RV Masterclass Special Topics + Q&A - Jul 16, 2026
This transcript captures a live Zoom Q&A led by Heather Kiddoo and co‑host Trisha Flake for the RV‑park investing masterclass. The discussion walks participants through how to define a personal "buy box" by choosing park type (resort, campground, workforce housing), evaluating market metrics (population growth, crime rates, income, seasonal demand, flood zones, natural‑disaster risk), and applying geographic filters (climate, weather extremes, permitting complexity, HOA or fire‑zone restrictions). Operational considerations such as highway visibility, signage, proximity to attractions, and amenity mix are examined, with emphasis on how these factors differ for short‑term vacation parks versus long‑term affordable‑housing parks. The presenters share strategies for extending seasonality (e.g., winter ski packages, winter work‑camp housing), forming local partnerships (restaurants, ski rentals, gyms), and leveraging technology (AI‑driven market research, RFID wristbands, park apps, IoT golf carts). They outline due‑diligence tools (US Census, FEMA flood maps, Google Earth, AI research, job listings) and financing pathways (SBA loans, seller‑carry, preferred equity, private‑equity cap‑ex). Management and transition challenges are highlighted, including the need for on‑site presence during hand‑over, staff relationship building, and unexpected operational issues (permits, phone line transfers, septic access). The session concludes with a preview of a forthcoming wholesale program and AI dashboard to streamline data for OC members. Throughout, the tone is conversational and instructional, with enthusiastic support for proactive, data‑driven decision‑making while acknowledging the risks and effort required to run RV parks successfully.
Topics
Defining Park Type and Personal Buy‑Box
Guidance on selecting the kind of RV park (resort, campground, workforce housing) that aligns with the investor’s lifestyle, risk tolerance, and desired guest experience.
Evaluating Market Metrics and Risk Factors
Discussion of key data points—population growth, crime rates, median income, flood zones, natural‑disaster exposure—and how they influence location suitability.
Geographic Filters: Climate, Weather, and Regulatory Considerations
Analysis of climate‑related pros/cons (warm vs. cold markets), state‑specific permitting, HOA, fire‑zone, and flood‑zone challenges, and how to blacklist or avoid problematic regions.
Operational Visibility, Highway Proximity, and Signage
Impact of being near interstates or highways on visibility, noise, and signage requirements for different park models.
Seasonality Strategies and Year‑Round Occupancy
Methods to convert seasonal parks to year‑round operations, including winter work‑camp housing, ski‑package partnerships, and leveraging local employers.
Partnerships and Revenue‑Extension Opportunities
Ideas for collaborating with local businesses (restaurants, ski rentals, gyms) to create bundled experiences and increase ancillary revenue.
Technology Integration and Guest Experience Enhancements
Use of AI for market research, RFID wristbands, park apps, IoT‑enabled golf carts, and other tech add‑backs to improve operations and guest satisfaction.
Due‑Diligence Tools and Data Sources
Specific resources for research: US Census, FEMA flood maps, Google Earth, AI deep‑research mode, job boards, Zillow, local government sites, and how to synthesize them quickly.