In today’s economy there is a lot of great real estate to be had. If you are looking for a vacation home on a budget, you’ll love the option that are available to you. In the U.S. you can find great deals in nearly every state. A few that boast some of the greatest potential for in inexpensive vacation home are Florida, California, Michigan and Arizona.

You may be setting your sights on a different country though and if that’s the case, I would be remiss to share with you some European options. Eastern Europe is presently a favorite among bargain vacation home buyers. Countries like Bulgaria which border Greece and Turkey, are attracting new investors due to its recent ascension into the European Union.

Aside from the obvious allure of price, it boasts both beach and ski resorts. Other former soviet states such as Ukraine and Romania are also attracting foreign interest and seeing increased growth. These countries are expected to have explosive growth over the next decade.

Don’t go it alone though, buying property via the web, site unseen can be a recipe for disaster.  Your best resource is a Global Property Specialist, like Paul F. Davis, who can help guide you in the right direction so that your money will be invested wisely and you’ll enjoy your new vacation home or property for many years to come!

If you’re thinking of buying a vacation home, like many, you probably want a beach house or a beach condo just steps away from the ocean. With so many locations to choose from it can be overwhelming. According to U.S. News Travel, these beaches were deemed the 10 Best beaches within the USA for 2010. A great place for a vacation home, right?

10 Best U.S. Beaches

1. Maui- With it’s diversity of attractions and home to so many beaches, Maui is always a top pick among vacation home owners and travelers alike. Kapalua beach features calm waters that are idea for kayaking or snorkeling. To watch the locals surf or catch a wave yourself, head to the North Shore.

2. Miami Beach- This beach is known for catering to all types of beach-lovers and those that love the night life. For something a little more low key, visit the fishers on the jetty at Bal Harbour Beach or watch the cruise ships sailing out of South Beach. Miami has one of the largest and busiest cruise ports with a great view of Star Island.

3.  Hawaii-The Big Island- It’s name says it all-its beaches and offerings are abundant in Hawaii. It even sports a beach with green sand! Unique and rich in beauty,this island never disappoints and provides a stunning backdrop for the photographer in you!

4. San Diego- Home to gorgeous beaches, gorgeous people and loads of activity, namely water sports, it’s no surprise that many flock here every year. There are also many other attractions and entertainment to keep you occupied. Hoping for something more low-key? Enjoy a day of sunbathing followed by a visit to the Gaslamp quarter.

5. Los Angeles- After visiting Hollywood and Beverly Hills, be sure to get your daily dose of Vitamin D at the gorgeous Malibu Beach. For a romantic night, stroll hand in hand along the boardwalk in Santa Monica.

6. Outer Banks- A classic east coast beach destination, it has miles of sand and tame waters for all swimmers. Home of the Wright Brothers’ first flight, be sure to visit Kitty Hawk!

7. Honolulu-Oahu- This is the most popular destination in all of Hawaii, it’s beaches are a main factor. Scattered about the coastline of the island you’ll discover some of the most highly ranked state beach parks, which includes the famous Kailua beach park, perfect for swimmers. Waikiki beach is perfect for families.

8.  Myrtle Beach- Just south of Charleston, this beach destination has been a favorite over the past few decades. With excellent access to boating and water sports, it is a popular beach home destination for families, couples and singles. This is a golfer’s paradise with over 120 golf courses to choose from.

9. Ft. Lauderdale- If you like a bit of the Miami action in your beach home destination but want to opt for peace and quiet too, this might be the perfect spot for you. Fort Lauderdale boasts 23 miles of stunning beaches.

10. U.S. Virgin Islands-Too many, this is THE place for a dream beach vacation home. For many Americans, they get the  familiarity of being on U.S. territory, with currency  in U.S. dollars and bright blue waters, sand for miles and some of the best shopping. The Island of St. Thomas has some of the best snorkel and is a great spot for everyone. There is no shortage or water sports here. You’ll find everything from parasailing to snorkeling and jet skiing.

Which area would you most likely want to buy a beach vacation home?

*Original article can be found here.

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People buy vacation properties for many different reasons. For some it’s solely for the return on their investment and for others it’s a second home to travel when the frigid temperature rolls in.

If you haven’t thought much beyond the investment itself, here are some great reasons to buy a vacation home today!

1.  Making Memories- Whether you are single, a couple or a family of five, a vacation home all of your own gives you a real chance to make memories. Yes, of course you can make memories while staying in a hotel but it’s not quite the same thing. Whether it be a summer cottage, beach house in the winter months or a cabin in the woods, there is just something about sharing your dream vacation home year after year with those you love. Inviting other families or friends to stay with you can often enhance that time. You’ll remember the experience in your vacation home forever.

2. It’s a Buyer’s Market- If you were ever planning to own a second home or vacation home, NOW is the time to buy. You are going to find rock-bottom prices everywhere. In Florida, you can find homes for 50-70% of their true value. There is something for everyone at every price point. Even if you think you don’t have enough, you’d be surprised at the beautiful condos near or on the water that are available. If you haven’t though too much about actually purchasing a dream vacation home and it’s been more of a nice though, now is the time to at least start looking at properties. It never hurts to look, you might be shocked by what is being given away, there are loads of foreclosures all over the country.

3. The Next Generation- So many people I know have the most wonderful childhood memories in their family’s vacation home. The best part is that those memories got to continue thanks to a wise investment on behalf of their parents. How awesome would it feel to not only enjoy your dream vacation home but get to pass it along to your children one day? You might not even have children currently or even be married for that matter, but it’s still a great reason to consider.

4. A Place to Call Your Own- I don’t know anyone that doesn’t enjoy travel. When you have a vacation home to call your own, there is the pride of ownership but there is also the reassurance that everything is as you left it. Travel becomes easier when you know some of your clothing and necessities are there waiting for you. There’s not worry about how clean your accommodations are, because YOU own them, unlike a hotel which is sometimes questionable upon booking. You can use the space, entertain and do as you wish in your own space. There is a greater sense of freedom in that regard.

5. A More Balanced Life-People that own vacation homes are more likely to take the time off from work for some much needed rest and relaxation. It’s easy to say you’ll go away next summer, next year, etc. When you have a beautiful vacation home waiting for you, you’ll make the time, which will in turn help you live a more balanced life. After all, we work too hard not to!

6. Location, Location, Location- If you’ve fallen in love with Cozumel, the sandy beaches of Clearwater or even a village in Tuscany, that alone is great reason to buy your dream vacation home. If you find yourself going back to the same spot over and over, or wish you could, it might be time to invest in a vacation home. Just be sure that whichever area you choose is truly the one that’s most right for you and you’ll always be happy.

7. Rental Income- The great thing about a vacation home is that you have the option of generating income by renting it out during the weeks or months that you won’t be using it. You could quickly and easily have a steady stream of income coming in year round. For many it’s not only their dream vacation home but it’s also a way to save for their future-it doesn’t get much better than that!

What’s YOUR reason for wanting to buy a vacation home? Share it with us, we’d love to know!

It’s no wonder that shows like the Travel Channel continually showcase gorgeous beaches from all over Florida. After all, they are home to some of the softest sands, prettiest sea shells and both clean and relaxing.

If you are trying to decide on a location for your dream vacation home, Florida is a safe bet especially when prices have hit an all-time low. Not only do you get to enjoy the tropical beauty but it’s also one of the most economical places to buy right now. Don’t miss this opportunity!

These Florida beaches are some of the most popular locations for buying a dream vacation home:

1. Sanibel Island- This beach area is known for its multiplicity of seashells. So if you’re up for a day of shelling or bird watching, you’ll enjoy Sanibel, it is home to a multitude of wildlife too. In town, shopping, museums and fine dining are abound.
2. Siesta Key Beach- Next door to Sarasota, Siesta Key is consistently rate in the top 10 best beaches. Just this past June we spent 5 amazing days here, the sand is so clean and soft and the temperature is perfect all year round-it is known for mild winters and dolphin sightings. Just minutes away from Sarasota you are close enough to all the action in-town.

3. St. Augustine Beach-If history is what you crave, you’ll love the town of St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest city. A quaint college and tourist town, it’s full of charm and has some of the safest swimming beaches in FL

4. Clearwater Beach- As the name implies, this beach boasts some of the warmest and clearest water around. Clearwater, although lively during spring break, has quieter sections for families and couples looking for some R&R. There is excellent fishing here and the most mild winter weather.

5. New Smyrna Beach: This beach town is filled with rich history yet it is generally free from crowds so you’ll maintain that feeling of a tropical oasis. For a little adventure, New Smyrna beach is close to science museums, art galleries and is a great Florida destination for surf at various points of the year.

These Florida vacation beach home locations will provide everything that you-the sophisticated buyer could ever want and the prices simply cannot be beat! Are you read to find your dream Florida Vacation Home? Click HERE.