Keller Williams Realtors Broward County Florida. Are there buyers out there? Absolutely. But make no mistake, they know they are in the driver’s seat.
It’s still hard to believe that 2023 was one of the strongest sales years on record, and by late 2024 the market took a sharp downturn that just hasn’t let up. For the first time in years, we’re seeing 3/2/1 townhomes priced below $550,000 and one-bedroom condos listed under $100,000. That alone tells you how dramatically things have shifted.
Today’s buyers are cautious, informed, and paying close attention to the fine print especially maintenance fees. Not surprisingly, the buildings struggling the most are often the ones with the highest monthly costs. Sometimes that’s because boards chose to roll the cost of major repairs (often tied to reserve requirements, SIRS reports or mandatory safety inspections) into the monthly maintenance fee rather than passing assessments. Other times, it comes down to questionable decisions around vendors, staffing, or large-scale projects.
Another major red flag? Too many listings in one building. When more than 5% of unit owners are trying to sell at the same time, buyers notice, and they draw their own conclusions about leadership, financial health, and overall management.
First impressions matter. A lot. And not just for single-family homes. For condos, curb appeal starts with the parking
lot, landscaping, and lobby. These are silent deal-makers or deal-breakers.
You truly can’t beat Hillcrest/Parkview for location or natural beauty. The grounds are lovely, and most buildings do an excellent job maintaining their landscaping. That said, I strongly encourage board members to drive around
the buildings and take notes. The buildings with the most striking entrances are almost always the ones where unit owners had a strong voice in the process.
Lobbies, for the most part, are attractive and impeccably clean, and that matters. Just as important is the front
desk staff. Their professionalism, friendliness, and appearance tell a story buyers pick up on instantly.
Postings are another overlooked detail. Every building has them, but some do it far better than others. Building
25 stands out for its polished, helpful, and informative notices. Vice President Lori Limardo does an outstanding job, and longtime resident, and Canadian snowbird, Louise Lamontagne is responsible for one of the most beautiful entrances in Hillcrest. Makes you wonder… who in your building has the initials LL?
A word of caution: be very mindful of what’s posted in common areas. Pest control notices don’t belong near the elevators. Building business should stay in mailrooms or laundry areas where residents will still see it. One alarming or poorly worded notice in a lobby can turn off a potential buyer instantly. I guarantee it.
In this market, buyers are not just buying units, they are buying the building, the leadership, and the lifestyle. The details matter more than ever.
3850 Washington, Suite #1016, Hollywood Florida 33021
Email:Â info@ateamflorida.com
Phone:Â 954-964-2559
