Florida Realtors members convened in Tallahassee for Great American Realtors Days, urging lawmakers to prioritize key real estate policies for the 2026 legislative session. The annual event focused on expanding housing options, ensuring program funding, stabilizing insurance markets, and safeguarding homeowner rights.
Key Takeaways
- Advocacy for expanded housing options, including Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and the Live Local Act.
- Support for continued funding of homeownership and home hardening programs.
- Emphasis on property tax relief and insurance market stability.
- Commitment to protecting private property rights and maintaining regulatory standards.
Expanding Housing Opportunities
Florida Realtors is advocating for policies that increase the availability of diverse housing options. This includes robust support for the Hometown Heroes Housing Program, which assists essential workers in purchasing homes, and expanding the use of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to create more affordable living spaces without altering neighborhood character. The organization also stresses the importance of preserving the core provisions of the Live Local Act, a significant legislative effort aimed at improving housing affordability across the state.
Property Tax Relief and Insurance Stability
Addressing the financial pressures on Florida homeowners is a central theme. Realtors are calling for measures to lessen the property tax burden while ensuring local governments can still provide essential services. Furthermore, they are closely monitoring the effectiveness of ongoing property insurance reforms, urging continued efforts to stabilize the market and deliver tangible relief to policyholders, despite recent positive trends in premium increases and litigation.
Protecting Homeowners and Property Rights
Ensuring the safety and affordability of homes is paramount. Florida Realtors supports continued funding for programs like My Safe Florida Home and My Safe Florida Condo, which help fortify homes against hurricanes and reduce insurance costs. The organization also champions the protection of private property rights, advocating against overly burdensome regulations and restrictive local ordinances. They are also urging a "no" vote on HB 607, which they believe would harm the real estate industry and consumer protections.
Environmental Stewardship
Beyond housing and property concerns, Florida Realtors recognizes the vital role of clean water for the state’s economy and quality of life. They are calling for continued investment in water quality efforts, including Everglades restoration, springs protection, and coastal resilience, ensuring Florida remains a healthy and attractive place to live.
Sources
- Realtors Rally for Key 2026 Real Estate Policies, | Florida Realtors.
- 2026 Legislative Priorities | Florida Realtors, | Florida Realtors.