Hurricane Season 2025: What NOAA's Forecast and Insurance Trends Mean for Sellers and Buyers

Hurricane season officially starts June 1 and runs through November 30. After what our area went through last fall, nobody in Manatee or Sarasota needs a reminder to take it seriously. This week we also got the first official forecast for 2025, along with some encouraging news about Florida's insurance market. Here's what it all means if you're selling, buying or holding property this summer.

What NOAA Is Forecasting

On May 22, NOAA released its 2025 Atlantic hurricane season outlook. Forecasters give the season a 60% chance of being above normal and expect:

• 13 to 19 named storms

• 6 to 10 hurricanes

• 3 to 5 major hurricanes (Category 3 or stronger)

A seasonal outlook doesn't predict whether a storm will hit our coast, but it's a good reason to plan early. That's true whether you live here year-round or own a second home or rental.

Insurance: Some Signs of Stability

Insurance has been the biggest cost worry for many of my clients. The latest data from regulators points in a better direction:

• In April, the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation announced the 12th new property insurer to enter the market since the state's recent legislative reforms.

• The same announcement reported that homeowners insurance costs fell 0.7% in the fourth quarter of 2024. OIR said it had received nearly 100 residential filings requesting rate decreases or no increase. Since January 2024, 19 companies filed for decreases and 37 requested no change.

• Citizens Property Insurance has approved 2025 rate changes for new and renewal policies effective on or after June 1, 2025. For primary residences, changes range from a 10% decrease to a 14% increase depending on territory and other factors. For non-primary properties, such as second homes and many rentals, the range is 0% to a 50% increase.

None of that means every homeowner's premium is going down. Your rate still depends on your home's age, roof, construction, location and claims history. But more carriers competing is good news for buyers shopping for coverage and for sellers whose buyers need it.

If You're Selling This Summer

Gather your insurance-friendly paperwork now. Buyers' insurers will want to know about the roof, wind protection and major systems. Having these ready can speed up quotes and keep your closing on schedule:

• A current wind mitigation inspection report, which can show features that may qualify for premium discounts

• Roof permit and installation date

• Permits and invoices for any storm repairs from 2024

• Shutter or impact window documentation

Be transparent about storm history. If your home had damage or claims from Helene or Milton, disclose what you know and show how it was repaired. Buyers are asking, and good documentation builds trust.

Plan for storm-related delays. When a storm threatens, insurers commonly suspend writing new policies (often called a binding moratorium) until the threat passes. A buyer who hasn't bound coverage can't close with a lender. Talk with your agent about contract timelines that leave a little room during peak season.

Have a listing storm plan. Know who will secure the property, bring in patio furniture, put up shutters and photograph the home's condition before and after a storm, especially if you've already moved.

If You're Buying

Shop for insurance as soon as you're under contract, or even before you make an offer on a home you're serious about. Ask the seller for the wind mitigation report and roof information. On older homes, expect insurers to ask for a four-point inspection.

Bind early. Don't wait until the week before closing. If a storm forms, you could be locked out of new coverage until it passes.

Watch your rate. Freddie Mac's Primary Mortgage Market Survey put the 30-year fixed average at 6.86% for the week of May 22, 2025. When you're budgeting, look at principal, interest, taxes, insurance and any HOA or CDD fees together.

If You Own Rentals or a Second Home

Non-primary properties can see larger Citizens increases this year, so review your renewal carefully and compare options. Check your flood coverage, too. Standard homeowners and landlord policies typically don't cover flood. Make sure tenants know your storm procedures and how to reach you.

Get Ready Now, Not When the Cone Shows Up

The best time to prepare is before a storm has a name. Update your family plan, check your insurance documents, take a video inventory of your home and know your evacuation zone through Manatee County or Sarasota County emergency management.

If you're thinking about selling, buying or reviewing a property's storm readiness this season, I'm happy to help you plan. Call or text me at (941) 993-8311 or reach out through my contact page.

Luis Odon, REALTOR® Keller Williams Coastal Living II (941) 993-8311

This article is general information only and is not insurance, legal or financial advice. Rates and coverage vary by property and carrier; consult a licensed insurance agent about your situation. Equal Housing Opportunity.