CMCA Study Guide 2026

Running with the land means the CC&Rs are attached to the property itself. Every future buyer is automatically bound by them at purchase regardless of whether they agreed to them personally.

Common areas are property owned or maintained by the association for the use and benefit of all residents, such as pools, clubhouses, parks, and roads within the community.

The board fulfills its fiduciary duties by acting in the best financial and operational interests of the association and its members. Establishing robust internal controls, such as financial policies, approval processes, and oversight mechanisms, is a critical way to meet this duty. These controls safeguard the association's assets, ensure accurate financial reporting, and prevent fraud or mismanagement, demonstrating responsible governance.

Reserve funds must be kept in a separate account segregated from operating funds to prevent misuse and ensure the money is available for its intended capital replacement purposes.

Newsletters are informal communication tools best suited for building community engagement and sharing general information, not for formal legal notices.

Limited common elements are part of the common property but are designated for the exclusive use of specific units such as a balcony, patio, or assigned parking space rather than being available to all owners.