Is Rio Rancho, New Mexico Good for Airbnb Investment?

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Rio Rancho, New Mexico Airbnb Investment Overview

Is Airbnb a Good Investment in Rio Rancho, New Mexico?

Investing in Airbnb properties in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, presents a mixed but potentially viable opportunity. The current market conditions show relatively affordable property values compared to larger metropolitan areas, which can be attractive for initial investment. Tourism in Rio Rancho is often tied to its proximity to Albuquerque and its role as a residential hub, meaning demand for short-term rentals might be more dependent on local events, temporary work assignments, or overflow from Albuquerque tourism rather than being a primary destination itself. While property values have seen steady appreciation in New Mexico, it's crucial to analyze the specific micro-markets within Rio Rancho to identify areas with consistent short-term rental demand. The investment potential largely hinges on identifying properties that appeal to specific niches, such as family visitors to local attractions, those seeking a quieter alternative to Albuquerque, or travelers passing through the region.

How Much Does an Average Airbnb Earn in Rio Rancho?

Based on available market data and regional analysis, Airbnb hosts in Rio Rancho, New Mexico typically earn between $800 to $2,200 per month, with the average falling around $1,400 monthly for a standard two to three-bedroom property. Seasonal variations show peak earnings during spring and fall months when temperatures are moderate, with summer months experiencing a 15-20% decrease due to extreme heat, while winter months see relatively stable bookings from visitors seeking desert experiences and proximity to Albuquerque attractions. Properties near golf courses, hiking trails, or with mountain views command premium rates of $120-180 per night, while standard suburban homes average $80-130 nightly. Key factors affecting earnings include proximity to Albuquerque (properties within 20 minutes of downtown perform 25% better), property amenities such as pools or hot tubs (increasing revenue by 30-40%), professional photography and listing optimization, responsive host communication, and competition from approximately 200-300 active listings in the area. Properties that cater to business travelers visiting nearby tech companies or medical facilities maintain higher occupancy rates year-round, while those targeting leisure travelers see more pronounced seasonal fluctuations, with occupancy rates ranging from 45-65% depending on location and property quality.

Airbnb Return on Investment in Rio Rancho

Airbnb investments in Rio Rancho, New Mexico typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with payback periods ranging from 8-12 years depending on property type and location within the city. Properties near the Intel campus and newer developments in the northern sections tend to perform better, averaging around 10-11% ROI, while older properties in central areas see closer to 8-9% returns. The average daily rate for Airbnb properties ranges from $85-120, with occupancy rates averaging 65-75% throughout the year, benefiting from business travelers to Intel and Sandia National Laboratories, as well as tourists visiting nearby Santa Fe and Albuquerque. Compared to traditional long-term rentals in Rio Rancho, which typically yield 6-8% annually with average monthly rents of $1,200-1,600 for single-family homes, Airbnb investments generally outperform by 2-4 percentage points, though they require significantly more active management and carry higher operational costs including cleaning, utilities, and platform fees that can consume 25-35% of gross rental income.

Average Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Rio Rancho

Rio Rancho, New Mexico Airbnb properties typically maintain an average annual occupancy rate of approximately 45-55%, with significant seasonal variations throughout the year. Peak occupancy occurs during the spring months of March through May (65-75%) and fall months of September through November (60-70%), coinciding with favorable weather conditions and the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in nearby Albuquerque which drives substantial tourism demand. Summer months see moderate occupancy rates of 50-60% due to family vacation travel, while winter months experience the lowest occupancy at 35-45% as cooler temperatures and holiday travel patterns reduce demand. Rio Rancho's occupancy rates generally align closely with New Mexico's statewide average of 48-52% but fall slightly below the national Airbnb average of 55-65%, primarily due to the area's smaller tourism market compared to major metropolitan areas and established vacation destinations. The proximity to Albuquerque and attractions like the Sandia Mountains and various cultural sites helps maintain steady demand, though the market remains more dependent on regional visitors and business travelers rather than international tourism, resulting in less dramatic seasonal swings compared to resort destinations but more predictable year-round performance.

Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Rio Rancho

The best Airbnb investment neighborhoods in Rio Rancho include the City Center area which offers proximity to shopping, dining, and business districts with strong rental demand from business travelers and families visiting the metro area. The Enchanted Hills/Northern Meadows region provides upscale housing with mountain views and attracts higher-paying guests seeking luxury accommodations while maintaining reasonable property acquisition costs. The Cabezon area near the golf courses appeals to recreational travelers and retirees, offering steady occupancy rates due to its resort-like amenities and proximity to outdoor activities. The Southern Sandoval County neighborhoods benefit from their location between Albuquerque and Santa Fe, capturing overflow demand from both cities while offering more affordable property prices than urban centers. The Rio Rancho Estates area provides family-friendly environments that attract longer-term stays from relocating families and corporate housing needs. The Western Hills region offers newer construction homes with modern amenities that command premium nightly rates from guests seeking contemporary accommodations. Finally, the areas near Intel and other major employers provide consistent demand from business travelers, contractors, and temporary workers, ensuring steady occupancy throughout the year with less seasonal variation than tourist-dependent markets.

Short-term Rental Regulations in Rio Rancho

Rio Rancho, New Mexico requires short-term rental operators to obtain a business registration and comply with zoning regulations that generally restrict such rentals to commercial and mixed-use zones, while residential zones typically prohibit or heavily regulate short-term rentals. Properties must maintain occupancy limits based on bedroom count (typically 2 guests per bedroom plus 2 additional guests), and parking requirements mandate one space per bedroom. The city requires annual registration with the planning department, collection and remittance of gross receipts tax, and compliance with fire safety codes including smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. Owner-occupancy is not mandated for all properties, but some residential zones may require the owner to live on-site or nearby. Recent changes have included stricter enforcement of noise ordinances, enhanced penalties for violations, and requirements for 24-hour local contact information to be provided to neighbors and posted at the property. Operators must also maintain liability insurance, ensure properties meet health and safety standards, and may face restrictions on the total number of rental days per year in certain residential areas, with violations potentially resulting in fines ranging from several hundred to several thousand dollars and possible revocation of operating permits.

Short-term Rental Fees and Taxes in Rio Rancho

Short-term rentals in Rio Rancho, New Mexico are subject to several fees and taxes including New Mexico's lodging tax of 5% on gross receipts, plus an additional local lodging tax of approximately 2-3% imposed by Sandoval County, bringing the total lodging tax to around 7-8%. Property owners must pay New Mexico gross receipts tax of approximately 5.125% on rental income, and are required to obtain a business registration through the state for around $50. Annual permit costs for short-term rental operations typically range from $100-200 through the city, with initial registration fees of approximately $75-150. Additional requirements may include a transient lodging license costing around $25-50 annually, and compliance with fire safety inspections which can cost $100-200. Property owners may also be subject to increased property tax assessments when properties are used commercially rather than as primary residences, potentially increasing property taxes by 10-25% depending on the property's assessed value and classification changes.

Is Airbnb a Good Investment in Rio Rancho, New Mexico?

Investing in Airbnb properties in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, presents a mixed but potentially viable opportunity. The current market conditions show relatively affordable property values compared to larger metropolitan areas, which can be attractive for initial investment. Tourism in Rio Rancho is often tied to its proximity to Albuquerque and its role as a residential hub, meaning demand for short-term rentals might be more dependent on local events, temporary work assignments, or overflow from Albuquerque tourism rather than being a primary destination itself. While property values have seen steady appreciation in New Mexico, it's crucial to analyze the specific micro-markets within Rio Rancho to identify areas with consistent short-term rental demand. The investment potential largely hinges on identifying properties that appeal to specific niches, such as family visitors to local attractions, those seeking a quieter alternative to Albuquerque, or travelers passing through the region.

How Much Does an Average Airbnb Earn in Rio Rancho?

Based on available market data and regional analysis, Airbnb hosts in Rio Rancho, New Mexico typically earn between $800 to $2,200 per month, with the average falling around $1,400 monthly for a standard two to three-bedroom property. Seasonal variations show peak earnings during spring and fall months when temperatures are moderate, with summer months experiencing a 15-20% decrease due to extreme heat, while winter months see relatively stable bookings from visitors seeking desert experiences and proximity to Albuquerque attractions. Properties near golf courses, hiking trails, or with mountain views command premium rates of $120-180 per night, while standard suburban homes average $80-130 nightly. Key factors affecting earnings include proximity to Albuquerque (properties within 20 minutes of downtown perform 25% better), property amenities such as pools or hot tubs (increasing revenue by 30-40%), professional photography and listing optimization, responsive host communication, and competition from approximately 200-300 active listings in the area. Properties that cater to business travelers visiting nearby tech companies or medical facilities maintain higher occupancy rates year-round, while those targeting leisure travelers see more pronounced seasonal fluctuations, with occupancy rates ranging from 45-65% depending on location and property quality.

Airbnb Return on Investment in Rio Rancho

Airbnb investments in Rio Rancho, New Mexico typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with payback periods ranging from 8-12 years depending on property type and location within the city. Properties near the Intel campus and newer developments in the northern sections tend to perform better, averaging around 10-11% ROI, while older properties in central areas see closer to 8-9% returns. The average daily rate for Airbnb properties ranges from $85-120, with occupancy rates averaging 65-75% throughout the year, benefiting from business travelers to Intel and Sandia National Laboratories, as well as tourists visiting nearby Santa Fe and Albuquerque. Compared to traditional long-term rentals in Rio Rancho, which typically yield 6-8% annually with average monthly rents of $1,200-1,600 for single-family homes, Airbnb investments generally outperform by 2-4 percentage points, though they require significantly more active management and carry higher operational costs including cleaning, utilities, and platform fees that can consume 25-35% of gross rental income.

Average Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Rio Rancho

Rio Rancho, New Mexico Airbnb properties typically maintain an average annual occupancy rate of approximately 45-55%, with significant seasonal variations throughout the year. Peak occupancy occurs during the spring months of March through May (65-75%) and fall months of September through November (60-70%), coinciding with favorable weather conditions and the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in nearby Albuquerque which drives substantial tourism demand. Summer months see moderate occupancy rates of 50-60% due to family vacation travel, while winter months experience the lowest occupancy at 35-45% as cooler temperatures and holiday travel patterns reduce demand. Rio Rancho's occupancy rates generally align closely with New Mexico's statewide average of 48-52% but fall slightly below the national Airbnb average of 55-65%, primarily due to the area's smaller tourism market compared to major metropolitan areas and established vacation destinations. The proximity to Albuquerque and attractions like the Sandia Mountains and various cultural sites helps maintain steady demand, though the market remains more dependent on regional visitors and business travelers rather than international tourism, resulting in less dramatic seasonal swings compared to resort destinations but more predictable year-round performance.

Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Rio Rancho

The best Airbnb investment neighborhoods in Rio Rancho include the City Center area which offers proximity to shopping, dining, and business districts with strong rental demand from business travelers and families visiting the metro area. The Enchanted Hills/Northern Meadows region provides upscale housing with mountain views and attracts higher-paying guests seeking luxury accommodations while maintaining reasonable property acquisition costs. The Cabezon area near the golf courses appeals to recreational travelers and retirees, offering steady occupancy rates due to its resort-like amenities and proximity to outdoor activities. The Southern Sandoval County neighborhoods benefit from their location between Albuquerque and Santa Fe, capturing overflow demand from both cities while offering more affordable property prices than urban centers. The Rio Rancho Estates area provides family-friendly environments that attract longer-term stays from relocating families and corporate housing needs. The Western Hills region offers newer construction homes with modern amenities that command premium nightly rates from guests seeking contemporary accommodations. Finally, the areas near Intel and other major employers provide consistent demand from business travelers, contractors, and temporary workers, ensuring steady occupancy throughout the year with less seasonal variation than tourist-dependent markets.

Short-term Rental Regulations in Rio Rancho

Rio Rancho, New Mexico requires short-term rental operators to obtain a business registration and comply with zoning regulations that generally restrict such rentals to commercial and mixed-use zones, while residential zones typically prohibit or heavily regulate short-term rentals. Properties must maintain occupancy limits based on bedroom count (typically 2 guests per bedroom plus 2 additional guests), and parking requirements mandate one space per bedroom. The city requires annual registration with the planning department, collection and remittance of gross receipts tax, and compliance with fire safety codes including smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. Owner-occupancy is not mandated for all properties, but some residential zones may require the owner to live on-site or nearby. Recent changes have included stricter enforcement of noise ordinances, enhanced penalties for violations, and requirements for 24-hour local contact information to be provided to neighbors and posted at the property. Operators must also maintain liability insurance, ensure properties meet health and safety standards, and may face restrictions on the total number of rental days per year in certain residential areas, with violations potentially resulting in fines ranging from several hundred to several thousand dollars and possible revocation of operating permits.

Short-term Rental Fees and Taxes in Rio Rancho

Short-term rentals in Rio Rancho, New Mexico are subject to several fees and taxes including New Mexico's lodging tax of 5% on gross receipts, plus an additional local lodging tax of approximately 2-3% imposed by Sandoval County, bringing the total lodging tax to around 7-8%. Property owners must pay New Mexico gross receipts tax of approximately 5.125% on rental income, and are required to obtain a business registration through the state for around $50. Annual permit costs for short-term rental operations typically range from $100-200 through the city, with initial registration fees of approximately $75-150. Additional requirements may include a transient lodging license costing around $25-50 annually, and compliance with fire safety inspections which can cost $100-200. Property owners may also be subject to increased property tax assessments when properties are used commercially rather than as primary residences, potentially increasing property taxes by 10-25% depending on the property's assessed value and classification changes.

* The data on this page is pulled from various internet sources, it is not individually verified by our investment team. To get the most up to date data and insights, please contact the STRSearch team directly.

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How to start an Airbnb in Rio Rancho, New Mexico?

To start an Airbnb in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, begin by researching local zoning laws and regulations through the Rio Rancho Planning Department, as the city requires short-term rental operators to obtain a business license and comply with residential zoning restrictions that may limit rentals to primary residences or specific zones. Contact the Rio Rancho Business License Division to apply for a general business license (approximately $50-100 annually) and check if additional permits are required from Sandoval County for tax collection purposes. Find a suitable property by searching areas like Enchanted Hills, Northern Meadows, or Cabezon, ensuring it meets the city's safety requirements including smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and proper egress windows. Furnish the space with essential amenities including Wi-Fi, basic kitchen supplies, linens, and southwestern-themed decor to appeal to tourists visiting nearby Santa Ana Pueblo or Coronado Historic Site. Create your listing on Airbnb, Vrbo, and other platforms with professional photos highlighting mountain views and proximity to Albuquerque (20 minutes away), setting competitive rates around $80-150 per night based on local market analysis. Register for New Mexico gross receipts tax through the Taxation and Revenue Department and Sandoval County lodgers tax (typically 5-7% combined), then manage your property by establishing check-in procedures, maintaining cleanliness standards, responding promptly to guests, and ensuring compliance with Rio Rancho's noise ordinances and occupancy limits typically set at 2 guests per bedroom plus 2 additional guests.

What's the best way to identify good STR properties in Rio Rancho, New Mexico?

To identify profitable short-term rental properties in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, focus on locations within 15-20 minutes of Albuquerque's attractions like Old Town and the Balloon Fiesta Park, particularly in newer subdivisions like Cabezon or areas near the Santa Ana Star Center which hosts events year-round. Target 3-4 bedroom single-family homes built after 2000 with amenities like pools, hot tubs, mountain views, and outdoor spaces that appeal to families and groups visiting for balloon festivals, golf tournaments, and business travel to nearby Sandia National Laboratories and Intel facilities. Analyze pricing using AirDNA and Mashvisor to benchmark against similar properties, aiming for $100-180 per night depending on size and amenities, with peak seasons during Balloon Fiesta (October) and summer months commanding 30-50% premiums. Research competition by studying existing STRs on Airbnb and VRBO within 5-mile radius, noting occupancy rates, guest reviews, and pricing strategies, while checking Rio Rancho's municipal code for STR regulations and HOA restrictions in target neighborhoods. Utilize tools like Rabbu, BiggerPockets calculators, and local MLS data through Realtors familiar with the Rio Rancho market, while connecting with property management companies like Vacasa or RedAwning that operate in the area to understand operational costs and revenue potential in this growing bedroom community that benefits from Albuquerque tourism spillover.

How to get an Airbnb permit in Rio Rancho, New Mexico?

To obtain an Airbnb/STR permit in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, you must first apply through the City of Rio Rancho Planning Department located at 3200 Civic Center Circle NE, or submit applications online through their permitting portal. Required documents include a completed short-term rental permit application, proof of property ownership or lease agreement with landlord consent, a site plan showing parking areas and property layout, proof of liability insurance (minimum $1 million coverage), contact information for a local property manager if you're not local, and a floor plan indicating maximum occupancy. The application fee is approximately $150-200 with an annual renewal fee of $100-125. You must also obtain a business license from the City Clerk's office for an additional $25-50. The approval timeline typically takes 4-6 weeks for processing, during which the city may conduct a site inspection to ensure compliance with zoning requirements, parking standards (minimum 2 spaces), and safety codes. Rio Rancho requires STRs to be located in residential zones with proper setbacks, limits occupancy to 2 people per bedroom plus 2 additional guests, mandates quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM, and requires the property to maintain residential appearance without commercial signage. Once approved, you must display your permit number in all advertising and renew annually by December 31st.

Is it legal to operate a short-term rental in Rio Rancho, New Mexico?

Short-term rentals (STRs) are legal in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, but are subject to municipal regulations and zoning restrictions. The city requires STR operators to obtain a business license and comply with local zoning ordinances, which typically limit STRs to certain residential zones while prohibiting them in some neighborhoods or requiring conditional use permits in others. Properties must meet safety and health standards, including fire safety requirements and occupancy limits. Rio Rancho has implemented registration requirements for STR operators, including background checks and property inspections. Recent changes around 2022-2023 have strengthened enforcement mechanisms and clarified zoning requirements, with the city working to balance tourism revenue with neighborhood preservation concerns. Operators must also comply with state lodging tax requirements and may face additional local taxes, while some homeowners associations may have their own restrictions that supersede city regulations.

What are the best places to invest in Airbnb in Rio Rancho, New Mexico?

The best areas for Airbnb investment in Rio Rancho, New Mexico include the City Center district near the Town Center and Premiere Cinemas, which attracts visitors attending events at the Rio Rancho Events Center and families visiting the nearby shopping and entertainment venues. The Northern Meadows area along Highway 528 is attractive due to its proximity to Intel's massive semiconductor facility, generating consistent business travel demand from contractors, consultants, and employees relocating to the area. The Enchanted Hills and High Desert neighborhoods offer appeal to tourists seeking authentic Southwestern experiences while remaining close to Albuquerque's attractions, including the International Balloon Fiesta held annually in October. The areas near Santa Ana Star Casino and the Tamaya Resort corridor benefit from gaming tourism and resort overflow, particularly during peak seasons and special events. Properties near the Rio Rancho Golf Course attract golf tourism and sports-related travel, while neighborhoods close to Presbyterian Rust Medical Center see demand from medical travelers and visiting family members of patients.

Airbnb and lodging taxes in Rio Rancho, New Mexico

In Rio Rancho, New Mexico, Airbnb hosts are subject to the state's Lodgers' Tax at a rate of 5% on gross receipts from short-term rentals under 30 days, which is collected by the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department and must be remitted monthly by the 25th of the following month if gross receipts exceed $100 monthly. Additionally, hosts must pay the state Gross Receipts Tax at approximately 5.125% (varying by location within Rio Rancho), and Sandoval County imposes a county lodgers' tax of 3% on short-term accommodations. The City of Rio Rancho does not currently impose a separate municipal lodging tax beyond the standard gross receipts tax. Airbnb automatically collects and remits the state lodgers' tax on behalf of hosts for bookings made through their platform as of 2019, but hosts remain responsible for registering with the state, obtaining the necessary tax identification numbers, and remitting gross receipts tax and county lodgers' tax independently. Exemptions typically apply to stays of 30 days or longer, which are considered long-term rentals rather than lodging, and certain government or charitable organization bookings may qualify for exemptions with proper documentation.

Total cost to purchase, furnish and operate an Airbnb in Rio Rancho, New Mexico

To start an Airbnb in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, the total initial costs would be approximately $285,000-$315,000. Property purchase represents the largest expense at $250,000-$275,000 based on median home prices in the area as of 2023-2024. Furnishing costs typically range $15,000-$25,000 for a complete 3-bedroom setup including furniture, appliances, linens, and décor to create an attractive rental space. Initial setup costs including professional photography, listing creation, and basic marketing materials run $1,500-$2,500. Permits and fees in Rio Rancho include business registration, short-term rental permits, and potential HOA approvals totaling $500-$1,200. Insurance costs for short-term rental coverage average $2,000-$3,000 annually, with the first year paid upfront. Utility deposits and connections for electricity, gas, water, internet, and cable services cost approximately $800-$1,500. First six months of operating costs including utilities ($900/month), cleaning services ($150 per turnover, estimated 8 turnovers monthly), maintenance reserves ($200/month), platform fees (3% of estimated $2,500 monthly revenue), and miscellaneous supplies total approximately $12,000-$15,000. Property taxes and ongoing insurance are additional considerations that vary based on specific property value and location within Rio Rancho city limits.

Are Airbnb properties in Rio Rancho, New Mexico profitable?

Airbnb properties in Rio Rancho, New Mexico typically generate average monthly revenues of $1,800-$3,200 for whole homes and $800-$1,500 for private rooms, with annual occupancy rates ranging from 45-65% due to the area's proximity to Albuquerque and Sandia National Laboratories. Operating expenses generally consume 35-50% of gross revenue, including cleaning fees ($75-$125 per turnover), property management (15-25% if outsourced), utilities ($150-$250 monthly), insurance ($1,200-$2,000 annually), and maintenance costs averaging $200-$400 monthly. Properties near the Enchanted Hills or Rio Rancho City Center command premium rates of $120-$180 per night compared to $80-$140 in outlying areas, with successful hosts like those operating 3-bedroom homes near Intel's campus reporting net profit margins of 15-25% after all expenses. Key success factors include professional photography, competitive pricing during Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (October), targeting business travelers and extended-stay guests working at nearby tech companies, and maintaining superhosts status through consistent 4.8+ ratings, with the most profitable properties being those purchased specifically for short-term rental investment rather than converted primary residences.

What is the expected return on investment for an Airbnb in Rio Rancho, New Mexico?

Airbnb investments in Rio Rancho, New Mexico typically generate annual ROI of 8-12% with cash-on-cash returns ranging from 6-10% based on current market conditions. Properties in desirable neighborhoods near Balloon Fiesta Park or Intel's Fab 11X facility command higher nightly rates of $80-120, while standard residential areas average $60-90 per night with 65-75% occupancy rates throughout the year. Initial investment costs average $250,000-350,000 for suitable 3-4 bedroom properties, with renovation and furnishing expenses adding $15,000-25,000. Most investors achieve profitability within 18-24 months, benefiting from Rio Rancho's proximity to Albuquerque's attractions, Sandia Mountains recreation, and steady demand from Intel contractors and Balloon Fiesta visitors. The market shows particular strength during October's International Balloon Fiesta and summer months, with winter occupancy supported by business travelers and extended-stay guests, making break-even typically achievable by month 20-26 depending on financing structure and property management efficiency.

What company can help me find and buy a profitable Airbnb in Rio Rancho, New Mexico?

STRSearch leads the national market for Airbnb investment property analysis and market research tools for Rio Rancho, New Mexico. Local real estate agents specializing in short-term rental investments include Keller Williams Realty Rio Rancho with agents like Maria Gonzalez and RE/MAX Elite's investment specialists who have been active in the area since 2018. National services include Awning (formerly RedAwning) which provides full-service Airbnb property management and investment guidance, Mashvisor offering property analysis tools specifically for Rio Rancho's vacation rental market since 2016, and AirDNA providing comprehensive market data and revenue projections. Local property management companies like Rio Rancho Property Solutions and Desert Sky Management have expanded into Airbnb consulting services around 2019-2020. Additional national platforms include Roofstock, which occasionally features Rio Rancho investment properties, and BiggerPockets' marketplace connecting investors with local wholesalers and agents familiar with short-term rental regulations in Sandoval County.

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