Derick Brown, Certified Mortgage Advisor

06/07/2026

06/01/2026

Hurricane Season Starts Today

A little preparation now can make a big difference later.

Take a few minutes this week to:

Review your insurance coverage
Build or refresh your emergency kit
Secure outdoor items and trim trees
Back up important documents
Know your evacuation zone
Take pictures of the inside and outside of your home

Don't wait until a storm is in the forecast. Prepare today. Protect tomorrow.

05/28/2026

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has proposed one of the biggest property tax changes Florida has seen in years.

The proposal would immediately increase the Homestead Exemption from $50,000 to $250,000 for primary residences, with a long-term goal of eventually eliminating property taxes entirely for most homesteaded homeowners.

According to the proposal:
• Approximately 60% of Florida homeowners would initially pay no property taxes on their primary residence
• That number could eventually grow to 92% of homesteaded homeowners
• New Florida residents after January 1, 2027 would need to wait 5 years to qualify for the expanded exemption
• Commercial and non-residential properties would have a 5% annual cap on assessed value increases

Governor DeSantis is calling a special legislative session to place a constitutional amendment on the November 2026 ballot, which would require 60% voter approval to pass.

Supporters believe this could provide massive relief for Florida homeowners and make homeownership more affordable long term. Critics have raised concerns about how local governments would replace funding currently generated from property taxes for schools, police, fire departments, and other public services.

This will definitely be one of the biggest Florida housing and homeowner topics to watch over the next year.

05/25/2026

Today we remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

Memorial Day is more than a long weekend. It’s a reminder that our freedom was paid for by those who gave everything in service to others.

We are forever grateful for the courage, sacrifice, and legacy of our fallen heroes. Their impact will never be forgotten.