Differences Between a Condo Association and a

Homeowner’s Association

Understanding the differences between each type of association will help future owners of 30A luxury homes to get the most out of their association’s ownership experience, whether they buy condos or single family homes along 30A.

The major difference between homeowners associations (HOAs) and condominiums associations revolves around the type of real property development administered by the association. An HOA governs a single-family, planned development made up of lots. Each lot is improved with a separate home. Traditionally, these developments are your typical suburban neighborhood with stand-alone homes, each with a yard. A condominium association governs a common structure(s) comprised of multiple units.

Here are some of the basics of a

condo association and

a HOA:

Condominium Association

A condominium is a joint ownership of the building, grounds and common elements (or areas) while the units are individually owned.

A condominium is created by record of a declaration of covenants and restrictions, bylaws, and a condo plat in the municipal land records or local county.

Although condo unit owners are empowered to run the condominium, they elect a Board of Directors to carry out most of the powers and duties of the condo association.

Common elements in a condominium can be broken down into general common elements (GCEs) and limited common elements (LCEs).

GCEs are available for use by all unit owners and include lobbies, common hallways, sidewalks, roofs, elevators, and community facilities (swimming pools, parking lots, etc.).

LCEs are parts of the condo that are designated for the exclusive use of unit owner only such as balconies and patios in a condo.

The designation of LCEs can be found in the condo association’s declaration or on the plats. In some cases, the Board of Directors assigns these designations, as in the case of parking spaces. Common examples of limited common elements are balconies and patios serving a unit.

Maintenance, repair, and replacement of the LCEs as well as the unit is the responsibility of the unit owner to whom the LCEs were designated.

Annual common expenses of the condominium are determined by the Board of Directors. Every unit owner is assessed of their share of common expenses based on their percentage of ownership interest, meaning the larger the unit, the bigger the unit owner’s proportional share of the common expense in the condominium.

Homeowner’s Association

An HOA is comprised of homeowners living in 30A luxury homes, whose purpose is to ensure maintenance and provision of community facilities and enforcement of HOA covenants and restrictions.

An HOA is created by record of a Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CC&R) in local land records. Unlike a condo association, the bylaws of the HOA are not recorded in the land records.

The Board of Directors are delegated by the HOA’s bylaws. The Board is responsible for determining the amount of annual association fees, making and enforcing rules and regulations, architectural guidelines, and maintaining the common areas.

The common areas are owned by the HOA, and not the lot owners, through a common area deed from the original developer or declarant. Common areas include sidewalks, parking lots, swimming pools, playgrounds, green space, not included in the lots and other recreation facilities.

Homeowners are granted a right to use and enjoy the common areas through a grant of easement included in the CC&R. The right to use common areas may be suspended for violation of the rules and regulations of the HOA or for failure to pay HOA fees.

Maintenance, repair and replacement of the common areas are the responsibility of the HOA.

Homeowners are responsible for the maintenance, repair, and replacement of their lots which include landscaping within the boundaries of their 30A luxury homes as well as the exterior of their home.

There are some HOAs who assume the responsibility of maintaining the landscaping of lots. Any exterior improvements, alterations, or additions by the owner are subject to approval by the HOA’s Architectural Review Board (ARB).

Difference between HOA and Condo Association Fees

Due to the lesser maintenance, repair, replacement, and insurance obligations, HOA fees are usually lower than comparably sized condos.

Condo association fees, along the Emerald Coast of Florida, typically include, maintenance and insurance for the exterior of the building and all common areas, water, sewer, trash, basic cable and sometimes internet. These items are not included in HOAs of single-family homes or townhomes.

Condo fees are paid either monthly or quarterly, whereas HOA fees are typically monthly.

Whether you are planning to buy a condominium unit or a single family home along 30A, you should be informed of the corresponding association fees, rules, regulations, and restrictions so you can maximize the benefits of and enjoy living in your home along 30A. If you need more information about homes and communities along 30A, visit www.30ALuxuryHomes.com

Call me, Debbie James at 850-450-2000. Let me provide you with all the information and tools you need to make your dream 30A luxury home a reality.