Interview with Pawel Wojnicz, a Leading Real Estate Investor in Florida
Pawel Wojnicz is a seasoned real estate investor with a strong portfolio of properties in Florida and beyond. Known for his strategic approach to investment and his expertise in short-term rentals, he has successfully built and managed Airbnb properties that generate high returns. With years of experience in the U.S. real estate market and an in-depth understanding of global investment trends, Pawel shares his insights on why Florida remains a prime location for investors and how the Airbnb business continues to evolve.
Pawel, you’ve been investing in Florida’s real estate market for years. What makes this region so attractive to investors?
Pawel Wojnicz: Florida offers the perfect combination of high demand, strong tourism, and tax advantages. The state has no income tax, making it very appealing to both domestic and international investors. Cities like Tampa, Miami, and Orlando continue to experience significant population growth, driving demand for housing. Additionally, the tourism industry is booming year-round, which makes short-term rentals like Airbnb a highly profitable venture.
How has the short-term rental market evolved in Florida over the past few years?
Pawel Wojnicz: The Airbnb market in Florida has grown exponentially, especially in areas close to beaches, theme parks, and major business hubs. During the pandemic, we saw a shift—more people started looking for long-term Airbnb stays, blending work and travel. Now, with travel fully back to normal, demand is higher than ever. However, competition has also increased, so hosts need to focus on high-quality experiences, unique design, and top-tier guest service to stand out.
What are the biggest challenges investors face when entering the Airbnb market in Florida?
Pawel Wojnicz: The biggest challenge right now is regulation. Some cities in Florida have introduced stricter short-term rental laws, requiring specific licenses or limiting the number of days a property can be rented. Investors need to be aware of these rules before purchasing a property. Another challenge is seasonality—while Florida is a year-round destination, certain locations perform better during peak tourist seasons. Understanding market trends and pricing strategies is crucial.
How do you optimize Airbnb listings to maximize profits?
Pawel Wojnicz: Several factors come into play. Professional photography is essential—listings with high-quality photos get significantly more bookings. Smart pricing strategies also make a big difference; I use dynamic pricing tools to adjust rates based on demand. Finally, guest experience is everything—fast communication, spotless cleanliness, and personalized touches like welcome baskets or local recommendations help generate 5-star reviews and repeat guests.
Do you see more investors opting for short-term or mid-term rentals?
Pawel Wojnicz: Mid-term rentals, typically between 30 and 90 days, have been growing in popularity. Many digital nomads, business travelers, and families relocating to Florida prefer stays longer than a week but shorter than a full-year lease. Investors who can cater to this niche—offering fully furnished, well-equipped homes—can tap into a highly profitable segment of the market.
What role does technology play in managing Airbnb properties efficiently?
Pawel Wojnicz: Technology is a game-changer. I use smart locks to enable self-check-in, automated messaging systems for guest communication, and dynamic pricing algorithms to optimize nightly rates. Tools like noise-monitoring devices help prevent party-related issues, while smart thermostats and lighting reduce energy costs. The more automated your processes are, the easier it is to scale an Airbnb business.
With Florida’s real estate prices rising, is it still possible to find good investment deals?
Pawel Wojnicz: Absolutely, but you need to look beyond the obvious hotspots. Instead of Miami Beach, consider areas like St. Petersburg or Sarasota. Instead of Orlando, check out Kissimmee or Davenport. These locations offer lower entry prices but still benefit from strong tourism demand. Additionally, I always advise investors to focus on value-add properties—homes that need minor renovations but can significantly increase in value after upgrades.
What mistakes do first-time investors often make when entering the Airbnb market?
Pawel Wojnicz: One of the biggest mistakes is underestimating operating costs. Many assume that Airbnb is purely passive income, but expenses like cleaning fees, maintenance, and platform commissions add up. Another mistake is not researching local regulations—some investors buy properties only to find out that short-term rentals are restricted in their area. Lastly, some investors fail to differentiate their listings; in a competitive market, properties need to stand out with strong branding, unique amenities, or personalized guest experiences.
How do you handle unexpected issues, like difficult guests or property damage?
Pawel Wojnicz: Prevention is key. I have strict house rules, security deposits, and noise-monitoring systems in place. Additionally, Airbnb’s AirCover insurance helps protect against major damages. For difficult guests, communication is crucial—many issues can be resolved with quick, professional responses. In extreme cases, I don’t hesitate to involve Airbnb support or local authorities if necessary.
What trends do you see shaping the Airbnb market in Florida over the next few years?
Pawel Wojnicz: The market is evolving rapidly. Here are a few key trends:
- Longer stays & remote work travel – Many travelers are booking properties for weeks or even months, especially professionals working remotely.
- Sustainable & eco-friendly rentals – Guests are looking for environmentally conscious properties with solar energy, water-saving features, and sustainable design.
- Luxury short-term rentals – High-end properties with premium amenities are performing exceptionally well, as travelers seek more unique and personalized experiences.
- AI-powered property management – More investors are using automation tools to manage guest communication, pricing strategies, and bookings efficiently.
If someone is considering investing in Florida’s real estate market, what advice would you give them?
Pawel Wojnicz: My top advice would be:
- Do your research – Understand the local market, legal requirements, and short-term rental regulations before buying.
- Focus on location – A great property in the wrong location will struggle to generate returns.
- Think long-term – The best investments are those that perform well over years, not just in short-term trends.
- Be ready to adapt – The Airbnb business is competitive, and guest expectations are constantly evolving. Flexibility and continuous improvement are key to staying ahead.
What’s next for you in terms of real estate investments?
Pawel Wojnicz: I’m continuing to expand my portfolio in Florida, but I’m also looking at emerging markets in South America, particularly in Paraguay. I believe diversification is crucial, and these markets offer great opportunities for early investors. I also want to continue helping others navigate real estate investing by sharing my experiences and insights.
You’ve mentioned that you’re expanding your investments beyond Florida. Why is Paraguay an attractive option for real estate investors?
Pawel Wojnicz: Paraguay is one of the most underrated markets in South America, but it offers huge potential for investors. The country has a stable economy, a business-friendly tax system, and low property acquisition costs, making it an ideal destination for those looking to diversify their portfolios. Unlike many other Latin American countries, Paraguay provides a simple and accessible residency program, which is a major advantage for investors who want to establish a presence in the region. Additionally, cities like Asuncion and Ciudad del Este are growing rapidly, offering great opportunities in real estate, agriculture, and commercial ventures.
Speaking of residency, many investors are looking for second residency options. How does Paraguay’s program compare to others?
Pawel Wojnicz: Paraguay offers one of the easiest and most affordable residency programs in the world. Compared to countries like the U.S. or European nations, where residency by investment requires hundreds of thousands of dollars, Paraguay’s program is simple, cost-effective, and has minimal bureaucratic hurdles. This is why I’ve launched GetResidencyParaguay.com – to help investors, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads easily obtain residency and take advantage of Paraguay’s economic benefits. The process is straightforward, and within a short time, investors can secure legal residency, benefit from low taxes, and access a rapidly expanding market. For those looking to diversify their assets and secure a backup plan, Paraguay is one of the smartest choices right now.
Thank you, Pawel! It’s been a pleasure learning from your experience.
Pawel Wojnicz: Thank you! Real estate is an exciting industry, and I always enjoy discussing new opportunities.