Florida’s rental market is huge, from long-term rentals to vacation homes, and state law protects existing short-term rental rules while letting cities regulate safety and registration.
What is different in Florida
- State law preempts local bans on vacation rentals passed after June 2011, though cities and counties can require registration and safety rules, and older local rules still apply.
- Short-term stays owe state sales tax and county tourist development tax, collected by the host or the platform.
- Condo and HOA rules can ban or limit rentals, a common surprise in Florida buildings.
- There is no rent control: since 2023 state law bars cities and counties from adopting it (Fla. Stat. 125.0103).
- A rental doesn’t get the homestead exemption, so its property tax can rise up to 10% a year in assessed value, faster than a homestead’s.
Questions
How do I qualify for a DSCR loan in Florida?
The same as anywhere: the property’s rent against its full housing cost, including Florida insurance, plus credit, reserves and a down payment. Insurance is often what decides the ratio here.
Can I get a DSCR loan for a Florida vacation rental?
Yes, with a short-term rental DSCR program, as long as the city and any HOA allow short-term rentals.
Which lenders offer DSCR loans in Florida?
Many DSCR lenders lend statewide. I compare several, since they treat insurance, condos and short-term rental income differently.
Related
- DSCR investor loans
- DSCR vs hard money loans
- Condotel & short-term rental loans
- DSCR calculator
- Short-term rental DSCR calculator
Investment property loans in other states: California, Arizona, Ohio. All of Florida: mortgage loans in Florida.
