Florida Passes Major Condo Reform: What South Florida Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

June 2025 has brought a pivotal shift for the South Florida condo market. Governor Ron DeSantis just signed legislation aimed at easing the financial burden on condominium owners, while also increasing transparency and flexibility for buyers, sellers, and associations.

At Team Kaplan, we make it our mission to stay ahead of legal and market changes that impact your real estate journey. Here's what this new law means, and why partnering with an experienced, proactive listing agent is more important than ever.

Game-Changing Relief for Condo Owners and Buyers

On June 23, 2025, Florida officially passed House Bills 913 and 393, addressing major concerns about skyrocketing condo maintenance costs and tightening regulations following the 2021 Surfside tragedy.

Key Legislative Changes:

• Reserve Requirement Flexibility
  The legislation raises the minimum structural reserve threshold from $10,000 to $25,000 and allows associations to pause reserve contributions for up to two years. This gives boards more breathing room without sacrificing safety or long-term maintenance planning.

• Expanded Funding Options
  Associations can now use loans or lines of credit to fund mandatory reserves or repairs, reducing the need for sudden, hefty special assessments that can derail transactions.

• Stronger Transparency and Accountability

  • Boards must now disclose competitive bids and any potential conflicts of interest.

  • Association financials and inspection reports must be more readily available to buyers.

  • Buyers now have seven days (increased from three) to review critical documents before committing to a contract.

• Improvements to the My Safe Florida Condominium Pilot Program
  HB 393 enhances access to funds and simplifies participation, with only a 75% member vote now required. This enables more communities to participate in structural hardening programs without cumbersome approval thresholds.

These reforms are especially impactful for South Florida, where condo associations have faced rising insurance costs, new safety mandates, and aging infrastructure.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

For buyers, this new law is a win. It provides more time to evaluate financial and structural health of the building, and it reduces the risk of surprise costs after closing.

For sellers, a properly packaged and transparent listing will now stand out. Buyers are increasingly cautious, and a listing that proactively discloses financials, reserve studies, and building reports can build immediate trust and lead to stronger offers.

Why Your Listing Agent Matters More Than Ever

Not all agents are created equal, especially, when it comes to condos.

A great listing agent will:

• Confirm whether your condo association is in compliance with HB 913 and HB 393.

• Review the most recent milestone inspection reports, Structural Integrity Reserve Studies (SIRS), and financial statements.

• Ensure all required disclosures are readily available to buyers before the 7-day review period begins.

• Communicate directly with the association’s board or property manager to verify funding strategies and any upcoming assessments.

• Leverage this due diligence as a strategic marketing asset, positioning your listing as low-risk and well-managed.

This level of preparation not only protects the transaction but it maximizes the property’s value and marketability.

Final Thoughts

These new laws are a positive step forward but navigating them takes expertise.

If you're a condo owner thinking of selling, or a buyer ready to invest in South Florida real estate, our team is here to help you interpret, comply with, and capitalize on these new regulations.

At Team Kaplan, we don’t just sell properties, we prepare and protect our consumers at every step.

Ready to list your condo or start your South Florida property search?
Contact our team at REMAX today for expert guidance and unmatched market insight.