At the recently concluded 2025 legislative session in Tallahassee, the MIAMI Association of REALTORS® advocacy team achieved significant milestones for property owners and real estate professionals in South Florida. One of the standout accomplishments was the elimination of Florida’s business rent tax (BRT), which is projected to save Floridians $900 million each year.
For over a decade, MIAMI REALTORS® and Florida REALTORS® have been pushing for the elimination of the BRT, which uniquely positioned Florida as the sole state to impose a sales tax on commercial rents. Last year, their efforts led to a reduction of the tax from 4.5% to 2%, paving the way for this year’s complete elimination.
This move is expected to relieve some of the financial burdens on Florida employers, enabling them to expand their businesses, hire new employees, and foster economic growth.
In addition to the BRT elimination, MIAMI REALTORS® and Florida REALTORS® secured vital funding for affordable housing initiatives in Florida. A noteworthy victory was the allocation of an additional $50 million to the Hometown Heroes Housing Program, aimed at assisting Florida families in securing their first homes in their respective communities.
Since its inception in 2021, this program has successfully aided over 20,000 Floridians in homeownership. The Hometown Heroes program is designed for full-time workers in Florida who earn less than 150% of their county’s area median income, offering a maximum down payment assistance of $35,000 or up to 5% of their first mortgage loan amount.
Furthermore, the State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) will receive $163.8 million for down payment and closing-cost assistance programs, while the State Apartment Incentive Loan (SAIL) program, which supports the construction of affordable rental housing, is set to receive $71.2 million.
Another significant development from the legislative session was the signing of a condo reform bill (HB 913) by Governor Ron DeSantis. This bill provides condominium owners and their associations with an extension on deadlines for paying new assessments associated with maintenance and repairs. Under this legislation, the inspection deadline has been pushed to December 31, allowing condo associations the flexibility to vote on financing any anticipated new reserve requirements, thus granting unit owners additional time to manage their financial obligations.
As part of their advocacy efforts, MIAMI REALTORS® organized a successful Condo Summit on February 14, bringing together lawmakers and industry experts to equip REALTORS® with essential knowledge and tools. This was followed by the “Capitol to Closings” event on May 8, where the legislative session was analyzed in detail.
Moreover, Governor DeSantis has recently enacted two important bills aimed at curbing squatters’ rights in Florida. Effective July 1, these laws address issues concerning unauthorized occupants in commercial properties and strengthen hotel and motel owners’ rights against non-paying guests. Senator Ana Maria Rodriguez championed SB 322, which introduces expedited eviction procedures for commercial property owners, thus providing a more streamlined process for reclaiming their properties without prolonged legal battles.
SB 606 clarifies the status of guests in transient accommodations, ensuring that guests are considered transient unless stated otherwise in a written agreement. Both bills mandate that written notice be given to squatters and allow for notifications via email, text message, or printed forms, enhancing the ability to reach them effectively.
Under these newly enacted laws, squatters can face criminal charges, including up to a first-degree felony, if they attempt to authorize or lease properties linked to criminal activities.
MIAMI REALTORS® remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting the interests of South Florida property owners. Their advocacy team has also actively engaged at the national level, as exemplified by their recent visit to Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., alongside leaders from the National Association of REALTORS®. During this visit on June 2 and 3, MIAMI leaders met with key Congressional members to discuss issues related to homeownership, private property rights, and sensible real estate policies.
With the collective efforts of MIAMI’s 110 leaders across six boards, the organization continues to promote the interests of the real estate industry through various channels, including its annual advocacy day in Tallahassee during the Great American Realtor Days.
Since 1969, the Realtors Political Action Committee (RPAC) has supported the election of pro-REALTOR candidates nationwide. The PAC’s mission focuses on raising and allocating funds to elect candidates who understand and champion REALTORS®’ interests, relying on voluntary contributions from its members.
Danielle Blake serves as the chief of residential and advocacy for MIAMI REALTORS®, while Ana Maria Rodriguez takes on the role of chief of strategic initiatives.
image source from：southfloridaagentmagazine
