rental income. Unlike traditional vacation homes, which may sit unused for much of the year, condo hotel units can be placed in a rental program managed by the hotel, turning them into income-generating properties. This arrangement has led to a market for homes with rental income potential that is nearly twice the size of the market for seldom-rented vacation homes.

How Condo Hotels Work

  • Purchase: Buyers select a unit within a resort hotel, with prices ranging from $400,000 to over $2 million.
  • Personal Use: Owners reserve their desired dates for personal stays.
  • Rental Program: When not in use by the owner, the unit enters a rental pool, functioning as a hotel room.
  • Maintenance-Free: The hotel handles all upkeep, allowing owners to enjoy their property without the usual concerns of property maintenance.
  • Investment Potential: The unit becomes an investment property, with rental income helping to offset ownership costs.
Marketing and Brand Power

One of the significant advantages of owning a condo hotel unit is the marketing leverage gained from association with prestigious hotel brands like Ritz-Carlton and Trump. These names bring recognition and trust, ensuring that the property is promoted effectively and can command premium rental rates.

Fractional Property: An Alternative to Condo Hotels

For those considering other forms of shared vacation home ownership, fractional properties offer another option. Originating in exclusive resort areas like Aspen and Telluride, fractional ownership allows individuals to purchase a share of a property, granting them usage rights for a portion of the year.

Types of Fractional Shares

  • Quarter-shares: Owners receive 13 weeks per year, with one week of use each month.
  • Fifth-shares: Owners have access to 10 weeks per year, on a rotating fifth-week basis.
  • Sixth-shares: Owners enjoy 8 weeks per year, with time allocated every sixth week.

Owners can use their allotted time, lend it out, or opt to rent it through a property management program, sharing revenue after expenses. The quality of these residences typically ranges from 3 to 4 stars, with service levels at the 3-star mark if included.

Conclusion: A Smart Choice for Vacation Home Buyers

Resort condo hotels and fractional properties present attractive alternatives to traditional second homes. They offer the benefits of ownership, potential income, and reduced maintenance responsibilities, making them a smart choice for those looking to invest in a vacation property.

When considering a second home, it's worth exploring the world of condo hotels and fractional properties. These innovative ownership models provide a blend of luxury, convenience, and investment potential that is reshaping the vacation home market.

For more information on the benefits and workings of resort condo hotels, you can visit the National Association of Realtors website or explore listings on well-known real estate platforms like Zillow or Realtor.com.