Let’s start by covering a few basics you will need to know. And the first one you should put into practice is patience.

Within South Lake Tahoe, there are both City and County permitting systems for short-term rentals. Within the last couple of years, obtaining a vacation rental permit within the city has become quite difficult. But to maximize your return on investment, putting a little time into the seemingly drawn-out process can mean greater revenue in the long run. Once you go through the initial application and inspection process, the city notifies the community and a zoning hearing is set. Based on that zoning hearing, the permit can be approved or denied. Again, it’s a process.

Since the city’s inspection approval can only be given after you’ve ensured your home checks off every box on the inspection list and there’s typically a backup in the zoning hearing schedule, months can be added to the time it takes to get those rentals flooding in. There are also occupancy restrictions based on the number of paved parking spaces and bedrooms, so hiring an especially capable Lake Tahoe vacation rental management company is crucial to help guide you through the process. It may sound tedious, but don’t be discouraged. Owning in the city of South Lake Tahoe can be extremely rewarding, since it’s a favorite of rental guests traveling far and wide. Now Let’s get to the fun part - here are some of the best areas for buying vacation homes in South Lake Tahoe.

South Lake Tahoe, California - While the county may be big, there are specific areas in South Lake Tahoe that attract more short-term rentals - and those are usually right on or near the lake itself. Camp Richardson is a grand outdoor recreation area that remains a main attraction year-round with its waterfront activities, casual resort amenities, and onsite dining and entertainment options, so homes in the immediately surrounding area tend to be family favorites. Running adjacent to the main artery into South Lake Tahoe from the South (Lake Tahoe Boulevard), nearby Pioneer trail is home to appealing neighborhoods that feature smaller cabins as well as much larger estates. The larger, the better, as far as rental potential goes. And for those looking for a more active South Lake Tahoe homeownership and rental experience, head to Heavenly Mountain, where you’ll find most homes are just minutes from the casinos in Stateline or to the tree-lined hiking trails that may be just off the beaten path, but are never far from the lake.

Tahoe Keys, California - Waterfront living at its finest, high-end Tahoe Keys vacation rentals are both prestigious and prime pieces of real estate to own and rent. Although technically a part of the City of South Lake Tahoe, the area is an incorporated neighborhood all its own. Most properties in this private marina-centric community include a private dock, with homes either right on the canal or part of the lagoon. This is of course is a major attraction for potential guests, as is the ability for them to pay a small extra fee for access to the community’s clubhouse and community pool. And with strict ordinances on both noise and parking, you’ll know your home is being watched over carefully when you’re not there to enjoy it yourself.