Eddie Powers is putting the finishing touches on the two vacation rentals he owns with his wife, Jen, on Manasota Key. This week marks a major milestone for the couple, as they prepare to welcome their first renters following the devastating hurricanes of 2024, Helene and Milton.

“We restored them exactly as they were when we bought them four years ago. We spared no expense,” Eddie told WTVT.

Although relieved, the couple admits the journey has been exhausting. Hurricanes Helene and Milton wreaked havoc on their properties, leaving them facing enormous challenges to rebuild.

“Unless you’ve gone through something like this, you can’t fully understand,” said Jen.

Eddie, a retired airline pilot, emptied his retirement savings to finance the repairs. While an insurance payout covered damages on one property, the couple is still waiting for an adjuster to evaluate the second.

“It’s terrifying because our entire retirement is now tied up in these buildings,” Jen added.

Over the past six months, the Powers have methodically tackled an overwhelming list of restoration projects, even handwashing 30 tons of contaminated rocks on their land. Despite the joy of welcoming back guests, uncertainty clouds their future.

“We just don’t think we could go through this kind of ordeal again,” Eddie admitted.

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(Image credit: Sarasota-Herald Tribune)

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