Buying a Second Home in Central Florida: The North Orlando Guide

Is North Orlando a good place to buy a second home?

Yes. For buyers who want a Central Florida getaway without the theme park crowds, the North Orlando area is one of the best options in the region. Communities like DeLand, DeBary, Deltona, Orange City, Sanford, and Lake Mary offer historic downtowns, springs and river access, and easy connections to Orlando and the beaches, often with less traffic and lower prices than the tourist corridors.

When most people picture a vacation home in Central Florida, they imagine crowded tourist corridors and theme park traffic. Buyers looking for a true escape are looking a little farther north, to Seminole and West Volusia counties, where daily life moves at a different pace.

Why Choose North Orlando for a Second Home?

North Orlando combines distinct small-town downtowns with Florida’s natural beauty. Whether you want a historic bungalow or a newer home near a golf course, there’s a community to match.

• River and springs lifestyle: Orange City and DeBary sit next to Blue Spring State Park and the St. Johns River. The area is popular for boating, kayaking, hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing, including manatees that gather in the spring each winter.
• Historic and cultural downtowns: Downtown DeLand and downtown Sanford both offer historic architecture, craft breweries, boutique shopping, and well-loved local restaurants. DeLand has a classic old-town feel, while Sanford has a livelier waterfront downtown on Lake Monroe.
• Convenience and connectivity: Lake Mary offers upscale master-planned communities, shopping, and quick access to I-4 and SunRail, which connects you to downtown Orlando. The Atlantic beaches are about an hour’s drive.

Is Now a Good Time to Buy a Second Home in Central Florida?

For many second-home buyers, today’s market is more favorable than it has been in years. Inventory in Volusia and Seminole counties has risen compared with the frenzy of recent years, so buyers have more time to inspect properties and negotiate.

Homes that have sat on the market for 60 days or more often give buyers room to ask for seller concessions, such as closing cost credits or an interest rate buydown.

What Should You Know Before Buying a Second Home in Florida?

Buying a second home works differently than buying a primary residence. Keep these points in mind as you browse listings.

How is financing different for a second home?

Lenders see second homes as a higher risk than primary residences. Expect stronger credit requirements and a larger down payment, typically at least 10%. Second-home loans also usually require that you use the home yourself for part of the year and limit how you can rent it out, so talk with your lender before you shop if renting is part of your plan.

What HOA and rental rules should you check?

If the home will sit empty for months at a time, read the HOA rules closely. Some communities handle lawn care and exterior maintenance for you, which is ideal for seasonal owners. If you plan to rent the home when you’re not there, check both the HOA rules and the city or county’s short-term rental rules first, since many neighborhoods restrict or prohibit them.

How are property taxes and insurance different for second homes in Florida?

Second homes don’t qualify for Florida’s homestead exemption, which is reserved for primary residences. That means higher property taxes and a larger cap on yearly assessment increases: up to 10% a year on non-homestead homes, compared with 3% for homesteaded homes. Insurance costs vary widely by home age, roof condition, and location, so get quotes before you make an offer.

You may have seen news about larger homestead exemptions on the November 2026 ballot. Those proposals apply only to primary residences, so they won’t lower taxes on a second home. They would matter if you ever make Florida your permanent home.

Which North Orlando Town Is Right for You?

The right neighborhood comes down to how you want to spend your time:

• DeLand for a historic downtown, college-town energy, and nearby springs. Homes for sale in DeLand
• DeBary and Orange City for river and springs access with quiet neighborhoods. homes for sale in DeBary & Orange City
• Deltona for a large selection of homes at a lower price point. Homes for sale in Deltona
• Sanford for a walkable downtown on Lake Monroe. Homes for sale in Sanford
• Lake Mary for upscale communities and easy access to Orlando. Homes for sale in Lake Mary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent out my second home in Central Florida?

Often, yes, but rules vary by city, county, and HOA. Some areas limit or ban short-term rentals, and second-home mortgages restrict how much you can rent the property. Check all three before you buy.

Do second homes in Florida get a homestead exemption?

No. Florida’s homestead exemption only applies to your permanent primary residence, so a second home is taxed at the full non-homestead rate.

How much do you need to put down on a second home?

Most conventional second-home loans require at least 10% down, and many buyers put down more to get better terms. Your credit score and finances affect the exact amount.

How far is North Orlando from the beach?

Most North Orlando communities are 35 minutes to an hour from Atlantic beaches like Daytona Beach and New Smyrna Beach, with DeLand being the closest.

Ready to Find Your Central Florida Getaway?

Knowing what day-to-day life is like in Central Florida helps you decide where to buy, when to make your move, and which pitfalls to avoid. The Shaver Group can help you compare communities, estimate your true carrying costs, and find a second home that fits the way you want to live. Contact us today to get started.