From Designer to Investor: How I Turned My Eye for Beauty into Real Estate Returns

[Leior Christina]

Hi everyone 🌴
I’m Christina, originally from Ukraine, now living in California where I run two interior design studios and manage a few rental properties. Over the last few years, I’ve invested in San Diego, Irvine, and Lake Martin, AL — mostly long-term rentals and vacation homes. My focus has always been design-forward spaces that tell a story and offer emotional and financial return.

Now, I’m seriously considering expanding into Florida, but I’m coming in fresh — no boots on the ground, no personal contacts there yet. I'm especially curious about:

• Which Florida markets are currently investor-friendly for mid-level buy & hold or vacation rentals?

• Are there cities/regions where local design taste and short-term rental demand overlap well?

• Any red flags or things to avoid as an out-of-state investor?

If you’re investing in Florida or know the market well, I’d be so grateful for any insight, advice, or connections. I’m here to learn and would love to contribute wherever I can too — especially on anything design/value-add related.

Looking forward to connecting with this amazing community 💛
– Christina