Moving to Broward
Moving (back) to Broward? Compare insurance and HOA costs early
· Adam Eglin, Realtor®
If you're moving back to Broward after a few years away, the reasons people come here haven't changed. A lot of Broward has, though, and the biggest surprise for most returning buyers is carrying cost, not price.
Insurance and HOA costs vary a lot now
Two homes at the same price can have very different monthly costs. Insurance and HOA or condo fees now swing widely from building to building and neighborhood to neighborhood, so I suggest comparing those early, before you fall for a specific place.
- Homeowners insurance: roof age, wind mitigation features (shutters, impact windows, roof straps) and the home's age all move the premium. Ask for the most recent wind mitigation and four-point inspections if the seller has them.
- Flood: check the FEMA flood zone and elevation for the specific property. Flood insurance can be required by a lender, and the cost can change the math on a waterfront or low-lying home.
- Condo and HOA fees: look at what the fee covers (master insurance, water, cable, reserves) and whether a special assessment is coming. For condos, the building's master policy and reserve funding are a big part of the fee.
Compare whole neighborhoods, not just homes
When you're weighing areas, put the full monthly number side by side: mortgage, taxes, insurance, flood, and association fees. That comparison often points you toward a different neighborhood than the one you started with. If you want a starting point, my neighborhood guides cover Wilton Manors, Oakland Park, Galt Ocean Mile and Pompano Beach, and I'm glad to share what I'm seeing in Fort Lauderdale.
Adapted from my posts on X (@adamatlevel):
General information only, not legal, tax or insurance advice. Laws and rules change; check the current statute, your association documents and a licensed professional.