Rodney Cantrell’s Blog

Slide 1 Florida wants condos more affordable—down payments could drop from 20% to national 3–5% standard. Slide 2 Insurance premiums are skyrocketing—buyers pay both personal HO-6 and rising HOA master policy costs. Slide 3 HOA fees are climbing fast—roof, structural repairs, and reserve funds are breaking budgets. Slide 4 Surfside tragedy changed everything: inspections and…

In 2025, Florida’s housing market is showing signs of recovery after years of sluggish sales and falling prices. New home orders in the state increased slightly in the last quarter, signaling a positive shift in the Real Estate landscape. Sales of move-up homes and active adult communities ↑ 18% yearly, despite affordability challenges in the…

Choose hurricane-resistant materials like metal, concrete, or high-quality shingles to handle strong winds and heavy rain. Ensure proper roof ventilation to cut down heat buildup and moisture damage, helping your roof last longer. Schedule regular roof inspections twice a year to spot leaks, loose shingles, or structural problems early. Clean gutters and clear debris often…

Single-family sales ↓ 2.8% YoY; condos/townhouses ↓ 11.8% Pending sales: single-family ↓ 0.7%, condos/townhouses ↓ 6.3% Median price: single-family $410K (↓ 1.7%), condos/townhouses $295K (↓ 6.3%) Economist: Single-family price drops not accelerating; condo declines larger than early year Year-to-date: condo/townhouse median price ↓ ~4.5%

Closing costs usually amount to 3% to 6% of the mortgage. For example, a $450K mortgage could mean ~$13K to $27K in closing fees. In Florida, homebuyers pay an avg of $4,498 in closing costs. The avg transfer taxes in Florida are $4,056, which nearly match the base fees. Florida’s closing expenses include both lender…

Florida’s median home price in 2026 projected to fall another 2.7% to $403,745. Condo and townhouse inventory remains high in 2026 — a buyer’s market stays strong. Condo/townhouse sales volume dropped nearly 20% in 2025 — trend may continue in 2026. Active listings rose nearly 29% in 2025; elevated inventory continues easing pressure in 2026.…

Florida distressed properties offer high profit potential, but acquisition strategy critically impacts risks and rewards. Short sales let investors negotiate with owners and lenders, avoiding lengthy foreclosure proceedings. Buying the loan gives full foreclosure control and potential statutory protections against certain lien liabilities. Purchasing foreclosure judgments or winning bids can bypass initial foreclosure risks but…

A 2008-style statewide crash is unlikely; expect gradual cooling with localized declines in higher-risk markets. Population growth and strong demand help stabilize prices despite insurance and affordability challenges. Interest rates, insurance costs, and potential economic slowdown could further temper price growth. Market shifting toward buyers, with more negotiation room and balanced supply-demand conditions.