My husband and I LOVE 30-A. We just got back from our 3rd and final trip this summer over Labor Day. I lived in Bluewater Bay for 3 years and spent every free moment somewhere on 30-A. Now, we live/work in ATL and have VERY stressful jobs. Yuck. 30-A is what keep us sane!!! We know for certain that it's where we want to purchase a beach condo/house. You probably get posts like this all the time...sorry if you do! We are saving like crazy, and hope to purchase a property in the next 3 years. We have been actively reading/researching tips/pros/cons to purchasing condo vs. house, small condo vs. large condo, what to expect with renting, etc. I'd love any feedback/pointers/lessons learned any of you "30-A'rs" could give us. We "think" we want a place right on the beach. But are open to developments right across the street if beach access is easy. Also, we have been debating whether a more budget-friendly "1-bdrm" would be better for us to start with. Our thought is that we could eventually "trade-up" when our discretionary income increases. But maybe, rental-wise, a 2-bdrm is better based on rental frequency, and worth the extra money based on return? We really could purchase now....but we're afraid to stretch ourselves. While there are so many stories where teh condo more than pays for itself, we've also read examples (like the Commodore's Retreat) that would really put us in a bind. Anyway, any feedback/support/lessons you could share would be so greatly appreciated! Even though we're not taking the plunge YET....we want to be educated when we do!! Looking forward to being your part-time neighbors soon!!!
