Six Inexpensive Vacation Home Destinations

As you've probably noticed, mortgage lenders are getting stingier about the terms under which they'll offer financing, which means that vacation homes are harder to come by. If you're hoping to buy real estate in Hawaii or Los Angeles, you might want to think again. Instead, consider a few unlikely places that offer lower prices and easier markets. Following are six inexpensive vacation home destinations.

1. Naples, Florida

If you love to golf, Naples, Florida, is a great vacation home destination. It's far cheaper than properties in Orlando or Miami, but you get the same hot sun, the same sandy beaches and the same tourist attractions. Plus, it has some of the most beautiful golf courses in the country, some of which have vacation homes that overlook them. The farther away from the water you go, the less expensive the homes will be.

2. Arnold, California

If you're looking for lush trees and shady parks rather than beaches, Arnold, California, is the perfect vacation home destination. It's inexpensive because it isn't near the water and the town thrives on vacationers, which makes it one of the cheapest places to buy real estate on the west coast. The towering sequoias make wonderful shade for picnics, and you'll find plenty to do in the nearby Big Trees State Park.

3. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Vacation homes in the city aren't all that bad, especially when you go looking in Philly. This is a popular vacation home destination for people who enjoy the hustle and bustle of urban living, but still want to get away from their lives. You can find spacious three- and four-bedroom condos that are within walking distance of every major restaurant and club and museum in the city. Plus, seniors can enjoy close proximity to medical facilities.

4. Mesa, Arizona

If you prefer desert to other types of terrain, skip Phoenix and head over to Mesa, Arizona. This inexpensive vacation home destination has everything you could want in a getaway, plus it's near Scottsdale. You can go golfing in the afternoons, tubing on the Salt River in the evenings, and enjoy buffets of southwest cuisine after dark. This is also a great place for families with children because there are tons of theme parks nearby.

5. Aiken, South Carolina

For those who love beautiful hill country, you might want to try the lovely city of Aiken. This inexpensive vacation home destination has ranchers and condos for every taste, and isn't too far from the beach if you get restless. This is the place to go if you're looking for relaxation and seclusion; although there aren't many touristy things to do, it provides plenty of peace and quiet.

6. Cave City, Kentucky

Who doesn't love enormous caves? Just three miles from Mammoth Cave National Park, Cave City offers some of the best fun around. Wax museums, horseback riding, Gun Town Mountain and the race track are all within thirty minutes of this tiny Kentucky town. If you're looking for inexpensive vacation home destinations, you've found it; real estate has gone down significantly in the last few years.