Construction of condos is a major business in Florida's Tampa Bay area. Condos that offer spectacular view of the Gulf are the most enticing developments. Most investors of the Tampa Bay condo market purchase units at pre-construction prices and then sell them at profits of as much as 25%, even before these condos are ever built. Many people say they would rather invest in condos than place their money in higher risk involvement's, such as the stock market.

In the first quarter of 2006, Tampa's average rent reached $819, increasing an average 5.5% over the corresponding period in 2005. Certain properties and sub markets reported boosts within the 10-20% percent increase range. Rents range from about $700 to over $1,000 per month, depending on the location. Prevailing averages are now between $1,435 and $1,522.  Occupancy rates reached 98.1% in the first quarter 2006. This trailed the steady growth in occupancies since early 2003, and makes Tampa Bay one of the Florida's most highly occupied rental markets.