Space & Growth Funding: Florida Venture Forum and Space Florida picked six early-stage winners for a combined $150,000 in investment at its 18th Early Stage Venture Conference in Orlando, targeting aerospace, defense and emerging tech. Water Constraints for Development: Despite recent rain, Central Florida’s worst drought in 25 years is pressuring aquifers and the St. Johns River, raising the odds of delays and higher costs for big projects like Farmton’s Deering Park. Appraisal & Claims: A Florida-focused look at how appraisal is shifting from a backstop to a front-line battleground in property insurance disputes, with courts tightening expectations for appraiser competency. Local Housing Safety: USF says it will launch a voluntary off-campus housing safety program after recent student stabbings, requiring participating properties to meet service, safety and communication standards. Property Taxes in the Spotlight: Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan is urging voters to read the “fine print” on a November homestead exemption ballot measure, warning it could cut city services and raise other costs. Multifamily Rent Incentives: New research suggests rent concessions are weakening effective rents in supply-pressured pockets, even as REITs report fewer free-rent deals. Crime & Community Impact: A prominent Doral-area realtor, her ex-husband and their two daughters were found dead in a suspected murder-suicide, prompting a major local investigation. St. Petersburg Budget Risk List: St. Petersburg says the proposed property tax measure could force reductions to libraries, parks, homeless services and senior programs. Commercial Real Estate Dealmaking: A South Florida broker says summer is when serious commercial buyers return, citing adjusted seller expectations and clearer lending. Mold After Storm Damage: Florida building experts warn mold can begin forming within 24–48 hours after water intrusion, making fast moisture control critical.