Have you been searching for a stable, in-demand, and financially rewarding career? Becoming a Community Association Manager (CAM) in Florida could be the perfect opportunity for you.This comprehensive guide will walk you through the roles and responsibilities of a CAM, the steps to getting your license, and the skills you need to build a successful career.
What is a Community Association Manager (CAM)?
A Community Association Manager (CAM) oversees the daily operations of residential communities such as homeowners’ associations (HOAs), condominiums, and cooperatives. A CAM can be hired directly by the community association’s board of directors or through a CAM firm, acting as the board’s agent. The board enters into a contract with the CAM or management company, detailing specific duties. These include enforcing rules, collecting fees, preparing budgets, coordinating maintenance, and serving as a vital link between the board and residents to ensure the community runs smoothly and efficiently.
Role and responsibilities
The role of a CAM is dynamic and requires a diverse skill set. Typical duties include:
- Administrative Duties: Assisting with preparing for board meetings, providing notice of meetings, maintaining records, and ensuring compliance with state regulations
- Financial Management: Overseeing budget preparation, controlling or disbursing association funds, and managing the community’s finances, including petty cash
- Vendor Coordination: Supervising contractors for services like maintenance and landscaping (While a CAM doesn’t hire vendors, they help manage and coordinate their work.)
- Resident Relations: Addressing resident concerns, enforcing community rules, and fostering a positive living environment
- Maintenance Oversight: Coordinating maintenance of common areas such as pools, clubhouses, and grounds, ensuring they are well-maintained
- Day-to-Day Operations: Performing various services involved in the daily operation of a community association
Steps to Getting Your Community Association Manager License in Florida
In Florida, you need a state-issued license to work as a CAM. At Gold Coast, we’ve been helping professionals get licensed for over 50 years, and we’ve simplified the process into easy steps.
To start, you’ll need to meet the basic requirements: be at least 18 years of age and have a good moral character (as defined by state law). Let us guide you through the rest of the licensing and certification process!
1. Complete your pre-licensure education
The first step to becoming a community association manager in Florida is completing a 16-hour pre-licensing course from an approved provider, like Gold Coast Schools. This course covers essential topics for the state exam and your career.
2. Submit your application to the state
You can apply online via the Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s (DBPR) Online Services portal or mail in a printable application. The state application process requires that you submit a copy of your 16 hour CAM Pre-License completion certificate at the time of application.
3. Get your fingerprints taken
Immediately after submitting your application, you must submit your fingerprints through a Livescan Service Provider. It’s a standard procedure, and the results will be sent to the DBPR. Gold Coast Schools also offers fingerprinting services for $83.
4. Pass the Florida CAM exam
Once your application is approved, you’ll have one year to take the state licensing exam from the date of your pre-license completion certificate (not to be confused with the date of the CAM application approval). This exam evaluates your knowledge of Florida statutes, association operations, and financial management. You need a minimum passing score of 75%.
Want to ensure you’re fully prepared? Our CRAM course gives you the extra boost and focused review you need to succeed on your first try.
Is a CAM License Worth It?
Absolutely! The initial investment of time and money is small compared to the long-term benefits of a successful career in community management. Here’s why:
- High Demand: Florida’s growing population means a constant need for skilled CAMs to manage new and existing communities.
- Financial Rewards: The career offers competitive salaries and significant opportunities for income growth. The average annual salary for a CAM in Florida is $65,160, but with experience and advancement, top-tier professionals can earn over $120,000 per year. This makes it a financially rewarding career and a smart investment in your future.
- Career Stability: Community management is a resilient industry, providing a stable career path even in uncertain economic times.
Hear from Our Successful Alumni
“Laura was an excellent teacher, she is fully versed and knowledgable in anything and everything CAM! The school was great as well, from registering, finger printing and completion of the course. Patricia was a huge help as well and was very informative and helpful with suggestions, registration and just plain information and answers to questions. The value is well worth what you absorb and learn from the teachers. Thank you GC Schools!”
– Kevin H., Gold Coast Graduate
“Excellent CAM CRAM Course. Very detailed, the teacher was an expert in the subject. I am very satisfied with the school. Thanks!”
Olga S., Online Student
Your Path to a New Career Starts Here
If you’re a detail-oriented, motivated individual with strong organizational and leadership skills, becoming a Community Association Manager is an excellent choice. Gold Coast Schools provides the education and training requirements you need to pass your exam and launch a successful career. Our flexible online and in-person classes, led by expert instructors, are designed to fit your life and learning style.
Let us help you achieve your goals with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of CAM jobs are available in Florida?
With a CAM license in Florida, you can manage a wide variety of residential communities, each with its own distinct role and responsibilities:
- Condominium Associations: Common in Florida’s coastal cities, these roles involve managing multi-unit buildings, shared amenities, and navigating complex resident relationships.
- Homeowners’ Associations (HOAs): In suburban neighborhoods, CAMs oversee community amenities, enforce policies, and maintain properties to preserve home values.
- Cooperative (Co-op) Associations: In these communities, residents are shareholders who collectively own the property. CAMs handle daily operations and finances on behalf of the cooperative.
- Resort Communities: Florida’s tourism industry provides opportunities to manage vacation properties, timeshare communities, and resort-style communities, ensuring a top-tier experience for short-term residents and guests.
How much does it cost to get a CAM license?
The total cost of obtaining your CAM license in Florida typically ranges from $550 to $750. Here’s a breakdown of the fees you can expect:
- Pre-Licensing Course: Usually between $300 and $500.
- Application Fee: $50
- Exam Fee: $50.50
- License Fee: $100
- Unlicensed Activity Fee: $5
- Fingerprinting Fee: $83
Is getting a CAM license hard?
While the process requires dedication, it’s very achievable. The key to success is choosing a high-quality pre-licensing course. At Gold Coast, our expert instructors and proven exam prep materials are designed to give you the confidence you need to pass.
How long does it take to get a CAM license in Florida?
The timeline to become a licensed CAM in Florida typically takes 2 to 4 months.
- Pre-Licensing Course: A few days to a few weeks
- Application Processing: 3-4 weeks
Exam Scheduling & Prep: Varies based on your study habits
What important qualities and skills do I need to be a successful CAM?
Success in this field relies on a blend of hard and soft skills:
- Communication Skills: Clearly conveying information to boards, residents, and vendors.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Addressing and resolving community issues effectively.
- Organizational Skills: Managing multiple tasks, deadlines, and priorities.
- Financial Acumen: Understanding budgets, financial statements, and reserve studies.
- Leadership: Guiding boards and communities toward their goals.
How do you get a job as a Community Association Manager?
Once you have your license, you can start your job search. Many employers provide on-the-job training for new Community Association Managers (CAMs), helping you build essential skills. Gaining practical work experience is a key step to career advancement. Starting in an entry-level property management or administrative support role can be a great way to do this.
Networking is also important. Gold Coast connects you with employers through career fairs and its extensive alumni network. Consider joining professional organizations like the Community Associations Institute (CAI) for even more opportunities. Once you’re licensed and have some work experience, you can apply for advanced CAM roles with property management companies, CAM firm, or community associations.