SOUTH FLORIDA NEWS - December, 2025

Is It Legal to Buy a Home “As Is” in Florida and What Does That Really Mean?

If you’ve been house hunting in Florida, you’ve probably noticed listings that say a home is being sold “as is.” Maybe you’re asking yourself: Is it legal to buy a home “as is” in Florida? What does that really mean for me as a buyer?

We spoke with two South Florida experts Larry Mastropieri, Broker/Owner of The Mastropieri Group, Realtors®, and real estate attorney Jerron Kelly to explain what buyers need to know before signing an “as is” purchase agreement. 

What “As Is” Really Means in Florida

Larry explains that nearly all residential sales in Florida use the FAR/BAR “As Is” purchase agreement, which is the standard contract form for home sales.

“Technically, you’re buying a property in as-is condition, but the contract still comes with…

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What Should I Know About Condo Association Rules Before Buying in South Florida?

Buying a condo in South Florida can feel exciting. But before signing anything, it’s critical to understand the condo association rules. These rules affect everything from renovations and pets to special assessments and parking. Skipping this step can turn your dream condo into a costly headache.

As attorney Jerron Kelley explained, “One of the things you want to make sure is that…you’re getting those documents upfront as the buyer. There is a contingency that if you do not provide them, the buyer can get out of the deal.” Larry Mastropieri adds, “Getting those documents is usually like pulling teeth…you need a list, and you need to know what to request.”

Here’s what South Florida buyers should know before moving forward.

What Condo Documents…

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Ocean One Project in Boynton Beach Seeks $16 Million Incentive

For years, the vacant corner at 114–222 North Federal Highway has felt like a missed opportunity. Approved plans came and went, land was assembled, and expectations were raised, yet nothing ever moved forward. Now, that long-idled site is back in the spotlight as the Ocean One development asks the city for significantly more public support.

The proposed project in Boynton Beach is seeking to increase its tax incentive package from $9 million to $16 million, extending the agreement over 15 years. City officials say the request reflects today’s economic reality. Critics argue it raises difficult questions about how much public money should be used to make private development financially feasible.

Ocean One Project Corner With a Complicated…

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Home Prices in South Florida Could Rise in 2026

Florida was the place everyone rushed to during the pandemic. Now, it’s the place many buyers and sellers are quietly rethinking. Across much of the state, prices are expected to soften next year. Yet home prices in South Florida may continue to move in a different direction.

According to Realtor.com’s latest housing forecast, home prices in South Florida are projected to rise about 1.1% year over year in 2026. While that growth is modest, it stands out at a time when most other major Florida metros are expected to see declines. At the same time, sales activity is forecast to slow, creating a market that feels cooler even as prices remain steady.

Why Florida’s Housing Market Is Splitting in Two

Florida’s housing market is no longer moving as a…

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How Flood Zone Status Affects Buying a Home in South Florida?

Buying a home in South Florida comes with unique considerations, and one of the most important is flood zone status. While many buyers assume that properties on the water are automatically at risk and homes further inland are safe the reality is more nuanced.

We previously covered how flood zones and hurricane season affect selling a home in South Florida. This guide focuses on what buyers need to know about flood zones before committing to a purchase.

Understanding Flood Zones in South Florida

Flood zones are determined by FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) and designate areas based on potential flood risk. These maps are not static. They can change based on environmental studies, storm data, elevation changes, and local development.

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What are the top red flags in a Florida Purchase contract agreement?

Buying a home in South Florida is exciting, but the purchase contract is where the deal really lives or dies. A lot of buyers and sellers overlook the nuances of a purchase agreement, only to run into problems later. Understanding the red flags in a Florida purchase contract can save you time, stress, and even money.

Larry Mastropieri and Jerron, experienced South Florida real estate professionals, sat down to break down the most common issues they see in contracts and what to watch for when buying or selling a property.

What is a Florida Purchase Contract and Why Does it Matter?

In Florida, a purchase agreement is a legally binding document outlining the terms of a real estate transaction. If you’re a buyer, this is your chance to clearly state…

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How Does a Real Estate Attorney Help During a Home Purchase in South Florida?

If you’re buying a home in South Florida, you might be wondering whether you really need a real estate attorney. Unlike some states in the Northeast, hiring a lawyer isn’t automatically part of the process here. But having an attorney can be a smart move, especially for complex or high-value deals. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what a real estate attorney does, how South Florida differs from other states, and when having one might be worth it.

The Northeast vs. South Florida: How the Process Differs

In states like New Jersey, New York, or Massachusetts, attorneys are a standard part of every real estate transaction. There’s usually an attorney for the buyer, an attorney for the seller, sometimes one for the lender, and even a separate…

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What Buyers Should Look for in the Title Report Before Closing in South Florida?

Buying a home in South Florida is exciting, but there are a lot of moving pieces before you can officially call a property yours. One critical step in the process is reviewing the title report, sometimes called a title commitment. If you’re a buyer, understanding what’s in this report is key to making sure your new home is truly yours, free and clear of any legal or financial issues. We recently discussed this topic with closing and real estate professionals, and here’s a breakdown of what buyers should know.

What is a Title Report?

A title report is a document that outlines the current ownership of a property and any claims, liens, or issues that could affect the title. In Florida, title commitments are usually prepared by a title company or a law…

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What Makes Viceroy Fort Lauderdale Condos Stand Out in 2025

Viceroy Residences Fort Lauderdale transcends traditional living spaces. They're crafted for those seeking an elevated lifestyle, complete with dedicated concierge services, resort-level amenities, exclusive VIP benefits at Viceroy properties worldwide, and the pulse of Flagler Village.

Launching in 2025, this iconic branded tower from Naftali Group is redefining luxury condominiums in South Florida. For the first 200 buyers, residing in this striking 45-story tower in Flagler Village means gaining entry to Naftali Group's exclusive world of premier sports, wellness, cultural events, and hospitality experiences, both along the Atlantic coast and beyond.

Inside the Viceroy Fort Lauderdale Condos

Instead of only offering space, Viceroy Residences…

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Is South Florida Tourism Slowing Down in 2025?

If you walk through Miami International Airport or along Fort Lauderdale Beach, you’ll see what looks like a thriving tourism scene. Flights are full, hotel lobbies are bustling, and beaches are packed. But when you dig into the numbers, the story of South Florida tourism in 2025 becomes more complex.

While overall foot traffic seems strong, international travel is softening. And that shift matters, especially for real estate investors, short-term rental owners, and local businesses that depend on international visitors for steady income.

What the Data Says About International Travel to Florida

Analysts had expected international arrivals to the U.S. to grow by 9% in 2025. Instead, overseas arrivals have dropped for three straight months. The…

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