On September 10, 2013, the Broward County Commission voted to enact an amendment to its Code of Ordinances prohibiting discriminatory practices in real estate transactions. This includes Homeowner Associations and Cooperative Associations who review prospective purchase and lease applicants. The rules require that the association acknowledge receipt of a completed application within ten (10) days of submission. If the application package is incomplete, the acknowledgment letter must include a list of missing or incomplete items. Within forty-five (45) days after receipt of a completed application, the association must reject or approve the application and if rejected, must state the reason(s).

Click to see the amendment to the code: Section 16 1/2-35.6 Required Notices in Connection with Application to Purchase or Rent Dwelling

The existing ordinance contains all of the county’s non-discriminatory practices in real estate transactions. All real estate owners, managers and association boards would do well to review this ordinance from time to time.

Click to see the entire Ordinance (prior to the amendment above): Section 16 1/2-35 (Discrimination in Real Estate Transactions)

The Law Offices of Oates & Oates, P.A.’s practice includes real estate transactions, and is a licensed agent for Attorney’s Title Insurance Fund and Old Republic National Title Insurance.