I have been a "snowbird" for twenty years now. I am familiar with this area (SW Florida). Bonita Springs is beautiful, but expensive. It borders Naples Florida which is known as one of the highest priced areas in the US. I live in Punta Gorda on the water. If you are not a boater stay away from the water, insurance is hard to get and expensive. If your budget fits in Bonita then look there, otherwise you may get more for the money in Cape Coral, North Fort Myers, Punta Gorda, Port Charlotte, North Port and South Venice.
What are the things we should look for? What are the things we should avoid if possible?
Homes built after 2004 have been constructed to a tougher building code. Use a buyer representative and if offering make it contingent on "inspection", hire one it's worth it. Check with an insurance agent on the address so it is NOT in a "velocity zone" (wind). Buy a hip roof home, many insurance credits here vs. gable roofs. "Home Owner Associations" can be good if the guy next door jacks up cars to repair, but bad if they are hyper restrictive and/or charge additional fees.
What are the things we should RUN away from, fast? Condos, unless they are luxury they are likely to be rental pool investments, and are usually abused party barns or "project housing". The Villages of Ocala, good TV commercials, very crowded living. Know where the frost line is, the Riviera, Jacksonville, even Orlando are gorgeous but they can get cold, just be aware of it.
Other thoughts? Florida has no State income tax, but we DO have a 7% sales tax, and hefty property taxes. Water is as expensive as electricity and you will be watering your lawn and filling your pool. Our estate laws make wills more favorable to your family (as long as you homestead). We have quality, available health care (citrus, vegetables and old people drive our economy). DO NOT start at the top end of your budget, get down here, explore, learn, research, chances are you will move one more time.
If you want more information send me an e-mail with your phone # and I will give you a call. I don't sell homes, insurance or cars so it's safe.
OWL