First-time STR investor looking to connect w/those in WDW area!

[Zach Martin]

Hey All,

My fiancé and I are both in healthcare (PT and nurse) and, after the pandemic, are feeling the burnout and eager to check out alternative ways to make money/achieve financial independence in addition to continuing to treat.

We initially wanted to go the long-term rental route close to home and loved the idea of house hacking, though the current price to enter into this market is currently just too high in our area. The Orlando/Walt Disney World area and the vacations we took there played a major role in keeping our spirits up, and we figure that getting into the STR market here would be a great way to marry our ambition to a place we feel passionate about.

Like many in these forums, we’ve been attempting to take in as much relevant info (podcasts, blogs, vlogs, etc.) as we can in order to fully understand what the buying and subsequent management of one of these properties entails. However, I can’t think of a more effective way than to connect with those who have and currently are practicing and excelling in this market. 

Our current plan involves moving to the central Florida area upon completing a residency in about a year, and then spending 1-2 years there before moving home to raise a family. Would anyone be willing to share any insights, connections, or general advice with a couple of newbies looking to make the most of that window? I’d love to return to New England with at least one established property and the associated experience managing it so that we can continue to scale from out of market. Thanks in advance!