Advertising in HOAs & COAs – Best Practices for Community Success

Written by Heidi Hensell

October 16, 2025

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Advertising in Homeowners Associations (HOAs) and Condominium Associations (COAs) can enhance community cohesion, support local businesses, and fund amenities—if managed thoughtfully. As a Community Association Manager (CAM), board member, or resident, balancing promotion with legal and aesthetic considerations is essential for effective, welcome communication.

Why Use Advertising in Associations?

Advertising within community channels offers several benefits:

Promote Community Events: Posting flyers or digital ads can drive participation in social gatherings, workshops, or meetings.
Support Local Vendors: Endorsing trusted service providers (e.g., landscapers, pool cleaners) helps both residents and local businesses.
Share Announcements: Timely messages—like maintenance notices, rule updates, or emergency alerts—keep residents informed.
Generate Revenue: Tasteful advertising placed in newsletters or on bulletin boards can create income that supports community programs.

Key Considerations for HOA/COA Advertising

Review Governing Documents
Confirm your association’s rules regarding advertising. Some declarations restrict commercial use of common areas or signage. Make sure any advertising activities align with these guidelines.
Establish Clear Policies
Develop explicit standards addressing what types of ads are allowed, how they’re submitted and approved, where and how long they can be displayed, and acceptable content quality. Clarity ensures professionalism and avoids confusion.
Respect Resident Preferences & Privacy
Avoid unsolicited ads that may feel intrusive. Offer opt-in systems or designate a specific newsletter section marked clearly as advertising.
Maintain Consistency & Community Tone
Ensure ads reflect the community’s identity—keep messaging respectful, cohesive, and visually aligned with community norms.
Rely on CAM Oversight
The CAM typically implements the policy, handles vendor coordination, and ensures communications match community expectations and compliance standards.

Effective Advertising Channels

Community Newsletters (print or digital)
Bulletin Boards in Common Areas (e.g., clubhouses or mail centers) — ensure they are moderated and organized.
Association Websites or Portals
Email Blasts or Private Social Media Groups

Mixing channels helps reach both digital-savvy and traditional residents effectively.

Best Practices in Action

Moderate Bulletin Boards: As one HOA leader suggests, “Create a sign zone” and moderate it actively to prevent clutter and inappropriate ads.
Balance Promotion with Neutrality: A community member on Reddit noted, “sure you can sell ads, but generally most HOAs do not get involved since they want to appear unbiased.” Transparency and tasteful presentation maintain trust.
Leverage Social Media Thoughtfully: Platforms can be powerful tools when paired with a clear social media policy and professional tone.

Final Thoughts

Advertising in HOAs and COAs can foster community spirit, support local businesses, and even boost revenue—when executed with thoughtful policy, fair moderation, and resident respect. CAMs and boards who develop transparent guidelines and use the right channels ensure that advertising remains effective, valued, and harmonious.