Understanding Real Estate Law in Florida: A Guide for Buyers and Sellers

September 17, 2025

Understanding Real Estate Law in Florida: A Guide for Buyers and Sellers

Buying or selling property in Florida is more than just signing a contract—it’s a legal process with rules, risks, and protections you need to understand. From title defects to association regulations, real estate law in Boca Raton and throughout South Florida requires careful attention. That’s why working with an experienced real estate law attorney can make the difference between a smooth closing and a costly dispute.


At Peter J. Snyder, P.A., we believe in educating clients so they feel confident every step of the way. Below, we break down some key aspects of Florida real estate law and how a lawyer can help you protect your investment.


1. The Role of Contracts in Real Estate Deals

In Florida, most residential transactions use the “FAR/BAR” contract form. While it looks straightforward, it contains terms that can significantly affect your rights. Inspection periods, financing contingencies, and seller disclosures all have deadlines and conditions that, if missed, could put your deposit at risk.


Why it matters: Without legal guidance, you may sign a contract that favors the other party or leaves you exposed to liability.
 How an attorney helps: Attorney Snyder reviews, explains, and negotiates contract terms so you know exactly what you’re agreeing to—and how to protect your earnest money.


2. Title Searches and Title Issues

A “clean” title means the seller has the legal right to transfer the property without hidden claims or liens. Title searches in Florida often reveal issues like unpaid taxes, contractor liens, or even old mortgages never properly released.


Why it matters: You don’t want to buy a property only to discover someone else has a legal claim against it.
 How an attorney helps: We work with title professionals to identify and cure problems before closing. If the issue is complex, Attorney Snyder provides legal strategies—such as obtaining releases, negotiating settlements, or pursuing a quiet title action.

3. Florida’s Condominium and HOA Rules

South Florida is full of condominiums and homeowners’ associations. These communities often come with fees, restrictions, and approval requirements that can delay or even block a sale.


Why it matters: You need to know what rules, assessments, or association approvals apply before committing to buy.
 How an attorney helps: We review association documents, explain the financial and legal obligations, and ensure you’re not surprised by hidden rules or unpaid assessments.


4. Landlord and Tenant Protections

Florida law lays out strict rules for landlords and tenants, especially when it comes to security deposits, maintenance, and evictions. Missteps can lead to costly lawsuits or loss of rental income.


Why it matters: Landlords risk liability if they mishandle security deposits or fail to follow eviction procedures.
 How an attorney helps: Attorney Snyder represents landlords in drafting leases, resolving disputes, and pursuing evictions in compliance with Florida law.


5. Construction and Development Challenges

From building a new home to developing commercial property, construction projects often spark disputes over contracts, delays, or workmanship.


Why it matters: Without proper legal protections, you may face unexpected costs or unfinished work.
 How an attorney helps: We draft and enforce construction contracts, handle lien claims, and represent clients in disputes through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.


Why Legal Guidance Is Essential

Real estate in Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and Deerfield Beach is competitive and fast-moving. Having a knowledgeable lawyer ensures you’re not just reacting to problems, but proactively protecting your rights.


Attorney Peter J. Snyder combines legal skill with a client-focused approach, helping individuals, families, and businesses make confident decisions in real estate matters.


Schedule a Consultation

Whether you’re purchasing a condo, selling a home, managing rental property, or facing a construction dispute, understanding Florida real estate law is the first step. The second step is having a trusted advocate by your side.


📞 Call 561-220-7765 today to schedule a consultation with Peter J. Snyder, P.A. and get the legal clarity you deserve.

Title Disputes: When One Party Doesn’t Want to Sell

December 7, 2022
If you co-own a property and want to sell, but the other party doesn’t, you may wonder what your legal options are. The situation is quite common. When co-owners do not agree on the sale of the property, they may feel that litigation is the only option to resolve the dispute. However, that is not correct.

Necessary Inclusions in a Real Estate Contract

March 31, 2021
Real estate purchasers in Florida are often at a loss for understanding what conditions of the sale should be established in writing and included in the deal. Real estate transfers can appear as relatively simple transactions, but the truth is that they can be very complicated when misunderstandings exist between contracting agents. Although there are multiple details that should be included, there are three primary components that must be spelled out in writing for all parties.

Who Can Be a Trustee in Florida?

March 3, 2021
Trusts can be a great tool for estate planning. In a trust, one party puts assets into an instrument that a trustee manages. This individual looks after the funds until they pass to a beneficiary. In Florida, almost anyone can be a trustee as long as he or she is an adult of sound mind. A corporation, like a bank, can also act as a trustee. So can a professional, like a lawyer. In some cases, testators choose a family member or friend to be a trustee.

When Can You Contest a Will?

March 3, 2021
Your loved one’s will in Florida doesn’t have to be the last word on their estate. You can’t contest the will because you don’t like the outcome, but you could contest the will if you suspect that it’s not legally binding. A judge might use an earlier version of the will or distribute your loved one’s assets according to state law instead.

Best Time of Year to Sell a Home in Florida

February 8, 2021
Many people looking to sell their home falsely believe that they have a short window to do so each year. However, sellers in Florida should inform themselves of the benefits of marketing their home during every season.

Commercial Real Estate Investing in Boca Raton, FL

January 14, 2021
Commercial real estate also referred to as CRE, has recently become a more popular choice among real estate investors thanks to its growth potential and ability to provide passive income. If you are considering investing in CRE in Boca Raton, Florida, there are certain things you should know before you begin your career as a real estate investor.

The Drawbacks to A Do-It-Yourself Estate Plan

December 30, 2020
People in Florida who are wondering whether they should simply write their own will or estate plan without seeking legal assistance should keep in mind that not everything that is permissible is necessarily a good idea. Preparing a do-it-yourself estate plan might be one of those things.

Reasons Why Your Estate Might Be Subject to Probate

December 22, 2020
If you are a Florida resident when you die and own any property in your own name without naming a beneficiary, your estate will be subject to administration, also known as probate. This is generally true whether you die with or without a valid will. A probate proceeding may also need to be initiated if you own real estate with another person. However, probate may be avoided by owning property in a revocable living trust.

Is DIY Estate Planning a Good Idea?

December 15, 2020
Planning your will in Florida allows you the opportunity to make sure things go smoothly for your family members after you pass. An improperly or incorrectly executed will could end up failing to achieve your goal of having your wishes followed.

Understanding the Process of A Commercial Real Estate Disposition

November 11, 2020
There are many moving parts within the commercial aspect of Florida real estate. Some aspects can be used to improve a home’s value while others allow the owner to utilize the property for the pursuit of a business venture. Of these includes the disposition of real estate. This is when you liquidate property to obtain additional cash. The following includes further information on this term as well as tips on how to properly navigate it to ensure the best results possible.