NAVIGATING PARKING CHALLENGES IN YOUR ASSOCIATION

By Rafael Aquino

Published February 28, 2024  

 

As a community association management company,  one of the most intricate aspects we deal with involves allocating and managing parking spaces within condominium communities, especially when we take on new communities where parking data is either outdated or non-existent, which poses a substantial challenge. We've encountered situations where parking assignments were lost or muddled over time, leading to confusion and disputes among residents. In one case, the lack of clear parking data contributed to a legal dispute, underscoring the importance of meticulous record-keeping.

 

The task of gathering and verifying parking space information is daunting but essential. It involves reviewing condominium documents, liaising with residents, and sometimes deciphering decades-old assignment practices. However, the effort is worthwhile, as accurate parking data is crucial for effective management and compliance with legal requirements.

 

Parking spaces can vary in management—some are treated as common elements with rules set by the Board of Directors. In contrast, others may be deeded to specific units or assigned as limited common elements. Additionally, accommodating requests for reasonable adjustments, such as providing accessible parking for residents with disabilities or facilitating the installation of electric vehicle charging stations, adds another layer of complexity.

 

The significance of accurate parking data has also been highlighted in real estate transactions. It's now imperative for parking space information to be correctly disclosed in estoppel certificates. Misrepresenting or inaccurately assigning parking spaces can lead to severe consequences, placing the association in a "tight spot"—both legally and metaphorically.

 

In managing a community's parking resources, we've learned that proactive communication, thorough record-keeping, and flexibility in addressing the evolving needs of residents are key. Implementing a transparent and fair parking policy mitigates potential disputes, enhances the community's understanding of its parking structure, and provides transparency. 


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As the Co-Founder and CEO of Affinity Management Services, Rafael P. Aquino leads his team to redefine excellence. They serve community   associations   efficiently

and effectively with dedication and passion. Rafael’s energy and positive spirit is the foundation of Affinity Management Services’ company culture, which instills enthusiasm and excitement when providing expert advice to its board members and relieving the day-to-day burdens of running a community association.

 

Since 2007, Rafael has developed a work culture that values responsive and high-quality services. He has led his team by following a proactive vs reactive philosophy. The same approach Rafael instills in the day to day operations of each association. Today, Affinity Management Services maintains its success and benefits as a result of the foundation Rafael has built and continues to foster by providing educational seminars, continuing education classes for association managers and board members alike.


Rafael and his team help condominium and homeowners’ associations save money and improve their communities. His calm, personable, and service-oriented nature helps him to establish strong relationships with ease. Rafael is known as a sincere and honest leader who looks out for the best interests of his clients and communities, and he strongly advocates for their needs. His role requires coordination and communication, as such he takes logical and intelligent steps to approach challenges head-on.


As a graduate of Florida International University’s electrical engineering program and a licensed community association manager, Rafael’s education and skills equip him with unique insights to tackle complex problems through critical thinking. He understands how each component within a system works together in order to effectively arrive at solutions, techniques, and conclusions. Therefore, as he manages the multiple challenges of running a community association management company, he understands how each property is its own unique system and tailors’ specific services to assure that all their needs are met.

For more information about Rafael P. Aquino and Affinity Management Services please visit www.ManagedByAffinity.com or call 1-800-977-6279

Doral Office: 8200 NW 41st ST

Suite 200

Doral, FL 33166

Broward Office: 150 S Pine Island RD Suite 300

Plantation, FL 33324

O: 800-977-6279 ● F: 305-325-4053


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