Florida’s condo markets is undergoing a needed correction | Letters

Condo market correction

DeSantis urges Legislature to take action to help Florida condo residents | Sept. 9

Recent alarmist reports have suggested a collapse in Florida’s condo market, but this perspective overlooks a crucial reality: the market is undergoing a necessary correction, not a crisis. As a member of the Legislative Action Committee of the Community Associations Institute, I can confirm that current conditions reflect the impact of aging buildings with long-neglected maintenance.

With nearly 49,800 community associations in Florida and over 9.5 million residents, the majority of condos are well-managed, and their residents remain satisfied. Properties that are well-maintained continue to hold their value, while those with deferred repairs face challenges.

An important factor contributing to the current situation is the significant rise in insurance premiums. This surge, driven by Florida’s exposure to natural disasters and stringent regulatory requirements, has led to increased monthly assessments for many condo associations. This unfortunate situation places a substantial financial burden on homeowners and associations alike. Policymakers and regulators must address these escalating insurance costs to prevent further strain on community associations and ensure their continued stability. Recent legislative changes, including new requirements for safety inspections and financial reserves, are designed to address these issues and protect homeowners. These measures are critical for ensuring the stability and safety of condominium communities.

Well-governed and well-maintained community associations are resilient and continue thriving. This period of adjustment underscores the importance of effective governance and proactive property management. Rather than viewing this as a market collapse, it should be seen as an opportunity to reinforce the significance of diligent upkeep and strong governance.

Michael Poorman, Weston

Car line pollution

Florida parents find coping with school car lines worsens each year | Sept. 4

Another problem with school car lines is the amount of pollution generated by idling vehicles. I live two blocks from Madeira Beach Elementary and Middle schools. Twice daily, five days a week, the grounds resemble a parking lot, but these vehicles sit with engines pumping carbon dioxide and other pollutants. Maybe bus service could be provided if taxpayer money wasn’t being used to fund private schools?

Joanne Cox, St. Petersburg

Caregivers deserve more credit

Tampa Bay Times forum highlights lack of help for family caregivers | Sept. 8

Thank you to the Tampa Bay Times and AARP for the eye-opening panel discussion on caring for elderly and special needs individuals. My mother brought my grandfather to our home in the 1960s when I was a child with five siblings. She took care of him as long as she physically and mentally could until she had to place him in a nursing home on the Hillsborough River. I remember our many visits from South Tampa to see him to ensure he got the best care possible.

Recently, a retired gentleman from my church with no family in the area was hospitalized. Another younger church member and his wife have been very attentive to his needs. While he was in the hospital, the nurse came into his room and, seeing the gentleman there with him, asked the patient before she spoke: Can I speak in front of this visitor? And the patient smartly declared, “Oh, yes, he’s my nephew.”

Thank God for the caretakers in our society, for I believe that it is better physically, spiritually, mentally and financially to have our loved ones at home versus in any institutional setting.

Dale Kimball, Wesley Chapel