All Forum Posts by: Alice Horn

Hi everyone 🌴
I’m Christina, originally from Ukraine, now living in California where I run two interior design studios and manage a few rental properties. Over the last few years, I’ve invested in San Diego, Irvine, and Lake Martin, AL — mostly long-term rentals and vacation homes. My focus has always been design-forward spaces that tell a story and offer emotional and financial return.

Now, I’m seriously considering expanding into Florida, but I’m coming in fresh — no boots on the ground, no personal contacts there yet. I'm especially curious about:

• Which Florida markets are currently investor-friendly for mid-level buy & hold or vacation rentals?

• Are there cities/regions where local design taste and short-term rental demand overlap well?

• Any red flags or things to avoid as an out-of-state investor?

If you’re investing in Florida or know the market well, I’d be so grateful for any insight, advice, or connections. I’m here to learn and would love to contribute wherever I can too — especially on anything design/value-add related.

Looking forward to connecting with this amazing community 💛
– Christina

...and it happened in your neck of the woods. I won't mention names, but the offender is on your MLS!

Hey folks,

i am based in the UK and would love invest in STR in Orlando, the theme park capital of the world. I would love to connect with anyone in a similar position to share their experience and guide.

Cheers.

So this isn't a question, but I thought some of you regulars would get a kick out of it. We also do consumer lending in FL and we had a closing in Orlando yesterday. The listing agent had been doing some inappropriate stuff throughout the process. Our closing went well, but instead of leaving a lock box on the house for the selling/buyer's agent or leaving a key with the closing agent, Long John Silver the Listing Agent buries the key in the front yard. Who does that? All is well. After taking 20 paces from the palm tree, then 10 paces North to the garden gnome, and some digging, they found it. I just thought it was too silly not to share. Happy investing everyone!

Hey @Lauren Stark. When first starting off, I would just list it on AirBNB and VRBO. Those should drive a ton of traffic to your listing.

Furnished Finder is the go to for MTRs (long term rentals with a shorter stay, over 30 days).

You can also use FB like @Bruce Woodruff mentioned but you will need to get everything setup to take bookings. Payment methods, tax collection etc.