[Flybaby]

Hi,

My wife and I are interesting in purchasing a condo or townhouse (2 bed 2 bath) on the beach. This would be a second home for escapes during the winter for the next 10 -12 years. All of our children are grown so schools are not an issue but safety is always a concern. Any suggestions regarding location appreciated; we are open to either the east or west coast. Thanks!

[Retiredcoach]

Originally Posted by Flybaby

Hi,

My wife and I are interesting in purchasing a condo or townhouse (2 bed 2 bath) on the beach. This would be a second home for escapes during the winter for the next 10 -12 years. All of our children are grown so schools are not an issue but safety is always a concern. Any suggestions regarding location appreciated; we are open to either the east or west coast. Thanks!

Just two questions: How much can you afford? AND How much can you afford to lose?

Not trying to sound critical, but there is so much more to consider than just the purchase price of the condo. If money is no object and you have the money to spend for the higher taxes, the homeowners insurance, the HOA's, the miscellaneous costs of being an out of state owner, etc., then why not?

[HomeStager]

I would consider renting at a handful for the first winter or two, to try out different locations and see which one you like the best. A lot also depends on your budget.

I would go for Longboat Key, Lido Key or Siesta key on the gulf side myself. The beaches and water are more akin to the Carribean, with whiter sands and calmer turquoise waters. All 3 keys are very lush with lots of tropical vegetation and are very clean.

Lido Key has been becoming a new weekend hang out for us. I like how close it is to St. Armands Circle for all of the good restaurant choices it has.

This site can give you a feel for the areas I mentioned.

Lido Key/St. Armands, Florida - Official source of Sarasota travel information – Sarasota and Her Islands (http://www.sarasotafl.org/explore/tour/lido.php - broken link)




I really can not speak for the Atlantic side.

[Flybaby]

Since this will be our second home our buget is somewhat modest, around $200,000