Florida Market. Risks?

[Sumner Rabin]

I am looking to buy a Condo or SFH in Florida. Eastern seaboard. I am not opposed to the Miami-Dade or Greater Orlando region. Ultimately, as long as it cash-flows- RIGHT? LOL

I currently have a cash flowing property here in California, but the price points and wars here are making it a non-profitable business model for me. So, until conditions for me change, I am ok with one property here. 

I am very familiar with Florida as I go there for work upward of 10-12x/year for multiple days on end. 

What is it about Florida that is driving the incredible demand? I get it that the weather and costs of living are better than say, Minneapolis. I grew up around hurricanes so I am familiar with the need for higher elevation, flood insurance and such. But what I am not understanding is this:

- What is driving the demand to Florida

- How long is this demand going to be sustained

- Are we destined for another 2008 crash like Florida had

And, most importantly. Why would someone rent from you or me if owning a a home is only a little bit more than rent. 

(example, a 350k home is maybe 1700/mo give or take. I can rent for 1400 or own for a few hundred more? )

I am looking to network with Florida investors and landlords. 

Thanks for your time, look forward to doing some business!