Vacationing can be compared to a summer romance -- it's fun, exciting, and not forever. However, owning a vacation house is more like a partnership: it's comfortable, easy to maintain, and long-lasting. These are the questions that will help you determine if a vacation home is right for you.

What Distance Do You Want To Travel?

If you are looking for a quick getaway, limit your search to areas that can be reached quickly and easily. On average, vacation homes are located about 180 miles away from the primary residence.

Think about your travel style. Do you believe the journey is more important than the destination? Are you a traveler who isn't quite sure where to start?

How Often Will I Use This Place?

Every weekend? Every other weekend? When do you have children in July? Comfortable homes should be more used than they are. You may need air conditioning or a location with a view of the water. If you are planning on spending summers there, insulation and windows will be important.

It may seem like a great idea to live rough with no air conditioner or dishwasher. However, you might find yourself in a pinch if you make no-frills decisions when you sell your "rustic" cabin.

It Is Possible To Afford It

Money is an object if you are like most people. However, as with any major purchase, you should establish a price range and stay within it. A real estate agent with knowledge of the area you are interested in will help you navigate the process.

Most banks require 20% down if you want to get a Shangri-La mortgage. Lenders also need to ensure that your new debt does not exceed 36 percent. While some lenders may allow you to increase your debt-to-income ratio, this is only for the most credit-worthy customers.

The monthly costs for a vacation home are the same as any other home. They include taxes, utilities, and insurance. There may be additional fees for homeowner associations dues and resort fees. While a property may appeal to your soul, ensure it is within your financial means.

Can I Rent It?

You can rent out your vacation home if you don't intend to use it. While properties near golf courses and ski mountains are more appealing during the winter, they can also be rented at high rates for the rest of the year. Properties close to spas and waterfront properties have a year-round appeal. Is the property suitable for large families or just a couple? How much you charge will depend on the size of your property and where it is located.

Here's the view from 50,000 feet of vacation rental properties.

Positives:

• Renting incomes can help you pay for your guilty pleasure.

• A tax shelter is created when you rent a vacation home for longer than 14 days per year. This allows you to depreciate the property as well as deduct some expenses.

• It can be a good idea to rent a vacation house that you plan on selling to weather adverse market conditions.

Negative:

• You can no longer relax as a vacationer and instead have to deal with the demands of guests.

• Guests will need to be cleaned up after they leave.

Tax regulations can be complicated. The less you use your vacation home as a tax shelter, the better. A professional account advisor can save you many headaches.