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SFPMA Industry Articles | news, legal updates, events & education! 

Find Blog Articles for Florida’s Condo, HOA and the Management Industry. 

Join us on Tuesday, November 12th at 12:00 PM for our Community Roundtable: Technology and Community Governance!

Join us on Tuesday, November 12th at 12:00 PM for our Community Roundtable: Technology and Community Governance!

Join us on Tuesday, November 12th at 12:00 PM for our Community Roundtable: Technology and Community Governance!

During this discussion, our panel of professionals consisting of Kerstin Henze, Esq. (KBR Legal), Frank Valdes (GetQuorum), and Dianne Skinner (Artemis Lifestyle Services) will cover various topics, including:

  • The importance of updating governing documents
  • Association Record and new Florida Statute requirements
  • How communities can leverage technology, like virtual meetings and electronic voting, for more efficient governance and more!

Enroll for the November 12th Discussion.

 

Join us on Tuesday, November 12th at 12:00 PM for our Community Roundtable: Technology and Community Governance!

During this discussion, our panel of experts consisting of Kerstin Henze (KBR Legal), Frank Valdes (GetQuorum), and Dianne Skinner (Artemis Lifestyle Services) will cover various topics, including:

  • The importance of updating governing documents
  • Association Record and new Florida Statute requirements

  • How communities can leverage technology, like virtual meetings and electronic voting, for more efficient governance and more!

Don’t miss out; register today!

 

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Legal Update 2024  2:30-4:30pm | 2 CEUs in LU | No. 9632307 at the Palm Beach Condo HOA EXPO. by kbr legal

Legal Update 2024 2:30-4:30pm | 2 CEUs in LU | No. 9632307 at the Palm Beach Condo HOA EXPO. by kbr legal

Legal Update 2024

2:30-4:30pm | 2 CEUs in LU | No. 9632307

Get updated on the most recent legislative changes and discuss the statutory changes made by Florida Legislature and how they directly affect managers and their communities.

Instructor: Allison L. Hertz, Esq. BCS of KBR Legal

 

Learn the Legal Updates for 2024, Managers and Board Members this is a must!

Register / attend the expo

 

 

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CEU course “Navigating the FFHA: Assistance Animal or Pet?” next week on Feb. 20th. Alan Schwartzseid of KBR Legal.com

CEU course “Navigating the FFHA: Assistance Animal or Pet?” next week on Feb. 20th. Alan Schwartzseid of KBR Legal.com

  • Posted: Feb 20, 2024
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We are presenting the CEU course “Navigating the FFHA: Assistance Animal or Pet?” next week on Feb. 20th. Alan Schwartzseid from KBR Legal.com will be the instructor.

Use the link to enroll for free: 

Feb 20, 2024 02:00 PM
Presented by Alan Schwartzseid, Esq., of Kaye Bender Rembaum Learn about the HUD regulations and Florida Legislation pertaining to assistance animals, as well as common issues concerning assistance animals and addressing requests by residents for reasonable accommodations. Provider #: 0005092 | Course #: 9631847 | 1 CE credit in OPP or Elective
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Condo Board Member Cert (Thurs.) Feb. 15th Hosted by GRS Community Management. Course provided by Kaye Bender Rembaum.

Condo Board Member Cert (Thurs.) Feb. 15th Hosted by GRS Community Management. Course provided by Kaye Bender Rembaum.

  • Posted: Feb 14, 2024
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Condo Board Member Cert (Thurs.) Feb. 15th Hosted by GRS Community Management. Course provided by Kaye Bender Rembaum.

February 15 @ 2:00 PM – 4:15 PM

Hosted by GRS Community Management. Course provided by Kaye Bender Rembaum.

If you do not see the graphic below, CLICK HERE to learn more and to RSVP free for

Condominium Board Member Certification on Feb. 15.

WEBINAR: CONDO BOARD MEMBER CERTIFICATION

Presented by GRS Management | Provided by Kaye Bender Rembaum (0005092) | Course # 9630075 | Instructor: Kerstin Henze, Esq.

This webinar covers the essentials of condominium board membership, updated regularly to remain current with legislative amendments to Florida’s Condominium Act. In addition, this webinar satisfies Florida’s requirement for new condominium board members. It also serves as an excellent refresher course. Licensed CAMS will receive two (2) CE credits as IFM or ELE. Kerstin Henze is stepping in for Alan Schwartzseid.

Enroll for free HERE.

 

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Visit our Upcoming Events page and view our calendar, top events are listed for Boards, Managers and Members.

Visit our Upcoming Events page and view our calendar, top events are listed for Boards, Managers and Members.

  • Posted: Jan 23, 2024
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Webinars plus Breakfast/Lunch Events This Week

Find other top events on our website


Wednesday, January 24 | 7:30am Est | Breakfast in Pompano

OPP Credit with hot breakfast.

Limited space remains | RSVP Free Here.

Info needed? Contact ACE by TSK


Wednesday, January 24 | 11:30am Est | Lunch in Pembroke Pines

Legal Update 2024 with hot lunch.

Registration Closed…this serves as a reminder for those registered.

Info needed? Contact Capriccio’s Networking Group


Thursday, January 25 | 2:00pm Est | Zoom Webinar

Importance of Updating the Governing Documents of Your Association

RSVP Free Here


Expos & Trade Shows

Register for the Expos, Sign up for the Informational Seminars. The Board Certification courses are the best in the State. The one day events are great places to meet with many of the top businesses working together in the Industry.

Feb 6TH, 2024 AT 8:30 A.M. AT THE
SIGNATURE GRAND – BROWARD COUNTY.
Tampa Bay Condo & HOA Expo
Feb 9TH, 2024 AT 8:30 A.M.
AT THE TAMPA BAY CONVENTION CENTER.
Palm Beach Condo & HOA Expo
Feb 13th, 2024 AT 8:30 A.M.
AT THE PALM BEACH CONVENTION CENTER.

YouTube Live: Condo Craze & HOA’s

On our YouTube page you can find webinar events you may have missed, these are recorded for your viewing pleasure. Education is key for Boards, Managers and Owners living in Condo and HOA’s all over the State.  You may also find the service companies that make up SFPMA have videos letting clients learn what the do and they can best help you.

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COURSE: WHAT A CAM MUST KNOW AFTER A PROPERTY LOSS

COURSE: WHAT A CAM MUST KNOW AFTER A PROPERTY LOSS

  • Posted: Jan 22, 2024
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FREE HOT BREAKFAST WITH EDUCATION IN BROWARD

 01/24/2024  7:30 am – 9:30 am
 Galuppis

Address: 1015 N Federal Hwy, Pompano Beach, FL 33062, USA
COURSE: WHAT A CAM MUST KNOW AFTER A PROPERTY LOSS

RSVP Free HERE

  • Course #: 9628960 | Provider #: 0005930 | One CEU in OPP or ELE
  • Delicious hot breakfast will be served and this event is complimentary thanks to the support of our ACE partners.
  • Presented by Water Restoration Group’s Raf Tamecki (Dir. of Field Operations) “What  A CAM Must Know After A Property Loss” offers essential insights into the critical post-property loss procedures that property managers and CAMS need to know. Panelists who will answer related questions include Terri Russo (SouthState Bank) and Andrew Massie (Plastridge Insurance).

 

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Requirements for Obtaining a Florida Property Management License in 2024

Requirements for Obtaining a Florida Property Management License in 2024

  • Posted: Jan 01, 2024
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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.

 


You can find out more on Licensing from our partners on the SFPMA.com website. Our Association and Industry Partners provide: Licensing Classes, Training and Licensing for CAM’s and Required Board Member Courses.

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Becoming a real estate agent in Florida is now within your reach with us FLCAA

Becoming a real estate agent in Florida is now within your reach with us FLCAA

  • Posted: Aug 22, 2023
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Becoming a real estate agent in Florida is now within your reach with us. Gain the knowledge and confidence you need to pass the exam and start helping Florida residents with their real estate needs.
Don’t miss this opportunity! Enroll now! ✅
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Apr 19 Free Lunch & Learn: How To Select A Contractor. | Sponsored by KBRLegal

Apr 19 Free Lunch & Learn: How To Select A Contractor. | Sponsored by KBRLegal

This one-hour class will guide association members, CAMs, and building managers through the process of how to select a contractor for an upcoming commercial project. It starts with knowing your stakeholder, creating an RFP, hosting a pre-bid meeting, evaluating the quotes, and ends with making your contractor recommendation.

Wednesday, April 19, 2023

Meet the sponsors at 11:30 a.m.

Class begins at 12 p.m.

 

Capriccio Ristorante

2424 N University Drive, Pembroke Pines, FL 33024

1 Credit OPP/ELE

Course #9631934 | Provider #0007984

 

Register on Eventbrite by April 18. Space is limited.

Lunch is generously sponsored by: SFPMA Members.

Bashor & Legendre, LLP

Centennial Bank

Kaye Bender Rembaum

M.A. Construction Group

Rainbow Roofing Solutions

United Claims Specialists

Wayne Automatic Fire Sprinklers, Inc.

WeDry USA

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Education: Licensing: Become a Property Management (CAM) in Florida

Education: Licensing: Become a Property Management (CAM) in Florida

  • Posted: Apr 08, 2023
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Property Management Requirements in Florida

State of Florida Property Management Association; On our Website you can find on our Licensing Course Partners the Licensing Courses are offered to you to become a CAM Manager in the State of Florida! 

Find out about Licensing and Board Member Courses

Become a Property Manager – Many Clients wish to become a property manager they will learn requirements, then take their tests online or in a classroom.

Training is offered by SFPMA and our educational members.


Questions and Answers you might have

1. Must a Florida property management company have a real estate broker’s license

YES. Key components of property management (renting and leasing) are considered a real estate activity under existing Florida real estate licensing laws. A property manager needs a brokers license if he or she is paid by commission, and is handling rentals and leases for others.

No license is required for managing personally owned properties. There is a “Property Manager” license or certificate you should have. Also, certain rental properties need a license through the Div. of Hotels and Restaurants.

 

2. Are there any exceptions to the requirement that a Florida property manager have a broker’s license?

YES. For example, if a property owner employs someone to manage their property, and that “employee is paid a salary”, as opposed to being paid a commission or on a transactional basis, a broker’s license is not required.

For more information about these and other Florida property management requirements and exceptions, please contact the Florida Real Estate Commission.

Before hiring a property manager to manage your Florida rental property, you should always check that he or she is licensed appropriately. You can check the license status of Florida property managers at the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s Licensee Search webpage.

 

3. Must Florida community association managers have a real estate broker’s license?

No. However, a Community Association Manager license is required if someone receives compensation for providing management services for the following types of associations:

  • An association with ten or more units
  • An association with a budget of $100,000 or greater

 

4. Florida Real Estate Broker License Requirements

Florida real estate broker licensing requirements include:

  • Age: Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • High School: Must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Experience: Must have held a current real estate sales associate license for at least 24 months during the 5 year period immediately preceding becoming a licensed broker.
  • Education: Successfully complete a Florida Real Estate Commission approved pre-licensing course for brokers, consisting of 72 classroom hours and covering specified topics. Courses are valid for licensure purposes for two years after completion. In addition, successfully complete a FREC-approved post-licensing course for brokers, consisting of 60 classroom hours before the initial broker license expires.
  • Exam: Pass the Florida Real Estate Broker Examination with a grade of at least 75.
  • Fee: $115 ($20 application fee; $90 license fee; $5 unlicensed activity fee).
  • Application: complete and submit broker license application which is available online.

 

5. Florida Real Estate Salesperson License Requirements

Florida real estate salesperson licensing requirements include:

  • Age: Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • High School: Must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Education: Successfully complete a Florida Real Estate Commission 63-hour sales associate course.
  • Trustworthiness: Must be of good moral character; must have a background check and submit fingerprints.
  • Exam: Pass the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate Examination with a grade of at least 75%

 

6. Florida Community Association Manager License Requirements

Florida community association manager licensing requirements include:

  • Age: Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Education: Must complete at least 18 hours of pre-licensure education from an approved provider.
  • Trustworthiness: Must be of good moral character; must have a background check and submit fingerprints.
  • Exam: Pass the Community Association Management Exam.
  • Then Pay the License fee in your state.

 


 

With over 15 years of experience, we provide the best professional continuing education in Florida.

More Community Association Managers have gone through Florida’s license training courses than with any other offered,  Whether you are looking for a classroom experience or an online courses, we make sure you are prepared for the exam and success. Our Partners with CAM Pre-licensing and CAM courses, have experienced a 100% passing rate when the course and reviews are completed before the exam.
Long after you have completed your exam, we are behind you with the best continuing education courses in the business.

SFPMA has our Calendar of upcoming events: Each month you will find the top events given by Law Firms, Educators, Service and a great team of Marketing Companies. Find courses for boards, managers, owners and investors. You can also take advantage of our You Tube and Radio Shows by some of the All Stars in out education by: Kay Bender Rembaum, and Condo Craze and HOA’s.

 

Becoming a Property Manager – Many Clients wish to become a property manager they can learn and then take their tests online or in a classroom, Training is offered by educational members of sfpma


 

Licensing requirements for Property Managers

How long has the company been in operation?
The rule of thumb is to look for five years or more experience, but this must be weighed against all the other criteria as there are subpar veterans and excellent startups in many markets. Also, beware of a company that has changed its name to avoid bad past.

Community Association Managers who focus on one property type and/or don’t provide realty services pride themselves on this point. There are definitely benefits to working with a company that has a single focus and specialization, but there are plenty of competent community association management companies who provide realty service and/or manage multiple property types. The main thing to look out for is people who decide to become property managers overnight even though they are unqualified. Although this applies to people from all backgrounds, its worth noting that when the real estate market slows down a good number of realtors moonlight as property managers, some of whom lack the proper licensing and or skills required.

 

How knowledgeable are they?
If they appear to not have the time to answer your questions in the interview process, move on. They either genuinely don’t have time for their clients, or this is a front to mask their lack of knowledge. Try offering them some hypothetical scenarios to see if they offer you solid answers or dance around the question. Quick, clear answers mean there are well laid out processes in place rather than a fly-by-the-seat-of-their-pants, more reactive mentality.

 

Are they licensed to practice property management?
This is a very important point as it is a serious problem when anyone tries to practice property management without being a licensed Community Association Manager and educated in the field. The fact that your community association management company is licensed means they are subject to the ethics and guidelines established by their states governing authority. If they don’t have a broker’s license, they either will likely be operating under another broker’s license or are in a state that does not require a broker’s license. Either way it’s worth checking the laws in your state and verifying things to make you don’t hire a company that is practicing property management illegally. Also make sure to find out if they have a current errors and omissions insurance policy.

 

What certifications does the CAM company and its employees have? Do they participate in continuing education?
This is a good indicator of how seriously the company takes their work. You want to look for companies that nurture their employees professional development by encouraging (or even better requiring) them to attend graduate level courses and seminars. Professional certifications mean the recipient has invested considerable time and money acquiring the skills required to be an expert in their field. Here are some trade organizations and the designations they provide:

  • National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM) – RMP, MPM, CRMC,CSS
  • National Apartment Association (NAA) – CAM, CAMT, CAPS, CAS, NALP
  • Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM) – CPM, ARM, AMO, ACoM
  • State of Florida Property Management Association. (SFPMA) (Through our Member Partners)

 

Does the management team dress and act professionally?
First impressions matter. The companies you interview are likely on their best behavior during the interview process so if they don’t look and behave professionally then, don’t expect things to improve. Consider that this person will represent you when dealing with current and potential future tenants; if you don’t find them agreeable what are the odds your tenants will? It’s also a good idea to get a look at their offices as this will provide yet another window into what kind of property conditions they find acceptable.

 

How many properties should managers manage

How many types of properties do they manage? Do they have a specialty?

Generally speaking it is a good thing if they focus on specializing in one area. How many properties are they currently managing? Is the company trying to grow, hold or slim their portfolio? This question is closely related to size which is covered in the next article.

 

Do they manage properties locally, regionally, or nationally?
The conventional wisdom is that a local only is best because is allows for a more singular focus as well as increases managements attention and ability to meet your needs as well as your access to decision makers in the company. That said, this can be an over generalization easily out weighed by any number of the other factors covered in this hiring guide.

 

Do they manage any section 8 properties?
These kinds of properties come with their unique challenges and require specific knowledge to manage. If you own, or think you may consider purchasing section 8 properties in the future you are best looking for a company that has experience in this area.

 

Ask for the addresses of some of their properties so you can do a drive by and if possible get a walk through.
Bear in mind they will select properties that reflect well on them, if you really want to go the extra step you can hunt down one of their other properties by locating some of their listings on there websites. Either way, if you get the opportunity to talk to tenants & owners try to assess their level of satisfaction with the Community Association Management Company.

 

Where is their office located? How far is it from your rental property?
The farther away they are the more likely the level of attention your property receives will suffer. A maximum of a twenty five minute drive is a good rule of thumb. or Find out of they have managers at each property some companies have offices in each building they manage, or an agreement with the building owner placing an apt set as a office.

 

IMPORTANT: This information is intended for informational purposes only and under no circumstances should it be considered legal advice or relied upon without first confirming its contents with your state real estate commission. Laws are updated frequently, and this information may not reflect the current law in your state. To confirm the specific requirements for each state, please contact your state real estate commission.


Property Management Forms

As you become a CAM Manager and start your business, You will need the Forms to help you, Leases, Letters to Tenants, Legal Documents and much more……..

Just some of the essential forms to assist you in leasing your premises, complying with legal requirements, and keeping relations with your tenants amicable. Forms include the 1. Landlord Tenant Closing Statement to Reconcile Security Deposit, 2. Residential Rental Lease Application, 3. Residential Rental Lease Agreement, 4. Commercial Building or Space Lease, 5. Security Deposit Agreement and other forms.

 

We offer Subscriptions – download and get access to

EVERY FORM YOU WILL NEED FROM THOUSANDS OF FORMS

SUBSCRIBE TODAY TO OUR FORM PACKAGE

 

 

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Property Manager and Board Member Breakfast at Pompano Galuppi’s by  KBR Legal

Property Manager and Board Member Breakfast at Pompano Galuppi’s by KBR Legal

GOOD TO GREAT: HIRING THE RIGHT PEOPLE – GALUPPI’S BREAKFAST NETWORKING GROUP

Wed, March 8, 2023, 7:30 AM – 10:00 AM EST

Galuppi’s 1103 North Federal Highway Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Register NOW

Join us for a morning of awesome education and credits. A FREE hot breakfast will also be served for your pleasure while you learn and network. Win Door Prizes! Network and Meet Several Professionals serving Community Associations! For all of our board members, please register and be our guests. Take the opportunity to meet and learn from the professionals that support community living. There is NO cost for this event, but for property managers registration is required along with your CAM License number so that you can be properly accredited for licensing.

Course for today:

  • Good to Great: Hiring the Right People
  • Course #9631800 | 1 CE in the HR category | Provider #0008912
  • Instructor: Marcy Kravit, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, CFCAM (Hotwire | Fision)
  • During the second hour our instructor will open it up to discussion and your questions!
  • While this course is for HR credit, you can also use the second hour of the program to ask Marcy your Communication, Cable TV, Internet and Telecommunications questions…as well as learn more about Hotwire’s bulk offerings for community associations.

Note: Please register only once for yourself. Duplicate entries using the same email address will be cancelled. If you later determine you cannot attend, please save your email confirmation so that you can cancel your registration.

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