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With the state budget finalized, leaders in Florida’s real estate industry say both the 2026 Legislative Session and subsequent budget Special Session are poised to deliver opportunity for the state’s property owners, homebuyers and entire real estate ecosystem.
In particular, the recently passed budget that’s awaiting Gov. Ron DeSantis’ signature contains positive news for homeownership. Florida Realtors, the 230,000-member trade association that advocates for real estate professionals, consumers and property rights across the state, calls the budget a meaningful step toward a more affordable and resilient Florida.
“Florida Realtors applauds Florida lawmakers for concluding the 2026 budget special session with a spending plan that continues to support housing affordability, protect property owners and safeguard the natural resources that make our state a place so many people want to call home,” said Chuck Bonfiglio, the group’s 2026 President.
Housing investments lead the list. Lawmakers ultimately added $50 million to the Hometown Heroes Housing Program, which helps teachers, healthcare workers, first responders and other eligible first-time buyers with down payments and closing costs.
“More money for Hometown Heroes helps hardworking Floridians in our communities get past what is often the biggest hurdle to homeownership: the upfront cost,” Bonfiglio said. “A little help with the down payment and closing costs is often what turns a steady paycheck into a set of keys, giving more first-time buyers the chance to build real equity and live in the communities they serve.”
Lawmakers put $236.5 million toward state and local affordable housing, including $165.7 million for the State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) and $70.8 million for the State Apartment Incentive Loan (SAIL), expanding ownership assistance at the community level and growing the supply of affordable rentals.
The budget also reverts roughly $405 million in unused funds to the My Safe Florida Home ($378 million) and My Safe Florida Condominium ($27 million) programs, helping owners harden their homes and buildings against hurricanes and lower their insurance premiums.
Another $1.7 billion goes to the Everglades and water quality, an investment Florida Realtors says is one of the primary drivers for people choosing to live in Florida.
“No one moves to Florida for the mountains. They come here for our beautiful beaches, amazing lakes and other natural wonders that make our state so unique. Thankfully, we have lawmakers who recognize that and are investing accordingly,” Bonfiglio said.
The Legislature has protected private property rights in recent years by combating home, commercial property and vacation rental squatters. This Session, lawmakers continued those efforts by making it a felony to occupy a rental using forged documents or a false identity and letting landlords quickly remove anyone who gains access through fraud (HB 1293).
Another bill modernizes an existing property tax disclosure that brings additional transparency to prospective homebuyers. It requires public-facing online property listing platforms and websites to display estimated property taxes or link to the local property appraiser’s website (HB 7031E).
The wins reach across the market: Families get help buying and protecting their homes, professionals see stronger protections in their day-to-day work, and a sector responsible for roughly a quarter of Florida’s economy gains a fresh vote of confidence.
“These are meaningful steps toward a more affordable and resilient Florida, where families can put down roots, property owners are protected and the nation’s leading real estate market continues to create opportunity,” Bonfiglio said. “Florida Realtors and our 230,000 members thank the Legislature for keeping Florida moving forward.”
As for property taxes, the next decision belongs to voters. Lawmakers approved HJR 1-F, a proposed constitutional amendment that would expand homestead exemptions and adjust how non-homestead properties are assessed. It will appear on the November General Election ballot and must win at least 60% approval to take effect.
The post Florida’s 2026 Sessions deliver wins for homeowners as budget heads to Governor appeared first on Florida Politics – Campaigns & Elections. Lobbying & Government..
