Top 5 Exterior Color Scheme Ideas for Property Managers & HOA Boards

One of the most important decisions property managers and HOA board members face is selecting exterior paint colors for their community or property. The right color scheme enhances curb appeal, maintains property value, and keeps residents happy. The wrong choice, however, can date a property quickly or cause unnecessary complaints.

To make the process easier, we’ve outlined five timeless color schemes that work beautifully for large-scale properties like HOAs, apartment complexes, and commercial buildings. These palettes are drawn from top paint suppliers including Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, Dunn-Edwards, and Behr.

1. Modern Neutral Elegance (Sherwin-Williams)

  • Body: Accessible Beige

  • Trim: Pure White

  • Accent: Iron Ore
    Perfect for contemporary apartment complexes and HOAs seeking a sophisticated yet neutral look.

2. Classic Coastal Style (Benjamin Moore)

  • Body: Gray Owl

  • Trim: Simply White

  • Accent: Hale Navy
    Ideal for communities near the coast or properties that want a fresh, timeless appearance.

3. Warm Desert Contemporary (Dunn-Edwards)

  • Body: Light Tan

  • Trim: Whisper

  • Accent: Dark Brown
    A great choice for properties in warmer climates, offering natural tones that blend seamlessly with desert or hillside landscapes.

4. Sleek Urban Contrast (Behr)

  • Body: Silver Drop

  • Trim: Ultra Pure White

  • Accent: Carbon
    Best suited for urban properties, mid-rises, or HOAs that want a modern, bold contrast.

5. Timeless Earth Tones (Sherwin-Williams)

  • Body: Dovetail

  • Trim: Alabaster

  • Accent: Tricorn Black
    A versatile option for both traditional and modern properties, providing warmth and long-term appeal.

Here are some great color scheme ideas for painting the exterior of Aparmment Complexes, HOA Communities. Multi-family units and Commercial Properties located in Socal.

Why These Schemes Work for Communities

  • Appeal to a wide audience: Neutral bodies with strong but tasteful accents keep residents and board members happy.

  • Low maintenance: Practical colors hide dirt, reduce fading, and last longer in Southern California’s sun.

  • Scalable for large properties: Works equally well across HOAs, apartment complexes, and commercial buildings.

Selecting paint colors for a property doesn’t have to be stressful. By choosing proven, balanced color schemes and working with a trusted commercial painting contractor, property managers and HOA boards can ensure their communities look professional and well-maintained for years to come.

If you’re located in Southern California, contact Pilot Painting & Construction for a free paint bid for your HOA, apartment complex, or commercial building. With over 50 years of experience, licensed crews, and OSHA-compliant safety standards, we’re the trusted partner for large-scale painting projects.

Contact Pilot Painting For All Your Commercial Painting Needs!
Call 714-229-5900

Get a Free Paint Bid today!

Visit: www.pilotpainting.com

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A Property Manager’s Guide to Painting