Florida

Florida is a popular state for real estate investing, with strong growth in the Miami, Tampa, and Orlando metropolitan areas in particular. The state has a strong economy and a large population, which can create demand for housing. Florida is also a popular destination for tourists, which can make property rentals and short term rentals, such as vacation rentals, a lucrative investment. However, it is important for investors to carefully consider the local market conditions and do their due diligence before making any real estate investments. The state can be prone to natural disasters, such as hurricanes, which can affect the value and condition of real estate. Additionally, the state has a high population of retirees, which can affect the demand for certain types of housing.

Sustainability Resources

The Real Estate industry is one of the most environmentally damaging industries in the world accounting for:
30%
of total carbon dioxide
40%
of all energy
40%
of all raw materials
Our goal is to give you the resources you need to take sustainable action in improving, building, retrofitting and revamping your home. The impacts are real, the benefits significant, and the need critical. Join us in bringing sustainability home and creating a brighter future for all, starting with you.

Save money and do the world a favor!
Here's a list of Sustainability Initiatives in the area:

GreenHome Institute Events

The GreenHome Institute is a 501(c)3 that empowers people to make sustainable decisions when renovating or building homes.

Learn More
Energy Tax Credits-Federal, State, and Local

DaSolar's Energy Tax Credit Search Tool allows you to search energy rebates by state.

Learn More
37 DIY Rainwater Harvesting Systems

DYI Rainwater Harvesting System set up ideas and instructions.

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Florida FAQs

Is Florida a judicial or non-judicial state?

Judicial

In a judicial foreclosure state, the lender must go through the court system in order to foreclose on a property. This process can be longer and more expensive for the lender compared to a non-judicial foreclosure.
In a judicial foreclosure state, the lender must go through the court system in order to foreclose on a property. This process can be longer and more expensive for the lender compared to a non-judicial foreclosure.

What is the process of closing on a property in Florida?

Title companies and attorneys handle closings. Conveyance is by warranty deed. Mortgages are the customary security instruments. Foreclosures are judicial and take about 3 months. They involve service by the sheriff, a judgment of foreclosure and sale, advertising, public sale, and finally issuance of a certificate of sale and certificate of title. ALTA policies are commonplace. Buyers pay the escrow and closing costs, while county custom determines who pays for the title insurance. Sellers pay the documentary tax. Property taxes are payable annually, but the due and delinquent dates are months apart, November 1st and April 1st. Under Florida law, a widow or widower has the right to live in their deceased spouse’s house for the remainder of his or her life, even if the home is willed to someone else.  A Homestead Exemption exists for an owner’s residence in Florida. Florida’s exemption is unique because it lacks any monetary cap on the homestead protection, while other states which offer a homestead exemption usually place a limit on the valuation which can be protected.

Property Taxes in Florida?

Due annually on November 1st

In Florida, does a property management company require a real estate broker's license?

YES. Key components of property management (renting and leasing) are considered a real estate activity under existing Florida real estate licensing laws. A property manager needs broker license if he or she is paid by commission, and is handling rentals and leases for others. No license is required for managing personally owned properties. There is not a "Property Manager" license or certificate. Also, certain rental properties need a license through the Div. of Hotels and Restaurants.

Are there any exceptions to the requirement that a property manager have a broker's license in Florida?

YES. For example, if a property owner employs someone to manage their property, and that employee is paid a salary, as opposed to being paid a commission or on a transactional basis, a broker's license is not required. For more information about these and other Florida property management requirements and exceptions, please contact the Florida Real Estate Commission. Before hiring a property manager to manage your Florida rental property, you should always check that he or she is licensed appropriately. You can check the license status of Florida property managers at the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation's Licensee Search webpage.

Do you need a broker's license to manage community associations in Florida?

No. However, a Community Association Manager license is required if someone receives compensation for providing management services for the following types of associations: - An association with ten or more units - An association with a budget of $100,000 or greater

Florida Real Estate Broker Requirements

Title companies and attorneys handle closings. Conveyance is by warranty deed. Mortgages are the customary security instruments. Foreclosures are judicial and take about 3 months. They involve service by the sheriff, a judgment of foreclosure and sale, advertising, public sale, and finally issuance of a certificate of sale and certificate of title. ALTA policies are commonplace. Buyers pay the escrow and closing costs, while county custom determines who pays for the title insurance. Sellers pay the documentary tax. Property taxes are payable annually, but the due and delinquent dates are months apart, November 1st and April 1st. Under Florida law, a widow or widower has the right to live in their deceased spouse’s house for the remainder of his or her life, even if the home is willed to someone else.  A Homestead Exemption exists for an owner’s residence in Florida. Florida’s exemption is unique because it lacks any monetary cap on the homestead protection, while other states which offer a homestead exemption usually place a limit on the valuation which can be protected.

Florida Real Estate Salesperson Requirements

Due annually on November 1st

How do property ownership transfers work in Florida?

Warranty deed.

Cities