Big changes are rolling out in Florida real estate today, and if you own a condo, live in an HOA, or are thinking about buying, these updates are worth your coffee break.
1. Condo Buyers Get More Time to Review Docs
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Extended review window: Instead of the previous 3-day review period, buyers now have 7 calendar days (excluding weekends and holidays) to dig into the condo association documents — things like budgets, bylaws, reserve studies, structural inspection reports, and more.
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Updated forms: The Florida Realtors®/Florida Bar contract forms (like CR‑7 and CRSP17x_F) are refreshed as of July 1 to reflect this new timeline.
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Big win: This extension gives buyers breathing room — no more rushed reviews last minute!
2. More Flexibility for Condo Association Finances
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New state law (HB 913 & HB 393): Gives condo boards more tools starting July 1:
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Option to use loans or lines of credit for reserve funding.
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Deferring reserve contributions for 1–2 years to prioritize urgent repairs.
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Higher assessment thresholds – only components over $25K (instead of $10K) count toward reserve obligations.
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Smaller buildings exempt: Low-rise condos (under 3 habitable stories) can skip some structural mandates.
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Why it matters: These changes are aimed at easing the financial pressure on owners (especially retirees) while still maintaining safety – a thoughtful balance post-Surfside.
3. Enhanced Transparency & Governance in Associations
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Online access: Board meeting minutes, association rules, financials, and other docs must be posted online and clearly communicated to members.
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Training & accountability: Association board members must undergo regular training. Plus, stricter rules curb conflicts of interest, and kickbacks could face new penalties.
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Digital governance: Electronic voting and remote meeting options are now formally allowed.
4. HOA Fine Limits & Residents’ Rights
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While most HOA fine caps took effect in July 2024, many communities are still benefiting from:
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Restrictions on petty fines (e.g., holiday décor, garbage can timing, driveway parking)
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Fair billing practices – excessive fines, lack of notice, or recordkeeping issues now face greater oversight.
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Your Move: What This Means for You
If You’re Buying a Condo:
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Enjoy more time reviewing disclosures.
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Expect updated contract forms and clearer financial projections.
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Benefit from stricter transparency rules.
If You Manage a Condo
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Recheck reserve plans — and consider if a loan, deferral, or higher threshold works better.
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Get your website and record-sharing systems fully up to date.
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Enroll board members in training, and tighten governance policies.
Why These Changes Are Happening Now
These updates reflect a shift from the post-Surfside urgency of 2022 to a more balanced approach in 2025. Florida lawmakers recognized the importance of both life safety and homeowners’ financial stability, especially for older buildings and fixed-income residents
Need Help Navigating It All?
That’s exactly what we do. Whether you’re a buyer wanting to understand those extended document review periods, a seller preparing updated forms, or an association board member updating policies, we’ve got your back. Drop us a line anytime — we’d love to walk you through how these laws apply to your specific situation.
Florida real estate regulation just took a leap this July 1st — but with a caring, professional guide (hello — that’s us!), smoother navigation is just a call or click away.
Let’s make these changes work for you, not against you!
