A lot of buyers are stuck in “wait and see” mode right now. They’re watching rates hover a little above 6% and thinking, I’ll buy once they hit the 5s. Because who doesn’t want a better rate? But here’s the thing: that 5.99% number might not save you as much as you think. Affordability is still a ch

Hispanic Homebuyers Are Powering America’s Real Estate Market in 2025 Across the country, and especially here in South Florida, one group is quietly shaping the future of homeownership: Hispanic buyers.According to the National Association of Realtors, Hispanic households now represent more than one

Despite a slowdown in national home sales, homeowners in South Florida continue to experience substantial equity gains. Whether you're considering selling, buying, or holding, understanding how these trends affect your property value is essential. At Team Kaplan, we keep a close eye on the market. W

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

If you’re a first-time homebuyer, you might feel like the odds are stacked against you in today’s market. But there are resources and programs out there that can help – if you know where to look. And one thing that can make homeownership easier to achieve? An FHA home loan. They’re designed to help

A lot of buyers are pressing pause on their plans these days, holding out hope that mortgage rates will come down – maybe even back to the historic-low 3% from a few years ago. But here’s the thing: those rates were never meant to last. They were a short-term response to a very specific moment in ti

In today's dynamic real estate market, co-owning a home has emerged as a strategic solution for families and investors alike. Whether it's pooling resources to afford a dream home or investing in a property that serves multiple generations, co-ownership offers flexibility and financial benefits. The

Why More Renters Are Choosing Amenity-Rich Living in Broward County Let’s talk about something that’s reshaping the way people rent—especially here in South Florida. Renting used to be a temporary step on the way to homeownership. But today? We’re seeing a major shift. Younger renters—particularly G

Summer Selling: Why Now Is the Perfect Time to List Your Home (And What Buyers Should Know in This Fast-Moving Market) Thinking of selling your home this summer? You’re not alone—and you’re right on time. Summer is consistently one of the best seasons to sell a home in South Florida, thanks to longe

Dreaming of a new home but feeling priced out? You’re not alone! According to a recent survey by Bankrate, 78% of aspiring homebuyers cite affordability issues as their primary deterrent.1   According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, home prices have risen around 32% since the pandemic, and elev

Home-Related Tax Deductions Tax season. Just the words can send shivers down your spine. But if you're a homeowner, there's a silver lining: potential savings! You’ve probably heard that you can deduct the interest you pay on your mortgage — but did you know there are many other ways homeowners can

Florida’s new law prohibiting homeowners associations (HOAs) from banning the overnight parking of pickup trucks has sparked significant debate among communities across the state. While the law aims to protect property owners’ rights, some HOAs are claiming exemptions and refusing to comply, citing

The recent implementation of stricter building codes in Florida, as enforced by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), marks a significant development in the state's approach to reconstructing homes post-hurricane. This initiative aims to elevate homes and ensure they meet rigorous flood sa

Florida Condo Associations Face New Reporting Requirements by December 31, 2024 As the December 31, 2024, deadline approaches, many Florida condo associations are required to complete two key inspection reports that could significantly impact condo buyers, sellers, and current owners. These reports

The flood disclosure will include: Whether the seller has ever filed a claim with their insurance for flood damage on the property. Whether the property has received any federal assistance related to flood damage. For the purposes of this law, “flooding” is defined as a temporary or general conditio

As the year progresses, positive trends have emerged in the real estate market, particularly with interest rates hitting their lowest levels in over a year. This has sparked increased activity among homebuyers and homeowners looking to refinance their loans. Interest Rate Drops Fuel Mortgage Applica

One key development is the introduction of the Florida Optional Reinsurance Assistance (FORA) program, designed to help insurance companies purchase reinsurance at more favorable rates. This initiative aims to stabilize the cost of homeowners' insurance, with 12 companies already filing for rate dec

Are you a dedicated member of our community workforce in Florida? Dreaming of owning a home? The Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program is returning on July 1st, 2024 to turn your dreams into reality by making homeownership more affordable than ever for eligible community heroes like you! Empowerin

A growing share of home buyers and sellers sat on the sidelines last year as the pace of home sales continued its downward trajectory.1 In fact, since the Federal Reserve began its series of interest rate hikes in 2022, the combination of higher borrowing costs and record-high home prices has foster