All Markets
Emerald Coast · FL

30A

The jumbo DSCR beach market.

Twenty-four miles of Gulf coast in Walton County, Rosemary Beach, Seaside, Alys Beach, WaterColor. Most purchases land in jumbo DSCR territory ($1.5M–$5M).

Estimated Median Home Price
$2.4M
3–5 bedroom investor home
Estimated Gross Yield
7%–10%
Illustrative estimate, source pending review
Estimated Occupancy
48%–58%
Rolling 12mo, seasonal
Common Down Payment Range
25%–30%
Jumbo DSCR

Estimated market performance shown above is an illustrative projection based on historical or third-party market data and general market observation. It is not a forecast, guarantee or promise of income. Figures are estimates for educational purposes. Actual property performance and expenses vary. Several figures on this page are pending confirmation of a documented source.

Why this market works

  • Walton County permits STRs with a vacation rental registration.
  • Premium architectural inventory holds pricing power through cycles.
  • Institutional-quality guest base drives longer stays and higher ADR.

Loan programs that fit

  • Jumbo DSCR loan, the default for 30A investment purchases.
  • Portfolio programs for loan amounts above $3M.
  • Second-home programs for buyers with meaningful personal use.

Regulatory landscape

  • Walton County: STRs allowed with a vacation rental registration.
  • Certain neighborhood plans and HOAs add restrictions on rental duration and signage.
  • Florida sales tax and tourist development tax collection required.

Underwriting notes

  • Homeowners + windstorm + flood insurance stack often runs 2,4x an inland cabin, directly reduces DSCR.
  • Elevation certificates materially change flood premium; request from the seller before offer.
  • Reserves are larger on jumbo files, plan on 6–12 months of PITIA in liquid reserves.

FAQ

30A financing questions

Are short-term rentals allowed on 30A?

Yes. Walton County allows short-term rentals with a vacation rental registration, though individual HOAs and community Neighborhood Plans can add restrictions. Confirm the specific community's rules before writing an offer.

What loan program is used for a 30A investment home?

Most 30A investment purchases use a higher-balance or portfolio DSCR loan that qualifies on AirDNA-projected income. DSCR loan-size classifications, down-payment requirements and reserve requirements vary by lender, property and transaction.

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Data Sources and Review Date

  • · Local government zoning and permit information
  • · County or city tax information
  • · Documented third-party rental-market data (source confirmation pending for figures marked as illustrative estimates)
  • · Current lender and program guidelines

Figures are estimates for educational purposes. Actual property performance and expenses vary. Loan terms and eligibility vary by lender, borrower, property and transaction.

Last reviewed: July 2026