Understanding the Real Estate Commission’s Role in Condo Governance
Hawaii’s Real Estate Commission (REC) plays a critical role in regulating the condominium industry, yet many owners are unaware of its actions and the impact they have on AOAO/HOA communities. Staying informed about REC discussions and decisions is essential for homeowners who want to push for greater transparency and accountability.
You can access REC meeting minutes and agendas here:
🔗 Real Estate Commission Agendas & Minutes
Key Discussions Affecting Condo Owners
The Real Estate Commission holds regular meetings to address critical issues impacting condominium owners across Hawaii. Reviewing past discussions helps owners stay informed and engaged in the legislative process. Below are some key topics from recent REC meetings:
- Adjudicatory Matters & Certified Management (Associa Hawaii) – December 2024
The REC reviewed adjudicatory matters concerning Certified Management (Associa Hawaii), one of the state’s largest condo management companies. These discussions highlight oversight concerns regarding property management firms that impact thousands of condo owners.
🔗 Read the Meeting Agenda - Reserve Fund Borrowing to Cover Rising Insurance Costs – October 2024
The REC discussed whether AOAOs could borrow from reserve funds to offset increasing insurance premiums, raising concerns about financial sustainability and the long-term impact on condo owners.
🔗 Read the Meeting Minutes - The Condo Education Trust Fund & the Ombudsman Study
The REC has delayed funding a legislatively mandated study on condominium governance, which was supposed to be funded by owners’ fees through the Condo Education Trust Fund. Without this study, Hawaii loses the opportunity to learn from other states and implement much-needed reforms.
🔗 Read the Full Bill – Act 43 (2024)
🔍 Looking Ahead: 2025 Meeting Schedule
To stay engaged with future discussions, homeowners should track the 2025 REC meeting schedule and be ready to submit testimony or attend virtually when important issues arise.
🔗 View the 2025 REC Meeting Schedule
How to Participate in REC Meetings
📢 Real Estate Commission meetings will be held virtually until further notice.
✔ Review instructions for attending virtual meetings.
✔ Check for updates on virtual meeting troubleshooting and access guidelines.
🔗 Instructions for Virtual Meetings & Troubleshooting
Being informed and involved ensures that homeowners’ voices are heard and that condo governance remains fair and accountable. Both residents and owners share the financial burden of maintenance fee increases, which impact everyone in different ways—whether through higher monthly fees, reduced property values, or increased living expenses. These rising costs place undue strain on working families, retirees, and renters alike, making it critical to address the systemic issues driving these expenses.
Additional Resources for Condo Owners
For more information on condominium ownership rights, responsibilities, and best practices, visit the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs’ resource page for condo owners:
🔗 Resources for Condominium Owners
This page provides educational materials, legal references, and guidance on managing condo-related issues, helping owners navigate governance, financial obligations, and dispute resolution.
Why Your Engagement Matters
The Real Estate Commission’s actions (or inaction) directly impact your fees, your rights, and your property values. Condo owners must stay informed and hold the REC accountable to ensure fair and transparent decision-making.
💡 What You Can Do:
✔ Monitor REC meetings and read the minutes regularly.
✔ Submit testimony or public comments to push for transparency in decision-making.
✔ Pressure lawmakers to ensure the Condo Education Trust Fund is used for its intended purpose.
📢 Stay engaged and demand action! Condo governance should serve the homeowners, not industry insiders.