That’s right—it’s time to gear up for annual board
elections! For many Miami-Dade HOA and condo communities, this season marks a
chance to take part in shaping their neighborhood’s future. Whether you’re a
longtime resident or new to the community, understanding the election process
can help you feel more involved and confident in your community's direction.
Why Elections Matter
Annual board elections give community members the power to
shape their neighborhood. Electing directors who prioritize resident concerns,
property values, and clear communication can make a huge difference in the
association's day-to-day operations and long-term planning.
Directors oversee
budgets, maintenance, and ensure the community sticks to established
rules—basically, they’re the backbone of a smoothly running association.
The Nomination Process and Required Notices
Most HOAs and condo associations begin the election process
by sending out a nomination notice. Condo associations in Florida are
specifically required to provide a first notice of election to all unit owners
at least 60 days before the scheduled election date.
This notice includes essential details like the date, time,
and location of the annual meeting and informs owners about the process for
becoming a candidate for the board. A second notice must also be sent between 14
and 34 days before the election, containing the agenda, ballots, and candidate
information sheets. This ensures every eligible owner has ample time to prepare
and participate.
For homeowners' associations (HOAs), notice requirements may
vary slightly, so it's wise to check your HOA’s governing documents to confirm
the specific timelines and procedures.
Voting and Meeting Quorum
For the election to be official, a certain percentage of
homeowners or condo owners must participate, which is called meeting the
quorum. This is usually done through proxy forms or in-person attendance. If
you’re not able to attend the meeting, sending in your proxy form can help meet
the quorum and ensure your voice is still counted.
Tip: Here’s something important to remember if you’re holding a proxy for someone else. When you get to the meeting, you’ll need to sign in for each owner you represent. So, let’s say you’re carrying proxies for five different owners—yep, that means you’ll be signing in five times, once for each owner. It might sound a bit tedious, but it’s the way to make sure each vote gets counted accurately and no one’s voice is missed!
Electronic Voting
Options
With Florida law allowing electronic voting for HOAs and
condo associations, many associations have adopted online voting to increase
participation. This method is convenient and secure, making it easier for more
residents to cast their votes.
Post-Election: What to Expect
After the votes are counted, the new board typically meets
to elect officers—such as the president, treasurer, and secretary—among
themselves. These roles come with different responsibilities, so it’s essential
that each director understands their role.
Recommendations for a Smoother Election Process
If you’re a current board member or interested in becoming
one, here are a few tips to help the election process go smoothly:
1. Encourage Involvement:*Remind residents about the
importance of voting and attending the annual meeting.
2. Clear Communication: Ensure all election-related
communication is easy to understand and accessible.
3. Transparency: Share the election results with the
community promptly.
Annual elections are a cornerstone of maintaining a healthy,
well-functioning association. They ensure that directors who serve are in touch
with the community's priorities. If you’re considering running or just want to
support those who do, remember that every vote counts!
If you’re in Kendall or the surrounding areas and looking
for expert real estate advice or services, I’m here to help! With a deep
understanding of the local market and a commitment to my clients, I can guide
you through buying, selling, or managing a property. Feel free to reach out—I’d
love to help you achieve your real estate goals!
Subscribe to My Blog
Stay in the loop on the latest Miami real estate insights! Subscribe to my blog for updates, tips, and market trends delivered straight to your inbox.
**Don’t worry—if you subscribe to my blog, your info stays safe with me. No sharing, no spam, just updates straight to your inbox.