Estoppels
Homeowner Login

Starting September 1, 2024!

Estoppel
Homeowner Login

Let’s get your questions answered.

Q. Florida’s Community Association industry is a rough-and-tumble world. Why should we trust our Association to a brand-new company in this business?
We don’t usually go around tooting our own horn, but the facts speak for themselves. While our hybrid model is a new concept—and Sunshine is a new company—we’re not new to this industry. Our founders previously owned and operated Merit Management, a respected full-service management firm in the Tampa Bay area. With over 30 years of combined experience in Florida’s Community Association field, we bring deep industry knowledge, integrity, and professionalism to every partnership. (See About Us.) You can rest easy knowing you’re working with seasoned experts who have built a reputation for trust and results.
Q. Will there be a private website for the Association?
Absolutely. We will set up a secure online portal—free of charge—where owners can view account balances, make payments, access key Association documents, update contact information, and more.
Q. How safe are our funds with Sunshine Association Partners?
Sunshine is an independent Florida-based company with leadership that has managed community associations for decades. We carry the full suite of insurance coverage expected of a professional firm, including Errors & Omissions (E&O) and Crime (Fidelity) policies—ensuring your Association’s funds are fully protected.
Q. Does Sunshine have a preferred bank for operating fund accounts?

Yes. We use American Momentum Bank, which holds a Five-Star rating from Bauer Financial. With 11 Florida locations and a focus on Community Association banking, they offer one of the most streamlined processes in the industry—particularly when updating signatories. Best of all, they do not require your Board Members to provide Social Security numbers. While many companies claim to use Five-Star banks, we go one step further and prove it.

To check the Bauer rating, click here:
https://www.bauerfinancial.com/star-ratings/

Q. How do homeowners pay assessments?
Easily! We offer several payment options to meet all preferences. Owners can log into the portal to make one-time payments (by credit card or e-check) or set up recurring payments for convenience. Those who prefer more traditional methods may pay by paper check or use their own bank’s bill pay service.
Q. Is there an extra charge for electronic or credit card payments?

A convenience fee of $2.99 for e-checks or 3.5% for credit card transactions (processed via the portal) is charged by the payment processor. Unfortunately, Sunshine has no control over these third-party fees. To avoid fees altogether, most owners use their bank’s bill pay service, which is usually free.

Q. Does Sunshine handle estoppel (resale) requests for the Association?

Yes! We process all estoppel requests through HomeWiseDocs™, a platform widely used and trusted by title companies and real estate professionals. These fees are paid by the closing agent at closing—there’s no cost to the Association.

Q. How do we terminate our current management contract?

Review your current agreement for a section titled Termination or Term. Many contracts allow for cancellation with 30–90 days’ written notice, while others require cause. When in doubt, consult your Association’s legal counsel—they often handle termination notices on your behalf.

Important: The Association’s attorney represents the Association, not the management company, even if it is the manager who typically speaks with them. You may direct your counsel to keep your termination request confidential until formal notice is given. (Sunshine contracts only require 90 days’ notice—no “cause” required.)

Q. Is there a charge for Sunshine to provide draft policies for Board review?
No. We provide draft templates—at no additional charge—for key policies that every well-managed Association should have, including collections, covenant enforcement, vendor standards, insurance, purchasing, meetings, and records requests. These drafts are meant to simplify the process and give your Board a solid starting point. Your legal counsel must review and approve any final versions to ensure compliance with your governing documents and Florida law.
Q. Are there any onboarding or setup fees?
No onboarding or setup fees will apply—as long as your Association’s financials are in reasonable order and don’t require corrective accounting work to bring them into balance.
Q. Does Sunshine use cash or accrual accounting for monthly financials?

Florida Statutes (Chapters 718 & 720) require financials to follow Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Accordingly, Sunshine uses the accrual method for all financial reporting.

Q. What steps does Sunshine take to prevent embezzlement or mismanagement of funds?
Sunshine goes above and beyond industry standards to safeguard your Association’s assets. Protections include:
  • Dual Board authorization available for all check payments
  • Direct deposit of assessments into your Association’s bank account via lockbox
  • 24/7 view-only online access to your bank accounts for Board Members
  • Reserve funds held in separate accounts
  • Bank statements included in your monthly financial package
  • Third party certified public accountants prepare all monthly financial reports.
These layered controls provide maximum protection and transparency for your community’s finances.
Q. Are Associations required to have annual audits?
It depends. Florida statutes and your governing documents may call for different levels of financial review (e.g., audit, review, compilation, or cash report). Associations must typically comply with the higher of the two requirements. Your legal counsel can help clarify the standard that applies to your community.
Q. What is the term of the Sunshine agreement?

Our standard agreement is for one year with automatic renewal. However, you may terminate the contract at any time and for any reason, with 90 days’ written notice.

Q. How quickly can Sunshine get us onboarded?

In most cases, we can launch services and have your system up and running within 7 business days of receiving your signed agreement, completed data set, and relevant documents.

Let’s get your questions answered.