Whether you’re buying your first home on Sanibel Island or a Sanibel Island rental condo there are many factors to be considered. One such factor is the resale value of the proposed property. It may sound strange to think about selling the property before you even close on the transaction but the truth of the matter is resale value should be one of the most important considerations. You have to remember you most likely will not live or keep this property for the rest of your life, regardless of what you may be thinking now. Statistically speaking, the average homeowner owns their property for seven years. The features that drew you to the property originally will most likely appeal to future buyers as well. On the other hand, if you are attracted to a style of architecture, for example, that may not be common on Sanibel and Captiva Islands, you may be limiting the number of positional buyers when it’s time to sell. Although there is nothing wrong with buying exactly what appeals to you, you simply have to keep in mind that if it’s “too far out there” the price appreciation you may be expecting may not materialize. Price is determined by supply and demand. If there are several homes on Sanibel Island listed for sale and one has an unusual floor plan for example, this home may linger on the market longer as it waits for that one buyer that finds this unusual pattern appealing. If you’re looking for a Sanibel Island rental condo look for features that would be attractive to positional renters. Is there a pool? What about tennis courts? Is there a view of the Gulf of Mexico? You may be able to locate a condo that doesn’t have these features but you will also be limiting the potential renters as well. When it comes time to sell, you now have also limited your potential buyers. Rather than cutting corners, you’re better off spending the largest amount of money you can afford. It’ll pay off in higher rental income while you own the property and give you greater potential to sell it quickly when you’re ready to move on.