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HB1361

To Amend The Real Estate License Law; To Create A Property Manager License Requirement; And To Amend The Law Concerning The Arkansas Real Estate Commission.

Failed

Last Action (May 1, 2023): Died in House Committee at Sine Die Adjournment

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AI-Generated Summary

House Bill 1361 amends Arkansas Real Estate License Law to establish a specific licensure requirement for property managers. The bill mandates that individuals engaged in renting, leasing, negotiating, or collecting rent for others must obtain a property manager license from the Arkansas Real Estate Commission. It defines the scope of activities for property managers and outlines educational requirements, capped at 60 hours, covering topics like fair housing, accounting, and tenant rights. The bill also establishes a fee structure for the new license, including application, renewal, and examination fees. Additionally, it provides criteria for property management firms to operate under the supervision of a licensed property manager. The legislation aims to professionalize the property management industry in Arkansas through specialized training and regulatory oversight.

Potential Impact Analysis

Who Might Benefit?

The primary beneficiaries are property owners and tenants, who may experience greater professional standards and accountability from property managers due to the new specialized licensing and education requirements. Additionally, individuals seeking to enter the property management profession benefit from a more targeted and less burdensome educational pathway than that of a full real estate broker license. The Arkansas Real Estate Commission also benefits from expanded regulatory authority and additional revenue streams from licensing fees.

Who Might Suffer?

Individuals currently working as property managers or in related rental roles who will now be required to undergo mandatory training, pass examinations, pay licensing fees, and adhere to state regulatory oversight may be negatively impacted by the increased cost and administrative burden. Small property management businesses or individual owners who manage their own properties through hired agents may face higher compliance costs or potential disruptions if they do not meet the new licensure criteria.

Read Full Bill on arkleg.state.ar.us