HOAs can restrict holiday decorations if its rules allow. Review governing documents, ask for clarification and work with neighbors to seek changes. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Question: I live in a homeowners’ association, and I decorated my house and yard for the holidays. They made me take it down under threat of a fine. Are … Read more
Florida’s housing market slowed in 2025, but easing mortgage rates, steady migration and improving international activity point to early momentum. ORLANDO, Fla. – Florida’s housing market slowed through much of 2025 as high mortgage rates and affordability pressures weighed on buyer demand, but early signs suggest activity is beginning to rebound as rates ease, according … Read more
Delistings are rising in some markets as pricing gaps widen. Agents can keep sellers committed by setting realistic prices and staying proactive. CHICAGO – Home sellers are increasingly second-guessing the For Sale sign and stepping back if their homes don’t attract the offers they expect, according to a new report from Realtor.com. It highlights a … Read more
A long-standing fence dispute could raise issues for sellers. An expert says confirm the survey, explore agreements, consider legal options and disclose to buyers. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Question: When we bought our house almost 20 years ago, it had a concrete partition wall running along the property line between our house and our neighbors. … Read more
Careful planning, clear communication and realistic expectations can help homeowners avoid stress, safety issues and costly surprises during a remodel. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Question: We finally saved up enough money to remodel our kitchen. But after seeing some homes get remodeled for our friends, we’re a little concerned about the process. Do you have … Read more
To determine if a home is in an HOA community, check the deed and closing documents. If recorded, the annual fee is required; if not, it’s optional. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Question: We just bought a house in a nice neighborhood that we thought didn’t have a homeowners association. One of the neighbors told us … Read more
RE Q&A: Owners are required to pay special assessments. Boards may allow payment plans, while options such as reverse mortgages or selling may help manage costs. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Question: Our condo board just passed a huge special assessment to fix the roof. I live on a fixed income and cannot afford to pay … Read more
TAMPA, Fla.— As the scenario of a higher-than-average hurricane season is again upon us, the property insurance scenarios for homeowners and business owners in Florida are definitely getting better, insurance experts say. Some even say the industry has recovered. If so, that’s saying quite a lot. This follows several years of devastating storms making various … Read more
Associations must maintain common elements like parking decks and may raise dues or assess fees to cover costs, including reimbursing related resident expenses. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Question: We live in a 20-story condominium where every unit has one assigned spot in the garage, and we all share a large upper parking deck. Last year, … Read more
Constant dog barking may be a legal nuisance. Try talking to your neighbor, then the HOA or city. Document incidents if legal action is needed. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Question: Our next-door neighbor lets her three dogs live in the fenced-in backyard, and they bark constantly, even late into the night. They are good neighbors, … Read more
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