Notable Real Estate Law changes in Miami, South Florida, effective July 2024:

New Real Estate Commission Rules:

Sellers’ agents can no longer use the Multiple Listing Services (MLS) to offer buyers’ agents a split of the commission on home sales.

Buyers who choose to hire an agent must enter into a written agreement with their agent to pay a commission directly.

While sellers may be unwilling to pay a 6 percent commission since it won’t have to be split with a buyer’s agent, agents can still negotiate among themselves to split commissions.

Enhanced Financial Transparency and Accountability for HOAs and Condos:

Updates address critical areas such as board governance, financial management, and resident protections. These changes aim to improve transparency and accountability within homeowner associations and condominiums.

Other Real Estate Laws:

Several other laws have been enacted, including regulations on coastal buildings, vacation rental properties, conservation lands, state property insurance, building permits, and workplace temperature controls.

Here’s a summary of key Immigration updates for July 2024:

Form I-9 Fines:

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) enforces Form I-9 regulations strictly. Fines for violations range from $272 to $2,701 per individual for a first offense and $5,404 to $27,018 for subsequent offenses.

DHS provides a fact sheet explaining how these fines are calculated.

Mexican TN Visa Holders and Employer Changes:

Uncertainty surrounds whether Mexican TN visa holders can change or add employers at the border.

Some ports of entry refuse to apply regulations allowing this, creating I-9 compliance concerns.

DACA Recipients and Work Visas:

DACA recipients who qualify for nonimmigrant status (e.g., H-1B) may find it easier to obtain temporary work visas.

Visa Bulletin Update:

USCIS determined that for July 2024, all employment-based preference categories must use the Final Action Dates chart.

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