How to Buy Your Second Home or Vacation Property in Florida

Dreaming of owning a beachside getaway along Florida’s stunning Emerald Coast? You’re not alone. With miles of white-sand beaches, no state income tax, and booming short-term rental demand, it’s no surprise that thousands of buyers are researching how to buy a vacation home in Florida—especially in sought-after areas like Inlet Beach and 30A.

Whether you're looking for a relaxing second home or a dual-purpose Wildwood investment property, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from financing options to choosing the right location and navigating the purchase process.

Why Buy a Second Home on Florida’s Scenic 30A?

Scenic Highway 30A is a 24-mile stretch of beach towns known for their charm, lifestyle, and long-term property appreciation. Tucked between Rosemary Beach and Camp Helen State Park, Inlet Beach offers one of the most balanced opportunities for second-home ownership on 30A—especially in boutique new construction communities like Wildwood.

Key Reasons to Buy a Second Home in Inlet Beach:

• 🌴 Uncrowded beaches with emerald waters

• 🚲 Walkability to shops, dining, and outdoor activities

• 🏡 STR-friendly zoning in communities like Wildwood

• 📈 Long-term appreciation and rental income potential

• 💼 Favorable Florida tax environment (no state income tax!)

Step 1: Determine Your Goals

Before diving into financing or floorplans, start by defining why you're purchasing a second home:

Lifestyle Use: Will this be your weekend beach retreat or seasonal escape?

Investment Focused: Are you aiming to generate income via short-term rentals?

Hybrid Model: Do you plan to enjoy it part-time and rent it out the rest of the year?

Knowing your goals helps guide your decision on location, layout, loan structure, and property management.

At Wildwood at Inlet Beach, many buyers use a hybrid model—enjoying personal use during key months and leveraging rental income to offset expenses during peak seasons.

Step 2: Understand Second Home Financing

Unless you’re purchasing with cash, you’ll need to qualify for a second home loan on 30A. The requirements are slightly different from a primary home mortgage but still very accessible for well-qualified buyers.

Second Home Loan Basics:

Down Payment: Typically 10–20%

Credit Score: 680+ (though higher scores get better rates)

Debt-to-Income Ratio: Usually under 45%

Interest Rates: Often similar to primary residence rates

Occupancy Requirement: Must occupy the home part of the year (for second home classification)

If your intention is to rent out the home full-time, your loan may be categorized as an investment property loan, which typically requires:

• A higher down payment (20–25%)

• A slightly higher interest rate

• Rental income documentation (if using for qualification)

Working with a local lender familiar with 30A second home loans—like Tammy and Sean Frith of Cross Country Mortgage—is a huge advantage. They understand market nuances and may offer unique second home financing options tailored for buyers on the Emerald Coast.

Step 3: Set Your Budget and Get Pre-Approved

Knowing what you can comfortably afford—including your down payment, mortgage payment, insurance, taxes, and HOA dues—is key to narrowing your search.

Don’t forget to account for:

• Furnishings (if buying unfurnished)

• Utility bills

• HOA dues (Wildwood has low fees with great walkability)

• Property management fees (if using for short-term rentals)

Once you’ve calculated your total cost, work with your lender to get pre-approved. This strengthens your offer and helps you act quickly in a competitive market.

Step 4: Choose the Right Location

Not all beach towns are created equal—and not all are ideal for short-term rental income or low-maintenance second-home living.

Here’s why Inlet Beach and Wildwood check all the right boxes:

• 📍 Prime 30A location without the crowds of Seaside or Grayton

• 🏡 New construction homes with energy-efficient features

• 🚶‍♂️ Walkable access to the beach and local dining/shopping

• 🛏️ Short-term rental flexibility with strong guest appeal

• 🧘‍♀️ Peaceful, low-density community perfect for weekend getaways

Wildwood offers one of the few opportunities to own a modern, STR-ready home near Rosemary Beach without paying the luxury premium of neighboring developments.

Step 5: Tour Homes and Review Your Options

Once your financing and location are lined up, it’s time to schedule private tours or virtual showings. At Wildwood, you can explore:

• Move-in ready homes

• Homes under construction

• Pre-construction options (choose finishes and fixtures if early enough)

• Each Wildwood home is thoughtfully designed with:

• Open-concept floorplans

• Coastal-modern finishes

• Energy-efficient systems

• Optional rooftop decks

• Low-maintenance exteriors

You’ll also benefit from the Wildwood buyer experience, a step-by-step process that takes you from reservation to move-in with ease.

Step 6: Understand the Rental Potential

If you plan to use your second home as a Wildwood investment property, it’s essential to understand potential returns.

With median rental rates in Inlet Beach around $6,250/month, and high demand during spring, summer, and holiday seasons, Wildwood is well-positioned to produce passive income for owners.

STR-Friendly Features at Wildwood:

• Boutique, low-density community = high guest satisfaction

• Walkable to Orange Street Beach Access

• Near 30Avenue shops, Shades Bar & Grill, and Rosemary Beach

• New construction = premium rates and fewer maintenance issues

• Strong support from local STR managers and cleaners

Step 7: Prepare for Closing

Once under contract, your lender and real estate agent will help you through:

• Appraisal and home inspection

• HOA and insurance review

• Final loan approval and closing documents

• Title work and funding

• If buying pre-construction, your home may be delivered within 3–6 months depending on build stage.

Bonus: Wildwood buyers benefit from modern building codes and lower insurance premiums, making long-term ownership more affordable.

Step 8: Move In or Launch Your Rental

Once you close, you can furnish your new beach house and begin enjoying the 30A lifestyle—or launch your vacation rental!

Wildwood’s builder-grade finishes are renter-ready, and our local partners can connect you with:

• STR management companies

• Furnishing packages

• Design consultations

• Marketing support for Airbnb/VRBO listings

FAQs About Buying a Second Home in Florida

Q: Can I use rental income to qualify for financing?

Yes, with investment property loans. Some lenders may allow projected rental income to be used toward qualification.

Q: Are Wildwood homes eligible for vacation rentals?

Absolutely. Wildwood is STR-friendly and built with rental performance in mind.

Q: What are Wildwood’s HOA fees like?

Low and manageable, especially compared to luxury resort communities nearby.

Q: How does Wildwood compare to other 30A developments?

It offers exceptional value, new construction, low density, and walkability—all rare finds on 30A under $2M.

Final Thoughts: Make Your Beach Home Dreams a Reality

Buying a vacation home in Florida—especially on 30A—doesn’t have to be complicated. When you choose the right community and a team that understands the process, your second home journey becomes a smooth and rewarding experience.

At Wildwood at Inlet Beach, you’ll find:

• A modern, coastal retreat

• Smart investment potential

• Flexible usage for families or guests

• A trusted team to guide you from start to finish

🏡 Ready to Start Your Second Home Journey?

Visit 👉 www.wildwoodatinletbeach.com

Schedule a tour, get pre-qualified, and take the first step toward owning your dream vacation home in Florida.

Your 30A getaway—and smart investment—starts here.