26 photos
Prospect analysisArchived
118 Sherry Lane
Asking$699,000
New Milford · New Milford, CT · 3 bd · 2 ba · 912 sq ft · Built 1968
Underwritten as a short-term rental
Direct Candlewood Lake waterfront bungalow with strong short-term rental cash flow potential and rare price positioning for the area.
This 3-bedroom, 2-bath mid-century home offers direct lake access, modernized systems, and a high-confidence underwriting scenario projecting robust cash-on-cash returns. The property’s unique waterfront setting and competitive price point underpin its investment appeal, though ongoing diligence on property condition and STR regulations is warranted.
Est. ADR
$453
Est. occupancy
56%
Gross rev / mo
$7,716
Cash-on-cash
19.7%
Airfolio market estimates · 20% down · detail in the underwriting panel.
Investment thesis
This property stands out as a rare, direct waterfront opportunity on Candlewood Lake, positioned below typical lakefront price tiers and offering immediate guest appeal for short-term rental use. The high-confidence underwriting projects a strong cash-on-cash return, driven by a healthy ADR and occupancy assumption, making it attractive for investors seeking income-producing vacation assets. The home’s updated systems and flexible layout support operational efficiency, while the lakefront amenities and private community features enhance guest experience. The primary caveat is the need to confirm the property’s physical condition and ensure compliance with local STR regulations, as both could materially impact returns.
Highlights
- Direct Candlewood Lake frontage with private cove and shared dock
- 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 912 sqft layout
- Large deck with western and southern lake views
- Modernized mini-split heating/AC in each room
- Access to private community beach, swim dock, and kayak storage
- Listed at $699,000, below typical lakefront pricing
- High-confidence underwriting with projected 19.7% cash-on-cash return
Risks
STR permitting: verify local ordinance and zoning allow short-term rental at this address before offering. Not verified.
STR regulations and permitting requirements should be verified for New Milford and Candlewood Lake
Returns are sensitive to occupancy and ADR assumptions; seasonal demand swings may impact performance
Older home (built 1968) may require additional maintenance or updates
Lakefront properties can have higher insurance and maintenance costs
Buyer pool for unique lakefront assets may be narrower, impacting exit liquidity
Market
New Milford, CT, and the Candlewood Lake region are established vacation destinations with strong seasonal demand for waterfront rentals. This property’s direct lake access and private community amenities position it well for short-term rental strategies, especially given its competitive price point relative to typical lakefront inventory. The market supports premium ADRs for well-located, guest-ready homes, though performance is subject to regulatory and seasonal factors. Confidence in the income model is high, but investors should remain attentive to evolving local STR policies.
Neighborhood
The property is situated in a private lakeside community with direct access to Candlewood Lake, a major draw for vacationers seeking water activities and scenic relaxation. The immediate area offers a blend of residential and recreational character, with amenities such as a sandy beach, swim dock, and kayak storage enhancing guest appeal. While detailed location-specific demand signals are limited, the combination of lakefront setting and community features suggests strong guest interest, though conclusions are moderate-confidence pending further diligence on neighborhood dynamics and STR acceptance.
Underwriting notes
At a $699,000 purchase price, underwriting projects a monthly expected income of $7,716 and cash flow of $2,289, with a 19.7% cash-on-cash return based on a 20% down payment, 25% expense ratio, and 6.4% interest rate. The model assumes a 56% occupancy rate and $453 ADR, both reasonable for a direct lakefront asset in this market. Expense and income assumptions are high-confidence, but returns remain sensitive to actual occupancy, ADR, and ongoing maintenance needs. The property’s income potential is compelling for investors seeking strong cash flow from a premium vacation rental, provided diligence confirms physical condition and regulatory compliance.
Sign up free to adjust these assumptions and save your own underwriting.