HOA Management Guide · Updated January 2026
RealManage manages 3,500+ communities. They must follow state law before fining you. Most don't.
How to Fight a RealManage HOA Fine
RealManage is a major HOA management company headquartered in Plano, TX. If they've issued you a violation notice or fine, state law gives you specific procedural rights — and procedural defects void fines.
RealManage fined you?
Check if they followed the law
Common RealManage Fines
These are violations RealManage frequently fines for. Most are contestable when proper procedure isn't followed.
Drive-by inspection violation
Typical: $25-150ContestablePhoto evidence must be timestamped and authenticated
Lawn / landscaping
Typical: $50-200ContestableInspector ratings are subjective and challengeable
Unapproved exterior change
Typical: $100-500ContestableARC silence past statutory window equals approval in many states
Trash can placement
Typical: $25-100ContestableRule must be recorded, not in a newsletter or email
Parking on grass / street
Typical: $50-200ContestableStreets owned by city are outside HOA jurisdiction
Pet leash / waste
Typical: $50-250ContestableDirect evidence (not assumption) required
Procedural Defects That Void RealManage Fines
- •Automated portal notice not legally equivalent to written notice in some states
- •Drive-by photo lacks chain of custody
- •Violation letter signed by management, not board officer
- •Notice did not include name and contact of complainant
- •Cure period started before homeowner actually received notice
RealManage is hired by your HOA board, but they still must follow state law. Upload your violation notice and we'll audit every procedural requirement to find the defects that void your fine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a CiraConnect portal notice legally valid?
It depends on your state and CC&Rs. Several states still require physical mail or certified delivery for fines to attach. Check your governing documents for the required delivery method.
Can I challenge a RealManage drive-by photo?
Yes. Photos must be timestamped, properly identified, and admitted with foundation. You can demand the original metadata and challenge a photo with no chain of custody.
What if RealManage keeps fining me for the same alleged violation?
Continuing daily fines must usually be authorized by both state law and CC&Rs. Many states cap the total accrual until the homeowner has had a hearing.
Can RealManage report me to a credit bureau?
Generally no for HOA fines (only assessments / dues in limited cases). Threats of credit reporting on disputed fines may violate the FDCPA if a third-party collector is involved.
Don't pay an unlawful RealManage fine
Get Your RealManage Defense Letter Now
Upload your violation notice. Our tool audits the procedural requirements under your state's HOA law and generates a defense letter citing the exact statutes they violated.
Based on state HOA law · 94% of notices have procedural defects