Find Your Big Bear STR Realtor
Big Bear Lake offers Southern California's favorite mountain escape with skiing, lake activities, and year-round outdoor adventure. Connect with realtors who specialize in mountain cabin investments.
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Why Invest in Big Bear STRs?
Southern California's premier mountain getaway with four-season appeal
Massive LA Metro Access
Just 2 hours from 18 million people in the LA metro area, Big Bear captures the weekend getaway market year-round.
Four-Season Revenue
Skiing in winter, lake activities in summer, and fall foliage create consistent booking demand throughout the year.
Affordable Entry Point
Mountain cabins offer more accessible pricing than coastal California markets while delivering strong rental returns.
Established STR Market
Big Bear has a long history of vacation rentals with clear regulations and proven property management infrastructure.
What a Big Bear STR Expert Brings
Local knowledge that makes the difference
- Mountain Cabin Expertise - Understand snow loads, winterization, A-frame construction, and mountain-specific concerns
- Revenue Projections - Accurate income estimates based on actual Big Bear market data and seasonal patterns
- Lake & Ski Access - Know which locations command premium rates for lake views or slope proximity
- Local Vendor Network - Connections to snow removal services, property managers, and mountain maintenance pros
- Regulatory Guidance - Navigate Big Bear's vacation rental permit process and San Bernardino County requirements
Ready to Find Your Big Bear STR Expert?
Get matched with a local specialist who knows the mountain lake market inside and out.
Get Matched FreeFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about STR investing in Big Bear
What are Big Bear's vacation rental permit requirements?
Big Bear Lake requires a Vacation Rental Certificate for all short-term rentals. Operators must obtain a business license, register with the city, and collect Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) of 8%. Properties undergo safety inspections covering smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, fire extinguishers, and emergency egress. The permit must be renewed annually. San Bernardino County areas outside city limits have separate requirements. Some HOAs restrict or prohibit vacation rentals.
What are the best areas to invest in Big Bear STRs?
The Village area offers walkability to shops and restaurants, commanding premium rates. Lakefront properties on Big Bear Lake are most desirable but limited and expensive. Moonridge near Bear Mountain ski resort attracts winter sports enthusiasts. Boulder Bay and Fawnskin on the north shore offer quieter settings at lower price points. Properties with ski slope views or lake access consistently outperform. Proximity to Snow Summit or Bear Mountain lifts significantly impacts winter bookings.
How does seasonality affect Big Bear vacation rental income?
Big Bear benefits from true four-season demand. Winter (December-March) is peak season with skiing at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain commanding highest rates. Summer brings lake activities, hiking, and mountain biking with strong family bookings. Fall foliage season (late September-October) creates a shoulder peak. Spring is typically slowest but still viable. Weekend occupancy far exceeds weekdays year-round due to the LA day-trip market. Holiday weekends can command 3-4x normal rates.
What should I know about mountain cabin maintenance and costs?
Mountain properties require specialized maintenance including snow removal (essential for guest access), roof snow load management, winterization of pipes, and regular deck/exterior staining due to harsh weather. Heating costs are significant in winter - many cabins use propane. Hot tubs require year-round maintenance and increase water/electricity costs. Insurance costs are higher due to fire risk and winter hazards. Budget 1-2% of property value annually for mountain-specific maintenance beyond typical STR costs.
What ROI can investors expect from Big Bear vacation rentals?
Big Bear cabins typically generate $55,000-$85,000 in annual gross revenue, with average nightly rates around $265 and 62% annual occupancy. Properties with hot tubs, game rooms, and winter amenities (boot warmers, sled storage) outperform. Entry-level cabins start around $400,000, while lakefront or ski-adjacent properties exceed $1 million. Cash-on-cash returns of 6-12% are common. The proximity to 18 million LA metro residents creates consistent demand that supports both rental income and property appreciation.
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