We are not snowbirds yet, although we can't wait to join that group! Wait, can we be snowbirds if we live in Texas?
We have always vacationed in the Florida panhandle and love it there. Friends introduced us to Gulf Shores a few years ago and we love it there too. It's a little more casual and laid back than the panhandle, in my opinion. Same sugar white sand and blue water, and 3 hours closer to us. We bought a beachfront condo in a more remote area of GS so we could enjoy it when we want and possibly move there later. We rent it out when we're not there and it generates some income to cover costs. Snowbirds are plentiful there in the winter - rates are so reasonable and all of the local stores and restaurants cater to snowbirds from November through March.
Before we bought, we would search on VRBO or Airbnb and send a stock email to units that interested us, with all of our questions. If you didn't answer our email, that unit got crossed off the list. If I were snowbirding, I would do the same thing. Ask if they have monthly rates, allow pets, discounted rates for any paid amenities, etc.