Pros and Cons of Residing in a Gated Community

There is undoubtedly controversy on whether or not a gated community is the safest place to live. So if you're looking to buy or rent your next home, you may wonder if a gated community is right for you. There are many advantages and drawbacks for you to consider, so our visitor management software experts offer these Pros and Cons of living in a gated community.

PRO: safety

People mainly prefer a gated community over a non-gated community for added safety. Gated communities can better control who enters the neighborhood by maintaining an access control point. While living in a gated community does not guarantee your home will not be broken into, it does make it more difficult for a thief. Most robbers are looking for an effortless opportunity, so anything you can do to make your house more of a nuisance for them will help keep you safe.

Some gated communities partner the gate with a guard patrol, relying on the gated community's area and the level of luxury beyond the gate.

CON: increased cost

Being part of a gated neighborhood often comes with higher costs – Homeowner Association (HOA) expenses. For example, if your house is in a gated community, your neighborhood will have fees to cover the cost and upkeep of the gate and the rest of the shared luxuries in the area.

Also, if buying a house in a gated community, you will have to persist in paying those HOA fees as long as you own your home. In some gated communities, this can add a substantial amount to the cost of ownership, but the luxuries usually match the fees.

PRO: Privacy

Living in a gated community suggests you have more privacy, which is why you see most stars and famous figures select them. But, while it may be a necessity for A-listers, ordinary folk can also profit from some of that privacy.

Since you're not unrestricted to outside traffic, your community roads will be more relaxed and less active (as long as your neighbors are polite and follow the rules). It will also make it more difficult for door-to-door salespeople to pound a course to your front door. However, the gate won't block neighbors from snooping, so don't presume you will have 100% privacy.

CON: Less Freedom

If your house is in a gated community, often, there will be HOA rules that you are required to follow. This means if you wish to do something distinct with your yard, paint your house a unique color, or throw a massive and loud party, you may be unable to do everything you desire.

Also, if you quit paying your HOA dues or incur the anger of the HOA board, you could face steep fines and even have a lien on your home. Since you have to give up some power to live in a gated community, finding one that has been appropriately managed and has reasonable rules you can live with is essential.

PRO: a sense of community

It can be nice to have a feeling of living in a small neighborhood in a world becoming increasingly detached. Many gated communities have parks, walking trails, and outdoor activity areas, which can be excellent spots to meet your neighbors. In addition, some gated communities have monthly tenant activities, helping build a sense of community.

Choosing your next house is a big decision, and whether or not to live in a gated community is another aspect you will have to assess. We hope these pros and cons will help make a choice easier.

These are some advantages and drawbacks of living in a gated community. Contact us today if you are interested in visitor management software solutions. We want to make your community safer.