Summary:
- Scope of change: Not satisfied with its reputation as a retirement haven, Florida plans to shake things up. New changes to zoning laws might convert large swaths of land into a construction site for high-density homes. Could be a real game changer. Or not. Depends on how many retirees want to trade in their golf clubs for hard hats.
- Crusader lawyer: Rachel Streitfeld, attorney and new Inman Contributor, puts her powerful magnifying glass to these changes, sniffing out the implications and dissecting the fine print. Never expected a lawyer to make zoning laws fun, huh?
- Why this matters: With the pandemic turning our homes into 24/7 offices, we need more of them, and fast. Florida, with its plentiful land and sunshine, might become the poster child for sustainable high-density living.
- Perks of the job: Developers are probably dancing in their cubicles about this. More land, more homes, more bucks. Simple math for them!
- Downsides: But not everyone’s popping the champagne. Some residents fear Florida might lose its charm with the overdevelopment. After all, the flamingoes need somewhere to strut their stuff too!
Hot Take:
While the world might be shouting “location, location, location”, Florida’s singing a different tune – zoning, zoning, zoning! Yes, the absurd levels on which we humans argue about dividing land would make any extraterrestrial scratch their head in confusion, if they have heads that is. But, let’s not defocus here.
Here’s the gist: Florida’s zoning law changes could turn it into a humongous sandpit of construction. Could mean more homes, more variety, and fewer “Sorry, we’re full” signs. And don’t forget, more moolah for developers. Oh, the sweet symphony of cash registers!
But is more always merrier? Today, it’s Florida. Tomorrow, it could be the New York Central Park turned into a condo farm. Where does it stop, folks? Rightsizing is the way to go, maybe? Still, whatever happens, it’s sure to keep attorneys like our friend Rachel busy. So, as far as I see it, get your popcorn ready and watch the drama unfold. But in all seriousness, let’s hope our feathery friends the flamingoes don’t have to pay the price for our real estate ambitions.
Remember:
If it’s not broke, don’t fix it! If it is broke, get a lawyer to decode zoning laws for you. Make sure she’s as kick-ass as Rachel though!
Original article: https://www.inman.com/2024/01/18/how-this-florida-legislation-could-lead-to-more-sustainable-housing/
