📅 2026 Update: Changes in Holiday Home Buying

Since the original article was published, several important changes have taken place in the processes for buying holiday homes in the United States. This update highlights significant updates in property purchasing rules, fees, and available programs. The earlier article continues further down the page.

🏡 Fannie Mae's First Look Period Extension

In 2024, Fannie Mae extended its First Look period to 30 days. During this time, only owner-occupants, public entities, and nonprofits can make offers on foreclosed properties. This change aims to give priority to individuals and organizations that intend to live in or improve the properties.

🏠 HUD's Exclusive Listing Period

As of 2025, the HUD's exclusive listing period for certain properties is now 30 days for owner-occupants, nonprofits, and government entities. For other properties, the period is 15 days. This gives eligible buyers a better chance to secure homes before they are open to other buyers.

💰 Current Costs of Buying

When purchasing a HUD home, earnest money deposits typically range from $500 to $2,000. This amount depends on the purchase price. Additionally, online auction platforms like Auction.com charge a buyer’s premium of 5% to 10% of the final bid, which is an extra cost to consider.

📝 Steps to Purchase a Home

The process for buying a HUD home involves several steps. First, search for properties on HUDHomeStore.gov. Next, engage a HUD-registered real estate broker to submit offers.

After submitting an offer during the exclusive listing period, the buyer typically closes within 30 days if accepted.

📌 Key Points Summary

  • Fannie Mae's First Look period is now 30 days.
  • HUD's exclusive listing period is 30 days for FHA 203(b) properties.
  • Earnest money deposits for HUD homes range from $500 to $2,000.
  • Auction platforms charge a 5% to 10% buyer’s premium.
  • Closing on auction homes typically happens within 30 days.

💡 Tips for Buying Holiday Homes

Review the details of your own situation with your attorney.

🏠 Understand Your Eligibility

Make sure you are eligible for programs like Fannie Mae's First Look or HUD's exclusive listing. These programs often prioritize owner-occupants and nonprofits, which can give you an edge in competitive markets.

📅 Keep Track of Deadlines

Pay attention to the 30-day and 15-day exclusive periods for bidding on HUD properties. Missing these deadlines could mean losing out on the chance to buy a home.

💰 Budget for Additional Costs

Be prepared for costs beyond the purchase price. This includes earnest money deposits ranging from $500 to $2,000 and the buyer’s premium for auction platforms, which can add up quickly.

🔍 Conduct Thorough Research

Before making offers, research properties thoroughly. Use resources like HUDHomeStore.gov to find eligible homes and examine local market conditions to understand property values.

🏡 Explore Government Programs

Look into programs like HUD's Good Neighbor Next Door, which offers significant discounts to eligible public service workers. This can make homeownership more affordable.

🏆 Holiday Home Services Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

This section covers various services related to holiday home rentals and management. These services are ranked based on Trustpilot scores checked in October 2026. Ratings can fluctuate, and while they provide insights, remember that unhappy customers tend to leave more reviews.

🥇 1. AvantStay

AvantStay holds a 4.5 rating. The service is known for offering luxury vacation rentals and group accommodations, making it suitable for holiday home seekers. However, some reviewers have mentioned experiencing unexpected maintenance issues, which can affect the overall stay.

🥈 2. Hostaway

Hostaway averages 4.8. This service specializes in vacation rental management software and property management solutions. Users appreciate its comprehensive tools, but some have reported challenges with customer support, which may impact the overall user experience.

🥉 3. Bluegreen Vacations

Bluegreen Vacations has a 3.5 rating. It is recognized for its vacation ownership and timeshare properties. While many find value in the ownership model, there are complaints about customer service that potential buyers should consider.

4️⃣ Vacasa

Vacasa holds a 3.8 score from a large base. The service is known for its vacation rental management and property management services. Despite its popularity, some users have reported issues with customer service, which can affect satisfaction.

5️⃣ RCI

RCI has a 3.5 rating. This service focuses on vacation exchange services and timeshare exchanges. While it offers flexible options for travelers, some reviews indicate concerns with customer service that could be a drawback for users.

🆓 Free Government and Nonprofit Help

Many counties provide free access to foreclosure listings, auction calendars, and tax-delinquent property information through their official websites. Programs like HUD's Good Neighbor Next Door also offer discounts for eligible public service workers.

🔎 Considerations for Choosing Services

  • 🏠 Look for user ratings and reviews.
  • 💰 Check for any hidden fees or costs.
  • 📅 Understand the available programs and their requirements.
  • 🔍 Compare services offered to meet your specific needs.
  • 🗓️ Investigate the customer support reputation.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What is the First Look period for Fannie Mae properties?

The First Look period for Fannie Mae properties is now 30 days from the initial listing date. During this time, only eligible buyers can submit offers.

❓ How much do I need for an earnest money deposit on a HUD home?

Earnest money deposits for HUD homes typically range from $500 to $2,000. The exact amount depends on the purchase price of the home.

❓ What is the HUD's exclusive listing period?

HUD's exclusive listing period is 30 days for properties eligible for FHA 203(b) financing and 15 days for other properties. Only certain buyers can submit offers during this time.

❓ How does the buyer’s premium work in auctions?

In online auctions, the buyer’s premium ranges from 5% to 10% of the final bid price. This is an additional cost that buyers should factor into their overall budget.

❓ What programs help first-time homebuyers?

Programs like HUD's Good Neighbor Next Door provide significant discounts to eligible public service workers. This can make purchasing a home more affordable for those who qualify.

❓ Can I find foreclosure information for free?

Yes, many counties offer free access to foreclosure listings and auction calendars through their official websites. This information can help buyers track available properties.

⚖️ Recent Cases Related to Property Law

Recent court rulings have impacted property law, focusing on issues like property disputes, zoning, and ownership rights. Understanding these rulings can help buyers navigate the complexities of purchasing holiday homes.

For more information, feel free to browse more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update





If an individual or a family has the financial means necessary, they may choose to purchase vacation homes for sale. This is particularly true if they enjoy a particular location and frequent this location numerous times every year. There are many holiday homes for sale throughout the United States. The type of holiday home that an individual chooses to purchase will depend upon the type of vacation environment that he/she is seeking to enjoy. 

Different individuals enjoy different types of vacation environments. For example, some people may choose to purchase vacation homes for sale on the beach, while others may consider country homes for sale. Many people enjoy winter activities, such as snowboarding, and therefore they may seek property in locations such as Colorado. Others will seek lake front property, where they can relax and enjoy the serenity of the secluded environment. As a result, holiday homes for sale are very different.

It is important for an individual to determine what type of holiday home he/she is seeking before he/she begins searching throughout real estate listings. This will help to narrow down the list of potential vacation homes. There are holiday homes available in many price ranges. An individual may choose to purchase a tiny, secluded weekend home, or if he/she has the financial funds, he/she may purchase a luxury home on the coast of California. 

Finding Holiday Homes for Sale

An individual will likely be able to locate a holiday home that is appropriate for him/her and that satisfies his/her real estate desires. It is also important to note that vacation homes are not restricted to the United States. An individual can purchase vacation homes in other countries, including Canada, Mexico, and locations throughout Europe.