Quote:
Originally Posted by LABSX2
We will be coming for our Life Style Visit in September. Having been looking at a lot of homes for sale, new and pre-owned. We will not be able to move permanently for a couple more years so IF we find a home that we fall in love with the only other option would be to rent it until we are ready. I would like to know your thoughts on renting your future home to complete strangers. I would like to know the good experiences and as well as the NOT so good experiences.
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We have rented in THE VILLAGES plus in upscale homes and condos all over Florida. I think it's especially true if the home is well maintained and comfortable, the majority of your renters will treat it as they would their own home........lovingly and with respect. It is a special breed that targets The Villages to begin with.......and I'm fairly sure they will respect your property.
It's not in a college spring break beach town etc. but in a beautifully kept community........the visitors for the most part would be retired seniors unless you are planning to rent to the younger set.
You can always ask for references.....and limit the amount of guests. Plus hold back the security deposit if there was damage.
But..........that said, back in the 1980's we'd rent a brand new Gulf of Mexico beach front condo on Sanibel Island every spring school break once the kids outgrew Disney World...........it was gorgeous; we felt so much at home. It was only three stories high so didn't give that warehouse tall condo "feel"......nice boardwalk from the elevators to the beach over the seagrass, etc. Great seashells.
Everything was brand new. The master bedroom, the living room, etc. opened onto the large balcony that overlooked the Gulf of Mexico and the beach..........pool below. Carpet was brand new, furniture, ditto.
Jetted jacuzzi tub, huge rooms, huge bathrooms, huge closets.
Over the years, it did NOT take long for STAINS to start appearing on the carpeting and couches in the t.v. room, etc. nor for the tub "not to work" and have repairmen in for various problems.
I would NOT put in the most expensive furnishings or carpet........but would replace it all when you retire into the home for GOOD.
Like any landlord has to do when old tenants move out and YOU the new resident moves in permanently..........you would also have to PAINT the walls, etc.
However, if you have found a perfect location in TV, the prices will only go up.........so if you are willing to do what I mentioned above, which is common sense..........then go for it. It will be there when you are ready.
I don't mean to furnish it with used junk..........but not to sink an arm and a leg into the furniture or decorating, only to rent it out.