Miami-Dade County PACE Program:

Consumer Protections and Controversies Unveiled

 

 

Miami-Dade County, located in the vibrant heart of Florida, has recently bolstered its Property Assessed Clean Energy Program (PACE) with robust consumer protections. However, amidst this positive change, a wave of consumer complaints has surged. Join me, Sharon Colon, your trusted Miami real estate agent, as we delve into the intricacies of the PACE program, its benefits, and the challenges it faces.

 

What Is PACE?

Exploring the PACE Program:

For those unfamiliar with PACE, it’s a transformative opportunity to upgrade your Miami home with state-of-the-art features like solar panels and energy-efficient air conditioning. But how does it work? PACE employs your property as collateral, securing the debt with a lien, and collects repayments through annual property taxes. While it may resemble a conventional bank loan, PACE operates under fewer regulatory constraints in Florida. This flexibility has empowered numerous homeowners to elevate their properties to new heights. However, not everything about PACE is as straightforward as it seems.

 

From Green Dreams to Rooftop Replacements:

Originally conceived as a solution for eco-friendly enhancements, PACE has evolved to encompass a wider array of home improvements, including roof replacements and impact window installations. While these upgrades undoubtedly enhance homes, the transition has raised concerns about contractor credibility and the complexity of payment terms.

 

Consumer Complaints and Legal Scrutiny:

Across the state, a chorus of consumer complaints has echoed, placing PACE in the crosshairs of lawsuits and federal investigations. Homeowners have turned to PACE to avoid traditional bank loans, leading to significant scrutiny. In February, the Miami Herald conducted an in-depth investigation into Ygrene, a key player in the PACE program. The findings were disconcerting, revealing that Ygrene faced financial difficulties, resulting in a temporary exit from the state. This left thousands of homeowners and contractors in a precarious position, devoid of funds for their vital projects. Moreover, Florida lagged behind other states in terms of safeguarding consumer interests within the PACE program.

 

Commissioner Cabrera’s Pursuit of Consumer Protections:

Following the Miami Herald’s exposé, Commissioner Kevin Cabrera has taken decisive action. He introduced a series of bills aimed at enhancing consumer protections within the PACE program. These bills encompass various aspects, from ensuring transparent documentation of potential costs to considering the expulsion of Ygrene from unincorporated Miami-Dade County. In a September committee hearing, the bill passed by a narrow margin of 3-2, setting the stage for a full commission vote in early October. Should it receive approval, it could mark the end of the Green Corridor, the entity overseeing all of Ygrene’s PACE agreements in Florida. Commissioner Cabrera characterizes the current situation as “government-sanctioned exploitation,” vowing not to let residents be taken advantage of.

 

Transparency through Disclosure Documents:

One significant change within the PACE program is the requirement for PACE providers to furnish comprehensive disclosure documents. These documents outline crucial information for homeowners, including the total amount payable over the agreement’s duration, interest rates, yearly property tax additions, and a cautionary note regarding the consequences of property tax neglect. However, it’s important to note that these new disclosure regulations do not apply to home improvement projects exceeding $250,000 in cost, encompassing both commercial and multi-family residential ventures.

 

A Clash of Perspectives:

Former South Miami Mayor Phil Stoddard, presently heading the Green Corridor, voices opposition to the bill, asserting that Ygrene has addressed its funding challenges. Stoddard contends that Ygrene, as a leading PACE program, encountered and resolved difficulties ahead of others. Ending the agreement with Ygrene, he argues, would leave residential PACE programs without direct consumer oversight.

 

Diverse PACE Programs in Miami-Dade:

Miami-Dade County is home to four distinct PACE programs, each with its unique characteristics and offerings. While representatives from three of these programs rallied in support of the bill, Ygrene notably abstained from participation.

 

Ensuring Transparency in Business Operations: In a final initiative, Commissioner Cabrera is diligently crafting a third bill that would mandate that future companies cannot withdraw from business operations without adequately notifying consumers, ensuring accountability and transparency.

 

Miami-Dade County’s evolving PACE program offers exciting opportunities for homeowners to enhance their properties while introducing crucial consumer protections. As your dedicated Miami real estate agent, we advocate for informed choices, ensuring that you can embrace sustainable upgrades with confidence. Your home, your future – it’s in your hands.

 

 

Thank you for reading. I look forward to connecting with you in Miami soon!

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Sharon Colón
Your Favorite Real Estate Agent in Miami
ΓEA⅃ Broker, LLC
786-376-2398
[email protected]
www.sharoncolonre.com