House Poor in 2025: Warning Signs & How to Avoid It in South Florida | The Listing Team

The 2025 Guide to Avoiding House Poverty in South Florida

Scott Lehr

Licensed Realtor & Financial Strategist
954-342-6180 |
scott@reallistingagent.com

What Does “House Poor” Mean in 2025?

Being house poor means >40% of your income goes toward housing costs, leaving little for other expenses. In Broward County, where the average mortgage payment is now $3,200/month*, this trap snags 1 in 5 new homeowners.

*Source: 2025 Broward County Housing Report

5 Warning Signs You’re Becoming House Poor

You’ve skipped 2+ maintenance tasks to save money
Credit card debt increased since buying
You can’t save >10% of income
Utilities/insurance costs surprise you monthly
You panic when rates adjust (ARMs)

3 Strategies to Stay Financially Healthy

1. The 25% Rule Reimagined

With 2025 rates averaging 6.25%, use our interactive calculator to:

Factor in climate insurance (+15% since 2023)
Account for HOA special assessments
Include 2% annual maintenance costs

2. Try “Rent-to-Own” Math

If renting a similar Fort Lauderdale home would cost 25% less than owning, reconsider timing.

3. Build Your “House Emergency Fund”

Aim for 6 months of housing costs + $10k for unexpected repairs – crucial with our hurricane risks.

Get Your Personalized Affordability Analysis

Avoid buyer’s remorse with our 2025-ready financial plan

Start Safeguarding

or text “AFFORDABLE” to 954-342-6180