S & J Journal

Florida Realtors reported a list of changes to Florida laws that went into effect this past Monday: Residential Landlord and Tenant Act Several changes were made including a change to the disclosure language landlords who rent five or more dwelling units are required to give. While the law becomes effective July 1, use of the revised disclosure is not mandatory until Jan. 1, 2014. Renting with a Homestead Exemption A “safe harbor” written into the law allows people to rent their homestead up to 30 days a year without losing the homestead exemption. However, rentals that exceed 30 days for two consecutive years jeopardize the homestead exemption in year two. Citizens Property Insurance A new rule requires all new applicants to go through a clearinghouse to establish if they’re eligible for Citizen’s coverage. Taking Ownership of an Abandoned House A claim of adverse possession now requires 1) payment of all outstanding taxes and liens levied by the state, county...