REVITALIZATION OF DEED RESTRICTIONS

It seems somebody is really eager to see expired deed restrictions revitalized. In 2004 somebody sneaked FS 720.403-720.407 into the HOA Task Force bill at the last minute, allowing formerly mandatory homeowners' associations to revitalize their deed restrictions. Amazingly enough, revitalization in that form was never discussed during the actual HOA Task Force meetings. Guess why?

Now the legislature in its so-called wisdom created Florida Statute 712.11, allowing formerly voluntary associations to revitalize their expired deed restrictions. In my opinion it's a clear violation of private property rights. People who bought homes in older communities with expired deed restrictions suddenly face the fact that some power-hungry neighbors try to recreate restrictions that had been expired long before they purchased their properties. Isn't it funny that owners are always told they signed contracts and have to obey them, but when it's convenient for the service providers laws are created that overthrow existing rights? Owners who had sold their homes in mandatory associations because of dictatorial conditions suddenly find themselves in a new association in the midst of more fights about association problems. I guess one day somebody will stand up and fight these laws that defy any private property rights that are the foundation of our nation.

If you live in a neighborhood where some neighbors try to revive a long-dead association, make sure that they follow the rules exactly. Any revitalized deed restrictions can't be more restrictive than the ones that expired. A voluntary association stays a voluntary association; you don't have to participate. Don't forget, being part of an association creates extra liability, especially if you have a power-hungry board that is sue-happy, pushed by some of the infamous attorneys who like to "create" lawsuits. You can't be forced to pay dues; there is no fining, lien and/or foreclosure power. These are communities living by intimidation! Please don't believe the fairy tale of “improved property values.” You can be sure that nobody wants to buy a home in a community riddled with lawsuits!  When you need enforcement in your neighborhood, call Code Enforcement. It's free and doesn't create legal bills for your neighborhood. And since you already pay high property taxes, let the counties/cities work for their money.

As soon as you hear neighbors filing for revitalization of deed restrictions, contact the Department of Community Affairs, responsible for supervising the revitalization process. Make sure that only the old deed restrictions are revitalized, nothing added or made up.