Florida's My Safe Florida Home Program Expansion: A Game Changer for Real Estate Owners
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida homeowners and real estate investors could soon see significant benefits as lawmakers prepare to review Governor Ron DeSantis’ request for increased funding to expand the My Safe Florida Home program. The initiative, a legislative priority for Florida Realtors, has already helped thousands of homeowners fortify their properties against severe weather and may soon provide assistance to tens of thousands more.
Since its revival in 2022, the My Safe Florida Home grant program has provided up to $10,000 per homeowner to strengthen their residences by replacing or reinforcing roofs, installing impact-resistant doors and windows, or adding storm shutters. However, demand has far outpaced funding, leaving approximately 45,000 applicants in limbo since the application portal closed on July 17, 2023.
Proposed Expansion and Legislative Review
Gov. DeSantis is pushing for a historic $590 million infusion into the program for the 2025-26 fiscal year. Of this, $480 million would be dedicated to clearing the existing waiting list, while an additional $109 million would support 10,000 new applicants. Additionally, the governor is advocating for an annual recurring budget of $100 million to ensure the program's sustainability, allowing for approximately 10,000 new grants each year.
The Florida Legislature is expected to evaluate the funding request during the session beginning March 4. If approved, this expansion could dramatically impact real estate markets across the state by making properties more resilient and, in many cases, more insurable.
Benefits for Real Estate Owners and Investors
The My Safe Florida Home program presents multiple advantages for property owners, particularly those in hurricane-prone regions:
Reduced Insurance Costs: Nearly half of grant recipients have reported lowered insurance premiums after making improvements. Strengthening homes against wind damage reduces risk for insurers, often leading to lower premiums for property owners.
Increased Property Value: Homes with impact-resistant upgrades are more attractive to buyers and investors, enhancing market value.
Stronger Resale Potential: Properties equipped with hurricane-resistant features are often easier to sell, particularly in areas prone to severe storms.
Enhanced Safety and Resilience: Storm-hardened homes reduce potential losses from hurricanes, protecting investments and minimizing repair costs after disasters.
Program Expansion and Eligibility Considerations
While the program initially accepted all homeowners regardless of income level, recent legislative changes prioritize low- and moderate-income applicants for the first 60 days of each application window.
Low-income applicants (earning 80% or less of the county’s median income) can now receive up to $10,000 without requiring a financial match.
Moderate-income applicants (earning up to 120% of the county’s median income) and others must match at least $1 for every $2 received.
Given the high demand—over 3,300 applications were submitted in just 17 days when the program reopened in July—funding for new applicants could be quickly exhausted.
Regional Impact and Grant Distribution
Grant activity has been concentrated in high-population coastal counties. Broward and Palm Beach counties have seen the most approved grants and waiting list applicants, followed by Pinellas and Miami-Dade. In Central Florida, Brevard County leads in both approved and pending grants, followed by Orange, Volusia, Seminole, Lake, and Osceola counties.
The governor’s proposal also includes an additional $30 million for the My Safe Florida Condominium pilot program. Launched in November 2023, this initiative provides up to $175,000 for condo associations to reinforce their buildings against hurricanes. The rapid application closure after just five days highlights the strong demand among condo associations as well.
Looking Ahead
As Florida’s Legislature considers Gov. DeSantis’ funding request, real estate owners should monitor developments closely. If approved, the expanded My Safe Florida Home program could provide much-needed financial relief and resilience-enhancing opportunities for thousands of property owners. Whether for primary residences or investment properties, these grants can lead to long-term financial savings, increased property values, and greater security in the face of Florida’s unpredictable hurricane seasons.
