Study: Kissimmee 3rd-best place to buy a vacation home

In the tourism industry, Kissimmee has a tag line: Vacation Home Capital of the World® (Look closely, it’s even trademarked).

According to Experience Kissimmee, the area’s tourism marketing arm, Kissimmee has the largest collection of vacation home rentals in the world, with more than 50,000 options.

And now, based on a study from American Home Shield, Kissimmee ranks No. 3 on its list of Best Places to Buy a Vacation Home in 2022.

The study ranked towns based on availability and affordability of property, and the area’s activities available.

Central Florida offers 12 months of fun and sun, and property is available at a median price of around $320,000.

“If that price is still a bit steep, remember that you could make a good return on your investment by renting your home out to tourists visiting the area,” author Kathleen Crampton wrote.

“Unfortunately, Orlando is pricey and often clogged with people. So, if you want access to theme parks but don’t want to have to deal with a barrage of people when you’re at your home-away-from-home, Kissimmee may be the perfect town when buying a vacation home in Florida.”

The author also lauded an array of local deluxe spas and golf courses, world class-level fishing (Lake Toho and the Kissimmee chain are widely noted for bass fishing), beaches just an hour drive away, unique eco-tourism offerings like airboat rides, “Where you may be lucky enough (or unlucky, depending on your view) to spot a gator,” and other attractions.

“Kissimmee is an excellent option when carving out your tropical happy place,” Crampton said as she closed the Kissimmee.

Kissimmee ranked behind Big Sky, Mont., lauded for its winter sports and ability to “fall off the grid,” and Munising, Mich., a town on the Upper Peninsula noted for its own snow-based activities and affordable real estate.

The entire list can be found at: https://www.ahs.com/home-matters/local-guides/7-best-places-to-buy-a-vacation-home-in-2022/