What Florida Renters Should Do Now to Prepare For the End of Eviction Protections

The federal government has enacted important legal protections that will help Florida families stay in their homes. A CDC rule prevents most residential evictions, while an FHA rule prevents foreclosures on most residential properties with conventional loans. Unfortunately, these rules both expire at the end of the year, and it is not certain that any subsequent protections will be in place in 2021. It is important for renters and homeowners to prepare for the expiration of these rules. There is still assistance available, and with some advanced planning, you don’t have to be left without options for staying in your home in 2021.

In mid-November, WJCT reported that the Florida Housing Finance Corporation still had funds available to help renters and homeowners who had lost income due to the coronavirus. Homeowners are limited to earning 140 percent of the area median income to be eligible for assistance. Renters, however, have no limits on their household income in order to qualify for assistance through the program. The FHFC is funding this program with a $250 million allocation from the state’s CARES Act funds. Funds are available through December 30, so it is important to apply by this date. The sooner you get your application in, the better chance you have of successfully accessing program funds.

It is also important to understand that, just because you were not evicted during the COVID-19 pandemic, this does not mean your rent is not owed. Program funds can be used to help tenants “square up” their accounts with a landlord in order to avoid eviction in 2021. Similarly, homeowners can use program funds to bring their mortgages current and avoid foreclosure.

An experienced Casselberry and Oviedo eviction attorney at Quattrocchi and Torres can help you negotiate workouts and payment plans with your landlord or lender.  Call 407.452.4918 to schedule your free consultation. 

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