In Florida, managing, renting, and maintaining properties are classified as real estate activities. Therefore, anyone in Florida who offers these services for someone else and earns a commission must hold a valid real estate license.

However, under specific conditions, some property management services can be provided without a license in Florida. If a property owner hires an individual on a salaried basis to manage their properties, rather than paying them through commission or per transaction, the employee does not need a real estate license.

Additionally, it’s crucial to distinguish between a property manager and a Community Association Manager (CAM) in Florida, as they have different roles and responsibilities:

1. Property Manager: A property manager oversees individual rental properties. Their responsibilities include finding and screening tenants, maintaining the property, collecting rent, and addressing tenant issues. They directly manage the property on behalf of the owner.

2. Community Association Manager (CAM): A CAM, on the other hand, manages community associations like condominiums, homeowners associations, or cooperatives. Their duties are broader and include enforcing community rules, managing common areas, handling association finances, and coordinating with the association’s board of directors. A Florida CAM License is required when managing a community association of more than 10 units and/or with an annual budget in excess of $100,000.

While both roles involve managing real estate, a property manager is generally more focused on the day-to-day operations of specific rental properties, whereas a CAM is involved in the broader management of community living spaces and their associated organizations.

In Florida, the licensing requirements for becoming a Community Association Manager (CAM) and a real estate agent share several similarities. While both paths involve pre-licensing education, background checks, and state exams, the specific course requirements, hours of education, and the nature of the exams differ.

Real Estate License

1. Age and Education: Be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent.

2. Pre-Licensing Education: Complete a 63-hour pre-licensing course approved by the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC).

3. Application: Submit an application to the FREC and pay the required fee.

4. Background Check and Fingerprints: Undergo a background check and submit fingerprints.

5. State Exam: Pass the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate exam.

6. Post-Licensing Education: Complete a 45-hour post-licensing course before your first license renewal.

7. Continuing Education: Complete 14 hours of continuing education every two years to maintain your license.

Community Association Manager (CAM) License

1. Age and Education: Be at least 18 years old. A high school diploma is commonly preferred but not always required.

2. Pre-Licensing Education: Complete an 16-hour state-approved CAM pre-licensing course.

3. Application: Submit an application to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) and pay the required fee.

4. Background Check and Fingerprints: Undergo a background check and submit fingerprints.

5. State Exam: Pass the Florida CAM exam.

6. Continuing Education: Complete 15 hours of continuing education every two years to maintain your license.

In summary, obtaining a property management license in Florida in 2024 requires a thorough understanding of the specific roles and legal requirements. For a property manager handling rental properties, a real estate license is necessary, involving education, exams, and ongoing training. For a Community Association Manager (CAM), who manages larger community associations, the licensing process is distinct but similar, reflecting the broader scope of their responsibilities. Staying informed and compliant with Florida’s real estate regulations is essential for a successful career in property management or community association management.