What is a Community Association Manager (CAM)?
A Community Association Manager, or CAM, manages the day-to-day operations of residential communities like homeowners’ associations (HOAs), condominium associations, cooperatives, and mobile home parks. CAMs act as a bridge between the board members and the residents, ensuring that the community’s rules and regulations are followed while also maintaining common areas and handling administrative tasks.
Types of CAM Jobs in Florida
With a CAM license, you can manage various types of residential communities, including the following:
- Condominium Associations: These communities are common in Florida’s coastal cities and often require CAMs to oversee operations for multiple units.
- Homeowners’ Associations (HOAs): Many suburban neighborhoods have HOAs that need management for maintenance, amenities, and neighborhood policies.
- Cooperative Associations: CAMs manage operations in co-op communities, where residents collectively own the property.
- Resort Communities: Given Florida’s tourism industry, CAMs may also manage vacation properties, ensuring smooth operations for short-term stays.
Is a CAM License Worth It?
Becoming a CAM in Florida can be a highly rewarding career path. CAMs are in demand, especially in Florida, where residential communities are growing due to population increases.
The average salary for CAMs in Florida ranges between $50,000 and $65,000 per year. In more complex or luxury communities, CAMs can earn upwards of $125,000 annually, making this a financially attractive career. CAMs may also be eligible for bonuses.
Steps to Getting A Real Estate License In Florida
To become a licensed CAM in Florida, follow these steps:
Step 1: Complete the CAM pre-licensing course.
To earn your CAM license in Florida, you must complete a 16-hour pre-licensing course covering Florida laws, community management, financial management, and ethical practices.
Step 2: Submit the license application.
After completing the course, you must submit your application to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) with the appropriate fee.
Step 3: Undergo a background check.
All applicants must undergo a background check, which includes fingerprinting.
Step 4: Pass the CAM license exam.
The CAM exam tests your knowledge of Florida laws, financial management, and community operations. You must score at least 75% to pass.
Step 5: Complete continuing education.
You must complete 15 hours of continuing education courses every two years to renew your CAM license in Florida.
It’s often recommended that CAMs continue their education with specialized training in budgeting, meeting etiquette, and maintenance to prepare themselves for their responsibilities. This can be achieved through seminars and continuing education courses.
Do You Need a License to Be a CAM?
Yes, a CAM license is required in Florida if you manage a community with more than ten units or an annual budget of over $100,000. The license ensures the manager has the legal and operational knowledge to run a community effectively, thus protecting the community and the CAM.
Is Getting a CAM License Hard?
While not overly difficult, earning your CAM license does require dedication. The 16-hour pre-licensing course is intense and covers a wide range of topics, including Florida-specific legal and financial regulations. The exam can be challenging, especially for those unfamiliar with the subject matter. However, with proper preparation and study, the process is manageable.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a CAM License?
The total cost of obtaining your CAM license in Florida includes:
- Pre-Licensing Course: Typically between $300 and $500.
- Application Fee: $50
- Exam Fee: $50.50
- License: $100
- Unlicensed Activity Fee: $5
Expect to spend around $500 to $700 overall, including the course, application, and exam costs.
How Long Does It Take to Get a CAM License?
The entire process of becoming a licensed CAM typically takes between 2 to 4 months, depending on how quickly you complete the steps:
- The pre-licensing course can be completed in a few days or weeks.
- Application processing by the DBPR takes approximately 30 to 45 days.
- Preparing for and scheduling the exam may add additional time based on your study schedule.
How Do You Get a Job as a Community Association Manager?
Once you have passed the exam and received your license, you may seek employment as a CAM. Many community associations within Florida seek to employ CAMs, either through direct contracts or through a community association management firm. Feel free to visit our Job Board for CAM employment ads.
Is a CAM License Financially Worth It?
Yes, obtaining a CAM license is financially worthwhile, especially if you aim for a stable and well-paying career in community management. With the average salary in Florida between $50,000 and $65,000 and top-tier CAMs earning over $125,000, the financial rewards often far outweigh the cost of obtaining the license.
Becoming a Community Association Manager in Florida is a great career option for individuals with strong organizational, leadership, and problem-solving skills. With a promising job market, competitive salary, and clear licensing path, investing in a CAM license can lead to a fulfilling and lucrative career.
If you have any questions regarding community association management careers, contact Gold Coast Schools.