The use of Facebook, Twitter and other social media sites by community associations has gained some traction during the last several years. Associations have recognized that these sites provide helpful and cost-effective communications tools, especially for large communities in which a number of activities and announcements are always in play. By following some basic guiding principles, community association boards of directors and property managers are able to make strategic use of social media for the benefit of all of their association members.

There is no doubt that the use of social media can save community associations time and money with some of their communications and outreach efforts aimed at their owners and residents. Adding new posts with photos and videos to an association’s social media pages is simple and free, and millions of Americans are now visiting Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn and others on a daily basis.