The state of Florida is in the midst of a boom in population that will see it surpass New York state in the list of most populous states in the US. Florida is also a prime destination for retirees and older "snow-birds" looking to escape harsh winters. As the Baby Boom generation ages and begins to retire, many of them will be looking for some prime Florida real estate. The Florida real estate market as a whole can only expect to benefit.

During the next decade of growth, Florida will have to strike a balance between the need for development to satisfy its growing population and the calls for conservation and preservation from many in the state. In the end, development will be satisfied, but where and when remains to be seen. This is not a discouragement towards investing in Florida real estate (as investments there are likely to see strong returns in the future) but rather a recognition of the need for planning and research.

The battle between development and preservation is not taking place in a vacuum. Battlegrounds have been chosen and the wheels of development are already churning in many areas. Florida is blessed with seemingly endless beachfront property, plenty of metropolitan property, and vast opportunities for commercial real estate investments. The best advice is simply to pay attention to local politics in areas that interest you and keep a watch out for ballot measures and regulatory changes regarding development.

Holding Florida Real Estate in an IRA

Many people are unaware that their IRAs can own property. Though the structuring of real estate deals within IRAs is somewhat complex, it is absolutely allowed by law. The only restrictions concern selling property you already own to your IRA, buying property with your IRA and then residing there, or paying related expenses with anything but IRA funds. The listed restrictions by no means entail a complete list or discussion of each point, so speak with a professional about your specific situation.