PSL for young snowbirds (Orlando, St. Lucie: rental, HOA fees, hotel)

[furbycat]

I tried looking in past threads and couldn't find exactly what I wanted to ask about.
My (28) husband (30) and I are looking to purchase a second home next summer/fall. We both work from home and have no children so we decided why not look for a second home closer to my family/ also to escape cold Ohio winters . My family is on the gulf coast and near Orlando but that isn't really where we wanted to be. We realistically would be about 50/50 Ohio and Florida and are hoping to make this home a place to retire in. I've researched the area and there seems to be enough stuff to do and there are airports within 1.5-2 hours which my husband will need for work travel. I'm a huge Disney fan and see it's about 2 hours from PSL to WDW.
Area there any neighborhoods that you would suggest for someone like us? We like the idea of a gated community like Newport Isles since we won't be occupying the house all the time but it isn't necessary. Our budget would be up to $250,000 and if it matters we do NOT plan to rent it out while not staying there. We are planning on coming down to spend more time in the area next spring/summer and are open to suggestions to check out.Thanks!

[FlaLadyB]

sorry for late reply--I haven't been checking posts here lately.

First of all there are a lot of nice areas and communities to choose from in Port St Lucie. Lots more than Newport Isles.

With the virus restrictions, it became really difficult to get into houses unless they were empty, plus safety concerns for us as Realtors. I just sold a house to some people moving from Texas by me going to the top houses available that we liked and videotaping everything from arriving outside to walking through the front door and throughout the house. Opening all the closets, the refrigerator, cabinets, etc, just as if they were there. Running commentary on what I saw especially on things that were important to them. Even walking around outside for the husband and where his smoker was going. It worked out well.

Some homes were empty, some were occupied but I asked them to leave while I taped, and others refused showings at all --even with just me--complete with mask. Yes, things are changing--I'm trying to adapt too

[PSLCarPool]

30 something here that live and own in Newport Isles and would highly recommend it due to the many amenities and location to the library, stores, parks, Tradition, etc. HOA fee is low compared to communities in Tradition and St. Lucie West. I would suggest after doing your research online to come down and stay at an AirBnB or hotel so you can check out places for yourself before making a decision to purchase. Good luck and feel free to ask any specific questions!

[FlaLadyB]

The HOA fees might be less in Newport Isles but it also doesn't include lawn maintenance for single family homes and it shows. It also doesn't compare to Tradition and it's amenities, which ARE it's shopping, parks, etc. in any way.

There are also reasons why home prices have been lower in Newport Isles than other communities in the area for years. But, you will want to come and see each area for yourself.


Short term rental are back being allowed again, but that can change too. There is a nice hotel in Tradition right off I95 as well as several off St Lucie West Blvd.