Real Estate & Mortgage News

Florida TaxWatch report: Unlicensed vacation rentals cost Florida millions

Florida TaxWatch has released a report on unlicensed vacation rentals in the state, estimating that over 1 in 4 vacation rentals are unlicensed. The report highlights the potential costs to the state in terms of lost taxes and calls for policies to address the issue. Lawmakers are considering legislation to tackle vacation rental issues, and Florida TaxWatch is urging them to consider provisions to...

Two Florida Cities Stand Out As Top Rental Markets

Orlando and Fort Lauderdale are ranked among the top 30 rental markets in the U.S. for 2024, with Orlando at 5th and Fort Lauderdale at 26th. Renters showed increased interest in both cities, with Orlando experiencing a 105% increase in favorited listings and Fort Lauderdale seeing a 67% increase. Availability of apartments decreased in Fort Lauderdale by 38% in 2023. Continue to full article...

Senator wants uniform standards for short-term vacation rentals, but it seems to be a tough sell

The Florida Legislature is working on a bill to regulate vacation rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. The bill aims to create uniform standards and regulations for vacation rentals, but there is opposition from local governments and concerns about the impact on communities. The bill has been approved by a Senate committee and will now go to the House for further consideration. Continue to full...

Florida Insurance Crisis Spells Mortgage Disaster

Florida's ongoing insurance crisis, driven by insurers leaving and increased extreme weather risk, may lead to a downturn in the real estate market. Homeowners in Florida pay the highest insurance premiums in the U.S., making it difficult to obtain mortgages. The state's private insurance market has failed, leaving many residents with limited options for coverage. The crisis could negatively...