Read what we wrote: get a guidebook, go to a real estate agent, look at VRBO. Is that helpful? It's all you can do with the info we were given, but it isn't anything you would be thankful for.

Perhaps I am corrupted into cynicism by living in a part of the country where suburban matrons say "Why thank you for telling me that!" with exaggerated politeness whenever someone points out that they have 18 items in the "12 items or less" line.

If I am cynical, I apologize. I'm working on it, really.

Would it be passive-aggressive if I said some people have become obsessed with labeling posts as passive-aggressive?

Do real estate agents really help people find short term vacation rentals in Florida?

I agree that VRBO is a best place to research. Find something you like, google the phone number listed and it should provide you the name of the rental company. You can then go to their website to see their other listings.

We have enjoyed our trips to Anna Maria Island (quieter) and Fort Myers Beach (more to do) in the past.

Using suggestions given on this post, we did find a real estate company that founds us a short term rental on Anna Maria Island. We are looking forward to exploring that beautiful area. Thank you again to everyone who took the time to offer suggestions and ideas.

"Do real estate agents really help people find short term vacation rentals in Florida?"

Yes, absolutely. Small agents and whole departments in large agencies. Same in Nantucket.

<Do real estate agents really help people find short term vacation rentals in Florida?>

Yes, as Ackis says, they sure do, and they have their listings on VRBO.

Interesting. Did not know that. Are these the same kind of agents who sell properties and/or place long-term renters, or do they focus solely on vacation rentals?

There are some real estate firms that ONLY do rentals (short or long term) and many major realtors have separate divisions just for seasonal rentals. One of the advantages of renting via them is that there will be a local agent to handle issues for you -- often much easier and more efficient that relying on an absentee VRBO owner.

Yes, what Neo said. The last time we were on Amelia Island we dealt with a realtor who divided her time between selling, renting long term and renting short term.