I would love to know how many listings are violating HOA rules, probably any listing that has an HOA is in violation. I don't know any HOA that allows short term rentals. So the big question is, how long can you get away with it, what are the tricks to keep it a secret, and what is the worst case scenario? I have read about the 30 day trick where you rent it for 30 days even if they leave early, the contract still says 30 days which is compliant..
I guess it depends on how much of a dictatorship it is. There are some lax HOA's and some very strict. It also depends on the house or unit, is it in a quiet area? Do you have nosey neighbors? Does a board member live near by? Did you have a bad rental that got out of control, party, parking, police, etc. What if you just tell the HOA it's your family members? isn't it their burden of proof? many variables on if you will even get caught.
Then what happens when you finally get your first letter - do you ignore it? I know with my HOA if you just keep ignoring eventually it goes to the Attorney, then if you ignore that, they can only fine you up to $1000 - then it just sits on your account and nothing else is done until you sell. I'm sure every HOA has different ways of dealing with it. And it also depends on how much money the HOA want's to spend on Attorney/Court fees.
Any insights would be appreciated.. I'm sure there's thousands of listings that are in HOA violation but they just never get caught , not bothering anyone and no one will be any the wiser! lol