Recent Blog Posts
Clarifying Changes To Laws On HOA Parking
Prior to mid-2024, most Florida homeowners’ associations (HOAs) barred pickup trucks and ‘commercial vehicles’ (standard size vehicles with commercial advertising on them) from being parked in driveways or in other places where they are clearly visible, citing primarily aesthetic objections. In 2024, however, the relevant law was adapted, essentially precluding HOAs from restricting parking… Read More »
Common Mistakes Made By Real Estate Investors
When a person is interested in investing in Florida’s real estate market, it is not uncommon for them to jump the proverbial gun – that is, to fail to properly investigate the market before putting money down – particularly if they have never invested before. The right attorney can help them avoid the common… Read More »
Emotional Support Animals vs Service Animals
Nowadays, more and more people are acquiring service animals or emotional support animals (ESAs), which are meant to help meet particular needs. However, a service animal has obligations and requirements that an ESA does not have – and if this is the case, your animal might be misclassified. This can lead to penalties and… Read More »
Explaining Fiduciary Duty For Condominium Associations
While many may treat being part of a condo board as no big deal, it carries a heavy weight when it comes to doing right by the association’s members. Every board member owes what is known as a fiduciary duty to the association and the owners in it – and, if it is breached,… Read More »
Short-Term Florida Rentals Create New Landlord-Tenant Issues
As of this writing, Florida is one of the hottest markets in the United States for short-term rentals. Whether a home, apartment, condominium or other type of dwelling, the appeal of renting out one’s home to short-term guests has resonated with many Floridians. However, deciding to simply jump right in is not a good… Read More »
What Are A Landlord’s Responsibilities?
The average person may think that being a Florida landlord is an easy way to make some extra money. In reality, both tenant and landlord have rights and responsibilities clearly defined by law, and a failure to live up to these responsibilities can result in monetary fines, lawsuits, or even criminal charges in extreme… Read More »
So You Want To Invest In Florida Residential Real Estate?
Buying your first piece of real property can be an intimidating event, particularly if you are looking to buy in a state where you do not currently live. If that state is Florida, enlisting a realtor and an attorney can help smooth out the purchase process – but it is still a good idea… Read More »
Florida-Friendly Landscaping Laws & HOAs
In 2009, the Florida legislature passed a law permitting homeowners and community associations to create lawns using “Florida-friendly landscaping” – that is, lawns which require minimal upkeep and do not overtax the environment. However, many HOAs also have restrictive covenants enforcing a similar aesthetic on each parcel. If you are a Florida homeowner, it… Read More »
Explaining Habitability In Florida Rental Units
The idea of a warranty of habitability is an often-discussed one when renting a Florida dwelling. While the phrase is not stated verbatim in any of the relevant statutes, it essentially means that a tenant has the right to live in a dwelling that is safe, sanitary, and livable. That said, the meaning of… Read More »
Florida Fireworks Law Can Affect Your Holiday Celebrations
Because of Florida’s sunny weather in months where northern climates are snowed in, fireworks are a more common part of holiday celebrations than they might be in other locales. The December holidays are no exception – particularly New Year’s Eve, when every municipality has their own fireworks show. That said, if you live in… Read More »