Your Second Home in Central Florida: What to Consider Before You Buy

Buying a second home isn’t just about owning a piece of paradise — it’s about making a smart lifestyle and investment decision. Whether you’re drawn to the excitement of Orlando’s theme parks or the community-driven lifestyle of The Villages, Central Florida offers some of the most versatile options in the country for second-home buyers.

As someone with knowledge and experience in both markets, I’ve seen firsthand how buyers can maximize enjoyment, income potential, and long-term value by planning with the right strategy.

Define Your Purpose: Lifestyle, Investment, or Both?

The first step is asking yourself: Why a second home? For some, it’s about having a fun getaway close to Disney, Universal, or SeaWorld — a place where family vacations are easy. For others, it’s about securing a second property in The Villages, where golf courses, clubs, and an unmatched social lifestyle create year-round enjoyment.

Many buyers want both lifestyle perks and rental income. Orlando’s short-term rental (STR) zones around resort communities like ChampionsGate, Solterra, and Windsor Hills can generate strong returns while giving you a vacation base. On the other hand, The Villages is designed more for personal use and long-term value, with steady appreciation and endless lifestyle amenities.

Location Matters More Than You Think

Central Florida is unique because it offers a variety of second-home lifestyles. Two of the most popular options are the excitement of Orlando’s theme park area and the community-driven lifestyle of The Villages.

• Orlando/Theme Parks: Proximity to the parks makes a huge difference if you plan to use the home for vacations or rentals. Communities closer to Disney typically bring higher rental demand, but they also face more competition and stricter rental rules.

• The Villages: Here, location is about convenience within the community — golf cart access to town squares, shopping, restaurants, and medical facilities. For buyers looking to stay longer stretches of the year or eventually transition into retirement, this is a big plus.

Accessibility also matters. Orlando International Airport connects you worldwide, making vacation rentals and family trips easier, while The Villages is just a short drive north — still convenient, but more geared toward extended stays.

Understand the Costs — Beyond the Purchase Price

Second homes come with costs that first-time buyers don’t always anticipate. In Central Florida, you’ll want to consider:

• Taxes & Insurance: Florida’s property taxes are favorable compared to many states, but insurance can be higher on rental properties or larger homes.

• HOA/Resort Fees: Many Orlando STR communities have robust amenities — pools, lazy rivers, clubhouses — but those come with HOA or resort fees.

• Maintenance & Management: If you’re renting near the parks, expect property management fees of 15–30% of rental income. 

Think Long-Term Value, Not Just Short-Term Gains

The Orlando area STR market is strong, but it’s important to buy with realistic expectations. Break-even on rental income in the early years is common, but over time, both usage and appreciation can make the investment worthwhile.

The Villages, meanwhile, has proven itself as one of the fastest-growing master-planned communities in the country. Homes here tend to hold and grow value steadily because demand remains strong among retirees nationwide.

When considering either market, always factor in resale potential — even if you plan to keep the home for decades.

The Legacy Factor

A second home isn’t just an asset — it’s a place where memories are made. Imagine family trips to Orlando where your kids and grandkids grow up visiting the same home near the parks. Or a Villages retreat where extended family gathers, plays golf, and enjoys a community built around togetherness.

Choosing a property that appeals to multiple generations means your second home could become a cornerstone of family legacy.

Work With Local Expertise

Central Florida’s real estate landscape is diverse — from vacation rental rules near the parks to golf cart regulations in The Villages. Working with an advisor who understands both markets can help you avoid costly mistakes and align your purchase with your goals.

As a local Realtor with experience in Orlando and The Villages, I guide buyers through everything from rental projections to lifestyle considerations, helping ensure your second home is a smart investment in every sense.

The Bottom Line

Whether you’re looking for a vacation rental near Disney or a lifestyle retreat in The Villages, Central Florida has second-home opportunities unlike anywhere else. By defining your goals, understanding costs, and planning for the long term, your second home can deliver both enjoyment today and value for tomorrow.

📌 Looking for the right second home in Central Florida? Let’s talk about which market — theme parks or The Villages — is the best fit for your goals.