Kissimmee Condos (Orlando, Cape Coral, Sarasota: for sale, foreclosed, rental)

[HockeyFan09]

We're considering purchasing a condo in Kissimmee as a winter get-away for our family (we have 2 small children).

Just wondering if there are areas to look in to or perhaps avoid. I noticed a place for sale on Emily CT for a very good price.....perhaps too good? I wonder if the area is questionable.

Also, I notice property taxes seem to be all over the map for the condos we've looked at. I've seen a few condos in the same price point with taxes ranging from $1500 - $3500 a year. The latter is a little frightening! As a non-resident I know we'll have higher taxes. I'm was hoping that taxes on a condo might be less than a house. Perhaps not?

[Broker Dave]

Taxes are based on the assessed value by the county property appraiser the property is located multiplied by the millage rate of that local, no difference between single family, townhome etc...

Hope this helps,

[AONE]

As the properties are being resold they are being reassessed. and many have been so even without a recent sale. As a result many of the taxes have dropped a good deal, but not all the properties have been done, in time.

Condos won't have the tax based on the loan as they will be cash sales. presently few condos can get financing in the area, but that's another story.

If you use it for short term rental then there are some specific things to be careful of. There are many decent places for that and many at very low prices. Proximity to WDW is important as is size and amenities.

[HockeyFan09]

Thank you for the feedback. We live in Canada and would likely be looking to do a cash deal. We are not looking for a place with rental possibilities. Just a place for ourselves. This is why we are leaning towards a townhouse - to keep the maintenance of the home/exterior as worry-free as possible.

As a Canadian all I keep hearing about is horror stories of how much we'll be taxed. Having said that, we are aware that the tax rates vary throughout the state.

Ideally we are looking to buy in an area (we were thinking possibly Kissimmee) that has close access to lakes (my husband loves to fish!) and is reasonably close to the beach. Of course Disneyland is something to consider (our kids are 2 and under).

Everyone has us worried about hurricaines and gators! I'm hoping there is less of that to worry about in central Florida, though I know hurricaines can blow through that area too.

The areas I've been looking at are Kissimmee, Sarasota, and Cape Coral (I know the latter two are not central). Hmmmm.....I just don't know.

[Nenusa2]

Kissimme is also known as Little Puerto Rico to us Floridians. ( no offense ) If you drive a honda it will be stolen at night. haha. But no seriously. 192 Is the big attractions area close to old town but still kinda ghetto. I would live in Orlando. Hunters creeek actually has a lot of foreclosed condos going for great prices. It is borderline kissimme but it is the suburb opart of town and is a great location for kids and families. Close to everything 10 mintues from all of the malls and freom Disney.