Our Top Tips for Buying a Destin or 30A Vacation Rental Property
Purchasing an investment property in Northwest Florida is an exciting opportunity—and you’ve come to the right place. As local Destin and 30A real estate professionals, we’re here to provide you with the information and market knowledge required for making an educated investment in one of our treasured local communities. And while bright, shiny appliances and sparkling bathroom tile can certainly attract quality guests, these features are moot without the most sought-after features and amenities requested by guests up and down our beautiful coastline. Read on for our top tips for selecting a Destin or 30A vacation rental investment property.
Location, Location, Location
…is a phrase heard by anyone who’s ever considered buying a home anytime, anywhere! It’s well known because it will always remain true. If you’ve decided to purchase a Destin or 30A vacation rental property, you’ve already chosen a great geographical location (the best in the country, if you ask us!).
Narrow down your top locations based on proximity to what you would like to do on vacation. In most cases, the #1 priority is proximity to the beach—whether that’s a property located directly on the beach, near the beach, or with deeded beach access. But the beach isn’t everything. Consider walkability and bikeability, as well as proximity to restaurants, shopping, golf courses, nature preserves, and other attractions.
Looking for inspiration to help narrow down your search? Check out Scenic Stays’ Top 30A Activities Beyond the Beach or 15 Can’t Miss Activities in Destin and 30A.
The View
When searching for an investment property in Destin and 30A, you may be thinking: it’s gotta have a view. We couldn’t agree more! While many visitors will pay top dollar for Gulf-front properties, there are many beautiful views along our beautiful stretch of paradise, ranging from coastline views to nature preserves and golf course views.
Private Pool or Community Pool
Sometimes, the best thing at the end of the day is to get off the beach, return to home base, and enjoy a refreshing late afternoon poolside. When there’s one in the backyard or immediately accessible from the vacation rental unit, that’s very easy to do. Consider a property with a private pool (a highly sought-after amenity in luxury homes) or in a neighborhood or building with a community pool for less upkeep.
Pool access is a top feature for groups and families of all sizes, as most groups will not visit the beach every day and would like an easy alternative for some fun in the sun.
Enough Parking for Occupancy
It’s hardly glamorous, but we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention parking.
Parking is one of the many features that guests assume will suffice when they come to stay. But when it isn’t, there’s an issue before they can even enter the home. If you decide to purchase a property with the appeal of a maximum occupancy of up to 15, make sure there’s enough dedicated parking for three or more vehicles. Are you considering a smaller home? Parking for one car may be enough, but scope out the surrounding area to see if first-come-first-served street parking is a viable option for additional cars.
Outdoor Space
Being outside and soaking up the sunshine is almost definitely at the top of anyone’s list when looking to book a Destin or 30A vacation rental property. Decks, porches, balconies, courtyards, and fenced-in yards can add unbelievable appeal to a beach vacation rental. Before heading to the beach in the morning, guests can enjoy a cup of coffee and feel the Gulf breeze while taking advantage of their private outdoor space—whatever the size or configuration.
Bonus: Pet-Friendliness
Pets are part of the family. Some pet owners can’t bear to think of leaving their furry friends behind when they vacation at the beach. Listing as pet-friendly is a personal choice but well worth considering as pet owners are willing to pay more. Having an outdoor shower to wash the sand off their paws before entering might be something else to consider looking for in a property or adding once you’ve purchased. Plus, it’s a convenience that everyone who stays will appreciate.
Bonus: EV Charge-Friendly
With the rising popularity of electric cars, you may want to consider buying a property that has EV chargers already in place or a space for them to be added in the future if they’re not already present. By including an EV charging station at your property, you’re not only leading the way for the future of vacation rentals but also setting yourself up for the “wow factor” of your guests. It’s an innovative amenity that guests will remember.
Recap (and a Checklist)
At the end of the day, it’s the amenities and features you look for in a vacation property that your future guests will seek, too. But when you’ve toured 10+ properties, and you’re weighing the pros and cons of each before making your investment property purchase decision, consider this short checklist to make sure you’re covering the basics:
- Location is on the beach, near the beach, or offers beach access.
- View of the Gulf, the coastline, a beautiful courtyard, a golf course, etc.
- Pool access, whether a private pool or community pool.
- Enough parking for maximum occupancy.
- Outdoor access, even a small balcony with room for two chairs may do the trick.
- Unique features, like the possibility to make it pet-friendly or add EV charging capabilities.
Whether you’re considering purchasing an investment property in Destin or 30A, partner with a licensed Realtor at Scenic Stays Real Estate—your trusted local real estate experts to help make the process as seamless as possible. And when you’re ready to list your new vacation rental property, look no further than Scenic Stays—the #1 resource for Destin, 30A, PCB, Okaloosa Island, and Navarre vacation rental management.
Ready to call Northwest Florida home? Contact us today! Or, if you’re ready to book a vacation, visit myscenicstays.com for the best selection of Destin and 30A vacation rental properties.