Vacation Rental Property in Florida

[Sonja Razmovski]

Hi fellow BPers!

We are interested in purchasing a vacation rental property in Florida (we're in Toronto). Does anyone own one that can share experience? Best communities to look at (perhaps between Disney and Universal)? Are they worthwhile? Better vacation rental markets to look at?

Any advice/insight is much appreciated!

Thanks!

[David McBrayer]

The Winter Haven, FL area is a nice place and the prices are not as bad as one may think.  There are still some great deals around.  It is about 45 minutes to an hour from Orlando but not near as congested.

I own rental properties in Winter Haven and I was born there.  The city has 50 lakes in it and you will see some of the best sunrises and sunsets you can see in Florida.  It is also about the same distance to Tampa.  So it is Centrally located and is now the home of Lego Land FL.  I have been really investing in Winter Haven the last year because the deals are much better than I can get here in Ft. Lauderdale or Pompano Beach, FL.  The rents are about the same but the cost of the properties is much less.  So more cash flow.

The best of luck to you in your new ventures.