The Bear Lake Investment Playbook

Bear Lake isn't just a place for milkshakes and lake days…it’s a high-performing asset class. As we move into 2026, the data shows that while the national market is stabilizing, destination markets like ours continue to hold a what’s considered a scarcity premium. Here are some investment facts:

Unlike other areas of Utah and Idaho, like the Wasatch Front, over 80% of properties here are seasonal or second homes. This creates a unique insulation against typical market volatility because many owners are not "forced" sellers.

In Garden City and Fish Haven, high-capacity rentals (homes that sleep 20+) continue to see the highest ROI. While a smaller condo often offers lower entry costs, the net yield on large-scale lodges often hits higher return ranges when managed correctly.

Both Rich County (UT) and Bear Lake County (ID) have specific Short-Term Rental ordinances. While this means more paperwork for owners, it actually protects your investment by preventing over-saturation and ensuring your neighborhood maintains its value.

Overall, Bear Lake continues to be an excellent place to own an investment property, whether for long-term appreciation or to use as a rental property. If investing in the valley is something you’re considering this year, give me a call and let’s start walking through what that could look like for you!