All Forum Posts by: Puneet Mahi

I like Texas for the economic outlook and less natural disasters but I may be biased!

Hi there! It sounds like you’ve got an exciting plan mapped out, and I love that you’re thinking of starting a property management business while building your own portfolio—that’s a smart move. I’ve worked with a lot of investors and property managers in both Texas and Florida, so hopefully, I can help you sort through the options.

Florida Vibes

Florida could be a fantastic choice if you're leaning toward short-term rentals. The tourism demand is strong year-round, especially in beach towns like Panama City Beach or Destin. STR-friendly markets make it easier to get started and grow your business, and the lack of state income tax is a huge perk. Plus, if you're also thinking about a lifestyle element, who doesn't love living near the beach?

For family life, there are great communities with good schools and a lot of kid-friendly activities. Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, or Niceville (yes, that’s the real name!) are areas worth looking into if you want a balance of family living and business opportunity.

Texas Perspective

Texas is a great market for long-term rentals, especially in cities like Austin, Dallas, or Houston, where population and job growth are booming. STRs are an option too, but you’ll need to navigate stricter regulations in some areas. That said, Texas tends to offer more affordable housing than Florida’s coastal towns, so your money might go further if you’re buying properties for yourself and your portfolio.

When it comes to family life, Texas has tons of family-friendly suburbs with excellent schools. Some areas near Austin or Dallas could be perfect if you want a more suburban vibe with plenty of amenities for your kids.

Starting a Cleaning or Landscaping Business

Both states offer strong opportunities here. Florida’s high turnover in STRs means cleaning services are always in demand, while Texas’s suburban sprawl could keep a landscaping business busy year-round. It really depends on whether you prefer the hustle of managing STRs or the steadier income from LTRs.

My Take

If you're drawn to the energy of the STR market and love the idea of working where people vacation, Florida might be the way to go. But if you're looking for a more stable, family-friendly environment with lower costs and a focus on LTRs, Texas could be a better fit.

Since you have young kids, I’d dig deeper into school districts and neighborhoods in both states—family life can really shape where you’ll feel at home. If you’re curious about specific markets in Florida, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to help brainstorm ideas or share what I’ve seen work for others. 😊