The Surfside HOA board in the past  voted to increase the maximum  fines for tree height violations to a staggering $4,000.  They now  seek to shorten the foreclosure timeline on homes from two years to just six months.  The authority granted to HOAs to fine residents and foreclose on homes represents a significant injustice in state law, allowing them to pursue costly lawsuits and foreclosures without proper oversight.

These measures come as a devastating blow to residents in an area with a significant population of low-income seniors, many of whom may face hardships such as the death of a spouse or serious medical conditions like cancer and strokes. But many cannot afford the fines issued by the board and have to make tradeoffs like not being able to afford medications and now losing their homes.

At a recent board meeting, the board members made it clear that strict enforcement of covenants is their primary objective, with little to no room for exceptions or compassion. During the meeting they discussed a home 13″ over the 16 foot limit who bought the wrong roof  tresses. No waiver was forth coming despite the home owner losing thousands. The 13″ would interfere with their ocean views and violate covenants that they regard as essential to maintain their property values.

The new shortened foreclosure time limit  appears aimed at punishing residents who fall behind on compliance and can’t pay fines, regardless of their circumstances. While the board claims these measures are necessary for maintaining the community’s standards and collect on money owed, critics argue they lack humanity and fail to consider the financial and emotional struggles many residents face. 

For seniors living on fixed incomes, unexpected expenses—whether due to medical emergencies or the loss of a loved one—can make it nearly impossible to comply with an HOA’s costly mandates. A broken hip could lead to a senior losing their home. Instead of offering solutions or assistance, the board’s “no exceptions” mantra seems designed to force potential struggling residents into foreclosure.  Six months is a short time for potential seniors facing short term medical or  financial hardship.

This aggressive approach risks exacerbating tensions within the community, as neighbors increasingly view the HOA not as a protector of property values or the well being of members but as an enforcer bent on punishing vulnerable members. Surfside residents are calling for a more compassionate and equitable approach, emphasizing the importance of balancing enforcement with understanding and support for those experiencing hardship. The two year window should be maintained

Giving more time for residents to recover from hardship that may need a couple years to  cover.

As these new measures take effect, the question remains: will the Surfside HOA board with their harsh enforcement and lack of compassion listen to the concerns of its community, or will it continue down a path that leaves the most vulnerable residents paying the highest price? Disagree with the shortened foreclosure window. Members are encouraged to write the board about the foreclosure time frame  issue.

Please write your state representatives voicing your concern for seniors subjected to state laws that allows homes to be foreclosed by an HOA like Surfside  for a even a small amount of money in a short amount of time. Foreclosure and HOA Laws need to be changed for the benefit and protection of home owners. Especially for seniors who are most vulnerable as they age.