Should You Buy an Airbnb Near Disney in 2025?

August 25, 2025

Story Highlights:

• Only certain zones like Reunion, Davenport, and 34747 allow legal short-term rentals.

• The $500K–$600K range hits the sweet spot for value and return.

• You’ll need to stay involved—passive investors rarely see strong profits.

• Properties in resort-style HOAs attract more bookings and justify higher nightly rates.

• Today’s higher inventory means more choices and better deals for savvy buyers.

The Dream: A Vacation Home That Pays You Back

Not all homes in Orlando qualify as short-term rentals. To run one legally, you need two green lights: the city or county must allow it, and your HOA (if applicable) must allow it too.

Most of the action happens in the “Golden Triangle” between Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld, plus the Four Corners area—think Reunion, Davenport, ChampionsGate, and West Kissimmee (34747). These areas were built for this type of use.

Where You Can Actually Run a Legal Airbnb

Not every home in Central Florida is legally allowed to operate as a short-term rental. You need to meet two requirements: the city or county must allow it, and if the home is in an HOA, it must permit vacation rentals. The most popular and legally approved areas are southwest of Orlando, especially inside what locals call the Golden Triangle. This includes the area surrounding Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld. Another major hot zone is the Four Corners area, where Osceola, Polk, Lake, and Orange counties meet. Look for homes in South Clermont, North Davenport, Champions Gate, West Kissimmee, and Reunion. These places were built with short-term rentals in mind, and around 40% of neighborhoods in these zones are already HOA-approved for this type of use.

How Much Can You Actually Make?

A well-run Airbnb near Disney can bring in $90K–$120K per year. Poorly managed ones might earn just $65K–$75K. Annual expenses usually land between $50K and $60K when you factor in utilities, taxes, HOA fees, repairs, and management.

If you’re hands-on and use an owner-assisted manager, your costs go down. If you want full-service property management, expect to pay more—but you’ll need to stay involved either way.

Financing Options That Make It Happen

Second home loans only require 10% down, and you can use the property part-time. Investment loans start at 15%, with better rates at 25%–30%. If your income doesn’t look great on paper, DSCR loans qualify you based on the rental income of the property.

The more you put down, the better your interest rate. And not all lenders understand this space, so working with someone who specializes in short-term rental financing matters.

Why So Many Vacation Homes Are for Sale

Yes, there’s more inventory in the short-term rental market right now—about 5% of homes are listed for sale compared to 2% of traditional homes. But it’s not a red flag.

Many owners bought during the COVID Airbnb boom and expected inflated returns to last forever. They didn’t manage properly and are now offloading underperforming assets. That means opportunity for buyers who know what they’re doing.

How Much Can You Make from an Airbnb in Orlando?

Take a typical 5-bedroom, 5-bathroom, 2,600 square foot pool home near Disney. If poorly managed, you might earn $65,000 to $75,000 a year. With solid management and attention to detail, you can bring in between $90,000 and $120,000 annually. Expenses include around $7,000 in utilities, $11,000 in property taxes, $4,000 for insurance, $12,000 in HOA fees, and another $4,000 for repairs. Depending on whether you self-manage or hire a full-service company, you’ll spend between $9,000 to $20,000 on management. That brings your annual total expenses to roughly $49,000 to $60,000, meaning your profit depends heavily on how well the property is run.

What Are the Financing Options for Airbnb in Florida?

You can buy a short-term rental as a second home or as a straight investment. Second home loans require just 10% down and are ideal if you plan to use the property occasionally. Investment loans start at 15% down, though 25% to 30% down will get you a better rate. If you own a business or don’t show a lot of personal income, look into DSCR loans. These qualify you based on the income potential of the home itself, not your tax returns. It’s also important to work with a lender experienced in short-term rental markets to avoid costly mistakes.

Until then, keep your eyes on the road… and maybe under it.

Why Are So Many Orlando Airbnbs for Sale Right Now?

Short-term rental neighborhoods currently show higher inventory than traditional neighborhoods. About 5% of all short-term rental homes are for sale, compared to just 2% of regular homes. That might seem alarming, but it actually presents opportunity. Many of these homes were bought during the post-2020 Airbnb boom, when vacation income skyrocketed. Some of those buyers miscalculated the long-term performance and are now selling. Not all are desperate, but a few are highly motivated. That means smart buyers today can get better deals, especially before interest rates start trending lower again.

Should You Buy an Airbnb Near Disney in 2025?

Owning an Airbnb near Disney can be an incredible investment if done right. The homes generate significantly more income than long-term rentals and offer the bonus of personal use. Your family can create memories for years while your guests help cover the mortgage. But success depends on involvement. Treat it like a business. Respect the numbers. And understand that income will rise and fall based on how much care and attention you give. If you’re ready to take that on, now might be the perfect time to buy.

The Bottom Line

Airbnb near Disney can be a cash-flowing memory maker. But it’s not magic—it’s work. You have to manage reviews, reinvest in the home, and stay involved. If you treat it like a business, it can outperform traditional rentals by 3x or more.

But if you want to “set it and forget it,” this market will chew you up. Know what you’re getting into—and do it right.

FAQs About Buying an Airbnb in Orlando

Can I legally run an Airbnb near Disney?
Yes, but only in approved zones like 34747, West Kissimmee, Reunion, and Davenport. Both local law and HOA rules must allow it.

What’s the best area to buy?
Stick to tourist-heavy, purpose-built communities like ChampionsGate and Reunion. They have the infrastructure and demand.

What’s the typical price for a short-term rental home?
Anywhere from $180K for a condo to $700K+ for large themed homes with private pools.

How much can I earn per year?
Top-performing homes can gross $90K–$120K annually. Poor management brings that number down fast.

Is now a good time to buy?
Yes—there’s inventory, motivated sellers, and rates that may drop. But success depends on smart buying and solid operations.

What’s a DSCR loan?
It’s a mortgage based on the income the property can generate, not your personal salary. Ideal for investors with business-heavy tax returns.

Do HOAs help or hurt?
They usually help. Guests love amenities, and bundled services often reduce overall costs.

Why Choose Jared Jones?

As a top real estate agent with nearly 4,000 homes sold and over 20 years of experience in the Florida real estate market, I have the expertise needed to help you navigate today’s evolving landscape. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, my deep understanding of market trends and personalized approach will provide you with the insights and strategies required for success.

Best Realtor in Orlando - Reach Out Today!

If you’re ready to make a move in Florida’s real estate market, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact Jared Jones at 407-706-5000 (call or text) or email info@jaredjones.com for professional guidance and personalized service that will help you achieve your real estate goals.