Homesharing in Florida: Why the Sunshine State is Ripe for Shared Housing

Although many of us want to stay in our homes as we age, it can become harder as the years pass. Our children move on and out, our yard and home maintenance is never-ending, and the house seems larger and quieter. With Florida ranked as the number one state for retirement-aged population, homesharing is a natural solution for Sunshine State residents to build the retirement of their dreams.  

Why homesharing for Florida? 

Homesharing is a simple, secure solution to support Floridians aging in place—not to mention the friends and family invested in their wellbeing. With adults over the age of 65 projected to account for more than 26% of Florida's total population by 2025 and four million Floridians supporting a post-retirement-age family member or friend, there’s a large and growing need to get creative with shared housing and community engagement. 

Homesharing for income, around-the-house help and social good 

Florida homeowners can use their largest asset—their homes— to bring in extra income, get help around the house and fill some of their empty rooms with compatible housemates. Bringing a housemate into your home can brighten it with new energy, and even create a positive community impact. Many homeowners choose to homeshare to provide a more affordable, secure housing option to hardworking students, teachers, public servants and young professionals in their community. By doing so, they help create new options for fellow Floridians in need of a place to stay.

The benefits don't stop there. Homeowners across the US are using HomeShare Online to supplement their income with an average $850 per month by renting out their spare rooms. At the same time, renters save an average $750 per month by homesharing rather than paying market rent rates.  

I have a room for rent in Florida—what should I know?

So, you’re interested in renting a room in your house to share. That’s great! You’ll be joining a growing community of homeowners helping to create more housing options in the Sunshine State while earning an average of $850 a month. Before you get started, we’ve got three points of advice to help you find the perfect homesharing arrangement and put your home’s best foot forward: 

1. Consider what makes your neighborhood special. 

Put yourself in the shoes of a potential new roommate: what is there to be excited about in your neck of the woods? Are you part of a tight-knit community? Is the beach just a mile away? What about local amenities, shops, parks or other places to spend time? Take a critical look at your neighborhood both to sell it as a new home for the right person and to determine the rent you can reasonably charge—take a look at our blog on the matter for more. 

2. Consider what your roommate could do in exchange for reduced rent. 

A housemate can be the extra set of hands around the home that makes staying home manageable, not overwhelming. By matching homeowners and renters based on compatibility—including the option to accept/pay reduced rent in exchange for help around the house—HomeShare Online allows both parties to create an arrangement that benefits and works for them.

Need a place to start with a homesharing agreement? Learn about our Nest Easy Homesharing Agreement™ here!

3. Codify your roommate agreement from the start. 

Be honest with yourself: what does your ideal roommate look like? What is their work schedule? How about their preferences for going out or staying in? Do you prefer living with someone your own age, or perhaps someone from a different generation? Decide your preferences and stick to your guns. By being transparent but firm up front, you’re much more likely to find a compatible match. 

Like compatible housemates, homesharing and Florida are a match made in heaven. For all the reasons above, the Sunshine State is particularly well positioned to benefit from homesharing—and the first step is equipping homeowners with the knowledge they need to determine if homesharing is right for them.

Interested in getting started with homesharing? You're in the right place! Visit us at www.HomeShareOnline.org to get started. Happy homesharing!