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SE Florida Market Snapshot – February 2026
Market Trends in SE Florida
The real estate market is adjusting. With the fluctuation in property inventory, SE Florida is leaning towards a “buyer’s market”. Seller’s are now reassessing their asking price on their properties for sale. It is crucial to examine other similar homes on the market to establish an aggressive original listing price, generating multiple buyer’s attention to your property. This is also an important time to consider a decrease in asking price if the property has been on the market without active offers. I welcome any discussions you may want to have regarding your neighborhood trends. Please reach out to chat, even if you are not ready to buy or sell, but just would like to discuss current real estate updates. Here are the Market Snapshots reflecting the last month (compared to the same month last year) for the following areas:
- Fort Lauderdale
- Wilton Manors
- Hollywood
- Dania Beach
- Hallandale Beach
These take into account all property types (Single Family Homes/Condos/Townhomes).
The real estate landscape in South Florida is evolving. Making smart, timely decisions has never been more important. Whether you’re considering selling, buying, or simply staying informed, I’m here to be your local advisor and resource.
Let’s talk about current market trends and how we can align your goals with today’s opportunities. I’d be happy to provide customized market reports for Fort Lauderdale, any SE Florida city, or even your specific neighborhood—all automatically delivered to your inbox.
Call or email me anytime. I’m here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
CONTACT ANNETTE
Let’s start working together!
Annette Dammeyer, REALTOR®, ABR®, AHWD®
Coldwell Banker Realty
901 E Las Olas Blvd STE 101, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
808.747.3686
SL 3535792
Homeowner Flood Guide: Broward County
Understanding Flooding in Southeast Florida: What Fort Lauderdale and Surrounding Homeowners Need to Know (2026 Guide)
Flooding has always been part of life in Southeast Florida—but recent climate shifts, updated FEMA flood maps, and major changes to flood insurance are now reshaping what it means to own a home here. Whether you’re a long‑time local or a recent transplant to Fort Lauderdale, understanding your flood risk and insurance options is essential for protecting your home and financial security.
This guide brings together the latest information on flooding concerns, insurance changes, FEMA map updates, and how to find your flood zone, along with links to official tools and local contacts.
1. Why Flooding Is Getting Worse in Southeast Florida
Compound Flooding Is Now the New Normal
A groundbreaking Broward County study revealed that flooding in our region is no longer caused by rainfall alone. Today, rainfall, rising seas, king tides, and even groundwater rising from below combine to create compound flooding—leading to more widespread and frequent water intrusion in neighborhoods that previously stayed dry.
Many drainage canals—some more than 80 years old—can no longer drain effectively during high tides, causing backups inland and making even light rainstorms more disruptive.
Aging Infrastructure Is Falling Behind
South Florida’s flood control system was designed decades ago to manage 7–12 inches of rain in 24 hours—conditions that no longer reflect today’s climate realities. Annual flood risk in vulnerable areas has increased from under 4% to over 20%, meaning homeowners face significantly higher odds of experiencing flooding each year.
2. How Flooding Affects Fort Lauderdale Homeowners
Flooding impacts more than just the structure—it affects your home’s value, insurance costs, and long‑term financial stability.
Common Types of Damage
- Foundation cracking and settlement
- Electrical and HVAC system failure
- Mold growth from prolonged moisture
- Damage to pools, landscaping, and seawalls
- Repeated standing water affecting driveways and garages
Even neighborhoods on “high ground” have reported rising groundwater flooding, especially after large storms.
3. Flood Insurance in 2026: What’s Changed
Risk Rating 2.0: FEMA’s New Pricing Model
Flood insurance pricing is no longer dictated solely by flood zones. Under Risk Rating 2.0, premiums now reflect a property’s individual flood risk based on:
- Distance to water
- First‑floor elevation
- Flood frequency and severity
- Cost to rebuild
While some homeowners have seen premiums decrease, others—particularly in coastal or high-value areas—are experiencing annual increases of up to 18% (the legal cap).
NFIP (National Flood Insurance Program) Highlights for Florida
- Roughly two-thirds of older pre‑FIRM (Flood Insurance Rate Maps) homes see some premium decrease.
- Higher‑value homes or homes near tidal waters tend to see increases.
Growing Popularity of Private Flood Insurance
Private insurers can sometimes offer:
- Higher coverage limits
- Additional living expense coverage
- More flexible pricing
For many Fort Lauderdale homes—especially condos and waterfront properties—private flood insurance is now worth comparing.
3A. Understanding Flood Insurance: “Seeping” vs. Water Damage
Flood insurance can feel confusing, especially when terms like “water damage,” “seepage,” “intrusion,” or “flood loss” are used interchangeably. Here’s a clear, homeowner‑friendly explanation of how these concepts usually play out in policies:
What Flood Insurance Typically Covers
Flood insurance—whether through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer—is designed primarily to protect you from sudden, temporary, external flooding events, such as:
- Water rising from outside the home
- Street or neighborhood flooding after heavy rainfall
- Canal, lake, or Intracoastal overflow
- King tides and storm surge pushing water inland
In short: flood insurance focuses on unexpected flooding caused by natural events, not long‑term maintenance issues.
What “Seepage” Usually Means
“Seepage” (also called gradual intrusion or slow water penetration) refers to moisture that enters over time—for example:
- Water wicking through foundation cracks
- Dampness around windows/doors due to aging seals
- Groundwater slowly migrating into slabs, garages, or crawlspaces
- Humidity/condensation‑related moisture
Most policies treat slow seepage as a maintenance issue, which is generally not covered—either by standard homeowners insurance or by flood insurance.
Flood Damage vs. Seepage: The Key Difference
- ✔️ Flood damage (often covered): A sudden event with a definable cause (e.g., a storm, surge, or rapid accumulation) that affects the area around you—not just your home.
- ❌ Seepage (often excluded): A gradual process linked to property condition or site drainage, not a single, sudden weather event.
Why This Matters in Southeast Florida
Because our region features high groundwater and porous limestone, homes may experience both sudden flooding and slow moisture intrusion. Knowing the difference helps you:
- Ask the right questions when buying or renewing coverage
- Avoid claim surprises tied to “gradual damage” exclusions
- Target maintenance (grading, sealing, drainage) that reduces moisture risks
Practical Steps to Reduce Seepage Risks
- Reseal windows/doors and repair stucco or slab cracks
- Maintain gutters and extend downspouts away from the foundation
- Regrade soil to slope away from the house
- Consider French drains, sump pumps, vapor barriers, or waterproof membranes
Pro tip: Document your maintenance (photos/receipts). Good records can support your claim when a sudden flood event does occur.
(Note: Policy terms vary. Always review your declarations and endorsements with a licensed agent for specifics.)
4. FEMA Flood Map Updates: Broward County & Fort Lauderdale
New FEMA Maps Effective July 31, 2024
Broward County residents are now subject to updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), which expanded the Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) and adjusted many Base Flood Elevations (BFEs).
In Hollywood alone, over 11,000 properties were newly placed into high‑risk zones, requiring flood insurance for federally backed mortgages and mandating higher construction elevations.
What This Means for You
If your home’s zone changed, you may now:
- Be required to carry flood insurance
- Face higher premiums
- Need elevation documentation for remodeling or rebuilding
Checking your updated zone is crucial (see links below).
5. How to Find Your Flood Zone (Step‑By‑Step)
Below are the official, most accurate tools available to Broward County and Fort Lauderdale homeowners.
A. Fort Lauderdale GIS Flood Zone App (City Tool)
This is one of the best local tools for residents:
👉 https://www.fortlauderdale.gov/government/departments-a-h/development-services/building-services/flood/flood-risk-information
Use it to:
- Look up flood zones by address
- View local SFHAs
- Download zone information for insurance or permitting
B. Broward County Flood Zone Map (County Tool)
For countywide 2024 FEMA maps:
👉 https://www.broward.org/Environment/FloodZoneMaps/Pages/Default.aspx
Includes:
- Updated maps effective July 31, 2024
- Contact information for your Community Floodplain Manager
C. FEMA Flood Map Service Center (National Tool)
Use FEMA’s official link to search your exact address:
👉 https://msc.fema.gov/portal/search
This is the definitive source lenders use for mortgage requirements.
D. Broward County FEMA 2024 Interactive Map (Experience Builder App)
Offers parcel‑specific BFEs and legacy/comparison maps:
👉 https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/8dfc61c972e148f8b12953ddffe299c9/
6. Who to Contact for Help (Local & Federal)
Fort Lauderdale Floodplain Group
Email: PCardenas@FortLauderdale.gov
Great for:
- Flood zone questions
- Elevation certificates
- Flood risk reports
Broward County Community Floodplain Manager
Found via the county’s flood map site:
👉 https://www.broward.org/Environment/FloodZoneMaps/Pages/Default.aspx
FEMA Mapping & Insurance Exchange
Phone: 1‑877‑336‑2627
Email: FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com
Your Local Insurance Agent
Ideal for comparing NFIP vs. private flood insurance pricing. (I have excellent referrals if needed.)
7. How to Prepare Your Home for Flooding
Elevate Utilities & Equipment
FEMA now recommends (and some insurers require) that HVAC units, electrical panels, and batteries be elevated at least one foot above the BFE (Base Flood Elevation).
Improve Drainage
- Keep gutters and downspouts clear
- Install French drains or sump pumps
- Ensure grading slopes away from the home
Use Flood‑Resistant Materials
Especially during renovations—this can reduce your claim risk and insurance costs.
Store Documents Safely
Keep insurance documents and IDs in waterproof containers or digital cloud storage.
8. Final Thoughts for Our SE Florida Community
Flooding in Southeast Florida is evolving quickly—but with the right information, preparation, and insurance strategy, homeowners can stay ahead of the risk. Understanding your flood zone, reviewing updated FEMA maps, and comparing insurance options are some of the most important steps you can take to protect your home and your long-term financial stability.
As a local experienced real estate professional, my goal is to empower our community with the knowledge we all need to protect our homes, our investments, and our peace of mind. Flooding is a growing reality in Southeast Florida, but staying informed puts you one step ahead. I’m always here to help—whether you’d like guidance understanding your flood zone, need trusted resources, or want to explore how these changes may affect your property. Please feel free to reach out anytime; it would be my pleasure to support you and our beautiful coastal community.
CONTACT ANNETTE
Let’s start working together!
Annette Dammeyer, REALTOR®, ABR®, AHWD®
Coldwell Banker Realty
901 E Las Olas Blvd STE 101, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
808.747.3686
SL 3535792
File Your 2026 Homestead Exemption by March 2nd
📌 🟥 Deadline to File Your 2026 Homestead Exemption
-
Timely Filing: March 2, 2026
-
Late Filing Window: Until September 18, 2026 (THIS IS THE FINAL DEADLINE)
✅ Who Qualifies?
- You must own and occupy your property as your permanent residence as of January 1, 2026.
- Florida residents are eligible for up to $50,000 in assessed value exemption:
- First $25,000 applies to all property taxes
- Additional $25,000 applies to non-school taxes
🧾 Required Documents to File
Be prepared to submit the following with your application:
- Proof of Ownership: Deed, closing statement, or proprietary lease
- Proof of Permanent Residency: As of January 1 – your primary residence
- Identification:
- Florida Driver’s License or ID
- Valid Voter Registration or alternative Address Declaration
- For non-citizens: documents to establish permanent residency
- Additional documentation (if requested): Social Security number(s), previous state ID, proof of vehicle registration, utility bills, etc.
🌐 How to File
File online through the Broward County Property Appraiser’s website:
🔗 https://web.bcpa.net
Alternatively, file in person or by mail at the Property Appraiser’s office in downtown Fort Lauderdale. Be sure to bring all required documentation or submit the scanned copies when filing online.
⚠️ Why It’s Critical
- ☑️ Immediate Savings on your property tax bill
- 📉 Long-Term Protection under the “Save Our Homes” cap (limits annual assessed value increases to 3%)
- 💡 You must apply by March 2 for timely consideration — late filings accepted only through September 18
🔔 Act Now – Don’t Miss Out!
Ensure peace of mind and maximize your tax savings. If you’ve recently closed on a home in 2025, act quickly—your timely filing window is closing soon.
📞 For questions, contact the Broward County Property Appraiser at (954) 357-6830 or email mmartykiar@bcpa.net
📌 Reminder:
- 🟥 Timely deadline: March 2, 2026
- 🟥 Final deadline (late filing only): September 18, 2026
Secure your financial benefit today! 💸
Filing for your Florida Homestead Exemption is a smart step toward protecting your investment and saving on property taxes. As your local real estate expert, I’m always here to help—whether you have questions about exemptions, buying or selling a home, or anything in between. Don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m just a call or message away and always happy to be a resource for you!
CONTACT ANNETTE
Let’s start working together!
Annette Dammeyer, REALTOR®, ABR®, AHWD®
Coldwell Banker Realty
901 E Las Olas Blvd STE 101, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
808.747.3686
SL 3535792
Fort Lauderdale January 2026 Area Report
Fort Lauderdale January 2026 real estate statistics have been published.
Fort Lauderdale Area Reports
Single Family Homes
Condominium & Townhouses
📊 Fort Lauderdale Market Snapshot — January 2026 Highlights
🏡 Single‑Family Homes
- Inventory is down sharply: New listings fell ~39% year over year, keeping supply tight.
- Prices continue to rise:
- Median sold price increased to $835,000 (+4.4% YoY).
- Average sold price climbed to $1.65M (+5.8% YoY).
- Homes are selling close to list price: Sellers received about 95% of list price on average.
- Market pace is steady:
- Median days on market: 48 days
- Average days on market improved to 71 days (faster than last year).
🏢 Condos & Townhomes
- Significant drop in new listings: Down ~44% year over year, tightening condo inventory.
- Strong price growth:
- Median sold price rose to $430,000 (+12.3% YoY).
- Average sold price jumped to $770,178 (+29% YoY).
- Sales volume slightly lower, but pricing remains resilient.
- Longer selling timeline:
- Average days on market increased to 112 days, indicating buyers are taking more time.
🔑 Overall Takeaway
- Low inventory + rising prices continue to define the Fort Lauderdale market.
- Sellers still hold an advantage, but pricing and presentation matter more than ever.
- Buyers face fewer choices, especially in desirable areas, reinforcing the importance of strategy and timing.
In this housing market in SE Florida, you need to work with an experienced and knowledgeable real estate professional. Please contact me if you would like to be sent updated market reports for YOUR specific neighborhood, Fort Lauderdale, or another SE Florida city. We can discuss the market, current trends and how we can work together to accomplish your real estate goals. I am here to help.
CONTACT ANNETTE
Let’s start working together!
Annette Dammeyer, REALTOR®, ABR®, AHWD®
Coldwell Banker Realty
901 E Las Olas Blvd STE 101, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
808.747.3686
SL 3535792
SE Florida Market Snapshot – January 2026
Market Trends in SE Florida
The real estate market is adjusting. With the fluctuation in property inventory, SE Florida is leaning towards a “buyer’s market”. Seller’s are now reassessing their asking price on their properties for sale. It is crucial to examine other similar homes on the market to establish an aggressive original listing price, generating multiple buyer’s attention to your property. This is also an important time to consider a decrease in asking price if the property has been on the market without active offers. I welcome any discussions you may want to have regarding your neighborhood trends. Please reach out to chat, even if you are not ready to buy or sell, but just would like to discuss current real estate updates. Here are the Market Snapshots reflecting the last month (compared to the same month last year) for the following areas:
- Fort Lauderdale
- Wilton Manors
- Hollywood
- Dania Beach
- Hallandale Beach
These take into account all property types (Single Family Homes/Condos/Townhomes).
The real estate landscape in South Florida is evolving. Making smart, timely decisions has never been more important. Whether you’re considering selling, buying, or simply staying informed, I’m here to be your local advisor and resource.
Let’s talk about current market trends and how we can align your goals with today’s opportunities. I’d be happy to provide customized market reports for Fort Lauderdale, any SE Florida city, or even your specific neighborhood—all automatically delivered to your inbox.
Call or email me anytime. I’m here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
CONTACT ANNETTE
Let’s start working together!
Annette Dammeyer, REALTOR®, ABR®, AHWD®
Coldwell Banker Realty
901 E Las Olas Blvd STE 101, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
808.747.3686
SL 3535792
February 2026 ~ Home Equity, Puppies and First Time Buyer Tips
February 2026 NewsletterWelcome to Your February 2026 Real Estate & Lifestyle Update!As we settle into February, I’m excited to share this month’s newsletter with my community—focused on helping you make smart, confident decisions at home and in real estate. In this edition, I break down the truth about home equity—what it can do for you and the risks to avoid—along with practical tips to puppy‑proof your home, ideas to declutter using minimalist design, and guidance on avoiding common first‑time home buying mistakes. As always, I’ve also included a local market reports so you stay informed on what’s really happening in our neighborhood real estate market. My goal is simple: to keep you educated, prepared, and empowered—whether you’re buying, selling, or simply planning ahead.
If you take part in it, have a Happy Valentine’s Day! |
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National Stories
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Real Estate Updates | Area Reports | December 2025
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CONTACT ANNETTE
Let’s start working together!
Annette Dammeyer, REALTOR®, ABR®, AHWD®
Coldwell Banker Realty
901 E Las Olas Blvd STE 101, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
808.747.3686
SL 3535792
The Truth About Home Equity
Home Equity in Southeast Florida:
Myths, Realities, and Smart Ways to Use It (Without Risking Your Future)
If you’re a homeowner in Southeast Florida, chances are you’ve heard the phrase “You’re sitting on a lot of equity.”
With home values rising across Fort Lauderdale, Broward County, and throughout Southeast Florida, many homeowners are equity‑rich—but still unsure what that really means.
As a real estate agent who’s helped hundreds of homeowners navigate buying, selling, and long-term planning, I want to clear up the biggest myths about home equity, explain the real opportunities, and—equally important—talk honestly about the risks.
This is not hype. It’s real-world guidance.
What Is Home Equity? (Quick, Clear Answer)
Home equity is the difference between what your home is worth today and what you still owe on your mortgage.
Example:
- Home value: $600,000
- Mortgage balance: $350,000
- Home equity: $250,000
Equity is not cash in your pocket—but it can become a powerful financial tool if used wisely.
Common Myths About Home Equity
Myth #1: “Home Equity Is Free Money”
Reality: Equity is borrowed money if you tap into it.
Whether through a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC), cash‑out refinance, or reverse mortgage, you’re increasing debt or reducing ownership.
✔ Smart use: Strategic investing, home improvements, life planning
✘ Risky use: Lifestyle spending, guessing investments, short-term fixes
Myth #2: “I Should Use My Equity While Rates Are Low—No Matter What”
Reality: Your reason matters more than the interest rate.
Rates go up and down. Poor decisions last far longer.
Before tapping equity, ask:
- Will this improve my financial position in 5–10 years?
- Does this increase risk if the market shifts?
- Could I still afford payments during retirement or hardship?
Myth #3: “My Home Equity Will Always Grow”
Reality: Markets change.
South Florida real estate has been strong, but:
- Values can flatten or decline
- Insurance costs and property taxes can rise
- Over-leveraging reduces flexibility
Equity is safest when treated as a buffer, not a guarantee.
Smart Ways South Florida Homeowners Use Home Equity
When used intentionally, equity can be a powerful tool.
✅ Home Improvements That Increase Value
Certain upgrades—kitchens, bathrooms, impact windows, roof replacements—can:
- Increase resale value
- Improve insurability
- Lower energy or insurance costs
💡 Tip: Not all renovations add value. Always look at local resale trends.
✅ Consolidating High-Interest Debt (Carefully)
Replacing high-interest credit card debt with lower-interest home equity can help—only if spending habits change.
Otherwise, homeowners often fall back into credit card debt and carry more mortgage debt.
✅ Funding Strategic Life Transitions
Common smart uses I see locally:
- Downsizing prep before retirement
- Helping with a child’s education (with clear boundaries)
- Bridge financing before selling and buying
✅ Real Estate Investment (With Professional Advice)
Some Southeast Florida homeowners use equity to:
- Buy rental properties
- Invest in multi-generational housing
- Create passive income
This only works with:
- Conservative numbers
- Professional tax and financial guidance
- Realistic vacancy and expense planning
The Real Risks of Using Home Equity
This is the part most blogs skip—but I won’t.
⚠ Over-Leveraging Your Home
Your home is your largest financial safety net.
Tapping too much equity can:
- Reduce options during job loss or illness
- Make selling harder during market shifts
- Impact retirement security
⚠ Adjustable Interest Rates
Many HELOCs have variable rates. Payments can rise quickly.
If payments increase:
- Would your budget still work?
- Would retirement plans be affected?
⚠ Using Equity to Support Unsustainable Spending
Equity should solve long-term problems—not fund short-term habits.
If equity is covering lifestyle gaps, it’s time for a financial reset—not more borrowing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it a good idea to use home equity in South Florida?
It depends on your goals, risk tolerance, and long-term plans. Strategic uses can help build wealth, but misuse can create serious financial vulnerability.
How much home equity should I leave untouched?
Many financial professionals suggest keeping at least 30–40% equity as a cushion, especially heading into retirement or uncertain markets.
Should I talk to a real estate agent before using equity?
Yes. A local agent can:
- Assess realistic home value
- Explain resale impact
- Coordinate with financial and lending professionals
My Professional Advice as a Southeast Florida Real Estate Agent
Home equity should support stability, flexibility, and future goals, not stress.
Before you tap into it, you should clearly understand:
- Your home’s true market value
- Long-term payment impact
- Exit strategies if circumstances change
Every homeowner’s situation is different—especially here in Southeast Florida where insurance, taxes, and market cycles matter.
Your home isn’t just an asset.
It’s your security, your future, and often your legacy.
Used wisely, home equity can help you build wealth.
Used carelessly, it can quietly take it away.
If you ever want a no-pressure, local perspective on your home’s value or long-term options, I’m always happy to help my community make informed decisions.
Because smart real estate decisions aren’t just about today—they’re about protecting tomorrow.
CONTACT ANNETTE
Let’s start working together!
Annette Dammeyer, REALTOR®, ABR®, AHWD®
Coldwell Banker Realty
901 E Las Olas Blvd STE 101, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
808.747.3686
SL 3535792
Fort Lauderdale December 2025 Area Report
Fort Lauderdale December 2025 real estate statistics have been published.
Fort Lauderdale Area Reports
Single Family Homes
Condominium & Townhouses
Fort Lauderdale Real Estate Market Summary – December 2025
December 2025 | Single‑Family Homes & Condos/Townhomes
Overall Market Conditions
- The Fort Lauderdale market shows slower activity, higher prices, and longer selling times, especially for single‑family homes.
- Inventory remains elevated, meaning buyers have more choices and sellers face more competition.
Single‑Family Homes
Key Trends
- Prices are up sharply year‑over‑year
- Median Sold Price: $779,500 (+34% vs. Dec 2024)
- Year‑to‑Date Median Sold Price: $640,000 (+9.4%)
- Fewer homes are selling
- December sales: 154 homes (+7.7% vs. last year)
- Year‑to‑date sales: down nearly 10%
- Homes are taking longer to sell
- Median Days on Market: 48 days (up from 40)
- Average Days on Market (YTD): 84 days
- Sellers are close to asking price
- List‑to‑Sold Price Ratio: 95.3%
What It Means
- Strong pricing favors sellers, but longer market times mean homes must be priced competitively and show well.
- Buyers benefit from more negotiating power than in prior years.
Condo & Townhome Market
Key Trends
- Prices are declining
- Median Sold Price: $395,000 (–4.8% YoY)
- YTD Median Sold Price: $410,000 (–7.9%)
- Sales activity has slowed
- December sales: down 17%
- Year‑to‑date sales: slightly lower than 2024
- Significantly longer selling times
- Median Days on Market: 97 days (up from 64)
- Average Days on Market: 137 days
- More discounts are occurring
- List‑to‑Sold Price Ratio: 94.2%
What It Means
- The condo market is clearly buyer‑favored.
- Pricing pressure and longer timelines suggest strategic pricing is critical for sellers.
- Buyers may find value opportunities, especially compared to single‑family homes.
Inventory & Supply
- The market continues to reflect higher months of supply, especially for condos.
- A “balanced” market is typically around 6 months of supply—current levels indicate increased competition among sellers in many segments.
Bottom Line
- Single‑family homes: Prices are strong, but the pace has slowed. Sellers must stay competitive; buyers have more leverage than in recent years.
- Condos/townhomes: Softer prices, longer selling times, and fewer sales point to a clear buyer’s market.
- Overall: Fort Lauderdale has moved away from the ultra‑competitive pandemic era and into a more normalized, negotiation‑friendly market.
We are in a new housing market in SE Florida. This is the time to work with an experienced and knowledgeable real estate professional. Please contact me if you would like to be sent updated market reports for YOUR specific neighborhood, Fort Lauderdale, or another SE Florida city. We can discuss the market, current trends and how we can work together to accomplish your real estate goals. I am here to help.
CONTACT ANNETTE
Let’s start working together!
Annette Dammeyer, REALTOR®, ABR®, AHWD®
Coldwell Banker Realty
901 E Las Olas Blvd STE 101, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
808.747.3686
SL 3535792
January 2026 ~ AI Real Estate Scams, New Home Trends and More!
January 2026 NewsletterWelcome to Your January 2026 Real Estate & Lifestyle Update!
We are about to celebrate the “Happy New Year”! As we step into 2026, I’m excited to bring you insights on AI scams in real estate, trends, and tips to help you make informed decisions—whether you’re buying, selling, renting, or simply looking to refresh your home. Here’s what you’ll find in this month’s newsletter: Your home is more than a place—it’s an investment and a lifestyle. Let’s make 2026 a fantastic year! Warm wishes for health and prosperity in the new year, |
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National Stories
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Real Estate Updates | Area Reports | November 2025
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Thank you for joining me for this January 2026 Newsletter!
As we step into a brand-new year, remember that your home is more than four walls—it’s where your dreams take shape and your future grows. Whether you’re planning to buy, sell, invest, or simply refresh your space, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
If you have questions, need advice, or just want to chat about your goals for 2026, reach out anytime—I’d love to help make this your best year yet!
Here’s to new beginnings, exciting opportunities, and a year filled with success and joy.
CONTACT ANNETTE
Let’s start working together!
Annette Dammeyer, REALTOR®, ABR®, AHWD®
Coldwell Banker Realty
901 E Las Olas Blvd STE 101, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
808.747.3686
SL 3535792
AI & Real Estate Scams in SE Florida
AI & Real Estate Scams in Southeast Florida: What Every Buyer, Seller & Renter Should Know
As a longtime real estate agent serving SE Florida, I’ve watched our market evolve faster than almost anywhere else in the country. With rising demand, luxury growth, and a competitive rental scene, it’s no surprise that AI tools are becoming part of the real estate landscape.
But with innovation comes risk. SE Florida has become a hotspot for AI‑driven real estate scams, especially in fast‑moving markets like ours. My goal is to help you stay informed, confident, and protected.
🌴 How AI Is Helping Real Estate in Southeast Florida
Used responsibly, AI can make your real estate experience smoother and more efficient. For example:
- Pricing insights for neighborhoods like Fort Lauderdale, Wilton Manors, and Hollywood
- AI‑powered home searches that match you with properties near beaches, schools, or transit
- Virtual staging for condos and waterfront homes
- Market trend forecasting, especially helpful in hurricane season or during rapid price shifts
These tools help me serve you better—but they also give scammers new ways to deceive.
🚨 AI Scams Growing in the Southeast Florida Market
-
Fake Rental Listings (Especially in Miami & Fort Lauderdale)
South Florida’s rental market moves fast, and scammers take advantage by creating AI‑generated listings.
Red flags:
- “Luxury” rentals in Brickell, Wynwood, or Las Olas priced far below market
- Photos that look perfect but feel slightly artificial
- A landlord who refuses to meet in person
Example:
A “$1,800/month waterfront condo in Sunny Isles” with flawless photos and a landlord who insists on a deposit before a showing.
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AI‑Generated Photos of Homes That Don’t Exist
Scammers use AI to create homes with palm‑tree‑lined backyards, ocean views, or modern interiors that aren’t real.
What to look for:
- Warped palm trees
- Repeated clouds or reflections
- Rooms with impossible angles
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Voice‑Cloning Scams Targeting Buyers & Sellers
AI can mimic voices—including agents, title reps, or even family members.
Common scenario:
A “title company” calls asking you to wire funds for closing.
In Southeast Florida, where cash deals are common, this scam is especially dangerous.
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Phishing Emails Pretending to Be Local Professionals
Scammers use AI to write emails that sound like legitimate Southeast Florida agents or lenders.
Red flags:
- Requests to “update your wire instructions”
- Email addresses that look similar but not identical
- Urgent language
🔍 How to Protect Yourself in the Southeast Florida Market
✔ Confirm Listings Through Trusted Sources
Especially in high‑demand areas like Fort Lauderdale, Coral Ridge, and Palm Beach.
✔ Never Send Money Without Verifying
Call your agent or title company using a known number—not one from an email.
✔ Be Cautious With “Too Good to Be True” Rentals
If a Miami Beach condo is priced like a Lauderhill studio, something’s off.
✔ Meet in Person or Request a Live Video Tour
Legitimate landlords and agents in South Florida will never avoid this.
✔ Ask Your Agent to Verify Ownership
I can quickly confirm whether a property is real and who owns it.
🏡 My Commitment to Our Southeast Florida Community
Whether you’re buying a condo in Aventura, selling a home in Fort Lauderdale, I’m here to help you navigate the market safely. AI can be a powerful tool—but only when used responsibly and transparently.
If you ever come across a suspicious listing, message, or email, send it my way. I’m always happy to take a look and help keep our community protected.
CONTACT ANNETTE
Let’s start working together!
Annette Dammeyer, REALTOR®, ABR®, AHWD®
Coldwell Banker Realty
901 E Las Olas Blvd STE 101, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
808.747.3686
SL 3535792
