B.D. from outside of Connecticut writes:
Dear Mister Condo,
When self-managing condos, do you need a real estate license?
Mister Condo replies:
B.D., I think you are referring to a community association management license versus a real estate license. A real estate license has nothing to do with managing a condominium. Generally speaking, self-managed condominiums can be run by the association without a licensed community association manager. However, there are plenty of exceptions and state laws vary widely on this matter so you need to take a look at your local state laws regarding self-managed community associations. Some of the factors that go into determining whether or not the manager needs licensing include the size of the association and the size of the annual budget. Some states require anyone who manages condo associations with more than 10 units to have a license; others do not. Some states look at the annual budget and set a requirement for licensing if the budget is over $100,000 per year. It truly is state dependent so check out your state laws or speak with an attorney who is experienced with community association laws in your state to make sure you are in compliance with any licensing requirements. Good luck!