Selecting the right partner for property management in Florida can make all the difference in turning your vacation rental into a profitable, stress-free asset. From the bustling beaches of Fort Lauderdale to the luxurious shores of Naples, South Florida’s real estate market is thriving in 2025, with high demand for short-term rentals driven by tourism and remote workers. At Grimaldi Vacation Rentals, with over 60 years of combined experience, we specialize in transforming your vacation home into a high-performance, fully managed property—hassle-free. Our hands-on, data-driven team delivers exceptional guest experiences and stronger returns for owners across the region, including extensions to tranquil North Georgia lakes. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose the best property management in Florida, tailored to the Fort Lauderdale to Naples corridor, so you can make an informed decision.
Assess Your Property Needs and Goals
Before diving into options for property management in Florida, clarify what you need. Are you managing a beachfront condo in Fort Lauderdale, a golf course villa in Naples, or something in between? Consider factors like property type (vacation rental vs. long-term), your involvement level, and goals—maximizing ROI, minimizing maintenance, or ensuring compliance with local laws.
In 2025, with Florida’s evolving regulations on short-term rentals, prioritize companies that handle everything from licensing to guest screening. For vacation properties, look for expertise in platforms like Airbnb and VRBO, dynamic pricing, and seasonal marketing to capitalize on peak tourism in areas like Broward and Collier Counties. Start by listing your must-haves: full-service management, 24/7 emergency response, or tech integrations for remote oversight.
Research Experience and Local Expertise
The best property management in Florida comes from companies with proven track records in your specific area. In the Fort Lauderdale to Naples stretch, local knowledge is key—understanding Broward’s tourist ordinances, Naples’ zoning for rentals, and everything in between. Seek firms with at least 10-15 years of experience managing similar properties, as they can navigate Florida’s humid climate challenges, hurricane prep, and market fluctuations.
Check for memberships in associations like the National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM) or Florida Realtors for credibility. At Grimaldi, our deep roots in Fort Lauderdale ensure tailored strategies that extend effectively to Naples-style properties.
Evaluate Services Offered
Not all property management in Florida is created equal—compare service scopes. Essential offerings include tenant/guest screening, rent collection, maintenance coordination, financial reporting, and legal compliance. For vacation rentals, prioritize marketing, cleaning turnarounds, and guest communication to boost reviews and occupancy.
In 2025, top companies integrate technology like AI-driven pricing tools and smart home systems for efficiency. Ask about add-ons: Do they handle evictions, inspections, or tax remittances (including Florida’s 6% sales tax plus local tourist taxes)? Ensure the company aligns with your needs—Grimaldi’s data-driven approach covers it all, from marketing to maintenance, for seamless operations.
Check Reviews, References, and Credentials
Reputation speaks volumes in property management in Florida. Read online reviews on Yelp, Google, and BBB—look for consistent high ratings (4.5+ stars) and feedback on responsiveness and ROI. Request references from current clients in Fort Lauderdale or Naples to gauge real experiences.
Verify licenses: While Florida doesn’t require a specific property management license, managers handling rentals need a real estate broker’s license. Check for insurance coverage and certifications like Certified Property Manager (CPM). Avoid red flags like poor communication or hidden complaints.
Understand Fees and Contracts
Costs are crucial when choosing property management in Florida. For vacation rentals, expect commission-based fees of 10-50% of booking revenue, averaging 25-30%, or flat fees around $100-$300 monthly. In Florida, long-term management runs 8-12% of rent, with add-ons like leasing fees (50-100% of one month’s rent) or maintenance markups (10-20%).
Review contracts for transparency—no hidden fees for setups or evictions. Compare value: Higher fees might include premium services that boost your bottom line.