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    Hurricanes Helene and Milton will have a lasting impact on St. Petersburg's real estate market. While there are challenges ahead, residents and business owners can learn from past experiences and take steps to make their properties more resilient in the future.

    As recovery continues, here are three key things to watch:

    Homeowners with damaged homes face tough decisions about whether to repair or rebuild, especially when costs are high. Regulatory requirements may force them to meet new code standards for a rebuild, which can be costly. For example, raising a house 10-12 feet in coastal areas could cost $200,000 or more.

    Commercial tenants will need to protect themselves from losing their businesses after natural disasters. They should review their insurance policies and leases to ensure they have adequate protection. This includes getting a clear answer within a reasonable timeframe on whether the landlord plans to rebuild, and having provisions for terminating the lease if repairs are not made in a timely manner.

    Coastal property owners will need to understand that flood insurance is not a complete solution. The national flood insurance program has limits of $250,000, and private insurers may deny or limit claims. To manage risk, it's essential to upgrade properties to comply with current building codes for flood-prone areas, in addition to carrying flood insurance.

    As St. Petersburg looks to the future, these challenges will require careful consideration and planning.