Many people use Priceline for Fort Lauderdale pre/post hotel stays. If you go to biddingfortravel.com the moderator will help you place a bid when you fill out a bid assistance form, it's a free service. Previous winning bids for resorts on the ocean have been in the $90 range, 3 and 4* accomodations in the downtown area have been won in the $75 range (all marriott hotels).
Since you are traveling during hurricane season I think you should be able to get a decent rate on Priceline.