In this episode of the South Florida Mortgage Report, hosts Craig Garcia and Billy Mei sit down with Florida State Representative Chip LaMarca to break down several major issues impacting homeowners, buyers, and the real estate industry in 2025.We dive deep into the conversation around property tax reforms, including the rising momentum behind property tax waivers, questions about potential property tax elimination, and what it would take legislatively for meaningful changes to land on a statewide ballot. Rep. LaMarca also discusses why the government should never be in the business of taking someone’s home over unpaid taxes—and what reforms could protect property owners going forward.The episode also explores:The strengthened condo safety regulations following the Surfside tragedyThe continued strength of Florida's condo market despite rising compliance costsThe My Safe Florida Home program, which now provides grants to help homeowners harden their properties against hurricanesA mortgage market update, including new loan limits for 2026 that open purchase opportunities with smaller down paymentsWhether you're a homeowner, buyer, real estate professional, or simply tracking Florida's evolving housing landscape, this episode is packed with valuable insights.⏱️ Chapters & Timestamps00:00 – Introduction to Property Tax Reform01:48 – Understanding the Property Tax Waiver Debate05:33 – Exploring Property Tax Relief Options09:26 – Categorical Eliminations and Exemptions13:35 – Proposed Reforms and the Legislative Process17:30 – Impact of Property Tax Changes on Local Governments21:42 – Condo Safety Regulations Post-Surfside25:15 – Future of Property Tax Legislation29:37 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts39:24 – Condo Safety and Structural Integrity41:19 – My Safe Florida Home Program43:38 – Personal Insights and Musical Passions46:28 – Career Path Reflections51:00 – Market Update and 2026 Loan Limits🎧 LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE TO THE SOUTH FLORIDA MORTGAGE REPORT🔁 YouTube playlist (all episodes): https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLCOa_zSrotiecbiomGKhTzASCBToYQUea📱 Subscribe & follow on your favorite platform: • Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/south-florida-mortgage-report/id1834181574• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5QxG2PzPd3W9pJFqQnLAPS?si=5a667fbd60a44ce9📌 HELPFUL LINKSChip LaMarcahttps://www.chiplamarca.com/https://flhouse.gov/Sections/Representatives/details.aspx?MemberId=4722&LegislativeTermId=91https://x.com/ChipLaMarca📩 Housing Newsletter: Stay informed with curated mortgage and housing insights delivered straight to your inbox: https://housingnewsletters.com/craiggarcia✅ Pre-Approvals 24/7: Get started anytime:⁠Option 1⁠ https://loancenter.cp-mtg.com/dr/c/rhx8h⁠Option 2⁠ https://loancenter.cp-mtg.com/dr/c/w2o7v