The STR Home Financing Podcast

Funding your short-term rental or vacation home isn’t just about having cash in the bank—it’s about knowing where your money can come from. In this episode, I’ll break down the acceptable sources of funds for financing your STR, including savings, gifts, equity from other properties, and even creative strategies that many investors overlook. Understanding these options can make all the difference in getting your deal approved and maximizing your investment potential. If you’re serious about buying your next STR the right way, this episode is a must-listen!

www.strhomefinancing.com

Looking Back to Move Forward – STR Home Financing Strategies

In this episode, we’re taking a step back to leap forward. I’ll be diving into why reviewing your past moves in short-term rental ownership is the key to unlocking bigger wins in the future. We’ll talk about how adopting an Elon Musk mindset—committing to solving your biggest problem—can transform your investment strategy. Plus, I’ll break down a practical game plan to capitalize on your biggest opportunities, one step at a time, at a pace of one per week. Whether you’re scaling your STR portfol...

In this episode of STR Home Financing with Jeff Chisum, we dive into two powerful strategies that can help you maximize cash flow and minimize out-of-pocket expenses when purchasing a short-term rental: seller concessions and cosmetic appearance allowances.

Jeff breaks down how negotiating seller concessions can significantly reduce your out of pocket for closing costs, allowing you to allocate more capital toward renovations, furnishings, or reserves. He also explores how cosmetic appearance allowances—a lesser-known yet highly effective tactic—can be leveraged to offset necessary property upgrades while keeping more money in your pocket.

If you're an i...

🚀 BIG TAX NEWS for STR Investors! 🚀

In Episode 62 of STR Home Financing, we’re diving into the history of the short-term rental (STR) loophole and its powerful impact on bonus depreciation. We’ll break down:

✅ How the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act created this game-changing tax advantage

✅ Why the bonus depreciation benefit has been phasing out since 2023

✅ The exciting possibility that the Trump administration could bring it back!

If you own or are thinking about investing in STRs, this episode is a must-listen to stay ahead of the latest tax strategies t...

In this episode of the STR Home Financing Podcast, host Jeff Chisum kicks off the new year with a timely discussion on mindset, goal-setting, and taking actionable steps toward your dreams. Jeff reflects on "National Quitters Day," observed on January 10th, when many people abandon their New Year’s resolutions. Instead of resolutions, Jeff and his wife focus on setting meaningful, sustainable goals that drive progress throughout the year.

For those aiming to purchase a vacation home in 2025, this episode emphasizes the importance of preparation and taking the first step: getting pre-approved for financing. Jeff explains how se...

In this groundbreaking episode of STR Home Financing, we dive into what could be the most significant development for investors and second-home buyers in recent history: the removal of the PSPAs (Preferred Stock Purchase Agreements) that capped Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac's ability to purchase investment property and second-home loans.

This change opens new doors for financing opportunities, offering more flexibility, improved terms, and greater accessibility for buyers looking to build their real estate portfolios.

Join me as I break down what this means for you as an investor, how it could impact your financing...

In this episode of STR Home Financing, host Jeff Chisum sits down with Dr. Rachel Gainsbrugh, founder of Short Term Gems, to explore her journey in the short-term rental (STR) industry. Dr. Rachel shares insights into her involvement in the STR community, her recent television appearance, and how Short Term Gems assists property owners in streamlining rental management through effective systems. She also delves into tax strategies and offers advice on overcoming the fear of investing in real estate. Connect with Dr. Rachel Gainsbrugh:

Welcome to Episode 58 of the podcast! Today, we’re diving into some exciting updates for investors, especially those using Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) loans. The reigns on DSCR loans have been loosened, and there are some key changes you’ll want to know about. We’re talking about reduced cash-out seasoning from 12 to 6 months, increased interested party contributions, and new guidelines for gift funds. We’ll also cover how minimum credit score requirements have shifted, changes to maximum loan-to-value (LTV) ratios, and increased cash-out limits. If you're an investor or thinking about expanding your portfolio, this episode will give you...

I’m excited to be joined by a special guest, Gil Chan, the CEO and Owner of CraftedStays. In this episode, we’ll dive into how CraftedStays is providing simple, effective solutions for property owners looking to build direct booking websites. We’ll also talk about maximizing conversion rates and, most importantly, how to become less reliant on OTAs like Airbnb and Vrbo. If you’re a short-term rental host or looking to optimize your business, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!

https://www.strhomefinancing.com/

In today’s episode, we break down the recent Fed fund rate cut – the first since 2020! With the Federal Reserve lowering rates by 50 basis points, we explore what this means for the housing market, mortgage rates, and home equity lines of credit (HELOCs). We’ll discuss how this move could impact borrowing costs, the potential for mortgage rates to drop further, and why now might be the time to act before the market heats up. Whether you’re a homebuyer, investor, or looking to refinance, this episode will help you understand the road ahead. Tune in to get all the deta...

In this episode, we explore why an annual mortgage review is crucial for every homeowner. As the financial landscape changes, so do interest rates, loan programs, and your personal financial goals. An annual review helps ensure that your mortgage aligns with your current situation and can uncover opportunities to save money, pay off your loan faster, or leverage your home equity. Join us as we discuss the benefits of regularly assessing your mortgage, how the process works, and why staying proactive can make a significant difference in your long-term financial health. Whether you're a first-time homeowner or an experienced...

In this episode, we're diving into the often confusing world of second home occupancy loans and how they intersect with IRS rules. Understanding the nuances between lender requirements and tax regulations can be tricky, especially for those looking to invest in vacation properties. To help clarify these complexities, I'm joined by CPA Ryan Bakke, an expert in tax strategy and real estate. Together, we'll break down the key differences, discuss common misconceptions, and offer practical advice for navigating both lender policies and tax obligations. Whether you're a current or prospective second homebuyer, this episode is packed with valuable insights...

Ever had a DSCR lender tell you that a DSCR loan will not report on your personal credit? Things you should know...

I am always happy to jump on a call www.STRHomeFinancing.com

Jeff explores the critical topic of title transfers, focusing on its implications for short-term rental property owners. He addresses common concerns about triggering the 'due on sale' clause when transferring property titles to an LLC, highlighting the policies set by Fannie Mae. Jeff clarifies permissible title transfers, emphasizing the importance of maintaining control or majority ownership, and provides valuable insights for mitigating personal risk while maximizing investment opportunities in the short-term rental market.

I am always happy to jump on a call www.STRHomeFinancing.com

My favorite subject? Education clients on the true information around STR financing. In episode #51 I walk through a "marketing" piece designed to steer people towards DSCR. I blow up their efforts.

I am always happy to jump on a call www.STRHomeFinancing.com

In Episode #50 we cover the key questions to ask when shopping for a DSCR loan

Here are the questions I mentioned when interviewing a DSCR lender

DSCR revisited! We walk through the basics of a DSCR loan and what it's used for

I am always happy to jump on a call www.STRHomeFinancing.com

Crossed the hurdle of verifying you have 80% loan to value with the mortgage servicer? Don't want an escrow account? In this episode learn the next step of taking control of paying your own taxes and insurance.

Fannie Mae policy on removing PMI https://servicing-guide.fanniemae.com/svc/b-8.1-04/termination-conventional-mortgage-insurance

Freddie Mac policy on removing PMI https://guide.freddiemac.com/app/guide/section/8203.2

Fannie Mae loan look up tool https://yourhome.fanniemae.com/calculators-tools/loan-lookup

Freddie Mac loan look up tool https://myhome.freddiemac.com/resources/loanlookup

Common misinformation in the STR world is that If you are using the second home occupancy loan you can't have a property manager. What's the truth?!

Have goals to purchase a STR in 2024. Hope this episode helps in sharing my journey to change my Mindset which gave me vision and led to me taking action.

New conforming loan limits and what that looks like when it come to structuring the 10% Down Second Home Occupancy Loan

One of the biggest changes in loan products in the past decade presents big opportunities to build wealth through real estate. Need ideas how to help your grown children to invest in real estate? This may be it!

Always happy to schedule a consult call at www.STRHomeFinancing.com

New conforming loan limits announced for 2025 and effective Nov 1st!  

Always happy to schedule a consult call at www.STRHomeFinancing.com

On Episode #41 we get to explore Kissimmee Florida with STR Expert Shan O'Connor. Realtor, Investor, Operator

shane@alchemyreinc.com

www.vacationalchemy.com

IG: vacation.alchemy

IG: oc_dreams19

Always happy to schedule a consult call at www.STRHomeFinancing.com

Episode #40 guest Suzie Austin from the Texas Gulf Coast!

Ep #39 The Kentucky Bourbon Trail with Toni Boer

Ep #38 Three Most Important Things with HostGPO. Today I interview Jen Sexton with HostGPO about easier ways to getting a property set up with amenities, supplies and continuing consistency of a guest's overall experience.

In Ep #37 Three Most Important Things (Part 2 Refinance) I present additional information that should be considered if you plan on refinancing into a lower rate when the opportunity presents itself.

Episode #36 Three Most Important with Mark McDaniel

Catch Mark on his podcast Good Endeavor STR Podcast

In this segment of "Three Things You Should Know" I interview Sarah Karakaian from "Thank For Visiting" where she shares three things that can keep you from failing in the STR space.

Be sure to check out what these ladies are doing at

www.tfvcon.com

https://www.instagram.com/thanksforvisiting_/

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thanks-for-visiting/id1451872835

3 Most Important Things To Know When Rates Drop

I am always happy to jump on a call www.STRHomeFinancing.com

Ways to connect with Shawn Moore

https://vodyssey.com/

I am always happy to jump on a call www.STRHomeFinancing.com

10% Down Is NOT Dead!

I am always happy to jump on a call www.STRHomeFinancing.com

Want to get away from being so dependent on AirBnB and VRBO, etc... to get business? Today is a must listen to episode as I interview Mark Simpson from Boostly.

Ways to connect with Mark

boostly.co.uk/pms

boostly.co.uk

I am always happy to jump on a call www.STRHomeFinancing.com

A question I get all the time is "Where are people investing in STR's" my usual response is "Sorry that's not my lane". In this episode I interview Kenny Bedwell, CEO of STR Insights. Kenny explains the three most important things to know when it comes to researching areas and how STR Insights brings a solution to that common question of "Where are the best places to invest"

Want to connect with our guest?

Instagram: @strinsights

Facebook: The STR Data Host 

Website: strinsights.com

Guest want Luxury when they stay in a property. How do we do that and not spend a fortune? In today's episode I interview Dr. Rachel Gainsbrugh and she share three things you can do to add "luxury" to your STR without breaking the bank.

In this installment of "Three Things You Should Know" I interview Stacey St John from Female STR Investors. Stacey is an STR Owner, STR Property Manager and Coach. She shares the 3 most important things to have in an STR property.

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/femalestrinvestors

Website: https://staceystjohn.com/

Email: hello@staceystjohn.com

The Three Most Important Things to Know when analyzing a deal. In this episode I interview Brandon Thompson who has been in real estate investing for 20 years. Brandon shares his knowledge on what you need to do when looking at buying a STR.

Theliveoakcapital.com

@brandongthompson on Instagram

Facebook.com/brandgt 

In this installment of "Three Things You Should Know" our guest is Michael Sjogren with STR Secrets. Michael shares why it's important to surrounds yourself with people that have been there and done that. Successfully!

Best ways to get in touch with Michael