[bigbri]

Thanks for the input. I am still working and plan to retire in 5 or more years. It sounds like I need to do more homework on locations and expenses.

Thanks

[tallrick]

You would have to be nuts to "invest" in Florida property now. Prices are still way to high and the local unemployment is above the national average. Once the locals unemployment and government safety nets run out, crime will increase. Nothing like out-of-towners with money to rob! Condos are a terrible investment because they rely on extra fees and when payments stop coming in from foreclosed units the remaining owners get jacked. The coming collapse of the dollar and the hyperinflation that will result will wipe out retirement income so the retirees will not be flocking to Florida anymore. Foreigners will head for the exits when Miami residents start making crime victims out of them. If you want to invest in Florida land buy farmland. Residential and retail real estate has nowhere to go but down, and the returns will diminish as inflation steals disposable income.