FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Buying
Can you buy a short-term rental home near Disney World?
Yes, but only in areas zoned for short-term (under 30-day) rentals. Most are in Osceola, Polk, and parts of Orange County, inside resort communities such as ChampionsGate, Reunion, Windsor at Westside, and Windsor Palms.
Which county is best for an Orlando vacation home?
Osceola County (Kissimmee, Davenport area) has the largest concentration of resort communities zoned for nightly rentals. Polk County near Davenport and Four Corners is often lower in price. Always confirm zoning for the specific address.
Do I need to live in Florida to buy an Orlando vacation home?
No. Many buyers live in other states or countries. Closings can be done remotely, and a local property manager handles guests, cleaning, and maintenance.
Can foreign buyers get a mortgage for a Florida vacation home?
Yes. Several lenders offer foreign national loans, typically requiring a larger down payment (often 25–40%) and proof of income and assets.
How much down payment do I need for an Orlando vacation home?
Second-home loans can start around 10%, while investment-property loans generally require 15–25% down. Requirements depend on the lender, credit, and how the home will be used.
Should I buy new construction or a resale vacation home?
New construction offers modern finishes, warranties, and builder incentives. Resale homes may already be furnished, have rental history, and can be ready to book immediately.
Who manages an Orlando vacation rental if I live far away?
Local vacation home management companies handle bookings, guest communication, cleaning, pool care, and maintenance, usually for a percentage of rental revenue.
Is a buyer's agent free when buying a vacation home in Florida?
Buyer agent compensation is negotiable and set out in a written buyer agreement. It may be paid by the seller, builder, or buyer depending on what is negotiated.
Investing
Do vacation homes near Disney World make money?
Many do, but results vary widely. Income depends on location, size, amenities, pricing, management quality, and seasonality. Operating costs, HOA fees, and taxes must be subtracted from gross rent.
What is the busiest rental season in Orlando?
Peak demand typically falls in spring break, summer, Thanksgiving, and the Christmas–New Year holidays. Late August through September and parts of January are usually slower.
What size vacation home rents best in Orlando?
Larger homes with private pools and themed rooms often attract groups and multi-generational families, while 2–4 bedroom townhomes appeal to smaller families with lower entry prices.
Closing
How much are closing costs when buying a home in Florida?
Buyers commonly pay about 2–5% of the purchase price, including lender fees, title insurance, recording fees, prepaid taxes and insurance, and Florida's documentary stamp and intangible taxes on the mortgage.
Who pays title insurance in Florida?
It varies by county. In Osceola and Orange County the seller customarily pays the owner's title policy, but this is negotiable in the contract.
What is escrow in a Florida home purchase?
Escrow is a neutral third party, usually a title company or attorney, that holds the deposit and funds and documents until all contract conditions are met and the sale closes.