Rent to own Homes in Ocala, FL

Buying a Home in Ocala, FL

Ocala, FL is seeing rapid growth and Ocala, FL's' housing market remains optimal with an average home price that is -31% below the 2024 national average. Ocala, FL is part of Marion county and taxes are an important factor to consider when purchasing a home whether through rent to own or a traditional purchase. The average tax rate as of 2024 for county Marion is 0.86% which is below the national average, which is 0.99%.

Top 12 Reasons to Live in Ocala

Future job growth: The ten-year job growth in Ocala is projected to be above 25%. Several large medical organizations, like Munroe Regional Medical Center and Ocala Regional Health System, are among the largest employers. Lockheed Martin is another major employer in the area.

Rural feel: Looking for a country feel? You will love Ocala. It's filled with large horse farms and picturesque pastures. There are many activities, especially for horse lovers. Don't miss the Santos-Belleview Trail, whether on horseback or two wheels. Trail rides are available for beginner equestrians.

Affordability: The cost of living in Ocala is just 86% of the United States average; this translates to inexpensive utilities, food and other consumer goods and transportation. Rent to own homes are reasonably priced and add to the area's affordability.

Location: In real estate, location is the golden rule, and Ocala's location adds to its appeal. Luckily, rent to own houses are available for those interested in putting down deep roots. Ocala is located on the major north-south Interstate, I-75, with easy access to Georgia and points further south in Florida, on both coasts. It's a quick drive to Daytona, St. Augustine, or Crystal River.

Ocala Historic District: Ocala has a beautiful, nationally registered historic area filled with homes that date from 1880 to 1930. If you are lucky enough to snag a home on a large lot near Fifth Street on a rent to own basis, you will be in the middle of this beautiful area. Homes on Ninth Street are beautiful and close to this historic area as well.

Great restaurants: Ocala boasts many independent restaurants that are favorites with locals and visitors. Aunt Fannie's is an unassuming coffee shop-style restaurant where the prices are low, portions are generous and the food is great. If you're looking for something more upscale, La Cuisine French Restaurant gets high marks from its patrons.

Lots of rental property available: Looking for a studio apartment? There are plenty available. Is a single-family house more to your liking? You will find that in Ocala as well. Interested in keeping horses? Finding a place with a barn and a pasture should be relatively easy, especially in the Equine Estates or on Second Street. There is a high ratio of rental homes in Ocala, which means finding a rental to your liking will be a simple process.

Diverse housing stock: Overall, about 70% of the city's homes have been built since 1970, mostly single-story ranch homes and small apartment buildings. The city also has a fair share of mobile homes on private land and in leased communities, in direct contrast to those homes in the Ocala Historic District.

Crystal clear springs: Ocala has some beautifully clear and fresh springs. Silver Springs and Juniper Springs are two of the favorites for both locals and visitors to swim, float and boat. Expect to see manatees.

Cultural opportunities: The Appleton Museum of Art is a pleasant surprise, offering exhibits you would expect in big city art museums. Equally beloved by residents is the Ocala Civic Theatre on Silver Springs Boulevard, which gets rave reviews for its productions.

Fast cars: Ocala is home to the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing, which draws race fans from all around the country. There is also a dirt track racing park, Bubba Raceway, in Ocala for race fans.