Rental market in Naples, FL for investment

[Nathalie T.]

Hi everyone,

Recently moved to Naples FL, and after one weekend enjoying the pool and the beach, we couldn't help it: we started to think about real estate. We would like to buy a single family or townhouse in Naples' region as a primary residence for now, keeping in mind that life can change and that this property may be turned into a STR or an annual rental. Looking at the current listings for rent online, it looks like the market is unbelievably juicy. I see 3 or 4bed townhomes charging $12,000/m for STR, but the same could go for $6,000 annual. Are these prices realistic or listed by dreamers? There's a high competition on the rental market, can these listings really go for this kind of rent? Obviously, the demand is fuelled by the pandemic and work from home effect, how was the rental market pre-pandemic?

What are the locations/ communities around that could both be pleasant at a primary home and a smart rental investment (HOA rental policy, rent,...)

It's a lot of questions, and we actually would love to talk and meet other investors in the region.

Thanks!