Essential Guide to Florida Short-Term Rentals for Snowbirds

Enjoying Florida’s beautiful weather during the best season is what many people dream of – and Snowbirds make it a reality!
Snowbirds, or seasonal visitors, flock to Florida to escape the harsh winters up north, enjoying the sunshine and warm temperatures from November through April. This influx creates a high demand for short-term rentals during the season. Whether it’s for 2, 4, or even 6 months, here’s what you need to know to secure the perfect short-term rental:

1. Which Buildings Allow Short-Term Rentals and Their Minimum Stay Requirements

Not all buildings in Florida permit short-term rentals. Some have strict rules against them, so it’s essential to eliminate those early in your search. Among the buildings that do allow short-term rentals, most have a minimum stay requirement.

The most common minimum is three months and even most often 4 months, but you can find a few that allow shorter stays, such as one month. Very rare though unless you take the Airbnb route.
Understanding these rules upfront will save you time and frustration.

2. Do They Accept Pets?

If you’re traveling with pets, this is a critical factor to check. Surprisingly, many communities in Florida have strict no-pet policies, making it challenging to find pet-friendly accommodations. However, I have a list of pet-friendly condo buildings, you can ask me!

3. What’s Included in the Rent?

What’s included in the rental agreement can vary depending on the landlord. Typically:

Included: Utilities such as water, internet, and cable TV.
Not Included: Electricity, which is often deducted from your deposit at the end of your stay.

Always clarify what’s included in the rent upfront to avoid surprises later. A clear understanding will help you plan your budget effectively.

4. Tourist Tax

Florida applies a 13% tourist tax to short-term rentals, which must be factored into your budget. This tax is not displayed on property listings, so it’s essential to calculate it yourself. For instance, if your rental costs $4,000 a month, you’ll need to add $520 per month for taxes. Discuss this with your agent to ensure you’re financially prepared.

5. How is Rent Paid?

For short-term rentals, the entire rental amount for the stay is usually paid upfront, typically one month before move-in. This advance payment secures your reservation and gives you peace of mind that your Florida retreat is ready when you are.

How Do I Work with Out-of-State Clients Looking for a Short-Term Rental?

Defining Your Criteria
We start by discussing and defining all the important criteria for your short-term rental, such as location, budget, amenities, pet policies, and any other preferences you may have.
Selecting Listings
Based on your criteria, I curate a list of suitable properties and email the options to you for review.
Virtual Property Tours
Once you’ve selected properties you’re interested in, I arrange FaceTime or video calls to give you a live virtual tour of the properties. This ensures you can get a real feel for the space without being physically present.
Submitting the Contract to Lease
When you’re ready to move forward, we draft and sign a contract to lease, which I submit to the landlord for approval. If the landlord accepts, they will provide a standard Florida lease for final signatures.
Sending the Deposit
You’ll need to send the required deposit upon signing either the contract to lease or the final lease agreement.
Community Application (If Required)
If the community requires an application, you’ll need to complete this step to gain approval before moving in.
Final Payment
Typically, about one month before your move-in date, you’ll send the remaining balance of the total rent.

With these tips in mind, navigating the short-term rental market during Florida’s peak season becomes much easier. I will spend the time to help you find the perfect place to enjoy the Sunshine State’s best months. So pack your bags, leave the snow behind, and get ready to bask in the warmth of Florida’s winter sun!

Sophie Daverio
561-809-2216

Realtor®, REAL Broker, LLC
Proactive.Responsive.Expert
MBA.English.French
(my reviews, what my clients have to say: Sophie Daverio Reviews )

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