What Is a CDD?

What Is a CDD? A Florida Homebuyer's Guide to Community Development Districts By Scott Swonger, HomeSmart Realtor If you're shopping for a home in Florida — especially in a newer master-planned community like the ones here around Venice and Wellen Park — sooner or later you're going to run into thre

The Florida Tax Change Everyone Is Talking About

Florida's Proposed Homestead Exemption Changes: Why 2026 Could Be One of the Best Times to Buy or Sell By Scott Swonger, HomeSmart Florida homeowners may soon see one of the biggest property tax changes in state history. If approved by voters this November, the proposed constitutional amendment woul

Scott Swonger Named Number 1 HomeSmart Realtor in Florida for 2025

When it comes to making one of life’s biggest decisions—buying or selling a home—you want someone you can trust by your side. That’s where Scott Swonger, the Number 1 HomeSmart Realtor in Florida for 2025, shines. His dedication, expertise, and personal touch have made him the go-to choice for famil

How Much Do You Really Need for a Down Payment in Florida?

A down payment is when you pay a fraction of the cost of a home upfront and then take out a loan to cover the rest. If you’re thinking about buying a home in Venice, FL, or the Sarasota area, you might be wondering: Do I really need 20% down? The truth is — that’s a myth. You Don’t Have to Put 20% D