Should I buy a home in Florida, Ca., or the Carolinas?

I am looking for a winter home in the $250,000 - $450,000 price range. I am looking for a long term investment property. On or very near the water with 3 bdrms, 2.5 baths. Must be in move-in condition and very low maint.

You may want to visit the web sites listed below. Weighing your options will be a good idea before you move. Also something to consider is climate. You said it'll be for winter. How will you maintain the home of your choice in the Spring, Summer, and Fall, when you are not living in it? California gets mud slides, earthquakes, and wild fires. Florida, is mostly hit by heavy rains that can cause flooding,and not to mention hurricanes. The Carolina's will have relatively southern temps, and the bare minimal of natural disaster, all except the occasional tornado. The reason I've mentioned all of this, is because you want to make sure that your investment is protected for years to come. You'll also need to consider the home owners insurance cost for each state. As it may be higher in Florida and California. Ultimately, it will come down to what you are willing to pay for the upkeep of the home when you are away, and the protection you will need in case of a natural occurrence. Obviously, you have the money to do all of the above, but consider the key elimate in your question...investment!!! Do your research, and see what you decide. I hope that from the information you find you will make the best decision for you, and your future. God Bless

Check out Lake Lure North carolina. IT's in the Blue Ridge Mountains about an hour from Ashville. It is beutiful there and they have home on the lake. You can get alot for that kind of money there.

Personally I would buy in Florida...I live up north ,New York, so it would be great to get away from the harsh winter and end up in a beautiful place like Florida 3 months a year....Besides, family would come to you instead of you having to go to them...Come on who DOESNT want to see Mickey!!!??

If you want the most bang for the buck in the world's 2nd best climate with the lowest cost of living and maintenance for the property then, you need to take a look at the Ajijic area of Lake Chapala in Mexico. It is a mile high with moderate tempatures all year-round and you could purchase a very, very nice home up on the side of the mountain with lake and mountain views that are spectular and unparralled. If you missed the article in AARP, The New York Times, the International Herald Tribune, several airline magazines, and numerous other periodicals, then you need to look on the Internet and do some research before you rule out other areas.

You definetly be able find property within your description in florida and the Carolinas, California will be more difficult.
I personally have lived in California recently and currently live in Florida (Boca Raton). There was an article in Florida Trends mag. that states that Florida is growing by 1060 people PER DAY. which means in 3 years there will be more poeple living in Florida than in New York State, which also mean that people are going to need somewhere to live, so the demand for housing is going to be high for quiet sometime.
If you have any questions about Florida or California Real Estate, email at the website below and I can help you or know a great person to help you in Southern California.