Homeownership
Insurance, renovation, equity, and maintenance guidance for Florida homeowners.
HomeownershipRenting in Retirement Has No Major Fixed Costs? A Florida Property Broker Says Otherwise
A popular short tells retirees that renting means no major fixed costs. Drag the slider on 36 years of real rent, price and rate data and watch whose payment goes up. Then read what your rent really covers.
Don Harkins9 min read
HomeownershipUsing Your Home Equity to Help Your Kids Buy in Central Florida
First-time buyers are 21% of the market and a median age of 40. Here is how Central Florida families turn home equity into a first home, the right way.
Emily Harkins6 min read
HomeownershipWellness Bathroom Trends That Also Pay Off at Resale in Florida
Bigger showers, layered lighting and calm materials lead 2026 bathroom trends. What they cost, what they return at resale, and how to build one in a humid climate.
Emily Harkins6 min read
HomeownershipRemodeling Projects Ranked by Resale Value in Central Florida
Garage doors and entry doors return more than double their cost in the South Atlantic region. Kitchen additions and primary suites return a third. Here is the full ranking.
Don Harkins6 min read
HomeownershipInsulating Your Florida Home for a Cooler, Greener House
Air sealing and attic insulation save about 15% on cooling costs. Here is the R-value target for Orlando and the Space Coast, the best materials and what rebates still exist.
Don Harkins6 min read
HomeownershipHow to Review Your Florida Homeowners Insurance Before You Renew
Citizens is down to 254,413 policies and regulators are approving rate cuts. Here is how to turn that into a lower premium on your Orlando or Space Coast home.
Don Harkins7 min readThe Don Harkins Dispatch
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