Living in a gated community is a dream for many – it connotes success and having the best things in life. But it’s not for everyone. If you’re thinking of buying a home in a gated community, look more closely into the benefits and downsides before making a decision.
Pros of living in gated communities
- Security and privacy
- Topnotch amenities
- Comfort and uninterrupted services
- Preserved and enhanced home values
A gated community provides utmost security, with guards at the gate and
CCTV cameras throughout the neighborhood. You can sleep in peace knowing the chances of your home getting burglarized is remote, and your kids can roam about in safety. You also get plenty of privacy, with people coming into the neighborhood screened at the gate before they’re allowed entry.
Most gated communities come with a wealth of shared amenities, such as swimming pools, tennis courts, clubhouses, and fitness rooms or gyms. Some feature shopping centers, golf clubs, restaurants, and even schools and health facilities. Not only do these facilities provide a convenient and quality lifestyle, they also give residents the opportunity to get together and build interpersonal relationships.
Because the number of people who can come in and out of the community is restricted, you get serene, traffic-free streets. Many gated
neighborhoods also provide such amenities as backup power, central heating systems, treated water services, and more. The community’s homeowner association often takes care of daily maintenance needs, such as garbage collection and the upkeep of common areas.
Gated communities provide a certain measure of prestige and denote luxury, which help enhance the value of properties here. Homes in these neighborhoods are generally well-maintained and boast high-quality design and construction that can withstand the test of time. Also, with the HOA maintaining architectural harmony, the prices of the homes in a gated community are often comparable to each other, translating to better value for homeowners.
Cons of living in gated communities
- Access may be difficult
- High HOA fees
- Isolation from the rest of the community
Because of the community’s relative isolation, public transportation may not be as accessible as you would like. Most residents rely on private
vehicles to get around. Additionally, if you have visitors coming, they may have to queue at the gate to get past security checks. This can also be a concern when you need contractors to come and work in your home.
The perks that you get from living in a gated community do not come for free. Typically, you have to pay a homeowners association fee – and in many cases, these fees are rather sizable.
Living in a gated community may feel like you’re living in a bubble, separated from the rest of the town or city where you belong. While many see this as a good thing, it’s not for those who prefer to live “in the real world” and want to experience the area’s culture and lifestyle.
Looking for a home in Decatur, GA or its surrounding communities? We can help you find the perfect property, whether in a gated community or a busier district. Contact us here or call us at (404) 321 – 0030 or send an email to KarafotiasRealty@KarafotiasRealty.com.
