Do you avoid HOA properties?

[Maria Callaghan]

New investor here!

Considering purchasing a home that has reasonable HOA dues each month for our first rental property investment, but have heard horror stories of HOAs deciding to not allow rentals, stop investments into the property like fences/additions, and in general make things more tricky. Do you avoid HOAs, and if not, what vetting do you do to make sure it will be a pleasant experience?

(I read the covenants and did not find anything about not allowing rentals, but have not heard back from the management company on their formal policy).

Thanks for any tips!