Investing in Short-Term Rentals as a Pharmacist: How I Turned My License Into Leverage

I’m a licensed pharmacist.
I’m also a licensed realtor.
And today, I’m both — because I got tired of letting one identity define my future.

Like many of us in healthcare, I did everything “right” — earned the doctorate, paid my dues, showed up for every shift. But even with a stable career, I felt boxed in. The truth is, pharmacy gave me security… but not freedom.

So I started investing in real estate — specifically short-term rentals (STRs) — and it changed everything.

Why Pharmacists Make Smart STR Investors

If you’re a healthcare professional reading this, you already have the mindset and skills to succeed:

  • You're financially responsible (you had to be).

  • You're used to following protocols and systems.

  • You understand the value of long-term planning.

But here’s the secret: you don’t have to do it all yourself.

When you invest in STRs the right way — with a solid team, good data, and a strategic approach — it’s not about trading one job for another. It’s about building smart income.

And that’s where I come in — as your realtor, guide, and short-term rental strategist.

How I Help Healthcare Pros Buy Their First STR

I don’t just show you houses. I help you build a short-term rental business from the ground up — without the overwhelm.

Here’s what that looks like:

Market + Property Guidance

I help you zero in on legal STR markets (like parts of New Orleans), analyze revenue potential using tools like AirDNA, and identify the type of home that fits your goals — not just what looks cute on Instagram.

STR-Ready Property Search

I don’t waste your time with properties that won’t cash flow or won’t pass permitting. We’ll only explore homes that meet STR criteria — including zoning, layout, location, and guest appeal.

Connection to Experts

You won’t be guessing your way through setup. I connect you with licensed lenders, inspectors, insurance agents, and STR property managers — including my husband’s team at Book NOLA, one of the most trusted and design-forward short-term rental operators in New Orleans.
They’ll handle the logistics. I’ll help you get the door open in the first place.

Offer-to-Close Support

I guide you through negotiations, inspections, appraisals, insurance, and STR licensing — with an eye toward long-term profitability.

This isn’t HGTV. It’s smart investing, and I’ll help you do it the right way.

You Don't Need to “Manage” Anything

Let’s clear something up: I don’t recommend trying to self-manage your first STR while working full-time in healthcare. It’s a recipe for burnout.

That’s why I emphasize working with a vetted STR property management team — someone who will handle:

  • Guest messaging

  • Pricing and calendar optimization

  • Turnover cleanings and supplies

  • Emergency calls

  • Review management

  • Maintenance coordination

Yes, it eats into profit a little — but it protects your time and your peace of mind.

If you’re serious about getting started, I’m happy to share who I trust and talk through what makes sense based on your goals and the market you're entering.

What Makes a Property STR-Ready?

As your agent, I help filter properties through this lens — so you don’t waste your time or money:

  • Zoning Compliance: We don’t play games with gray areas. I know exactly which New Orleans neighborhoods still allow STRs — and where permits are actually being approved.

  • Tourism Appeal: STRs need walkability, charm, and proximity to local draws. I’ll guide you toward blocks that book well and hold long-term value.

  • Layout & Functionality: It’s not just about beds. We look at privacy, flow, entrances, and photo-ready design potential.

  • Cash Flow Potential: I help you calculate expected revenue before you buy. No guesswork. We run comps, conservative projections, and clear expense models.

This is where having a realtor who lives and breathes STRs makes all the difference.

What You Won’t Have to Do

Just to be clear — as your realtor, I don’t:

  • Furnish your unit

  • Manage guests or cleaners

  • Handle bookings or repairs

But I will introduce you to people who do.
My job is to help you find the right deal, in the right market, with the right team to support your goals.

You don’t have to DIY everything. Platforms like Hospitable and Turno can automate 90% of the guest experience if you're starting out solo — but I’ll always recommend connecting with a solid property manager if you’re working full-time.

Final Thoughts: From Pharmacist to Investor

I didn’t stop being a pharmacist. I just stopped thinking that was the only way to create security.

Short-term rental investing gave me:

  • More flexibility as a mom

  • A long-term path to financial freedom

  • The ability to say “no” when I need to — and “yes” to what matters

And now, I help other healthcare professionals do the same.

If you’re ready to buy your first short-term rental — or even just want to understand how it could fit into your life — I’d love to talk. We can explore where you want to invest, what’s possible in today’s market, and who you’ll need to succeed.

I’ll help you find the right front door. Let’s open it together.

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Buying a Home in New Orleans in 2025: What You Need to Know Before You Start

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STR vs. Long-Term Rentals: Which One's Really Worth It?