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Ask Aaron: What Are the Top Ten Things to Know When Buying a Condominium in Florida?

Posted by Jillian Postal | Jan 20, 2014 | 0 Comments

Short Answer

Florida condominium law governs the creation and operation of condo associations, outlining the rights of unit owners and the powers of boards. Understanding the Condominium Act and governing documents is essential before purchasing a unit.

Note: This is general information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship.


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As seen in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and Miami Herald.


When This Becomes Urgent

Condominium buyers and owners need clarity on Florida's complex condo statutes and association rules. They want to know what governs the board's authority, how assessments work, and how disputes are resolved. Condo law affects daily life, finances, and the value of your property.

What Usually Goes Wrong

  • Mistake #1: Ignoring governing documents — Violations can result in fines and litigation
  • Mistake #2: Underestimating special assessments — Unexpected costs can strain budgets
  • Mistake #3: Failing to participate in association governance — Noninvolvement limits your voice and oversight

What to Have Ready

  1. The declaration and bylaws — set the rights and duties of owners and boards
  2. Budget and reserves — indicate the association's financial health and potential for special assessments
  3. Rules and restrictions — affect rental policies, pet ownership, and renovations
  4. Dispute resolution procedures — outline how conflicts are handled (arbitration vs. litigation)
  5. Insurance and maintenance obligations — clarify what the association covers versus the unit owner

What Typically Happens Next

  1. Review the condo association's declaration and bylaws.
  2. Inspect budgets, reserves, and meeting minutes.
  3. Confirm any restrictions on pets, rentals, or renovations.
  4. Check for pending assessments or litigation.
  5. Attend association meetings to stay informed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a condo and an HOA?

A condo association governs a multi-unit building where owners share common walls, while an HOA usually governs single-family homes in a subdivision. Laws and governance structures differ.

Can the association raise fees?

Yes. Boards can increase assessments to meet budget needs, subject to procedures in the bylaws.

How do I resolve a dispute with the board?

Florida law often requires mediation or arbitration through the Division of Condominiums before litigation.

Related Questions

Disclaimer

This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed by reading this page. Every situation is different — if you're facing a business dispute, contact the Law Offices of Aaron Resnick for a confidential consultation.

About the Author

Jillian Postal
Jillian Postal

Jillian Postal is an associate attorney at the Law Offices of Aaron Resnick, P.A. Jillian focuses her practice on commercial litigation matters, including breach of contract and business torts, alternative dispute resolution, and intellectual property. 

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