When it comes to managing properties in Florida, the roles of a Community Association Manager (CAM) and a Property Manager can sometimes be confused. Although both careers involve overseeing properties, each professional serves a different function. Here’s a closer look at what differentiates a community association manager vs property manager.
Key Takeaways
- CAMs manage community associations like HOAs and condominiums, while property managers focus on rental or commercial properties.
- CAMs handle community operations, work with HOA or condo boards, manage vendor contracts, enforce rules, and prepare budgets for the board.
- Both CAMs and property managers must be licensed in Florida.
- HOA Managers need a CAM license if they manage budgets, board meetings, or financial operations, highlighting a crucial distinction.
- Neither role requires a degree, but both require specific licensing. Gold Coast Schools offer training and support for obtaining these licenses in Florida.
What is a Community Association Manager (CAM)?
A community association manager, commonly referred to as a CAM, helps oversee the operations of communities such as homeowner associations (HOAs) and condominiums. CAMs often work with the HOA or condo board to enforce the community’s rules and regulations and ensure that the community adheres to its bylaws.
Related Article: Learn the Average Salary of a Community Association Manager in Florida
Definition and role of a CAM
A CAM’s primary role is to support the boards of homeowner associations, condominiums, or other community-driven organizations in managing their day-to-day operations. Also, CAMs act as the liaison between the board and the residents.
Key responsibilities of a CAM
Some of the primary duties of a CAM include the following:
- Managing the HOA or condo board
- Overseeing community operations and maintenance of common areas
- Handling vendor contracts for services like landscaping, repairs, or security
- Enforcing community rules and policies
- Coordinating meetings for the HOA or condo board
- Preparing budgets and financial reports for the board
Types of properties CAMs typically manage
CAMs generally manage the following types of residential communities:
- Condominium associations
- Homeowner associations (HOAs)
- Cooperatives and mobile home parks
Licensing and certification requirements for CAMs
In Florida, becoming a CAM requires obtaining a license from the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). To become a Community Association Manager (CAM) in Florida, you must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. Here’s how to get your Florida CAM license:
Here’s a brief overview of the steps for licensure:
Step 1: Complete a CAM pre-licensing course.
Enroll in and complete a 16-hour pre-licensing course from a Florida-approved education provider. The course will cover topics such as Florida laws, community management, financial management, and ethical practices.
Step 2: Submit a license application.
Submit your CAM license application to the DBPR. You’ll be responsible for an application fee of around $223.
Step 3: Undergo a background check.
Get fingerprinted for a background check through an approved service provider. Ensure the fingerprinting is completed before taking the exam.
Step 4: Pass the CAM licensing exam.
Schedule and take the state-administered CAM exam through Pearson VUE.The exam tests your knowledge of Florida laws, financial management, community operations, and more.
Step 5: Complete continuing education.
Renew your CAM license every two years by completing at least 15 hours of continuing education courses.
What is a Property Manager?
A property manager focuses on managing individual rental properties, multifamily apartments, or commercial properties. Unlike CAMs, property managers typically work with individual property owners or companies rather than community associations.
Definition and role of a property manager
Property managers oversee the daily operations of rental or investment properties. Their role primarily involves dealing with tenants, maintaining the property, and ensuring rent is paid on time.
Key responsibilities of a property manager
A property manager’s duties include:
- Handling tenant relations and lease management
- Collecting rent
- Handling property maintenance and repairs
- Marketing rental units to potential tenants
- Ensuring the property complies with local laws and regulations
Types of properties property managers typically oversee
Property managers usually oversee the following types of properties:
- Single-family homes for rent
- Apartment complexes
- Commercial buildings
- Office spaces
Licensing and Certification Requirements for Property Managers
In Florida, Property managers are required to have a real estate license if they engage in certain leasing or rental activities on behalf of the property owner. Here’s a quick overview of the Florida real estate licensing process:
Step 1: Complete a pre-licensing course.
In Florida, you’re required to complete a 63-hour pre-licensing course from a state-approved real estate school. This course will cover essential real estate principles, laws, and ethical practices.
Step 2: Submit your application.
Submit your real estate license application to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). The application fee is around $83.75.
Step 3: Undergo a background check.
Get fingerprinted for a background check through an approved provider. Your fingerprints will be used to conduct a criminal background check. Make sure to complete this step before scheduling the exam.
Step 4: Pass the Florida real estate licensing exam.
Schedule and take the state-administered real estate licensing exam through Pearson VUE. The exam has 100 multiple-choice questions covering state and national real estate topics.
Step 5: Find a sponsoring broker.
You must be associated with a licensed broker before activating your real estate license in Florida.
Step 6: Complete post-licensing education.
Within the first 18 to 24 months of obtaining your license, you’re required to complete 45 hours of post-licensing education in Florida.
Step 7: Renew your license with continuing education.
In Florida, real estate licenses must be renewed every two years. To renew, you must complete 14 hours of continuing education, including updates on real estate laws and industry practices.
CAM vs. HOA Managers: Are They the Same?
The terms CAM and HOA manager are sometimes used interchangeably, but there is a key distinction. If an HOA manager’s responsibilities involve tasks such as managing budgets, conducting board meetings, and ensuring the association’s financial health, they must have a CAM license in Florida. Essentially, an HOA manager who fulfills the administrative and operational functions of the HOA board is considered a CAM.
Is a Degree Required to Become a CAM or Property Manager?
Neither role explicitly requires a college degree, although it can be beneficial in advancing your career. The more important factor is obtaining the necessary licenses for each role—CAM licensing for community association managers and real estate-related licensing for property managers.
While the roles of a community association manager and a property manager share some similarities, the difference between them lies in the type of properties they manage and the specific responsibilities they handle. CAMs work closely with community associations like HOAs, whereas property managers focus on managing rental or commercial properties. Additionally, Florida’s licensing requirements set clear distinctions between these two careers, ensuring that each professional is properly equipped to handle the specific challenges of their role.
Gold Coast Schools will also ensure you can handle the challenges of being a CAM or property manager. Turn to Gold Coast Schools for your Florida CAM license or real estate license.