It should not come as a surprise that Florida’s real estate market is among the top-performing markets in the country, considering the state’s 1,350 miles of breathtaking coastline and the majority of the year’s average sunshine. Yet due to the fact that many people are still required to work from home as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak, the Sunshine State is proving to be an especially appealing destination to acquire a vacation property.

According to Dina Goldentayer, executive director of sales for Douglas Elliman in Florida, “I would describe Florida’s real estate market right now as hot, just like our weather.” [Citation needed] “I would describe Florida’s real estate market right now as hot, just like our weather.” “There is a very small amount of inventory despite the extremely high demand.”

The prospective buyers should be ready

Goldentayer explained that prospective buyers should be ready to “act quickly and to not think that something would still be on the market when they come back to town a few months later.” Even though this does not necessarily translate into bidding wars, prospective buyers should be prepared to “act quickly.”

Over a quarter of all sales (houses and condos) currently sell for more than the listing price. This information is according to a market report for Florida’s East Coast that was conducted by One Sotheby’s International Realty. Median prices for single-family homes in the region have reached an all-time high.

Who are in the market for purchasing

The majority of people who are in the market for purchasing a vacation home in Florida are interested in purchasing a property in a luxury complex that features a large number of high-end facilities and is located in close proximity to restaurants and sporting events. Goldentayer added that there were ocean views to the property. “It’s impossible to grow sick of staring at something like that.”

The following is a list of the top cities, towns, and other destinations in Florida to consider purchasing a second home or vacation property in if you are considering doing so.

Miami Beach

The real estate market in Miami Beach reflects the fact that the city is the ultimate vacation destination because it is home to some of the best hotels and resorts, restaurants, beaches, shops, and entertainment in the country. Miami Beach is also the most international destination in South Florida. Many new buildings, including 57 Ocean Miami Beach, Ten30 South Beach, Monaco Yacht Club & Residences, and Monad Terrace, have recently made their appearance in the city, contributing to the region’s thriving construction industry. It is safe to say that even if you don’t end up spending much time in your new Miami Beach property, it will have plenty of rental potential as well given that the region is attracting an unprecedented number of visitors. This is due to the fact that the region is attracting an unprecedented number of visitors.

Palm Beach

Buyers wishing to experience Palm Beach’s world-class shopping and pristine beaches in an atmosphere that is quiet and sophisticated are likely to be drawn to the exclusive and glamorous lifestyle that the city offers. Right now, the real estate market in the city where many of the wealthiest people in the country have a second home or vacation property is exceedingly competitive.

According to the Palm Beach Daily News, the number of homes sold in Palm Beach at the beginning of 2021 was higher than ever before, establishing a new benchmark. Despite recent reports suggesting that the housing market is beginning to slow again, sales in the first quarter of 2021 exceeded $1.2 billion, which compares to $398 million for the same period in 2020.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale, which is located in South Florida and is sometimes referred to as the “boating capital of the world,” is the kind of holiday destination that is ideal for people who prefer to go on daily sailing expeditions. The city’s extensive network of canals, its sun-kissed beaches, which stretch for seven kilometres! — and active artistic community—are two of the reasons why there is such a high demand for vacation homes in this area. The average sale price of a single-family home in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, climbed by four percent in September 2022 as compared to September 2021, while 27% of homes sold for more than their listing price during that same month. If you want to make Fort Lauderdale your year-round vacation destination, you should be prepared to pay a higher price.

St. Augustine

Those who are interested in history will have a great time exploring what the oldest city in the United States has to offer. One thing is certain about this place: you will never find yourself bored due to the abundance of architectural treasures from the Gilded Age, stunning beaches, lovely cobblestone streets, and quirky businesses. And despite the fact that living in driving directions the city is now more reasonable, there is still a lot of competition in the real estate market, and some homes are snapped up within just 24 hours of being listed. If you are thinking about moving to St. Augustine since it is one of the most rapidly expanding markets in the state of Florida, then it is quite likely that your investment will be profitable.

Pompano Beach

This once sleepy beach town is quickly becoming an up-and-coming destination on the luxury real estate market in South Florida. It is located just north of Fort Lauderdale and features a convenient location. Pompano Beach is an excellent option for those looking to make a long-term investment due to the recent proliferation of developments such as the oceanfront Solemar and its sister property Casamar. These developments offer residences with unobstructed ocean views at prices that are significantly lower than those in Miami or Fort Lauderdale. The coastline of the city has been rehabilitated at a cost of multiple millions of dollars, including the construction of a new fishing pier and a parking garage with 663 spots for pier patrons. Pompano Beach’s new downtown Innovation District will be a reality by the year 2025, bringing with it an urban, mixed-use downtown area that is lively and welcoming to pedestrians.

Tampa

Let’s get one thing straight: Tampa’s popularity predated Tom Brady’s arrival with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The city has long been considered a go-to destination for family vacations due to the fact that it is home to two of the country’s most popular theme parks, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Adventure Island, as well as a vibrant waterfront entertainment district, mouthwatering restaurants, and a vibrant cultural scene. In the year 2020, Tampa was recognized as one of the top 10 cities in the United States with the fastest population growth. At the moment, the Tampa Bay area is in the process of incorporating new developments and upgrades for a total of $13 billion. The first-ever collaboration between The Related Group and The Ritz-Carlton to launch The Ritz-Carlton Residences, The Residences at the Tampa EDITION, and a $400 million renovation of the Westshore Marina District that includes plans for several new condo buildings, townhouses, and restaurants are among the major projects being undertaken by The Related Group.

Naples

In spite of the fact that it was hit by Hurricane Ian in September 2022, family-friendly Naples is on its way to making a full recovery. A number of the area’s hotels, restaurants, and other attractions have since reopened their doors, and the city continues to provide laid-back luxury, fantastic beaches, and a large number of golf courses. This tenacious city is widely recognized as one of the most rich settlements located along the Gulf Coast, and it is the location of a large number of extravagant beachfront villas. The storied Naples Beach Club is currently receiving a comprehensive renovation in order to be converted into a Four Seasons hotel and residential property. This will contribute to an increase in both the allure and value of real estate in the surrounding neighborhood.