85 Lake Shore Drive

This property stands out as a distinctive short-term rental opportunity, targeting guests seeking privacy, novelty, and direct lake access in western Maine. The private island setting, combined with a historic stone cottage and modern solar infrastructure, supports premium nightly rates and strong occupancy during peak seasons. The property has a documented Airbnb rental history with weekly guests, lending high confidence to modeled income projections. The primary caveat is the niche appeal and operational complexity of an island rental, which may limit year-round demand and require hands-on management or specialized local support.

Peru, ME is a rural, lakefront market where unique properties such as private islands can command premium short-term rental rates, particularly in summer and fall. The STR strategy is supported by the property's Airbnb history and the region's appeal to vacationers seeking seclusion and outdoor recreation. However, the market is relatively thin, and demand may be highly seasonal, so projections should be treated with moderate confidence outside peak periods.

The property offers a highly private, experiential stay with 360-degree lake views and direct water access, appealing to guests seeking solitude and nature immersion. The dedicated shore parcel with parking and a sandy beach enhances accessibility and guest convenience. Given the rural setting and island access, guest appeal is likely strongest among families and small groups seeking a unique getaway, but conclusions about year-round demand are lower confidence due to limited location-specific signals.

At a $550,000 purchase price, underwriting metrics indicate an estimated $342 ADR, 55% occupancy, and monthly expected income of $5,721, resulting in a projected monthly cash flow of $1,711 and a 14.9% cash-on-cash return (assuming 25% down, 6.4% interest, and 25% expense ratio). These high-confidence figures are grounded in the property's proven Airbnb history and premium positioning, but are sensitive to occupancy and ADR assumptions, which may fluctuate with seasonality and operational execution. Investors should confirm the sustainability of rental demand and the practicalities of island management during diligence.