The Advantages of Living in Communities with Associations

Community associations appear to be under an intense media spotlight in Florida and across the country. Stories highlighting association disputes and increases in monthly dues are now fairly common in newspapers and TV newscasts, perhaps more so in Florida due to the strains caused by the growing costs stemming from mandated statutory inspections and reserve funding requirements as well as escalating insurance premiums.

For those who own or those who are buying/selling residences in communities with associations, the media coverage can sometimes shadow the many benefits of living in homeowners and condominium association communities. The hallmarks of these advantages include pools, clubhouses, fitness centers, sports courts, parks, and other resort-style amenities that help residents enjoy full, active and fulfilling lifestyles.

The maintenance and professional services necessary to provide such amenities are all included. This enables residents to enjoy a carefree lifestyle without the hassles and worries associated with mowing and trimming the landscaping, and also with painting, roofs, HVAC equipment, and other elements that require repair and replacement.

Naturally, as with practically everything in life, those benefits come with associated costs, which in communities with associations are borne collectively by all the owners. The payments of all dues and assessments are fairly and proportionately divided among all the members in accordance with established formulas, and this allows associations to pay for everything from required maintenance to insurance, reserves, security, and other vital costs.

All owners also have the opportunity to participate in their association’s financial, administrative and managerial matters. The open forum of board meetings provides a transparent medium for residents to keep abreast of practically all association business and the issues that come before the directors, who are volunteer owners who have stepped forward to serve their community and neighbors.

HOAs and condominium associations are structured to provide all their members with opportunities to actively participate in the decision-making process and ensure their voices are heard. Every owner can run for board positions, serve on committees, and personally contribute to the governing and administration of their community.

When disputes and conflicts arise, associations provide frameworks for achieving fair and reasonable settlements and resolutions. These involve mediation, arbitration and litigation, which communities should only consider as a last resort, and owners should understand those forums provide essential tools for all the members who wish to respect and uphold their community’s bylaws and standards.

All community associations must provide their governing documents to prospective buyers, ensuring transparency regarding the responsibilities and obligations of membership. It is essential for individuals to carefully review all the provisions and stipulations in order to fully understand and agree to comply with them prior to buying.

For example, many communities include architectural and pet restrictions, and those may not be ideal for everyone.  Any questions regarding these and any other matters should be referred to association representatives. Those volunteers and professionals can provide clarity on the reasons for such rules, which are generally intended to create and maintain community harmony as well as preserve property values for all the owners.

Ultimately, communities with associations may not be right for everybody, but they offer excellent opportunities for those who understand and appreciate their advantages, and accept and respect everything that an association requires in order to be able to provide them to their members.

Our firm’s South Florida community association attorneys write about important matters for associations in this blog and our Miami Herald column, which appears every two weeks on Sundays, and we encourage association directors, members and property managers to click here and subscribe to our newsletter to receive our future articles.