STR-Friendly Properties for Sale

The Poconos didn’t become a vacation hotspot by accident. Much of the region’s popularity, and real estate development, can be traced back to the completion of Interstate 80 through the Poconos in 1970. The highway opened the door for vacationers from New York, New Jersey, and Philadelphia to reach the mountains in under two hours, triggering a boom in planned vacation communities throughout the 1970s and ‘80s. Communities like Arrowhead Lake, Towamensing Trails, and Big Bass Lake were designed to serve weekenders and second-homeowners with amenities like pools, lakes and open space designed as an escape from the cities and pursuit of the American Dream.  
 

Today, these same communities have become the most desirable short-term rental locations in the Poconos. The top drawing communities offer amenities that appeal directly to those wanting to escape the rat race: pools, lakes, beaches, clubhouses, tennis courts, and more.  For peace of mind these communities also provide trash pick-up, plowed roads, and security. These built-in perks make STR listings more attractive and guest-ready while also lowering uncertainty as an owner.

On the positive side, many HOAs that allow short-term rentals provide clear, structured rules that create predictability for investors. In contrast, homes outside these communities often lack access to amenities, pushback from immediate neighbors and less of a getting away from it all.  For owners looking to generate steady income, the combination of guest-friendly amenities, consistent curb appeal, and regulatory clarity makes vacation home friendly communities a smarter—and safer—investment.  Below are our picks for some of these top spots for STR ownership or STR investment in the Poconos.

 

So many Pocono Vacation Rental Communities!

Search by Pocono communities!

For our full list of Pocono Communities please visit: Short-term Rental Communities

Contact Mark shay to find your vacation property in the poconos

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Read From my Pocono Vacation Home Articles Blog

The Real Story on 3-Bedroom Vacation Rentals in the Poconos

Why These Homes Still Make Smart STR Investments For years, the 3-bedroom home has...
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How to Get a Short-Term Rental (STR) License in the Poconos

If you’re planning to buy a vacation home in the Poconos and rent it out on Airbnb or VRBO,...
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Do Pools, Hot Tubs, Firepits and Outdoor Kitchens Really Boost STR Revenue in the Poconos?

I got a call recently from a client who after some difficulties in getting her...
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Pocono STR and Vacation Home Real Estate Market Update – Summer 2025

The vacation rental market looks good. The surge of post-pandemic "revenge travel" has cooled, and travelers are once again considering trips to the Poconos versus air travel to more distant destinations. The Poconos' strategic location within a 3-hour drive of 47 million people continues to support a strong vacation home rental and resort travel market, year-round.
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Testimonials

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"Mark was really great! He was very knowledgeable about the area and key to us picking the right neighborhood to search for our vacation home. He was extremely helpful in ensuring that we could look at places on our limited time schedule and with our little kiddos! He kept in touch throughout the process and continues to reach out to make sure everything is going smoothly."
Andrew Peckham
Bought a Single Family Home, Albrightsville, PA
Mark Shay made the purchase of my new STR in Jim Thorpe almost effortless. Based on my criteria, he had a list of homes to choose from within an hour of my request. I am not from the area, so Mark connected me with vendors and helped me safely navigate the STR licensing process. Mark shay is a great realtor and the ambassador for the Poconos mountain community and I highly recommend him for your home purchase journey.
Samuel Everett
Jim Thorpe, PA
When it was still definitely a seller's market, Mark found our ideal spot in the Poconos where we could start our Short Term Rental venture. He gave that extra touch to make sure our bid was complete and won! Thanks Mark and hope to obtain more properties in the Poconos with you.
Jcarmody73
Bought a Single Family home in 2022 in Pocono Lake, PA

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