Quorum
Definition and meaning of Quorum in real estate.
A quorum is the minimum number of voting members, directors, or delegates who must be present at a meeting to make the proceedings and decisions legally valid. In real estate, this rule is most commonly applied to homeowners association and condominium board meetings.
In more detail
The specific number or percentage required to reach a quorum is established in the association's bylaws and varies by organization. If a quorum is not met, the members present cannot vote on key decisions, such as electing board members, amending bylaws, or approving annual budgets.
A lack of participation can stall community business, leading to delayed maintenance or budget bottlenecks. Property managers and boards often solicit proxy votes, which allow absent owners to designate someone else to vote on their behalf, to help meet quorum requirements.
Key facts
| Category | Leasing & Property Management |
|---|---|
| Governed by | Association bylaws and state laws |
| Common Target | Typically between twenty and fifty percent of voting members |
| Workaround | Proxy voting and absentee ballots |
A condominium association requires a quorum of thirty percent of its members to vote on a special assessment. Because too few owners attend or submit proxies, the meeting cannot proceed and must be rescheduled.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if a homeowners association cannot reach a quorum?
If a quorum is not reached, the meeting must be adjourned and rescheduled. No official business can be voted on, which can delay major repairs or budget approvals.
Can you count proxy votes toward a quorum?
Yes, in most associations, proxy votes submitted by owners who cannot attend the meeting in person count toward the quorum requirement.