Should I Buy a New Build for My Short Term Rental Property?

St. George has quickly become one of the most desirable vacation destinations in the Southwest, and for good reason. With its stunning red rock landscapes, proximity to Zion National Park, endless hiking and biking trails, and year-round sunshine, this desert gem attracts visitors in every season. If you’re looking to invest in a short-term rental property here, you're set up for success, but the property you settle on as you look at homes for sale in St. George should be thoughtfully chosen. 

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of buying a new build for your vacation rental in St. George, and some tips to help you make the most of your investment.

Pros of Choosing a New Build

Low Maintenance = Less Hassle

One of the biggest benefits of a new construction home is that everything is brand new. You won't have to worry about replacing the roof, appliances, HVAC system, plumbing, or anything else in the near future. This means fewer unexpected repairs, less maintenance work, and more time focusing on your rental business.

Modern Appeal

Travelers love staying in clean, modern homes with the latest features. A new build in St. George will likely come with an open floor plan, high ceilings, updated kitchens, energy-efficient appliances, and smart home features, all of which help your listing stand out.

Vacation-Ready Communities

Many new construction homes in the St. George area are located in master-planned communities that offer resort-style amenities like pools, golf courses, pickleball courts, and hiking access. These features can make your rental even more attractive to visitors looking for a relaxing getaway.

Custom Finishes for Short-Term Use

If you’re buying pre-construction, you may be able to customize finishes with durability and design in mind; think easy-to-clean flooring, extra sleeping space, or high-end touches that photograph beautifully and boost your nightly rate.

Cons of Choosing a New Build

Higher Price Point

Though not always the case, new construction homes in and around St. George can come at a premium price, especially in the most sought-after communities near Sand Hollow, Snow Canyon, or downtown. If your budget is tight, this could make cash flow more challenging in the early years.

Location

Some new developments are outside of central St. George, in areas like Washington, Hurricane, or Ivins. While still beautiful and peaceful, they may not be as walkable or close to downtown restaurants and shops. This is just something to consider depending on your target guests.

Construction Disruption

If you’re buying in a growing community, ongoing construction nearby may lead to noise, dust, or limited curb appeal, which could affect the guest experience and your reviews during the early months of ownership.

HOA or Zoning Restrictions

St. George and nearby cities have varying rules when it comes to short-term rentals. Some new neighborhoods don’t allow nightly rentals at all. We always recommend that you confirm zoning laws and HOA guidelines before purchasing to ensure short-term use is allowed.

Tips for Investors in St. George

Before you find your new construction rental property in St. George, here are some tips you'll want to keep in mind:

• Look for zoned nightly rental communities, especially in areas like Sand Hollow Resort, The Ledges, or Copper Rock. Not all communities will allow short term rentals, so be sure about that detail before making a final decision.
• Prioritize guest-friendly layouts with open kitchens, multiple bathrooms, and outdoor living spaces.
• Add extras like hot tubs, fire pits, or gear storage to appeal to active travelers (who make up much of the demand for STRs here).

St. George is a fantastic place to invest in a vacation home. And if you're looking for something low-maintenance and guest-ready, a new construction home could be just what you need. Just be sure to do your research on location, rental regulations, and projected income to make the best choice for your goals.

Ready to learn more about buying real estate in St. George? We can help every step of the way, so contact us any time.