Exploring Florida panhandle market for vacation rental

[Dev Paul]

Good evening all! So after lots of readings and speaking with some of the people here, Im leaning towards Florida Panhandle market as one of my top 2 choices. From what I understand, best income is to be made in bigger SFH rather than condos. Besides regulations are unlikely to change from curren as HOA doesnt come into picture. My budget is 400-550k with 20-25% down payment. Targeting properties with potential of netting 80-100k in yearly revenue. Looking to self manage. Open to do some upgrades if I get a great price. Which specific cities, towns, beach communities I should target? Any thoughts, pointers (especially from folks doing it first hand) and realtor contacts will be appreciated.

[Jon Pazevic]

Dev:

The panhandle of florida is out for you--You are in a dreamland based on your net 80-100k; our best property 1 block from beach 4 br w/pool, purchase 650k, now 880k, rents 320 days a year, we manage,  and gross 100k--We've been in the panhandle(Destin/30A), for 30 years, and there is no unicorn like you look for.  Panama city is cheaper,but not much, gulf shores and Orange Beach AL is less, but not close to your profit requirements.  Maybe take a look along the brown sands of texas or the carolinas, or small towns on florida's rocket coast. I think Orlando may be a bargain for pricing and give better returns; common sense would think they are overbuilt, but that is mostly hotels, and not AirBNB's, whic are more bargain priced, have year round appeal because of the theme parks (60 million visits per year), and truely demand outstrips supply.

Good Luck, Jon, Sand Dollar Vacation Properties