If you’re like many people, you’ve heard of deed restrictions in Florida and elsewhere—but what are they, and could they affect the way you use and enjoy your home?
Deed Restrictions in Florida
A deed-restricted community is one in which a homeowners’ association outlines and enforces rules. Those rules can regulate the way the neighborhood or subdivision looks and the way the properties in it can be used. Ideally, the HOA is there to ensure the neighborhood stays in good shape, which helps keep home values where they should be.
Deed-restricted communities charge homeowners a fee—sometimes monthly, sometimes annually—to be part of the community. Each neighborhood is different, and your Realtor® can help you find the information you need to make the best choice about your next home.
What Kinds of Deed Restrictions Will You Encounter in Florida?
Each community has its own deed restrictions (and some don’t have any at all, though these are in the minority). You’ll find deed restrictions on various properties, including lots and homesites, neighborhoods with homes for sale, and in manufactured home communities. Common deed restrictions in Florida include:
- Breeds of dogs (and number of pets) you’re allowed to keep in your home
- Paint colors
- Lawn maintenance
- State of repair of the homes in the community
- What you can use your property for
- Whether you can rent your property
- Rules on use of common areas
Deed Restrictions in Florida that Expire
The 1956 Marketable Record Title Act says that deed-restricted communities in Florida (and in other states, as well) expire within 30 years of inception. That means after 30 years, the homeowners’ association can’t do anything to enforce the rules—and they can no longer collect monthly dues from homeowners in the community.
Some communities do continue to pay dues, and associations keep serving the community—but there’s nothing under the law that requires residents to pay. Some communities even have verbiage in their Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (or CC&Rs) that allow members to vote on continuing the collection of monthly dues, which is something you’ll need to look for if you’re interested in buying a home in a deed-restricted community.
Are You Looking for a Lake City Home or North Florida Land for Sale?
If you’re trying to find land for sale in Lake City or a home for sale in Lake City (or the surrounding communities), we’d be happy to help.
Call us at 386-243-0124 or contact us online to tell us what you’re looking for; we’ll start searching right away.
