New legislation, shifting market conditions, and stricter coverage requirements are in line for new and existing homes.

The Florida insurance market is finally softening after years of volatility. In a recent video conversation with Danny Sands of Brightway Insurance, we broke down what these changes mean for homeowners—and how to take advantage of them.

What’s Changed in 2025?

Thanks to new legislation that cracks down on roofing contractor fraud and “assignment of benefits” abuse, Florida’s insurance market is shifting from a hard market to a softer one. That means more competition and potentially better pricing, although Danny warns that some introductory offers may be short-lived.

Tips to Lower Your Insurance Premium

If your home was built before 2002, getting a wind mitigation inspection could unlock significant savings. This inspection looks at how your roof is built and how well it can withstand storms.

Other smart moves:

  • Review your personal property limits (you might be over-insured)
  • Consider increasing your deductible if you have emergency savings

Buying an Older Home? Know This.

Older homes come with a few extra considerations:

  • The age of the roof is a big deal. Insurers prefer roofs under 15 years old.
  • A newer water heater can help reduce premiums and prevent issues down the line.
  • Remember: Insurance doesn’t cover maintenance or wear and tear—budget accordingly.

The Deductible Breakdown

Not all deductibles are created equal. Here are the three types you’ll see:

  • All Other Perils (AOP) – Covers most non-storm claims.
  • Hurricane Deductible – Usually a percentage of your dwelling coverage.
  • Wind/Hail Deductible – A newer option, also often percentage-based.

Choosing a low premium plan with a high wind/hail deductible can backfire if you face storm damage. Always read the fine print.

Who to Contact

Got insurance questions? Reach out to Danny Sands at danny.sands@brightway.comor 904-993-2500 ext. 4.

For real estate guidance, I’m always happy to help at jeff@pursuitrealestate.com or 904-405-1995.

Final Thought: Even in a shifting market, knowledge is your best tool. Let’s stay ahead of the curve together.