A budget-friendly hotel, Best Western might be turned into affordable housing in Florida

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In a time when finding affordable housing in Florida feels more challenging than ever, some Orlando residents might be interested to know that a local Best Western hotel could soon be transformed into much-needed affordable apartments. With housing prices soaring across the state, this potential change is seen as a positive step toward tackling one of Florida’s most pressing issues.

The Best Western in question, located at 2014 W. Colonial Drive, currently operates as a budget-friendly hotel, with rooms typically costing around $100 to $120 per night. It’s not exactly a five-star experience, as shown by the hotel's Google reviews. Some guests have had less-than-ideal stays, citing cleanliness concerns.

Now, the hotel’s future may be shifting away from hospitality and toward housing. Aryn Spahr, founder of SL Capital Group, is currently under contract to purchase the property. However, the deal hinges on city approval to convert the building into a 110-unit affordable housing apartment complex. If everything moves forward, the on-site restaurant, Taste of Chengdu, would likely remain, preserving a bit of the local flavor.

With Florida becoming one of the least affordable states to live in, the potential conversion of this hotel into affordable housing is welcomed news for many. According to the Florida Policy Institute, addressing the housing crisis is a top priority for Floridians, and projects like this could provide some much-needed relief.

So, will this Best Western become a home for many in need of affordable living options? Time will tell, but the idea of repurposing existing structures like hotels into housing could be part of the solution to Florida's ongoing housing crisis. Keep an eye on this one—it might just be the start of a trend that helps ease the burden for many Sunshine State residents.