MIAMI — For decades, Florida home buyers have relied on the honor system — or lawsuits — to ensure the house they bought didn’t have a secret history of floods. That could change this year, if Gov. Ron DeSantis signs into law a new policy requiring sellers, as well as landlords, to inform new residents … Read more
Property taxes are typically prorated at closing. Even if you only lived there a few months, you’re responsible for the full tax bill, but can seek reimbursement from the seller. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Question: We purchased our first home late last year. We have been getting notices in the mail telling us that our real … Read more
A co-op board can stop maintaining a shared AC system if allowed by governing documents and approved by required votes, but actions must be reasonable. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Question: I live in a 16-unit co-op with a water-cooled AC that runs throughout the building. My unit and one other are still on the system. … Read more
GAINESVILLE, Fla. — When you think of termites, you probably don’t imagine them aboard yachts, cabin cruisers, sailboats or other watercraft floating across oceans. A new study by a University of Florida scientist reveals that termites are not simply spreading through natural processes of building new colonies, suggesting humans may be helping them “conquer the … Read more
A verbal promise of a dog-walk area in a condo, not included in the written agreement, limits legal recourse. Residents may appeal as a group. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Question: We, along with others in our new construction condo, were all told there would be a dog-walk area. There was none when we moved, and … Read more
When raccoons damage cars in a condo parking lot, owners are usually responsible, but the association may share some responsibility. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Question: I live in a great condo community, but recently we have experienced raccoons getting inside the engine blocks and causing severe damage to our vehicles. This includes biting into the … Read more
A homeowners association could face liability if booting a car also traps another or prevents emergency access. Towing may be a safer option. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Question: Our homeowners association has decided to boot vehicles instead of having them towed for various violations. Our community has single car garages and a space in front … Read more
Homeowners usually have no legal right to a view, but specific situations can make a difference including malicious intent to block a view FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Question: Can a community association plant a tree on the common property that will obstruct a single owner’s view of the ocean? — Roy Answer: Homeowners, including those … Read more
When renters find unwanted items, they should ask the landlord to remove them, document communications and keep photos in case of disputes. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Question: My son is leasing a small condo. The lease includes “a sofa, TV, TV stand, table, 2 chairs, bed and mattress”. He did not want the mattress, and … Read more
When looking for a new home, focus on the characteristics of the location you want rather than requiring a specific town or community. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Question: After several years of renting, we plan to purchase our first home in the new year. Do you have any advice on how we can find our … Read more
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