This article outlines 11 critical types of homes and features in Florida real estate that can severely impact resale value and livability. From tiny driveways and no-pet policies to problematic polybutylene pipes and homes backing busy roads, these factors can kill your deal or cause future headaches. Learn from a seasoned Florida real estate broker's insights to make informed home-buying decisions.
Good morning everyone, and welcome to Connect to Florida. Today, we’re diving into some crucial sale breakers—things that can kill your real estate deal faster than you can even get started. Many of these issues are unique to Florida and don’t apply up north, so it’s important to understand what you might not know if you’re relocating here.
Grab your coffee and let’s get into it.
My name is Barrett Pastor, and I’ve been a real estate broker for about 27 years. I hope to share my knowledge and experience to help you navigate Florida real estate. Whether you’re looking on the east coast, west coast, central Florida, or the panhandle, my team and I have you covered. If you need a referral or assistance, feel free to reach out.
Today, I have a list of 11 major problematic home features or types in Florida that you should avoid or correct quickly if you already own one. If you choose to buy one of these homes, do so with eyes wide open because these issues are that important.
Some homes have driveways so tiny that only half your car fits before you’re into the garage. This is a big problem if you own an SUV or a large truck. Many communities have tried to restrict pickup trucks, but new laws prevent HOAs from banning them. Still, a tiny driveway can be a huge inconvenience and a resale deterrent.
Certain condos or communities prohibit any animals, including cats. Some buyers might think they can hide a pet, but if caught, it can lead to eviction or legal issues. I know someone who had to move because she was caught with two cats in a no-pet community. Don’t risk it—if you want pets, make sure the community allows them.
Homes near above-ground power towers can suffer from decreased property values. Even if the tower is a half-mile away, it can be a concern. For example, in the Pelican Sound area, residents voted down a cell tower installation because they feared it would devalue their properties, even though it would have improved cell service. This kind of visual nuisance can impact your home’s desirability.
Polybutylene pipes, used in many Florida homes built about 25 years ago, are defective and prone to bursting. Sellers often disclose if these pipes are present, but many don’t know. If you buy a home with these pipes, expect to spend at least $5,000 or more to replace them. Insurance can also be difficult to obtain for homes with these pipes. This is a major red flag.
Avoid homes that back up to busy roads. For example, in the Corkscrew Shores community in Estero, homes backing to Corkscrew Road are priced significantly lower due to noise and lack of peace. Even if the home has beautiful amenities, the constant road noise can make living there unpleasant and hurt resale value.
Homes with roofs that are 20 years old or more, regardless of material, are problematic. Buyers are wary of old roofs because they will need replacement soon. Similarly, air conditioners older than 15 years are a concern. Even if they have worked well, they will eventually need replacement, which is costly.
Multi-level homes without elevators can be difficult to sell, especially if they have three or more floors. While you might be physically fit now, as you age, climbing multiple flights of stairs becomes a challenge. Carrying groceries or water up six flights is inconvenient. Consider this carefully before buying.
Cocktail pools are very small pools designed for relaxing rather than swimming. While some owners enjoy them, most buyers do not. When grandchildren or guests visit, they want a pool large enough to swim in. Replacing a cocktail pool with a larger one is very expensive, so these pools hurt resale value.
Two-story homes are hard to sell in Southwest Florida. Many buyers prefer single-story homes. Even if the master bedroom is on the main floor, the upper level is often underused and costly to cool. Additionally, homes in Florida are often built close together, so upper-level windows may look directly into neighbors’ homes, reducing privacy.
In areas like Cape Coral, homes are built very close together. If your home backs directly to another house, you lose privacy and may feel like you’re constantly being watched. It’s better to buy homes backing to water, preserves, or open land that won’t be developed.
Laundry rooms located in garages are common in homes built between 1995 and 2005. While some like the idea of a mudroom, garage laundry takes up valuable garage space and can be inconvenient. Imagine opening your washer door and hitting your expensive vehicle. It also tends to become a cluttered storage area rather than a functional space.
When buying a home in Florida, be aware of these 11 major issues that can kill your deal or cause headaches down the road. Avoid tiny driveways, no-pet communities, homes near power towers, polybutylene pipes, homes backing busy roads, old roofs and AC units, multi-level homes without elevators, cocktail pools, two-story homes in Southwest Florida, homes backing other houses, and garage laundry setups.
If you already own a home with any of these issues, address them quickly to protect your investment. Buying with eyes wide open is the best way to ensure a smooth and successful real estate experience in Florida.
Thank you for reading, and if you need help navigating Florida real estate, don’t hesitate to reach out.
