What's new in real estate?

HB 1049 — Flood Disclosure in the Sale of Real Property
House Bill 1049 requires residential property sellers to provide flood disclosures to buyers at or before the sales contract is executed. It must include the following: 

The title of the form must be labeled “FLOOD DISCLOSURE.”
A flood insurance disclaimer must be provided which states as follows: “Flood Insurance: Homeowners' insurance policies do not include coverage for damage resulting from floods. Buyer is encouraged to discuss the need to purchase separate flood insurance coverage with Buyer's insurance agent.”
The seller must state whether he or she has filed a claim with an insurance provider relating to flood damage on the property, including, but not limited to, a claim with the National Flood Insurance Program.
The seller must state whether he or she has received federal assistance for flood damage to the property, including, but not limited to, assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Florida Realtors® supported this bill to help buyers make more informed decisions about properties and reduce post-closing disputes. The flood disclosure law goes into effect on Oct. 1.

HB 59 — Provision of Homeowners’ Association Rules and Covenants
House Bill 59 requires HOAs to provide physical or digital copies of association rules and covenants to members of the association. It also requires associations to establish a distribution method and timeframe for providing updated copies of rules. 

If association rules are amended, the association must provide members with an updated copy. The requirements of this bill can be met by providing physical copies, digital copies or posting a link on HOA websites that are accessible to all members.

“With the signing of HB 59, we further establish transparency to residents of HOAs. Too often we hear stories of residents being unaware of changes made in their community and their accidental violation of rules. This simple measure will now work to pre-emptively alleviate these misunderstandings and engage residents in their communities,” Sen. Linda Stewart of Orlando said.

The provision becomes law on July 1.

The recent NAR lawsuit

You have probably heard lots of conversation about the recent lawsuit involving NAR and the real estate industry. You likely have heard many versions and interpretations of what the settlement agreement means as well. Chances are strong that what you have heard is likely incorrect, inaccurate or incomplete. Because the impact of this settlement is complex, it is best discussed in person. I am happy to discuss what it will mean to you whether you are buying or selling a home. You can find a brief look at some of the results in my Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS) tab.