The Journey to Vacation Rental Investing: A Conversation with Suzie Austin

By Shawn Moore

Welcome to another episode of the Vacation Rental Revolution podcast. Today, we have a special guest, Suzie Austin, who is not only a successful vacation rental investor but also one of the top agents in the industry. Suzie will be sharing her journey into vacation rental investing and providing valuable insights into becoming a top agent in the market. So let's dive right in.

Suzie's journey began as a real estate agent specializing in the Texas Gulf Coast. She witnessed her clients' success in vacation rental investing and decided to embark on the same path. She and her husband, Steve, made the decision to take their vacation rental investments to the highest level. They joined Vodacy and underwent the necessary training to become experts in the field.

Their first property, located on the west end of Galveston, quickly became one of the top properties in the area. Susie attributes their success to being intentional about being at the top of the market. She emphasizes the importance of understanding that vacation rentals are not just homes but businesses that need to appeal to a wide range of guests. By researching the market, studying the competition, and following the Vodyssey model, they were able to create a property that exceeded expectations and attracted a high volume of bookings.

As a real estate agent, Suzie understands the importance of setting clear property goals. She advises buyers to consider their time and financial resources when making investment decisions. Some buyers may prefer turnkey properties that require minimal time and effort, while others are willing to invest more time and money to maximize the property's potential. Susie's role as an agent is to help buyers find properties that align with their goals and provide guidance on how to make the property the best it can be.

One of the key factors in vacation rental investing is understanding the target market. Suzie highlights the importance of knowing the type of renters in a specific area and tailoring the property to their needs. For example, a property in a medical center area would have different requirements than a beachfront property. By understanding the market and the target audience, investors can make informed decisions and set themselves up for success.

Suzie also emphasizes the importance of having a reliable team of professionals in place. She recommends asking real estate agents about property managers and cleaners in the area to ensure that there are resources available to support the investment. In some rural areas, finding reliable property managers and cleaners can be a challenge, so it's crucial to do thorough research and have a repertoire of resources to rely on.

When it comes to investing in vacation rentals, Suzie advises buyers to overcome their fears and take action. She acknowledges that fear and analysis paralysis can hold people back from making investment decisions. However, she encourages investors to see the current climate as an opportunity rather than a hindrance. By being proactive and looking for opportunities, investors can capitalize on the market and achieve their long-term goals.

Another piece of advice from Suzie is to let go of perfectionism. Even the best properties can be improved and optimized. She encourages investors to think creatively and consider how they can make small tweaks to enhance the property's appeal. By focusing on possibilities and being open to making improvements, investors can maximize their bottom line and stay ahead of the competition.

In conclusion, the journey to vacation rental investing requires a long-term mindset, clear property goals, and a willingness to take action. By understanding the market, setting realistic expectations, and building a reliable team, investors can position themselves for success. While challenges and uncertainties may arise, it's important to see them as opportunities and continue to adapt and improve. With the right mindset and a commitment to excellence, investors can build a profitable vacation rental portfolio and achieve their financial goals.

The future outlook for vacation rental investing is promising, as more people seek unique and personalized travel experiences. The demand for vacation rentals is expected to continue growing, providing investors with ample opportunities to generate income and build wealth. By staying informed, adapting to market trends, and leveraging the expertise of professionals like Suzie Austin, investors can navigate the evolving landscape of vacation rental investing and thrive in this exciting industry.

Remember, success leaves clues. So take the leap, invest in your education, and start building the life you don't want to take a vacation from.

Cheers to your success!