Governor Ron DeSantis has appointed two new members to the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC), signaling a continued emphasis on regulatory oversight within the state’s dynamic real estate sector. The appointments come as the commission and industry leaders grapple with new condo regulations aimed at enhancing safety and transparency following past tragedies.
Key Takeaways
- Governor DeSantis appointed Patricia Renna and reappointed Kelly Price to the Florida Real Estate Commission.
- New condo regulations, prompted by the Surfside collapse, are reshaping the market with stricter safety and financial requirements.
- Florida Realtors is advocating for legislative priorities including housing affordability, property tax relief, and continued support for home hardening programs.
New Leadership for Florida Real Estate Commission
Governor Ron DeSantis recently announced the appointment of Patricia Renna and the reappointment of Kelly Price to the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC). Renna, Owner and Broker of Comprehensive RE Advisors, brings over 20 years of experience and active involvement in various real estate associations. Price, Owner and Broker of Kelly Price & Company, is recognized for her leadership in the Central Florida market and holds degrees in finance and business administration.
The FREC, headquartered in Orlando, is tasked with protecting the public through the education and regulation of real estate licensees. Its responsibilities include enforcing license laws, enacting rules, fostering education, approving applications, and administering penalties. These appointments are subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.
Addressing Condo Safety and Transparency
In response to the tragic 2021 Surfside condominium collapse, Florida lawmakers enacted House Bill 913. This significant legislation introduces new mandates for structural safety, transparency, and financial accountability in condominium and cooperative associations, particularly for buildings with three or more habitable stories. The law expands mandatory "milestone" inspections and strengthens reserve funding requirements for critical building components.
Industry leaders, including Tim Weisheyer, president of Florida Realtors, view the legislation as a crucial step in restoring confidence in the condo market. The new rules aim to provide buyers and sellers with a clearer understanding of building conditions and financial health, fostering greater peace of mind. While older buildings may face challenges in meeting new requirements, potentially leading to increased fees or assessments, newer constructions are generally better positioned to comply.
Florida Realtors’ Legislative Agenda
Florida Realtors is actively engaged in shaping the state’s real estate landscape through its legislative priorities for 2026. Key areas of focus include:
- Affordable Housing: Supporting the expansion of the Hometown Heroes Housing Program and increasing the availability of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).
- Tax Relief: Advocating for measures to lessen the property tax burden on homeowners without compromising essential local government services.
- Homeowner Protection: Continuing support for the My Safe Florida Home and My Safe Florida Condo programs to harden homes against hurricanes and reduce insurance costs.
- Market Stability: Monitoring the effectiveness of ongoing property insurance reforms and upholding condominium safety and affordability.
- Environmental Concerns: Supporting continued investment in water quality efforts and coastal resilience.
Florida Realtors emphasizes the importance of preserving beneficial attainable workforce housing strategies, such as the Live Local Act, and protecting private property rights. The organization aims to ensure that Florida remains a desirable and accessible place to live, work, and invest.
Sources
- Governor DeSantis Appoints Two to Florida Real Estate Commission, West Orlando News.
- New condo regulation weighed by Florida real estate leaders, HousingWire.
- 2026 Legislative Priorities | Florida Realtors, | Florida Realtors.