My dad lives in Palm Desert, so I go there often, although I live in Northern California. I've considered moving there myself though... I like all of the cities on the south side of I-10, my favorites being Palm Desert, La Quinta, and Rancho Mirage. And, there are two types of Rental Properties that you might consider.... One would be a year-round rental, with a long-term tenant. Depending on the property, the rent income could average around $1500 a month. Then, there are properties (especially near El Paseo) that make great "Seasonal Rentals", where you might rent it to "Snow Birds" from Canada, Washington or other northern states for as much as $5000 a month... but only for 4-6 months out of the year. You would need to furnish that type of rental, although you can often buy furnished homes in those areas. If you'd like to use the property yourself in the months between May and October (the dry heat of the summer isn't so bad!), having a Seasonal Rental might be a good option to consider. There are many Retirees in the northern USA and Canada that love to fly south for the winter (typically November through April or May), and if the place has a pool and other ammenities, and is in a good area, you'll not have any problem renting it out.
