Issue link: https://www.cominghomemag.com/i/1546275
ASK A COMMUNITY MANAGER Rosa Henao, CMCA®, AMS®, is a portfolio community manager for Associa Community Group. As a credentialed manager, she supports various association boards, utilizing her industry expertise in governance, compliance, enforcement measures, communication strategies, project oversight, and more. From noise limitations to landscaping standards, every neighborhood association has its own set of rules. While these guidelines are in place when you move into a managed community, they may not be permanent. Rosa Henao, CMCA®, AMS®, helps us answer one of the most common questions asked by association newcomers: Can a community change its rules after purchase? Can a Community Can a Community Association Change Association Change Rules After Purchase? Rules After Purchase? Rosa Henao breaks down how rules change over time. "In short, yes. Your community's rules aren't set in stone and can be changed after you purchase a home. Laws, resident needs, and cultural trends shift over time, and a managed community is designed to evolve at the same pace. Governing documents serve as the community's lawbook. In them, you'll find details about how to amend the rules, who participates in rule modification, and the types of changes that can be made. Typically, a community can adopt new rules, revise existing ones, or remove policies that no longer serve its members. Before purchasing a home in an association, buyers should: 1. Review the governing documents. Check that the CC&Rs, bylaws, and regulations align with your lifestyle. 2. Know what laws govern your community. Beyond governing documents, your community must also abide by federal, state, and local laws. 3. Evaluate its rule-change history. How many times has the community changed the rules? And what types of changes were made? Knowing this will help you manage your expectations. 4. Understand rule-change procedures. There's usually a process the community must follow to ensure changes are beneficial, appropriate, and legal. Recognizing how to initiate a rule change in your community is the key to success!" 30 COMING HOME MAGAZINE