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Miami Building & Permits


Miami Flood Zone Renovation: What the FEMA 50% Rule Means for Your Older Home
If you've called us after finding out mid-renovation that your older Miami home has to meet new elevation requirements, you're not alone. It's one of the first things we hear: "Nobody told me about this." This post is our attempt to change that. No scare tactics, honest answers to the questions we get most. Plus, a clear picture of what the process actually looks like and what it costs. A properly elevated South Florida home — two-story construction with raised entry steps is

G.Espitia
Aug 108 min read


Do I Need a Permit in Miami-Dade? What Florida's New Permit Law HB 803 Means for Homeowners in 2026
A New Permit Exemption Is Coming. Here's What You Need to Know Before Starting a Home Project. Entrance to the Miami-Dade County Herbert S. Saffir Permitting and Inspection Center. Beginning July 1, 2026, Florida's new HB 803 permit law will change how some small residential projects are handled across the state. Many homeowners have heard that "permits are no longer required for projects under $7,500." While there is some truth to that statement, it is also incomplete. The n

G.Espitia
Jun 254 min read


Unpermitted Work in Miami: What It Really Costs You — and How to Fix It Before It Kills Your Sale
You bought your house. You love it. Maybe you even renovated it. And then one day — during a sale or a random inspection — someone pulls up your property record and finds a problem you didn't even know existed. Unpermitted work. In Miami-Dade, this isn't a rare case. It's one of the most common issues homeowners face. This can stop a real estate transaction cold, trigger daily fines, or leave you responsible for work that a previous owner did years before you moved in. Here's

G.Espitia
Apr 174 min read


Why ADUs Are Becoming a Smart Investment in South Florida
South Florida homeowners are showing more interest than ever in adding an Accessory Dwelling Unit, also known as an ADU, to their properties. These small additions are becoming popular driven by several converging forces. · Housing costs remain high · Economic pressures · Population growth and statewide regulatory changes Some people want a private space for a parent or adult child. Others are looking for a quiet home office away from the main house. M

G.Espitia
Dec 4, 20253 min read


Maximize Your Home Sale: Top Remodels with the Best Payoff
Whether you're selling your house in the fiercely competitive Miami real estate market or the incredibly competitive New York City areas, a strategic makeover will make your house stand out. In contrast, not all renovations have the same return on investment (ROI). Over the span of 25 years of architectural experience in both cities, I’ve seen firsthand which updates make buyers bite and which ones leave money on the table. 1. The Kitchen Is Still King A well-thought-out kitc

G.Espitia
Jun 10, 20253 min read
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