Tag: snowbird housing considerations

Snowbird Housing Deal Breakers

Snowbird Housing Deal Breakers Hint: The Deal Breakers are Personal and Nuanced Price, location, view, pet friendly and availability are all deal makers. They’re also the deal breakers. However, there’s more to it than that. It’s the nuances of a particular rental that may or 

Top Terminology for Snowbird Rentals

An example of a gulf front private home in Miramar Beach, NW Florida with full unobstructed views and two reserved off-street parking spaces Top Terminology for Snowbird Rentals  100 Terms to Know Before Renting a Vacation or Snowbird Residence As a long term member, and 

14 Tips to Avoid Rental Scams

Deposits with no recourse, high pressure tactics, pricing and terms too good to be true and no contract are all major red flags
Deposits with no recourse, high pressure tactics, pricing and terms too good to be true and no contract are all major red flags

14 Tips to Avoid Rental Scams 

With the popularity of online shopping, online scams are also at an all time high. Rental scams can be especially devastating because guests may not even realize they've been taken until they show up to the property. Yes, it happens and it's heartbreaking.

I'm a member of several regional rental groups via Facebook where renters and rentals are matched via posts such as, "In search of a pet-friendly, 2/2 gulf front condo with pool and amenities for January/February of 2023. Max budget is $8,500, including fees." Property owners post photos and details of their units if it matches the request.

I cringe when some of the replies provide no link to "their" listing, yet ask the potential renter to "PM me for a special discount" or they provide a link and say, "Your dates aren't showing as available due to a computer gliche, but PM me and I can book your stay." These are huge red flags. Your instinct should be kicking into overdrive. If there is no direct electronic trail to the listing and/or there's explanations that aren't logical, be extremely careful or consider moving on. If it's not adding up, something is wrong.  

Prior to our first season as a snowbird, my husband and I became very nervous. We booked our rental nine months in advance of our stay via a web site that promotes/manages about 50 properties. I conducted a fair amount of research to be confident enough the listing was legit. Sixty days prior to arrival, per the contract terms we pre-paid the property manager in full for the entire stay, which was a large amount of money. We had no first-hand information about the property, only the online description and photos

A few days before we were to depart, we received a message that we would not be able to check in to our 3/3 gulf front unit due to exterior maintenance that would block our access to the door. Another much smaller 2/2 unit in a building down the street would be ours for the first week. Oh heck no! This was NOT what we signed up for. After much back and forth, we negotiated concessions to move into the 3/3 for two days, then would move down the street for 4-5 days and then back to the original unit. I was very apprehensive of the possibility that not only the property management company could be a scam, but that the rental was fake too. We were so relieved to find that we were wrong. I conducted even more research and affirmed the rental was real and the property management company has a stellar reputation.   

If you are seeking a new property and are unfamiliar with it or the area you're considering, I've offered 14 tips to assist with spotting potential rental scams. Although there's no way to be 100% sure, whether staying at a new place during snowbird season or the off season, careful research can result in a better outcome.    


 

1. Search well known, credible rental web sites

Credible is the key word here. Well known rental web sites such as VRBO, Airbnb, Home Away and BringFido.com are a few examples. Web sites that broker thousands of listings AND have a budget to advertise their sites are typically acceptable sources. However, having said that, it doesn't guarantee the LISTINGS are legitimate. Fake listings are rampant and the images are usually stolen from actual listings. This is why it is important to conduct further research once you locate a potential rental.

Craigslist is a well known web site, but it is not devoted strictly to vacation rentals and therefore it is not what I consider a good source for vacation rentals. Regardless of the source, further research is recommended.

2. Compare with smaller, regional web sites

Some property owners don't want to pay the fees for listing on a well known web site. Smaller rental web sites may be a good option. They may have names such as "Vacation Homes by Owner" or something regional such as "Texas Vacation Rentals." If a listing is on both a smaller source and a well known source, that adds credibility. However, it is not a guarantee of anything.

3. Compare with the web site of the property manager

Typically, if a property is professionally managed, it will also be listed on the property manager's web site. You can compare various dates with the major web site and the property manager's web site. Both sites should show the exact same dates as open or unavailable because they are synchronized by the computer. If there is a discrepancy, that's a major red flag.

Typically, booking directly through the property manager will save additional fees. The major web sites usually add more fees to the guests with line items such as "Host fee," "Service Fee" or something similar. The fees are in addition to the cleaning, taxes and other state and local fees.

4. Seek feedback online through regional social media groups

As mentioned above, online referral groups are a great way to match renters with rentals. However, as previously stated, be very careful about responses that do not have a direct link to the property and/or there are requests to private message instead of publicly message each other. The social media groups attempt to keep scammers out, but there is usually no formal vetting process. Specialized social groups are always targeted by scammers who create fake accounts with stolen photos of innocent people.

5. Evaluate online photos and listings

I devoted a recent post entirely to evaluating online photos and listings of vacation rentals. It is worth reading prior to booking a new or unfamiliar rental property.

6. Spot fake listings: typos, poor grammar and punctuation are red flags

Domestic and international scammers typically are not English scholars. Typos, poor grammar and punctuation are all red flags; however, perfect English is no guarantee of anything either (or vice versa). If the listing and/or correspondence are riddled with poor grammar, punctuation and typos, ask to personally speak with someone. If you can get someone on the phone, that's the first step. I doubt they will be available for a call if they are a scammer. If they can speak English, yet their written correspondence is poor, proceed with caution.

Be aware listing photos and descriptions may be stolen from legitimate properties. Conduct multiple online searches for the property and look for conflicting information, such as multiple listings for the property with differing contact information.

Perhaps a listing shows an attractive smiling woman or a family with young kids and a dog on their social media profile and refuses to correspond with you via any other method than electronically, that's a red flag. Scammers pretend to identify with their targets by appearing to be trustworthy. Chances are the photos are stolen.

7. Review public records

Public records such as tax and property records are easily located online in the county in which the property is located. Look up the name of the owner/s, how long they've owned the property and how many other properties they own. Their primary address will also be listed in the records as well as the names of any other owners.

If a property is owner-managed and the address of the contract doesn't match the address of record, find out why, then verify the answer. Some properties are owned by siblings or partners as an example. That's fine, but it would seem odd to have differing addresses on a tax record versus a rental contract. Look up all addresses to verify the facts to tie it all together. If all of it doesn't match, beware.

8. Meet or talk with the property manager or owner

If you are in the vicinity of the prospective rental, ask for a personal showing or meeting. If you cannot meet in person, a phone conversation with the owner or PM is helpful to get an idea of their opinions and feedback of whether a property may be a good fit for your needs. Especially if you are staying more than a few days. They may have other properties to recommend and you can ask questions about how many properties they manage, if they are local, how long they've been in business and so forth. Ask for references from previous guests.

Ask if the property is for sale. If it is, there is a chance your reservation may be cancelled due to the owner transferring the title, which will negate your contract. If you are unable to personally speak with someone after multiple attempts and you're only receiving electronic communication, that is a huge red flag.

9. Ask for references

Ask to speak with previous guests who have stayed in the property and can verify the advertised images are fair, the condition is what was advertised and whether they received prompt attention in the event of issues that needed resolved. Ask seemingly random questions about the neighborhood that you already know the answer from online research, such as "Where is the nearest pharmacy?" How far away and what is the name of the closest restaurant? If your "reference" hesitates or doesn't know the answers fairly quickly, they are perhaps not valid references.

10. If it seems to good to be true, it probably is

Compare the cost of the prospective rental with similar properties. If the availability, terms and rate are too good to be true, that's a huge red flag. Ask a lot of questions about why the rates are so low. Is it new to the rental market? Was there a last minute cancellation? Are there any problems that may be a factor such as a bug infestation, ongoing construction or other inconveniences? What guarantees can the PM or owner make to assure their property is legitimate?

11. Only pay deposits with the protection of credit cards

Never pay a deposit with funds that aren't protected in the event of fraud or misrepresentation. If you pay by credit card, you'll still have to go through the process of requesting a refund, but there's a better chance of recovering your deposit. Many popular money apps provide zero protection to the person sending the funds. Once the money is sent, it's gone. Do your homework prior to sending money to anyone for any reason. If the money app's policy is no refunds, you will have zero chance to recover any of it in the event of fraud or any other reason.

Typically, because of the credit card fees and significant expense of a long term rental, the balance is typically paid with a check 60 - 90 days before arrival. Look into the address of where the check is to be mailed. Does the address match the property manager or owner's address? If not, ask why.

12. Never pay a deposit before signing a valid lease agreement

You will have no protection from fraud, cancellation or any other issue without a valid signed lease agreement. The lease agreement will have the full names of you and the property manager or owner and the terms listed, including the amount of the deposit and balance, dates of stay, due dates for the balance/payments, policies including the cancellation terms as well as refund and dispute resolution policies. Never accept a contract or agreement unless it thoroughly addresses everything to cover yourself as well as the property owner. If you are getting high pressure to hurry up and pay a deposit without signing a complete valid lease, walk away. That is a huge red flag.

13. Electronic contracts are a good sign

If your rental is offered online and there is an electronic contract that you can sign to reserve it, that's a standard industry-wide practice. Reserving electronically protects the renter and rental agency from disputes about when and what was agreed to. It also takes the unit off the market so it doesn't become double-booked. If the property you are considering does not offer an electronic contract, find out why. It may be the owner prefers signed paper contracts. Allow enough time for a contract to be prepared and signed, but ask for assurances that the rental will be held during this time.

Perhaps they don't offer any contract. They may say they don't like contracts or haven't had time to prepare one or downplay that it isn't that important. If there's no contract, there's no deal. Walk away.

14. High pressure tactics are a red flag

If your potential property is desirable, it will have more people interested in renting it. However, if the PM or owner is using high pressure tactics such as indicating it will be off the market before the contract can be executed and signed, that's a red flag. Never agree to pay a deposit or rent a unit without first or simultaneously executing a valid contract.

If the property legitimately has multiple offers at the same time, ask how they will determine who is accepted. If they have a reasonable explanation, you can either go along with the plan or find another place. Sometimes taking a property with less demand will make it easier for you to keep coming back because there is less competition fighting for it.

Always conduct thorough research and listen to your instinct before renting a property that is new or unfamiliar. Once you are confident of your choice, you can focus on prepping for your stay.

 


 

"A clever person solves a problem, a wise person avoids it.”

-- Albert Einstein, German Theoretical Physicist


DISCLAIMER

The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. We make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from or in connection with, the use of this website.

Through this website you are able to link to other websites which are not under the control of Midlife Snowbird. We have no control over the nature, content and availability of those sites. The inclusion of any links or advertisements does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them.

Be the Snowbird Who is Welcome Back

BE THE SNOWBIRD WHO IS WELCOME BACK  How to Be Irresistible to Your Hosts Snowbirds who rent their winter residences are plentiful and there is typically not a shortage of guests who want to stay in a great property, which means it is important to 

Location, Location, Location – Peak vs. Off Peak

Map of The Emerald Coast, Southern Alabama and Northwest Florida LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION  Peak vs. Off Peak Affects the Cost of Housing As snowbirds return home to begin the off-season, much reflection goes into what can be done differently for the next season. Life changes 

How to Evaluate Online Rental Photos

Perceived and actual views may be entirely different, as well as accessories used for staging. Don't hesitate to ask for clarification.
Perceived and actual views may be entirely different, as well as accessories used for staging. Don't hesitate to ask for clarification.

How to Evaluate Online Rental Photos 

Travel and snowbirds are synonymous. Snowbirds by definition seasonally migrate to a warm climate and for many that means selecting a place to stay with very basic information such as online photos, reviews and a description of the property. From personal experience, before ever selecting our snowbird community in Northwest Florida, I looked at hundreds of properties online via specialized travel sites. The photos that got my attention were taken by professionals, had great lighting and flattering angles.

I consider myself to be rather astute evaluating a property from afar, whether hotel or other type of rental; however, every once in awhile there are blunders. My sister and I spent time in Saugatuck Michigan and selected a specific, beautifully decorated ground floor suite of an expensive boutique hotel based on photos, reviews and web site. Prior to arrival we envisioned ourselves walking from the porch of our suite across the expanse of lawn and reading books while seated next to the lovely lake. Wrong. Upon checking in, we discovered the enclosed porch does not have an exterior door, a road separates the lake from the hotel and the expanse of lawn is actually not part of the hotel's property. Worse, a new residence was under construction directly across the street from our hotel. Not only was it noisy, the new home completely blocked 50% of our view of the lake. We loved the hotel and had a great weekend regardless, but finding out about a blocked view from online photos that had not been updated was not fun.

I've compiled 11 categories below to assist with selecting a rental, whether during snowbird season or the off season. As always, careful research can result in the best success.    


 

1. COMPARE PHOTOS WITH AN ACTUAL MAP

Once you've narrowed down your top options, look at an online map and compare the distance of the property address with the online photos. Look at both 360 degree street view and the overhead bird's view. Is it physically impossible to see a great view from inside the unit, such as the water or mountains? Many times a rental listing will show supporting photos that are not actually views from the rental unit itself, but are from around the resort property or neighborhood. Just about every listing for a rental near a beach will show an image of the beach, yet the view shown in the photo isn't necessarily what you will actually see from your kitchen, living room or balcony. Same for mountains, rolling hills or even the community pool.

2. COMPARE LISTING PHOTOS WITH GUESTS PHOTOS

Of course every rental owner wants to show their listing in the most flattering manner, which usually includes professional photos that have been lightly retouched for brightness and color. Now compare those photos with actual photos guests have posted online, if available. If the decor and images tell the same story, it's a good sign. Remember, guest photos may not reflect the most current version of the property and the reverse may also be the case: the rental photos may not be current. Guest photos are likely taken with clutter in them or poor angles and/or lighting, which is to be expected. Guests typically want to share their enthusiasm for a place, but don't forget motive. If a guest is unhappy, they may unfairly post photos and reviews that show the worst or exaggerated attributes of a property.

3. COMPARE LISTING PHOTOS WITH REVIEWS

Online reviews, when available, can reveal details that may not be obvious from the photos. Typically this might include clarification that a view is partially obstructed, that the water is much further away than it appears, that the unit's space is much smaller than it looks or that there is a road in-between the property and the beach. Most owners do not intentionally mislead their guests or do not realize that guests who have never been to the area don't have the personal experience of having seen the neighborhood in person. If there is a valid suggestion that can privately be sent to the owner to improve their listing, that is always appreciated. As mentioned before, remember the motive for reviews. If a review seems unfair or one-sided it may be because of an unhappy guest who does not have the best intentions.

4. BE REALISTIC ABOUT DRONE PHOTOS

Drone photos showing the bird's eye view are great for getting an overview of an area, particularly in relationship to a particular feature, such as a body of water. Be realistic of where the property you are considering actually is and what obstacles will be in the way of your rental compared to the feature shown in the photo. You are not going to be in a drone looking at the view, so don't confuse the purpose of the drone photos.

I know first-hand of guests who rented a private home with fenced private pool directly facing the gulf and beach with just a road in-between. What isn't obvious is that because of the fence, to get from the home's pool to the beach, it's necessary to walk a block West down the street to exit the housing addition, walk over and cross the main road and then walk back East another block to get to the neighborhood's beach access point. Because of the fence, it isn't as quick or simple as merely walking across the street.

5. STRETCHED PHOTOS

Many times photos are stretched on purpose or inadvertently which causes the space to look much larger than it is. Be aware of stretched photos that may have unnatural proportions of the items that you can see are wider than taller, such as appliances. Misconceptions about the size of a space are likely to cause the most distress upon actually renting a place only to find it's smaller than they realized.

6. WATCH THE ANGLES

Photo angles are a legitimate method of showing the expanse of a space, but recognize that angles also can make an object appear much larger than it actually is. This is especially apparent with angles used to show features such as a yard, swimming pool or interior rooms of a home or condo. Low angles or cameras mounted on the ceiling looking downwards can make a room or feature seem much larger than it is. When you are actually in a space, you will not have the same "fly on the wall" or "worm's" view which means the space will not look as large as it does in the photos.

7. ACCURATE DESCRIPTIONS

It's frustrating to see listings promoting rentals that don't accurately portray the property. As an example, I commonly see photos of "gulf view" properties that actually have a side view of the water from way back in a condo complex. An unsuspecting guest may not realize the view from the interior of the unit is going to be of the homes adjacent to the unit, not the water. The only way to see the gulf is by stepping onto the balcony and looking into the distance. Technically, it is a gulf view, but there is a huge difference in what that gulf view is compared to a unit where you can directly see the gulf from the interior rooms and the balcony. Ground floor units that promote themselves as "gulf view," present a different challenge. Be aware of what that gulf view might actually be. For anyone not familiar with ground floor units, your actual view may be a sliver of the gulf due to natural topography where the ground floor unit is lower than the dunes next to the gulf and it results in limited views. If you aren't sure of what view you are getting, ask for photos that are not "zoomed in."

8. LOOK FOR VISUAL CUES

Visual cues provide a wealth of information. Look for hints in the listing photos that show the balcony railing in the foreground and other details such as the pool, road and beach in the background. High rise photos typically show great views looking across the water and/or other natural features. However, the view looking down from say, the 11th floor, may be terrifying for you, your pet or guests. I have friends who stayed on upper floors of high rises just one time. It was too much and they returned to the same complex only in a lower location. Visual cues can indicate the distance from your potential rental unit to get to the nearest parking lot, pool, attraction such as golf course or body of water. There are many great rentals in buildings that are second or third row to the beach, just make sure you are aware of it from studying the photos.

9. ACCURATE STAGING

I've seen plenty of online photos of beautifully staged rentals with props that are not likely included in the rental. This may be items such as dishware or glassware, food, beverages, napkins, accessories, beach equipment and much more. If a staged photo shows these excluded items, it should specifically say on the photo "Food and beverages are not included" to make the potential guest realize the photo is for illustrative purposes. I have also seen rental photos with items such as laundry soap, beach towels or high end barware and the description does clarify that the soap, barware and beach towels are indeed part of the rental. To be sure, read the fine print or ask the owner or property manager.

10. OMMITTED PHOTOS

As is commonly known in psychology, don't be distracted by dazzling photos, pay attention to what is not being said or shown. Prime photos, also known as "Hero" shots might show an amazing view looking in one specific direction. However, what is to the left or the right that is not shown in the photo? Telephone poles? A privacy fence, dumpsters or other obstruction?

Does the rental have a dishwasher or washer and dryer? Photos of appliances such as an in-unit washer and dryer may or may not be shown online for various reasons, so you should clarify what is available. If in-unit washers are lacking and there's no visual cue from a listing photo, it can easily be missed prior to arriving and realizing coin-op laundry facilities are located in a common area.  Similarly, distance to parking, dumpsters, elevators, stairways and much more may not be photographed. Always ask for clarification.

Don't assume every room has a nice or any view. The bedroom window in our condo looks at a covered walkway and swaying palm trees. The bedroom of the unit directly next door looks at a covered walkway and a dark stairwell. I cannot say it enough, "Pay attention to what is not being said or shown." It's ok to ask for photos showing each view or all perspectives of the rental so there's no surprises.

11. CURRENT PHOTOS

It is expensive to hire a professional photographer, but current photos that accurately portray a property are invaluable for potential guests as well as owners. Professional photos are designed to dazzle you, however, don't overlook the gems that may be bypassed due to poor quality photos. Over time, furniture, appliances, rugs, lighting and decorations change. If you aren't sure of how recent the photos are, don't hesitate to ask.

Overall, take your time to carefully study the promotional photos, reviews and then make an informed decision. If necessary, try out different places until you find the one you want to return to over and over again.

 


 

"Photography is the only language that can be understood anywhere in the world.”

-- Bruno Barbey, French Photographer


DISCLAIMER

The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. We make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from or in connection with, the use of this website.

Through this website you are able to link to other websites which are not under the control of Midlife Snowbird. We have no control over the nature, content and availability of those sites. The inclusion of any links or advertisements does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them.

Room by Room: How to Furnish a Vacation Rental Property

Room by Room: How to Furnish a Vacation Rental Property Room by Room: How to Furnish a Vacation Rental Property is a follow-up to “The Basics of How to Furnish a Vacation Rental Property.” As an experienced vacation rental guest, I learned from observing and 

The Basics of How to Furnish a Vacation Rental Property

The Basics of How to Furnish a Vacation Rental Property Many snowbirds understandably dream of eventually purchasing their own vacation rental property. My husband and I rented for six seasons and it inspired me to write a post entitled, “What to Look for in a 

Snowbird Destination Trends

The Covid-19 pandemic has forced a re-evaluation of metro vs. smaller populations for snowbirds and Zoombirds [Natchez Street, Seaside Florida]
The Covid-19 pandemic has forced a re-evaluation of metro vs. smaller populations for snowbirds and Zoombirds [Natchez Street, Seaside Florida]

Snowbird Destination Trends

Considerations for Snowbirds and Zoombirds

What are the latest snowbird destination trends? I was recently interviewed for an article, "Boca Raton, Florida, Takes the Crown as Best 2021 Snowbird Destination" by Maria Gatea that was published in January, 2021 on STORAGECafé blog. The StorageCafé blog is dedicated to the multi-billion dollar self-storage industry, as well as all things related to moving and storage.

The extensive article discusses the most popular destinations and trends for snowbirds and their new counterparts, known as "Zoombirds" because of their ability to work remotely via apps such as Zoom. Other topics covered include the cost differentials for snowbirds coming from various Northern states; an analysis of the concentration of area attractions, such as proximity to beaches, golf courses and parks as well as the dramatic decrease in Canadian snowbirds for 2021 due to the pandemic. 

Statistics such as an area's average temps; proportional ratio of available vacant housing; cost of housing; safety-related indicators; the COVID-19 community vulnerability index; internet speed; availability of self storage and number of area attractions were compiled and evaluated. Ultimately, the StorageCafé article rated Boca Raton, Florida as the 2021 top destination of the "100 Best Cities for Snowbirds," which are published on the blog. As a whole, the state of Florida remains the quintessential destination for snowbirds, although Texas is noted for affordability and Arizona and California are popular for their area attractions and sunny climates.

The article also addresses the changing look of snowbirds as seasonal migration relates to the ongoing global Covid pandemic. Snowbirds used to primarily be retirees. Now, a new variation of snowbirds has evolved: "Zoombirds" are working remotely and their school-aged children are utilizing remote learning.

Recently, I was contacted by a reader who is a first-time snowbird who relocated from the Pacific Northwest to southern California and is considering a seasonal move to Florida next year. It's a major decision to choose a new winter location and looking at all options when choosing a warm weather home is an important step. Here are some of the top considerations based on the STORAGECafé blog article, as well as my own personal experience with temporarily moving our business from the Midwest to Northwest Florida for the past six years.


Destination Considerations for Snowbirds and Zoombirds

My husband and I recently moved into our southern home for the sixth time and already we have seen some dramatic changes in our beach community. We've noticed a lot more people on the beach and sidewalks than in previous years during this same time frame, which is the slowest season of the year. Quarantine fatigue is most certainly a defining factor.

A younger demographic is another change we've witnessed in 2021 with more families temporarily moving into the area. As an example, we took an evening stroll along the water and encountered a mom from Tennessee with her young son. They had completed remote learning for the day and were enjoying time at the ocean's edge. In prior years, that would be almost unheard of with the majority of children in school classrooms and parents at work.

Some migrants aren't necessarily moving to warm climates. Through social media, I discovered a high school classmate became a first-time solo Zoombird with a beautiful mountain home in Big Lake, Alaska that she found from an online travel site. She worked remotely and spent Christmas at North Pole, Alaska and also participated in amazing area attractions at Chena Hot Springs Resort including a visit to Aurora Ice Bar, a snow machine tour, mushing her own dog sled, an air taxi to Denali and an excursion to see the Northern Lights plus a tour of Aurora Ice Museum.

Before considering migrating to a new destination, ask these basic questions:

1. How will you get to your destination?

--If you fly, is a rental car in your budget?

2. Who will be migrating with you?

--Spouse/partner

--Children

--Pet/s

--Others such as extended family or au pair

3. What is your budget?

--Housing

--Travel to/from

--Vehicle/fuel

--Food/meals

--Entertainment

--Airfare, if applicable

4. What are your housing/space requirements?

--Type of home: single family, low or high rise condo, town house, park model, RV

--Number of beds/baths

--Parking

--Features such as elevators/steps, in-unit laundry, decor, balcony/yard, gated community, assigned or covered parking, etc.

5. What other factors will affect your choice?

--Distance from home, average temps, population density, Covid statistics, cost of living adjustments, internet, safety, shipping, proximity to a part-time job, health care, etc.

6. What is most important to you?

--A view, beach, mountains, lake, river, desert, golf, parks, fishing, restaurants, shops, area attractions, amenities, pedestrian lifestyle, type/size of community, family/friends, kid-friendly, etc.


Once you answer these basic questions, you can start working out a plan. As an example, if you've always dreamed of being a snowbird in Hawaii, but have a dog, spouse and two or three kids, it probably isn't going to work out due to the mere fact of getting there by air. Shipping a dog is problematic enough, and then adding the expense for airfare per person, housing, car rental and transporting your personal items to and from is probably too much. The cost of living in Hawaii is higher than any other state in the nation, which means your standard of living is likely going to be less than where you came from. A better option is somewhere you can travel by vehicle.

Many snowbirds end up in destinations with their counterparts from their home states. For example, Gulf Shores, Alabama and Northwest Florida and further south along the Gulf Coast is full of Midwesterners; the entire East Coast of the Carolinas and the coastal regions of the entire state of Florida are typically popular with East Coast residents, West/Central Northern states tend to travel to Texas and the West Coast residents typically migrate to Arizona and Southern California. Much of this is related to the interstate highway systems. Many migrants choose to go the most direct route to get to their destination. For us, 14 hours travelling in our vehicle with our dog is stressful enough, there is not much chance we would ever consider adding another 8 to 10 hours of driving to go to Central or South Florida, not to mention the higher cost for beach rentals.

Canadian snowbirds are the only ones that can be definitively tracked due to data collected by the government. For 2021, the pandemic has severely affected Canadian snowbirds who have been unable or unwilling to travel south for the winter.

Some snowbirds choose their location based on proximity to friends or family in the area. Our Northern neighbors have been meeting up in the Orlando, Florida area because that is where their parents also wintered. Now, this second generation of Indiana and Michigan families all own park models in the same community. We've also become good friends with a group of snowbirds who are neighbors in Illinois and ended up being neighbors in their southern homes because of the original couple who spent 13 years here.

Choosing your snowbird destination is personal and unique to each person. By prioritizing what you really want, it can help eliminate places that aren't a good fit. When researching potential southern communities, we found a beautiful single family home directly on the beach near Alligator Point, Florida, but it wasn't pet friendly. Another one was an amazing second row beach house on Cape San Blas, a barrier island of Florida, but it would have been a two hour round trip to get to the nearest shipping terminal, which was not going to work for our business needs. The third option was what I thought was perfect: a pet friendly elevated home on the beach with the bedroom, bath, kitchen, living room and deck upstairs and parking and a second bedroom located under the house for guests. And then it hit me, no way could our aging and ill Golden Retriever make it up and down the stairs five or six times a day, nor could we carry her. It was then that I sought and found a rental with an elevator, which meant an oceanfront low rise condo and not a beach house like we originally imagined. We've been in the same building ever since and it remains the best choice for us now and then.


This is an excerpt from the article and it sums up our goals, which are the same today as seven years ago:

“Our number one criteria is to be oceanfront with plenty of space for ourselves, our Golden Retriever and our business. Because we chose oceanfront property, the rate for our southern home condo is about three to four times more expensive than our primary home, so we offset that with a shorter stay. We chose Miramar Beach, which is part of the greater Destin area in Northwest Florida because it is a relatively easy 12-hour drive and beachfront rentals are not as expensive as further south,” continued Lana Scherer.

--published by STORAGECafé blog, January, 2021

 


 

"The secret of change is to focus all of your energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new.

-- Socrates, Ancient Greek Philosopher

Home Vs. Away

Home Vs. Away It’s easy to get caught up in the thrill of your snowbird home–the warmer weather, prospects of a new community, new friends and the alluring amenities of your home whether it is the beach, pedestrian lifestyle, shopping / restaurants and more. Parking,