[prowler]

My wife and I are thinking seriously about coming to Florida next winter, probably staying about a month. We would arrive sometime after Christmas and then return back home to Indiana before Spring Break. Being more specific at this time would depend upon our aging pooch and how she fares these upcoming months and what we learn from you all.

After reading the feedback on this forum, it seems that we should start out with a basic "want list" and then add to it or change it as you all provide more information.

So to begin, We love the gulf side and we're looking for relative peace and quiet. The sunnier and warmer the better, and of course and access to the beach would be outstanding. We would prefer NOT to stay in a high rise. We are thinking we would like an efficiency appt and save money by fixing most of our own meals at home.

One thing that confuses us from the get-go after checking the Internet are some of the wintertime rental fees. We notice weekly rental costs that are much higher than simply spending our 3 - 4 weeks in a $150/night motel. Were we looking in the wrong place?

Thanks for your help.

[jghorton]

You are describing a "Snowbird" for which there are a myriad of short-term, fully-furnished rentals in major tourist areas (for example, Destin, etc) ... These are typically managed by Property Management companies and, for a place on the beach, will cost you an arm and a leg. Many condos similarly allow short-term rentals (LT 6 mos), but, are also managed by PM's and high priced.

Some 'snowbirds' find smaller, off-the-beach, older rentals -- and in some areas, you can find regular, 3-month rentals that may cost less. You might also want to check-out the VRBO (Vacation Rental By Owner) web site --- for people who rent-out their condos and 2nd homes on a seasonal basis, but, of course, 'snowbird' season is when most folks make their money. (Even the hotels double/triple their regular rates during the season).

[prowler]

jghorton - Thanks for your input. Yes, we realize we're trying to do what millions of others have done before us and that everyone wants the best beach-front deal that probably doesn't exist. Good point regarding the motels 'upping' their rates during this busy season as we hadn't taken that fact into consideration.

What's your opinion about location? You mentioned Destin in your reply. Do Snowbirds generally save money by moving away from higher populated areas or are quieter spots more highly priced?

It sounds like a few hours spent searching property managed sites might be the best thing to do for now.

[jghorton]

In addition to VRBO, you might look into Craigslist under sublets/rentals - There you will find a host of owners in most areas of Florida (and elsewhere) who are looking for 'you.' Since you are talking about NEXT winter, you may be able to 'get an early reservation,' but, realistically, everybody knows about Florida and nobody is 'giving away short-term beach rentals.' (Perhaps that is why so many folks buy condos here ... that they only use several months out of the year). You can also advertise for a unit in Craigslist.

We moved to Florida about 40-years ago and never went back... so, we only have a second-hand knowledge of the rental market here (although, in the distant past, we have rented-our condos out to others).
We moved to Destin (grandkids) about 1-2 years ago. It is literally swarming with snowbirds and other tourists about 9+ months out of the year ... because of the 'sugar' beaches, golf, fishing, etc. There are many less 'magnetic' beach towns around the Florida coastline, but, all still attract snowbirds. You will find the lower cost rentals and a less heavily concentrated influx of snowbirds ... in areas with fewer amenities.

[OptimusPrime69]

You mentioned in your posts that you were ideally looking for sunny and warm......
Destin, which is located on the panhandle in the northern reaches of the state will probably be one of your coldest options to choose in FL.

Simple geography really... The closer to the equator you get, the sunnier and warmer it will be.
I would recommend you look in places like Ft. Myers, Cape Coral, Naples, etc.... Basically, locations that are further south and generally much warmer in the winter months.

Look at places on Craigslist, as there are many options to choose from.
Also, there are deals to be had in the Florida keys believe it or not. I'm not talking Key West, but one of the more laid-back, less-touristy keys... which is about as far south as u can go...Places like Big Pine Key, Marathon, Islamarada, etc... Check CL there. Dont rule it out. You may be able to get peace, quiet, and warmth and sun... at a reasonable price.

Good luck. I hope you make it down soon. I live in Ft. Lauderdale, FL and it was about 85 degrees today.

[prowler]

Originally Posted by OptimusPrime69

I live in Ft. Lauderdale, FL and it was about 85 degrees today.

You're killing me!

Hey, I appreciate the heads' up about the Keyes. That would be ideal. Thanks.

[kyle19125]

Some of the "less obvious" beach towns on the Gulf might be a good place to focus for better deals. Check out Englewood , Rotonda West and St James City/Pine Island. All feature low rise development and are quieter/non touristy.

[prowler]

Thank you, Kyle - We like that idea and will check it out further.
'

[jghorton]

Originally Posted by OptimusPrime69

You mentioned in your posts that you were ideally looking for sunny and warm......
Destin, which is located on the panhandle in the northern reaches of the state will probably be one of your coldest options to choose in FL.

Simple geography really... The closer to the equator you get, the sunnier and warmer it will be.
I would recommend you look in places like Ft. Myers, Cape Coral, Naples, etc.... Basically, locations that are further south and generally much warmer in the winter months.

Look at places on Craigslist, as there are many options to choose from.
Also, there are deals to be had in the Florida keys believe it or not. I'm not talking Key West, but one of the more laid-back, less-touristy keys... which is about as far south as u can go...Places like Big Pine Key, Marathon, Islamarada, etc... Check CL there. Dont rule it out. You may be able to get peace, quiet, and warmth and sun... at a reasonable price.

Good luck. I hope you make it down soon. I live in Ft. Lauderdale, FL and it was about 85 degrees today.

I would agree - Destin is beautiful, but, during Dec-Feb we get a lot of cooler days -- Central Florida, particularly along the coast, remains about 10-20 degrees warmer in these months. Otherwise, Destin is also slightly cooler during the other months.