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Hurricane Preparedness | Beachfront Properties Blog

Tuesday, October 8, 2024   /   by Tov Charm

Hurricanes in Florida: What You Need to Know and How to Prepare

Hurricanes are a common and powerful force in Florida, with the state experiencing more direct hits than any other in the U.S. It’s important for homeowners and residents to know how to prepare for these storms and minimize potential damage. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Understanding the Hurricane Season and Categories
Hurricane Season: Runs from June 1 to November 30, with the peak occurring between August and October. During this time, the chances of hurricane formation increase significantly, and Florida often finds itself in the projected paths.
Hurricane Categories: Hurricanes are classified based on wind speeds:
Category 1: 74-95 mph winds (some damage)
Category 2: 96-110 mph winds (extensive damage)
Category 3: 111-129 mph winds (devastating damage)
Category 4: 130-156 mph winds (catastrophic damage)
Category 5: 157+ mph winds (catastrophic damage)

Knowing the categories helps you understand the potential impact and prepare accordingly.
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Monday, September 30, 2024   /   by Tov Charm

Understanding the True Cost of Homeownership Beyond the Mortgage

Owning a home means taking on more expenses than just your monthly mortgage payment. To truly understand the cost of homeownership, it’s important to account for expenses such as property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and utilities. Here’s a breakdown of these hidden costs, with specific insights for homes in Delray Beach, Florida.

1. Property Taxes
In Florida, property taxes generally range from 1.75% to 2% of a home’s assessed value. For a home valued at $500,000 in Delray Beach, you can expect to pay around $8,750 to $10,000 annually. Florida homeowners who qualify for the Homestead Exemption can reduce their taxable value by up to $50,000, and the Save Our Homes cap limits tax increases to 3% per year.
Budgeting Tip: Check your property tax estimate through the Palm Beach County Property Appraiser’s Office to get a clear understanding of what your taxes will be, factoring in any applicable exemptions.
2. Homeowners Insurance
Homeowners insurance ...

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