Hurricane Ian Aftermath: Resources for Real Estate Agents

Billions of dollars in damages and casualties were left by the horrendous Hurricane Ian. Hence, to help rebuild and recover, various programs were mobilized to help our real estate agents. Here are some resources that can help you, including small-business loans and unemployment assistance.

Relief Funds

The National Association of Realtors donates 100 percent of all donations directly to relief efforts, with NAR covering all administrative costs.

While the Florida Realtors has a disaster relief fund where you can apply online for individual assistance or for brokers. You can check this link for more information: https://www.floridarealtors.org/about/charities/disaster-relief-fund

FEMA

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has disaster assistance available to affected individuals in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Hardee, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Orange, Osceola, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns and Volusia counties following the impact of Hurricane Ian. Affected people can apply for disaster assistance at disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern Time, or by using the FEMA mobile app.

Mortgage Relief

US mortgages have some programs to help homeowners struggling to pay their monthly mortgage payment after a disaster. Possible disaster-relief options may be: reinstatement, repayment plan, payment deferral, or loan modification. Furthermore, a homeowner must initiate the process. Click here to learn more.

Other Important Information

• DeSantis approved an extension of the September license renewal through October 31, 2022.
• Department of Business and Professional Regulation Secretary Melanie Griffin signed an Executive Order waiving application fees associated with relocating and reopening businesses and branch offices in specified areas impacted by Hurricane Ian.
• Gov. Ron DeSantis activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program to help companies deal with temporary operational gaps after Hurricane Ian. The maximum loan per business is $50,000 at zero interest, and owners have one year to pay the money back.
• Here’s a list of property insurance companies serving Florida: https://www.floridarealtors.org/news-media/news-articles/2022/09/how-reach-your-insurance-company
• Disaster Employment Assistance (DUA) is available for Florida businesses and residents.
• U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster loans is available to businesses and residents in Florida following the Hurricane Ian disaster declaration. Applicants may apply at disasterloanassistance.sba.gov

As professionals in the real estate industry, we are naturally resilient and determined. We hope that in the coming days and weeks you will be able to bounce back from this calamity.