South Florida Markets and Weather-Caused Hesitation:

[Will Muno]

Hi all,

I have been learning about REI for the last year+ (books, videos, etc.) and am expecting to make a move in the next year or two. I think house hacking is going to be my play. For context: I work remotely, don't have debt, and allocate about 38% of my income to saving/ investing (on an annual average basis).

Given my situation, I was thinking of deploying capital into a house hack in south Florida so I can benefit from no state income tax (working remotely) and live in a warm climate (currently in Chicago). I am not married to the Gulf or Atlantic side, just preferably not inland. My main concerns are hurricanes/ inclement weather, and the cost/ headache of repairs that come with seemingly inevitable natural disasters. Should that be a deterrent?  Has that swayed anyone's opinion about markets in south FL in the past? Should I look in other markets?

Curious to hear if anyone has experience here. My goal is to expand a portfolio in multi-family, but who knows where the REI road will take me.
I appreciate any and all help. 

Thank you!