STR Law

Trusts + LLCs: The STR Owner’s Probate-Proof Game Plan

California probate can be slow, expensive, and messy, especially when you own rentals or run a business. In this episode, I am joined by Mark Abel, a Southern California trusts-and-estates attorney, to explain how estate planning and LLCs work together for STR owners and real estate investors. We cover why a living revocable trust is a go-to tool for avoiding probate, how a pour-over will “catch” assets that never make it back into the trust (often after refinances), and the documents that matter for incapacity planning so operations don’t freeze after an unexpected event. You’ll also hear our guidance on LLC successor planning, why trusts matter even more for families with minor children, and what Mark is seeing in California, including HOA crackdowns and STR lottery or waitlist systems. If you’ve been “meaning to get around to it,” this episode is your reminder: hope for the best, plan for the worst. Shop STR legal templates: strlaw.com #ShortTermRental #AirbnbHost #VacationRental #AssetProtection #LLC #STRLaw #RiskManagement

The Snatch-and-Grab Lawsuit: Why Your STR Needs LLC Armor

Asset protection doesn’t have to be confusing, especially when you own short-term rentals.  In this episode, Katie is joined by attorney Kevin Snyder of Snyder Law to break down “layers of protection” for STR owners: insurance, LLC structuring, and when trusts may (or may not) make sense. They cover why separating properties into different LLCs can reduce risk, the real problem with “pooling” rentals under one entity, and how out-of-state LLCs (like Wyoming) can add an extra deterrent layer—especially for California owners concerned about charging orders. Kevin also explains the basics of piercing the corporate veil, the compliance habits that keep your LLC strong (bank accounts, operating agreements, annual upkeep), and where crypto fits into an asset-protection plan Shop STR legal templates: strlaw.com #ShortTermRental #AirbnbHost #VacationRental #AssetProtection #LLC #STRLaw #RiskManagement

Sell High, Don’t Rush: Tax-Smart Exit Strategies for Real Estate & Business Owners

I sat down with Brett Swartz to unpack tax-smart exit planning for real estate investors and business owners—especially how a Deferred Sales Trust can help defer capital gains with more flexibility than a traditional 1031 exchange. If you’re thinking about selling, this episode is for you. Hit play, follow the show on Spotify, and share it with a friend who’s planning an exit.🎙️ #ExitPlanning #CapitalGainsTax #RealEstateInvesting #TaxStrategies #WealthManagement

Zoning, Entitlements, and Creating Real Estate Value Before You Build

In this episode of STR Law, attorney and real estate developer Ari Rastigar explains how zoning and entitlements shape real estate value long before construction begins. The conversation covers entitlement risk, rezoning strategies, large-scale development, 3D-printed housing, and how institutional investors approach housing in high-growth cities like Austin and Dallas. A practical discussion on land use, STR strategy, and why understanding zoning law is essential for developers, investors, and hosts. 🎙️ BONUS!! For the next 72 hours only: Buy any STR Law Kit at strlaw.com and get a free 1-hour one-on-one consult with me to walk through your STR legal questions. #STRLaw #RealEstatePodcast #Zoning #Entitlements #LandUseLaw #ShortTermRentals #RealEstateDevelopment #HousingSupply

Small-Town Politics, Big Zoning Risks for STR Hosts with Ali Haney

What happens when a 90-acre Property collides with small-town politics and zoning boards? In this episode of STR Law, real estate attorney and Airbnb investor Katie Johnson sits down with Ali Haney—short-term rental owner, branding expert, and host of The Branded Market Podcast. Ali shares how she bought a 90-acre property in rural Kentucky to build a wedding venue with on-site stays, only to face neighbor backlash, packed hearings, and a conditional use permit loaded with 18 conditions. You’ll learn: * How informal “zoning green lights” can fall apart at the hearing * What conditional/special use permits really look like in practice * How neighbor opposition can reshape (or kill) your business model * How Allie pivoted from wedding venue plans to a successful STR If you’re an STR host, investor, or aspiring venue owner, this real-life zoning story is a must-listen before your next deal. 🎙️