Back Home2026 Hurricane Preparedness Guide
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Boca Raton real estate
Holiday Home Safety Tips
To ensure holiday home safety, focus on fire prevention by keeping decorations away from heat sources, inspecting electrical lights, and watering Christmas trees. Additionally, boost security by locking all doors and windows, not displaying gifts in plain sight, and making your home appear occupied when you’re away.
Fire and Decoration Safety:
- Electrical: Inspect all holiday lights and electrical cords for damage. Replace any broken lights, and never overload circuits.
- Decorations: Keep all decorations, especially those made of fabric, away from heat sources like fireplaces, heaters, and candles. Whenever possible, choose those made with flame-resistant, flame-retardant and non-combustible materials. Avoid trimmings that resemble candy and food that may tempt a young child to put them in his mouth.
- Candles: Never leave burning candles unattended. Extinguish them before sleeping or leaving a room. Keep candles away from decorations and other combustible materials, and do not use candles to decorate Christmas trees.
- Christmas trees: Keep live trees at least three feet away from heat sources, and keep the tree stand filled with water. Dispose of dried-out trees promptly. Never use electric lights on a metallic tree. The tree can become charged with electricity from faulty lights, and a person touching a branch could be electrocuted.
- Lights: Before using lights outdoors, check labels to be sure they have been certified for outdoor use. Plug all outdoor electric decorations into circuits with ground-fault circuit interrupters to avoid potential shocks. Turn off all lights when you go to bed or leave the house. The lights could short out and start a fire.
- Fire safety equipment: Ensure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and that your fire extinguisher is up-to-date.
Children and Pet Safety:
- Poinsettias are known to be poisonous to humans and animals, so keep them well out of reach, or avoid having them.
- Avoid decorations that resemble candy and food that may tempt a young child to put them in his mouth.
- Keep decorations at least 6 inches above the child’s reach.
- Avoid using tinsel. It can fall on the floor and a curious child or pet may eat it. This can cause anything from mild distress to death.
- Keep any ribbons on gifts and tree ornaments shorter than 7 inches. A child could wrap a longer strand of ribbon around their neck and choke.
- Store scissors and any sharp objects that you use to wrap presents out of your child’s reach.
- Lock up: Always lock all doors and windows when you leave, even for short periods. Double-check all entry points, including basement access and the garage.
- Conceal valuables: Do not display gifts in windows where they can be seen from the outside. After the holidays, break down expensive gift boxes before putting them out for trash collection.
- Create occupancy: Use timers for indoor and outdoor lights to make the house look occupied when you’re away.
- Outdoor security: Consider installing motion-sensing lights or a video doorbell for extra security.
- Deliveries: Securely store delivered packages, or ask a neighbor to collect them if you are away. Don’t leave them sitting on your porch.
Smart Home Checklist for Homebuyers
When purchasing a home with smart home technology, it is import for your Realtor to include a list of every item that conveys with the sale of the property in the sales contract. This includes everything from motorized shades to pool equipment and everything in between. Brand and models should be identified and any exclusions listed in detail to avoid any unexpected surprises at walk-through.
Some common devices include:
- Motorized shades/blinds (confirm number of units)
- Smart thermostats (e.g., Nest, Ecobee)
- Smart lighting systems (e.g., Philips Hue, Contol4, Lutron)
- Smart speakers (e.g., Sonos, Amazon Echo, Google Home)
- Smart doorbells (e.g., Ring, Nest)
- Smart security cameras (confirm number of units)
- Smart locks (ensure all keypads and physical keys are included)
- Smart garage door openers
- Pool equipment with smart features like automated cleaners, heaters, lighting, and more
Account Transfers and App Setup:
Once a smart home is sold, the new owner will need to take over the existing devices by linking them to their own accounts. Before closing, the seller should:
- Remove their accounts from all smart devices
- Reset all devices to factory settings
- Provide transfer instructions or QR codes to easily link the devices to the new owner’s accounts
- Release control of any associated apps (e.g., for smart speakers, doorbells, security systems, and pool equipment)
This step ensures that the buyer can smoothly take control of the home’s systems without relying on the previous owner’s settings or subscriptions.
It would be nice if the Sellers transfer any manuals and instructions. but in today’s world, everything is online and very little printed materials convey anymore. UTube is an excellent “how to” resource as well.
No devices ccan be set-up until you have internet and WIFI access. Make sure this is one of the first appointments you schedule post-closing.
Device Warranties & Service Contracts:
A smart home can come with long-term service agreements and warranties that should be transferred to the new owner. Sellers should:
- Transfer any active warranties or service contracts for smart devices and pool equipment to the buyer.
- Provide details on any subscriptions or paid services (e.g., security monitoring, cloud storage for cameras, or pool maintenance) and confirm when they expire or transfer.
By ensuring these contracts are smoothly handed over, the buyer will have peace of mind knowing that their new devices are fully supported.
Final Walkthrough: Test & Handover:
Before the sale is finalized, the seller or their listing agent should demonstrate how key smart devices work during the final walkthrough. This includes:
- Demonstrating how to control motorized shades, cameras, and audio systems
- Testing pool equipment, such as heaters, lighting, or automated cleaners
- Handing over physical remotes, control panels, and keypads related to smart systems
A hands-on demonstration is the best way to ensure that buyers feel confident using their new smart home features.
June Key Home Buying Trends
Florida Consumer Sentiment Climbs Again
Economic sentiment rose 3.1 points to 84.1 in June, with all five index components improving. The biggest gains were in views of personal finances.
Two New Property Insurers Approved
Two more property insurers have been approved to operate in Florida, bringing the total to 14 since recent reforms. Officials say the market is stabilizing.
Florida Sees Surge in Commercial Real Estate
Fueled by population gains, tax advantages and a strong economy, commercial real estate investment is rising across the state, experts say.
Florida Leads in International Home Sales
International buyers purchased 78,100 U.S. homes over 12 months, reflecting a 33.2% jump from the year before and the first increase since 2017.
Luxury Market Stronger Than Ever
Industry leaders say the high-end market, particularly for homes priced above $10M, is continuing to gain strength, with all-cash deals the norm.
Florida Sees Shift in New-Home Prices
Florida is among the top states seeing new construction price declines, creating potential opportunities for buyers as builders adjust to market conditions.
Florida Ranks High Among 2025 Movers
Florida continues to attract new residents, particularly Baby Boomers, in 2025, thanks to warm weather, no income tax and affordability.
Mortgage Giants to Count Crypto as Asset
Homebuyers may soon be able to use crypto as part of their mortgage qualifications, under a new order for federally backed loan programs.
Insurance Reforms Stabilizing Florida Market
A Florida consumer group says recent reforms have reduced litigation, lowered Citizens’ policies and attracted new insurers, helping stabilize the market.
Rate, Home Price Growth Forecasts Lowered
Fannie Mae now sees slower home price growth and slightly lower mortgage rates through 2026, with modest gains expected in overall home sales.
U.S. Home Prices Down 0.2% in May
The FHFA said prices are up 2.8% from last year across the United States. In the South Atlantic census division, which includes Florida, home prices increased 1.4%.
U.S. Consumer Confidence Improves in July
Americans remain concerned about tariffs, but confidence rose two points to 97.2 in July, up from 95.2 the previous month.
New Home Construction Advice
It’s important to understand when buying new construction, that the builder’s agent is primarily focused on securing the best deal for the builder, often at the expense of the homebuyer. Their role is to persuade you to purchase their homes at the highest price with minimal concessions. In contrast, as your Exclusive Buyer Agent, Optima Properties is dedicated to leveling the playing field.
Our mission is to advocate for your best interests, ensuring that you receive the best possible terms for your home purchase. We are here to negotiate on your behalf, providing you with the knowledge and strategies necessary to navigate this complex process with confidence. While the builder’s agent is legally bound to represent the builder, we prioritize your needs and work tirelessly to make your home buying experience smooth and enjoyable.
Benefits of Using an Exclusive Buyer Agent for New Construction:
- Compare and evaluate builders’ reputations and history of their construction quality and service
- Help you compare and evaluate advantages and disadvantages of new construction homes vs. resale homes
- Provide information about the community and compare and contrast with other new construction communities
- Help buyer evaluate which options should be done by the developer during construction and which are more affordable to be done by an outside vendor post-closing.
- Assist with design and structural selections that will optimize future resale value and livability.
- Assist buyer evaluate the selection of a building lot and options. Lot location and certain options have a direct correlation to resale value.
- Truly negotiate on behalf of the buyer. Many builders are offering “free” options and upgrades, but some are also making additional price concessions.
- Review the Agreement of Sale (PA) prior to buyer signing. This is not a legal review (only an attorney can do that), but an experienced agent will be able to spot terms and conditions that are atypical and of potential concern to the buyer. The agent may then be able to negotiate terms and conditions that are more favorable to the buyer but still acceptable to the builder. Keep in mind most new construction contracts are written by attorneys that represent the developer and these contracts are therefore heavily weighted in favor of the builder.
- Recommend a real estate attorney for final contract, title commitment and to hold your escrow funds.
- A buyer’s agent serves as an extra set of ears as a witness at court or arbitration – When the builders sales representative is familiar with all rules, features and prices and it’s all new to buyer – it is good to have experienced person on buyer’s side listening with buyer and taking notes, a lot of information is verbalized in short period of time.
- Attend the signing of the Agreement of Sale
- Assist with the buyer’s financing and review financing paperwork. This is especially important if the builder is tying “free” options and upgrades to the use of a builder-affiliated lender.
- Check on the property during construction and keep a photo record at different stages.
- Be your leverage with the builder as problems arise during construction
- Keep everything in writing – Sometimes even the very nicest builder makes verbal promises that later become a point of contention. An experienced buyer’s agent is conditioned and trained to “put it in writing” even though at the time it doesn’t seem necessary.
- Arrange for a final inspection with a license building inspector and generate a “punch list” to be completed before final closing.
- Document and help resolve any issues with construction, financing, title, etc. throughout the process.
- Attend a pre-settlement walkthrough with the buyer to make sure that all items are satisfactorily completed or that a proper punch list is established to assure completion after settlement
- Obtain and review a preliminary HUD-1 settlement statement to be sure it is accurate and advise the buyer of the amount needed for settlement.
- Assist buyer with utilities, insurance, security and HOA requirements, decorators, service professionals, schools, et. al.
- Attend final walk-through and settlement with the buyer.
- A buyer’s agent will be there even after the home closes. It is routine for issues to arise during the first year of a new home. Site agents tend to forget a buyer’s name after the contract is signed.
But it’s important to remember the process of working with a builder is different than buying from a homeowner. And, while builders typically have sales agents on-site, having your own agent helps make sure you have proper representation throughout your home buying journey.
Preparing For A Relocation
Most people relocate to South Florida for a few reasons. Retirement, job opportunity, second home, tax savings, lifestyle, and to be closer to family to name just a few.
Relocating to a new state or region can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to settling into an unfamiliar community. Whether you’ve moved locally before or this is your first big relocation, there’s more to it than just packing boxes and changing addresses. Finding the right city or neighborhood will make all the difference in your satisfaction with your decisions.
Here are a few key tips to help make the relocation transition smoother, from using online resources to connecting with locals, so you can start feeling at home before you even move.
If you have moved locally before, you know the bureaucracy that comes with every move:
- Change your address on your driver’s license and other ID
- Register to vote, if you are a citizen or becoming a Florida resident
- Move your utility services to the new location
- File a post office change of address
- Register your children in the local school
- Find new doctors…and more
Just like when you are moving locally, there will be lifestyle activities that you should explore before moving:
- What is the commute between work and home, school and home?
- Does the new location have access to activities you enjoy now?
- Where are the religious or social centers like those you belong to now?
How to explore potential places that I’ll enjoy in the new region.
Use Internet Resources: Start by seeking out the types of local information you rely on now, but specific to your new location.
Explore online news outlets like THE PATCH or local newspapers. Join local social media groups, which often give a sense of the community. Just like in your current area, you’ll find a mix of people—some helpful, some not—but these groups can offer valuable insights.
Check out religious and cultural organizations that align with your interests. Their websites often list their mission and activities calendars, which can help you connect with like-minded people even before you arrive. Many also offer newsletters or online communication platforms that are great for staying in the loop. Research schools, crime statistics, demographic information, weather and more to fully understand how a move will impact your way of life.
Networking: Start by asking friends, family, or colleagues if they know anyone in your new area. Personal introductions can be invaluable in helping you get settled and learn more about your new community.
Pre-move Vacation: Consider spending a week or two in your new town or city to get a feel for the place. Use this time to meet with people who can assist with your move and try out activities you already enjoy—whether it’s sports, theater, religious services, hiking, or even attending a local event. Engaging in these activities will help you connect with locals and give you a sense of whether the area aligns with your lifestyle.
Consider a Two-Step Move: Evaluate whether it’s less stressful to rent for a year before buying a home. Each approach has its own benefits, costs, and challenges. Renting allows you to test the waters, while buying right away offers a sense of permanence—but either way, the decision should be based on your comfort level and finances.
Develop a Relationship with a Local Exclusive Buyer’s Agent: A local exclusive buyer’s agent is a valuable resource when moving to a new area. They have in-depth knowledge of the region and can guide you to community activities and resources that will ease your transition. Their expertise can help you navigate your home search while also connecting you with local networks.
Preparing For A Relocation
People relocate to South Florida for a few reasons; retirement, job opportunity, second home, tax savings, lifestyle, and to be closer to family to name just a few.
Relocating to a new state or region can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to settling into an unfamiliar community. Whether you’ve moved locally before or this is your first big relocation, there’s more to it than just packing boxes and changing addresses. Finding the right city or neighborhood will make all the difference in your satisfaction with your decisions.
Here are a few key tips to help make the transition smoother, from using online resources to connecting with locals, so you can start feeling at home before you even relocate.
If you have moved locally before, you know the bureaucracy that comes with every move:
- Change your address on your driver’s license and other ID
- Register to vote, if you are a citizen or becoming a Florida resident
- Move your utility services to the new location
- File a post office change of address
- Register your children in the local school
- Find new doctors…and more
Just like when you are moving locally, there will be lifestyle activities that you should explore before moving:
- What is the commute between work and home, school and home?
- Does the new location have access to activities you enjoy now?
- Where are the religious or social centers like those you belong to now?
How to explore potential places that I’ll enjoy in the new region.
Use Internet Resources: Start by seeking out the types of local information you rely on now, but specific to your new location.
Explore online news outlets like THE PATCH or local newspapers. Join local social media groups, which often give a sense of the community. Just like in your current area, you’ll find a mix of people—some helpful, some not—but these groups can offer valuable insights.
Check out religious and cultural organizations that align with your interests. Their websites often list their mission and activities calendars, which can help you connect with like-minded people even before you arrive. Many also offer newsletters or online communication platforms that are great for staying in the loop. Research schools, crime statistics, demographic information, weather and more to fully understand how a move will impact your way of life.
Networking: Start by asking friends, family, or colleagues if they know anyone in your new area. Personal introductions can be invaluable in helping you get settled and learn more about your new community.
Pre-move Vacation: Consider spending a week or two in your new town or city to get a feel for the place. Use this time to meet with people who can assist with your move and try out activities you already enjoy—whether it’s sports, theater, religious services, hiking, or even attending a local event. Engaging in these activities will help you connect with locals and give you a sense of whether the area aligns with your lifestyle.
Consider a Two-Step Move: Evaluate whether it’s less stressful to rent for a year before buying a home. Each approach has its own benefits and challenges. Renting allows you to test the waters, while buying right away offers a sense of permanence—but either way, the decision should be based on your comfort level and finances.
Develop a Relationship with a Local Exclusive Buyer’s Agent: A local exclusive buyer’s agent is a valuable resource when moving to a new area. They have in-depth knowledge of the region and can guide you to community activities and resources that will ease your transition. Their expertise can help you navigate your home search while also connecting you with local networks.
HB-1049:New Flood Insurance Disclosure Requirement
A new Florida law requires people who sell their home must disclose to buyers if they’ve ever filed a flood insurance claim or received federal assistance related to flood damage. It currently applies to homeowners and excludes landlords.
Before HB-1049, property owners and real estate agents selling homes in Florida did not have to tell buyers about a property’s risk for flooding.
It is no secret that Florida has a history of extreme weather and flooding. Nevertheless, sellers were not required to disclose the flood tendencies and risks associated with their homes prior to October 1, 2024. Enter HB 1049, which bridges this gap by requiring explicit flood disclosures in real property sales.
Sellers must inform buyers of the following:
- Flood insurance disclaimer. The form clarifies that homeowners’ insurance does not cover flood-related damage and encourages buyers to secure separate flood insurance.
- Flood claims and assistance. Sellers must disclose whether they have filed claims or received federal assistance for flood damage, including from FEMA or the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
For the purposes of the disclosure, the bill defines “flooding” as the general or temporary overflow of inland or tidal waters, surface water accumulation, or sustained standing water from rain.
Property insurance and flood insurance are two separate policies. I have always advised my clients to purchase flood insurance regardless of whether or not their home is in a FEMA designated flood zone. Weather in Florida is unpredictable and with climate change, more areas that never were prone to flooding can now be in a situation where there is historical rain fall in a short period of time. Since we are at sea level, there is no place for the water to quickly disburse and will rise in the streets and lakes.
HB 1049 signals a change in the tides for the Florida real estate market, offering buyers a clearer view of potential flood risks and fostering much-needed transparency in residential property sales.
Renovations With a Strong Return on Investment
Renovations that make homeowners and residents of a home happy are always worth the investment. Though it’s certainly true that projects that create more functional, usable space and add comfort and convenience are worth the price, such renovations are even more beneficial if they provide a good return on homeowners’ financial investment ( ROI).
Returns on investment (ROI) are often cashed in when homeowners put their homes up for sale, and each year Remodeling magazine releases its “Cost vs. Value Report,” which considers a wealth of data across the United States to determine which renovations return the highest percentage of homeowners’ financial investment.
According to the “2024 Cost vs. Value Report,” the following are projects that provide a strong return on investment (ROI):
Enhance curb appeal:First impressions matter, so improving your home’s curb appeal can significantly impact its value. Simple upgrades such as landscaping, exterior painting, and installing a new entry door can make a substantial difference. According to industry experts, enhancing curb appeal can yield an ROI of up to 200%.
Garage door replacement: The average job cost for this project is slightly more than $4,500 but the project is valued at $8,751, providing an especially high 194% ROI.
Steel door replacement: Remodeling magazine notes that a steel entry door replacement is worth double what it was worth in 2023. This project offers a 188% ROI on an average investment of $2,355.
Manufactured stone veneer: A manufactured stone veneer is a man-made product that appears as if it’s natural stone. Many homeowners prefer manufactured stone veneer to natural stone because of the price, as the former is less expensive and easier to install, which means lower labor costs as well. The comparatively low cost of manufactured stone veneer is perhaps one reason why it averages a roughly 153% ROI on an average cost of just more than $11,000.
Minor kitchen remodel: According to the “2024 U.S. Houzz & Home Study” from Houzz Research, kitchens were the most popular rooms to renovate in 2023. There’s no denying the appeal of a newly renovated kitchen, and homeowners considering such a project may be happy to learn that a minor kitchen remodel that costs an average of around $27,000 provides a 96% ROI.
Renovate bathrooms:Bathrooms are another high-impact area for home improvements. Remodeling a bathroom can provide a return on investment of around 81% for an addition and approximately 71% for a complete renovation.
Simple upgrades to bathroom fixtures can also go a long way in improving your home’s value. Consider replacing outdated faucets, showerheads, and toilets with modern, water-efficient options. This improvement offers a high return on investment and enhances your bathroom’s overall look and functionality.
Roof Replacement: A well-maintained roof is essential for any home and replacing an old or damaged roof can significantly increase its value. Additionally, a new roof provides peace of mind for potential buyers. Roof replacements offer a high return on investment, with homeowners recouping the entire cost.
Install Smart home and Home Security Technology: Smart home technology is becoming increasingly popular among homeowners. Integrating features such as smart thermostats, lighting systems, and security cameras can enhance the appeal and value of your home. Smart home features offer a return on investment of up to 10%.
Investing in smart home security measures will enhance your peace of mind and increase your home’s value. Upgrades such as motion sensor lighting and sturdy locks can make your home more attractive to potential buyers. Smart thermostats are becoming increasingly popular, as they offer several benefits, such as energy savings and remote control. Installing a smart thermostat can increase the value of your home by up to 3%.
When considering home improvements in Florida, focusing on projects that offer the best return on investment is crucial. Enhancing curb appeal, upgrading key areas such as the kitchen and bathroom, and investing in energy-efficient features are all smart choices. Strategic improvements can increase your home’s value and attract potential buyers in the competitive Florida real estate market. Remember to consult with local professionals to ensure that you choose improvements that align with the preferences and needs of Florida homebuyers.
Kim N. Bregman