The Pros & Cons of Buying a Short-Term Rental Condo in Miami as a Second Home

Picture this… A second home or vacation home in Miami that lets you soak in the sun and earn while you’re away. That’s the dream most second-home buyers have in mind, including sparkling water views, breezy terraces and an investment that pays for itself when you’re not there.

With most pre-construction condo projects in Miami being built to offer flexible rental options, that dream is more attainable than ever. But before you commit to a condo-hotel or Airbnb-friendly building, it’s worth thinking beyond nightly rates and rental calendars to consider what kind of second home experience you truly want.

I’m Sep Niakan—a longtime Miami real estate agent and founding broker of Blackbook Properties—and in our latest video, I walk you through the lifestyle-versus-investment trade-offs between the more exclusive vacation rentals and the more revenue-driven Airbnb-friendly condos in Miami.

At Blackbook Properties, we believe in showing both sides of the coin, and having worked with hundreds of second-home buyers, I can tell you that making the right choice starts with understanding your priorities. And here's what most clients don’t realize: not all buildings are created equal when it comes to lifestyle, flexibility, and long-term value.

Some are designed for a high-energy, short-term rental scene—think social buzz and a revolving door of guests. Others prioritize privacy, a sense of community, and that home-away-from-home feel. Understanding which one you lean towards today will have a major impact on how your second home lives—and performs—tomorrow.

The good news? Miami offers a wide range of options to suit both ends of the spectrum—and everything in between. From branded condo-hotels that deliver resort-style living and turnkey rental programs to boutique buildings with a residential vibe and seasonal flexibility, there’s something for every type of second-home buyer. The key lies in matching your lifestyle goals with the right building.

Standout Airbnb-friendly condos in Miami: 

• 1 Hotel and Homes South Beach

• W Hotel South Beach

• Setai South Beach

• The Elser Hotel and Residences Downtown Miami

• Cassia Miami Coral Gables

• 888 Brickell by Dolce&Gabbana

Most of the above buildings combine turnkey ease with high rental demand thanks to their prime location, luxury branding, or both. They’re especially appealing to investors seeking strong returns without compromising on design or guest experience.

Highlight seasonal vacation rental condos in Miami:

• Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove

• Roney Palace South Beach

• Flamingo South Beach

• Waldorf Astoria Downtown Miami

• The Standard Residences Midtown

If privacy, community, and lifestyle matter more than nightly turnover, these standout buildings offer the luxury of space, service, and a residential feel that’s perfect for longer stays.

Need help deciding what’s right for you? Our team at Blackbook knows every building, every rule, and every hidden opportunity in Miami’s short-term rental condo market.

Let’s connect to find out what works best for you. Contact us now for a free expert consultation.