⨠Previously in the Disney BubbleâŚ
Weâve explored the best neighborhoods for families, revealed the real cost of living near Disney, and dove headfirst into the value of annual passes for locals. Now, itâs time to answer the question every relocating dreamer faces:
Should I rent or buy in the Disney Bubble?
If youâve ever found yourself debating this while watching the fireworks from a Windermere apartment balcony⌠this one’s for you.
Itâs time to tap your MagicBand and explore another pixie-dusted chapter of our âWelcome to the Disney Bubbleâ series! đ
đĄ 2025 Disney Bubble Market Snapshot
Hereâs a quick look at the 2025 real estate market near Walt Disney World:
| Area | Median Home Price | Avg. Rent (3BR) | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Horizon West | $550,000 | $2,600/month | Newer homes, top schools, close to Magic Kingdom |
| Windermere | $800,000+ | $3,500/month | Luxury homes, lakes, elite lifestyle |
| Celebration | $750,000 | $3,200/month | Disney-designed charm, walkable streets |
| Winter Garden | $600,000 | $2,700/month | Historic downtown, golf carts & community |
| Dr. Phillips | $700,000+ | $3,400/month | Dining scene, gated communities, mature landscaping |
đ§ Pixie Tip:
Rental inventory near Disney moves quickly, and prices are rising. Buying offers stability (and a front-row seat to long-term appreciation).
đ¤ When Renting Might Make Sense
Renting isn’t a villain in this story. For some, itâs a smart transitional choice:
âď¸ Rent if:
- Youâre relocating for the first time and want to test the waters
- Youâre waiting for the right home to hit the market
- Youâre in a temporary life season (work assignment or school)
- You want a low-maintenance lifestyle while exploring neighborhoods
Renting gives you flexibility to get to know the Disney Bubbleâkind of like booking a preview cruise before committing to DVC.
đ Why Buying Might Be the Smarter Long-Term Move
đ¸ 1. You Start Building EquityâRight Away
Each mortgage payment is like adding bricks to your personal castle. Home values in Disney-adjacent areas have risen 4â7% annually, even in slower years. Buying in 2025 positions you for serious long-term gain.
đ 2. Youâre Beating Rising Rents
Rental rates around Disney have jumped 15â20% since 2020, and they show no signs of slowing. Buying locks in your monthly payment and protects you from future price surges.
đĄ 3. Lifestyle Control
Want to install a Mickey-shaped pool? Host a Disney+ premiere watch party? As a homeowner, youâre the Imagineer!
đŞ 4. Tax Benefits & Florida Resident Perks
Homeowners can tap into homestead exemptions and property tax savings. Plus, Floridaâs no state income tax and favorable capital gains laws make owning near Disney even more magical.
𧎠The Financial Fairy Tale: Buying vs. Renting Over 3 Years
| Buying (Horizon West) | Renting (Horizon West) |
|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | ~$3,300 (PITI) |
| Equity Gained | ~$75,000 (est. appreciation + principal paid) |
| Tax Deductions | Mortgage interest, property taxes |
| Customization | Complete freedom |
| Net Cost After 3 Years | ~$43,000 (after equity & tax savings) |
đ§ Pixie Tip:
Homeownership may seem more expensive monthly, but factoring in equity and tax savings makes the long-term numbers sparkle!
đď¸ Questions to Ask Yourself Before Deciding
- How long do I plan to stay in the Disney area?
- Am I comfortable with home maintenance, or do I need help?
- Do I want to build long-term wealth through equity?
- Do I need time to learn the neighborhoods first?
đ° Real Talk: The Disney Lifestyle Consideration
Living near Disney isnât just about spreadsheets…itâs about lifestyle.
- Renting = flexibility, speed, short-term commitment
- Buying = stability, community, and turning your dream life into your real address
If you already know you want to live near the magic long-term, buying isnât just smartâitâs the first step toward your happily ever after.
đŞ Ready to Make the Move?
As your real estate agent, I specialize in helping families and Disney-loving adults find the perfect place to plant roots in the Bubble. Iâve made this move myself with my family and I know the neighborhoods, the market, and how to find your dream fit.
⨠Reach out today! Call or text me at 321-364-4844
Whether you’re deciding between buying or renting, letâs map it out together and get you one step closer to making Cinderella Castle your backyard landmark.
Contact Me for a Free Consultation
