Thinking of owning a short-term rental in Florida? We take a brief look at how to do it safely and legally. Plus, discover eight properties that have a history as a short-term rental and offer an exciting opportunity for overseas buyers.
With world-famous theme parks, 230 days of sunshine a year and glittering beaches, Florida presents a lucrative opportunity for those wishing to own a successful short-term rental in America. With 140.6 million visitors to Florida in 2023, you might be looking to house a few for a brief spell.
The legal info
Legally speaking, a short-term rental is housing accommodation that is rented for stays of 30 days or less, more than three times per year. Rules vary in each local jurisdiction, so check before you buy, be it in Orlando or Miami.
Earlier this year, Florida tightened the rules so that no more than two people can stay in each bedroom and a further two in the common area.
To rent a property as a short-term rental, you must apply for a Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation License (DBPR licence for short). To apply, you’ll need to provide the address, property type (the process works slightly differently for single units and condominiums) and the classification. Your property will have to comply with certain safety requirements, especially if you have a balcony or pool.
The total tax you will have to pay varies from 8.5 – 14.5%; this will include state sales tax 6%, discretionary surtax 0.5 to 1.5% and local transient tax 2 – 7%. Once you have your licence, you will have to renew it every year.
While you will have to go through the legal process yourself after you buy, each of these properties has a history as a short-term rental, so you can pick up on that success.
1. Five-bedroom, Kissimmee, Osecola County, $878,000
Built in 2018, this beautiful, spacious home comes with five-bedrooms and five bathrooms, making it perfect for large families and guests. It boasts of an open-plan design and a sparkling swimming pool. Plus, it is within walking distance of the shopping and nightlife of Margaritaville resort. Disney is a short drive away too.
See more of this property & enquire.
2. Three-bedroom, Davenport, Polk County, €249,500
Located on the top floor, this three-bedroom apartment enjoys a wraparound balcony, which overlooks the pool. Inside, you’ll find a fully furnished home in an open-plan design with high ceilings. This apartment is in the Bella Piazza resort with a swimming pool, fitness centre and clubhouse.
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3. Three-bedroom, Kissimmee, Osecola County, $310,300
This is a lovely fully furnished townhouse in a resort-style community. It benefits from access to a pool, spa, clubhouse, gym, playground and BBQ area. Plus, it is an easy 13 minutes from Disney Parks and 30 to Universal Parks.
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4. Three-bedroom, Kissimmee, Osecola County, $515,000
This stunning home has a seamless open-plan design. The kitchen has quartz countertops, elegant wood cabinets and sleek stainless steel appliances. It is located in Margaritaville resort, a few miles from Disney, with restaurants, pools, fitness centres and shuffleboard courts.
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5. Three-bedroom, Davenport, Polk County, $239,000
Situated on the third floor, this three-bedroom apartment boasts of an open-plan design and high ceilings. It has a lovely balcony, ideal for your morning coffee. Additionally, it benefits from access to two communal pools, splash area and a fitness centre.
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6. Nine-bedroom, Kissimmee, Osecola County, $790,000
Built in 2016, this incredible nine-bedroom, six-bathroom property is truly luxurious. It comes with a package heating system to keep you cool in summer and warm in winter. Plus, you can take a dip in the private pool.
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7. Three-bedroom, Davenport, Polk County, €355,000
As the buyer is motivated to sell, the price of this townhouse has been reduced. It is nestled within the prestigious Champions Gate Community, residents enjoy access to world class amenities such as swimming pools, playground.
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8. Four-bedroom, Reunion, Osecola County, $735,000
Calling all keen golfers – this property is situated in a community with a golf course not one, not two, but three golf courses. The charming move-in ready property features an outdoor kitchen, pool area, a garage and a separate one-bedroom home.
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Not quite set on these properties? Head to our property portal for a greater selection.
