Creative Wedding Ideas - How to Find the Right Vacation Home

(ARA) - Investing in a vacation property is an investment in memories. But with all the options available, there are a lot of things that should be considered before making a final decision.

"Choosing the right vacation property is complex," comments Steve Greer, CEO at The LUSSO Collection, an organization that specializes in luxury vacation residences. "People need to take a close look at their expectations and all the cost considerations, so years down the road they are happy with their choice."

Option 1: Second Home
Vacation homes are permanent destinations that work well for those who know they enjoy one area, want to return time and time again and might need to stay for an extended period of time.

* Positive
Owning the home gives the person the freedom to decorate, organize and change the home to fit their needs.

* Negative
Home maintenance often takes a lot of time and can be costly. If you live away from your vacation home for most of the year, you will need to hire someone to clean and care for the yard. When you are at the property, this maintenance can take time away from more preferred activities. And with any home ownership, there is bound to be unanticipated problems and expenses.

Option 2: Destination Clubs
Destination clubs consist of members who join a country club type of organization to utilize a portfolio of properties that the club owns.

* Positive
The clubs work well for people who enjoy the privacy, space and conveniences a home offers, but don't want to be tied down to just one location. Additionally, members don't have to worry about maintenance because the organization takes care of each property. Certain destination clubs also provide vacation planning and on-site concierge services that you would normally find at a luxury hotel.

* Negative
Decor and amenities are determined by the club. Although this freedom is forfeited, this could also be viewed as a positive depending on what you value. Some people prefer not to spend their own time on these items.

Chris Cowan of Dallas, Texas, has experienced the hassles of second-home ownership and decided to become a member of the LUSSO Collection. "My wife and I have owned mountain houses, ranches, and still have a lake house. LUSSO is such a relief. They eliminate the maintenance, staffing, and upkeep hassles," comments Cowan.

With a single-tier membership structure and a members-to-residence ratio of 5.5-to-1, LUSSO is a choice that makes sense for a lot of people. Residences are fully equipped with all needed items including a Lincoln Navigator, golf clubs, a gourmet kitchen stocked with pre-arrival groceries and amenities for all travelers regardless of age.

With an economic structure that is similar to a country club, members pay a fully refundable deposit (currently $425,000) and annual dues for unlimited access to the club's portfolio of residences and services.

Properties are in locations such as Lake Tahoe, Calif.; Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Aspen, Colo.; Manhattan; Hawaii; the Bahamas and other choice destinations. For more information, visit www.LussoCollection.com.

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