How to Choose HOA-Approved Exterior Colors

Email the HOA management company for the current approved palette — most communities limit owners to 15-30 pre-selected colors from Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, or Dunn-Edwards. Ask for the exact brand, color name, and formula code; a 'cream' paint chip is not enough for submission.

Most HOAs require a specific contrast ratio — for example, body must be a neutral and trim must be white or one shade lighter. Some ban dark colors on south-facing walls to reduce heat retention. Read the CC&Rs architectural section, not just the palette, before simulating combinations.

Buy pint samples and paint 2x2 foot patches on the north, south, east, and west elevations. Observe for two full days — most HOA color rejections happen because the approved color looks different under your specific exposure. Use FacadeColorizer to preview combinations before painting the physical sample.

Complete the ARC form with (1) manufacturer and color codes for body, trim, and door; (2) a photo of the house with the proposed colors labeled; (3) physical paint chips if required. Most HOAs have a 30-45 day review window — submit well before your contractor's start date.

Scan the signed approval and email a copy to your painter. If a neighbor later complains, the documented approval defends against any violation notice. File the hard copy with your home records — future buyers' HOAs sometimes request it at closing.