What’s Hot in Real Estate: Florida’s Condo Reform Bill Just Got Real
Significant Changes Ahead for Florida Condo Owners and Buyers
As a Tampa real estate agent who lives and breathes this market daily, I always keep an eye on legislative changes that impact how we buy and sell. And this one? It’s a biggie.
Governor DeSantis just signed off on Florida’s new condominium reform bill that just took effect on July 1st of 2025. If you’re a condo owner, buyer, or even just thinking about investing in one here in Tampa, this law changes the game.
Let’s break down what’s in it and why it matters to you.
What’s in the New Condo Reform Bill?
The new law is aimed at boosting condo safety and financial accountability, especially following the 2021 Surfside condo collapse tragedy. But while the intention is good, the law requires heavier lifting for many condo associations—and, by extension, owners and buyers.
Here are the key updates:
- Mandatory Financial Reserves: Condo associations must conduct milestone inspections and fund structural reserves—no more waiving them.
- Stricter Reporting: HOAs are now required to report their reserve funds and inspection status through a state-run condominium database.
- New Buyer Disclosures: Condo sellers will need to disclose upcoming assessments and inspection reports to buyers upfront.
Sound a little intense? Yes, to put it lightly.
Why This Matters in Tampa Right Now
We’ve got a LOT of condos here in Tampa, from waterfront high-rises to low-key retirement communities. Many of those were built decades ago, meaning they may face significant assessments under this new law.
If you’re selling a condo, this law means:
- You must disclose any inspection reports, structural issues, or upcoming assessments.
- You could see buyers negotiating harder or walking away if the costs seem uncertain.
- You may need to price more competitively to account for potential reserve funding.
And if you’re buying?
- You need to dig deep into the condo docs. Don’t just glance at the HOA fee. Ask about reserves, planned assessments, and inspection history.
- Be ready for monthly fees to rise, but also know that’s not necessarily a bad thing. A well-funded reserve is a sign of a healthy building.
How to Stay Ahead of the Curve
As a real estate agent who’s helped dozens of buyers navigate HOA hurdles, I’m here to help you read between the lines. Whether you’re on the buyer or seller side, there are a few smart moves you can make right now:
- Get a Condo Review Early: If you’re listing, let’s pull all the relevant docs and get ahead of what buyers will ask.
- Ask the Right Questions: Thinking about buying a condo? Let’s talk about the building’s history, reserves, and upcoming maintenance projects before you fall in love with that balcony view.
- Think Long-Term Value: Yes, the new law might raise monthly fees, but it also protects your investment. Safer, more financially stable buildings are better for resale down the road.
Let’s Talk Tampa Condo Strategy
I’ve lived in Tampa my whole life and worked in real estate here for over 20 years. I know it inside and out: what’s solid, what’s sketchy, and how to navigate the paperwork jungle so you don’t get burned.
This new legislation may feel overwhelming, but it’s also an opportunity for buyers to find well-managed properties and for sellers to stand out with transparency and smart pricing.
Let’s make it work in your favor.
Call me anytime at 813-240-6563 to get your questions answered, or browse my latest listings and check out my market updates to start your next move with confidence.