Look around in whichever location you are at and you will notice several neighborhoods that are a few meters or kilometers from the road surrounded by gates. Also, they will have 24/7 security guards who monitor who comes and goes on the grounds. These communities appeal to those who are looking for security, privacy, and even exclusivity. However, some people feel like the setbacks of living in a gated community are far more than the perceived benefits. You’ll have to review the things you value in your dream neighborhood to determine whether gated communities are for you or not.
Advantages of Living in a Gated Community
Exclusivity
Gated communities are considered to be exclusive neighborhoods and it is one of the factors that attract many people to such. They are the modern version of the old-walled castles of ancient times where only the elite could get in. Of course, it is all about the money you can pay to live in a gated community, unlike the past where you had to be a royal to live in a castle. The exclusivity of gated communities is more like a status symbol for people to show off.
Sense of security
Because everyone and everything that comes and goes out of the gated community is monitored by the security personnel the people living there feel safer compared to the alternative. The crime rate at such communities is low or zero which is in line with the feeling of being safe in the neighborhood.
Privacy
Having security personnel to monitor whatever happens on the ground gives more than a sense of security but also assures the residents of privacy. They can go on with their daily activities without having to worry about interference from the outside world.
Quite and beautiful environment
There are rules governing the conduct of the residents and one of the general requirements is quietness. It assures you of a peaceful atmosphere whether you want to relax or work from home. They are also designed by landscaping professionals hence the beautiful appearance. A quiet atmosphere and a beautiful property are not easily available in the typical neighborhood, especially in urban areas. However, you will have it all when you opt to live in a gated community.
Disadvantages of living in a gated community
It’s not all unicorns and rainbows living in a gated community. There is also a flip side and some of the drawbacks that have been pointed out are:
High property prices
You’ll pay more for the houses in a gated community that what it would cost you to get a similar property in the average neighborhood. The higher prices are associated with exclusivity but they are a drawback when you don’t have a lot of money to spend on a home purchase.
High cost of living
Besides the average costs of maintaining a property, there are additional costs you’ll have to cater for in a gated community. The property taxes in a gated community are usually higher than what other people pay and you’ll also have to pay HOA fees. At the end of the year, the property will have cost you a lot and the financial burden will not be easy for those who are still paying mortgages.
Neighborhood rules
When you are moving to your own house, it is in the hope that you’ll be free to do whatever you like. However, this might not be the case when you live in a gated community. The HOA enforces certain rules every resident will have to follow. They can be things like the color you are allowed to paint your home, when you can take the trash out or even where your visitors can park. Some people just want to live their lives without worrying about the rules they may or may not be breaking. A gated community will not accord them such a privilege.
Being monitored
Gated communities are monitored all the time which is a good thing but it can also turn out to be an invasion of privacy. Knowing that there is a guard watching you all the time can be a bit unsettling. Also, you’ll have to get visitors approved before they can come to your house. This can be annoying. You should be able to invite whoever you want over and not have to explain to the guards or get their permission.
Sense of elitism
Gated communities give people a sense of an exclusive or elite community and this can be appealing to some people. However, not everyone is in love with this idea. Being labeled an “elitist” “snobby” or “rich” isn’t something that goes down well with most people.
To Live or not to live in a gated community
No one can make this decision for you. Also, whether you decide to go for it or not doesn’t mean you are wrong. Some people will not need much time to decide that gated communities aren’t for them. Others won’t even have to be convinced to buy a property in a gated community. The most important thing is ensuring that the community offers you what you are looking for. Also, be sure that you can meet the costs associated with living in a gated community.
