Top 5 Tips for Investing in Florida Real Estate

December 9, 2020 Tom Clark

Are you considering investing in Florida real estate?

It’s a great idea. Buying a house in Florida can be a remarkably sound investment, even if you don’t plan on moving to Florida. The reality is, Florida is a desirable hot spot (no pun intended) for both renters and retirees year-round.

But that doesn’t mean you should just take the bait at the first opportunity that arises. It’s important you consider the following tips.

1. Know Your Investment Goal

What’s your end game when it comes to investing in Florida? Do you want to buy or hold? Perhaps you’re looking for a fixer-upper you can flip.

Knowing your investment goals and strategies out of the gate will affect your ability to profit.

2. Renting Is a Great Way to Go

With a Florida property, you can get decent cash flow returns while keeping four months per year freed up for your family and friends. But you need to find a location that has great visitor traffic. And that means, by and large, the properties will run you more.

Lucky for you, when compared to other states, the cost of houses and properties has remained relatively low.

Your best bet may be to build a rental or buy a home and turn it into a rental property. And then charge higher rates during the winter and spring to cover lower returns during the fall and summer.

3. Appeal to Baby Boomers

Whenever you invest in real estate in Florida, consider your demographic. Yes, there are younger couples interested in moving there. But the majority of homeowners in the state are baby boomers.

It makes sense. They just want the warmth, the beaches, and the sunshine as they move into their final years. So if you’re thinking that you eventually want to sell your property, be sure to add the necessary amenities and ambiance that will appeal to this demographic.

4. Be Sure You’re Covered for Flooding

Regardless of whether you’re planning to rent or investing in a fixer-upper, you have to be sure to cover all the bases when it comes to protection in your state of Florida

Typical homeowners’ policies written through the major insurance provides excludes flooding. Yet, given that much of the state is under sea level, it’s crucial you purchase a stand-alone insurance policy to cover flooding. You don’t want to skimp on this.

5. Work Within Your Budget

As you start to look for your investment real estate, you’ll hear about all sorts of affordable properties. But do your research. Cities and downtown areas tend to be more expensive and in demand.

If you’re on a budget, stick with the suburbs and even semi-rural areas. As the prices to live in the city continue to force people out, they’ll start seeking homes in the suburbs and beyond. Buy and hold, if you can.

Then wait for the payoff.