When you think of a gated community, what comes to mind? Probably things like safety, security, exclusivity, celebrities, expensive homes, and more. But what else lies beyond those gates? And is a home in one of these neighborhoods the right fit for you and your family?
Let’s explore some of the pros and cons of gated communities to get a better idea of how things operate behind the wrought iron columns. There might be some issues you overlook, which you may not realize until after the fact.
……..
Expensive Home Prices and HOAs?
- The obvious downside is a more expensive home
- Which can eventually turn into a positive if you’re able to afford it
- You may also be subject to pricey HOA dues
- To maintain those gates and added security
Let’s talk about the downsides of gated communities, shall we.
For one, or I suppose two, gated communities often come with high asking prices and costly HOA fees to pay for things such as gate guards, private security, roads and maintenance.
Most roads are designated private, so you may have to foot the bill to fix those potholes or repave a bumpy road on your own dime. Good luck negotiating with your neighbors.
As far as security goes, the safety of gated communities is dependent upon the quality of the system in place, as well as the surrounding areas. And there’s a good chance the community won’t be patrolled by a sheriff unless the HOA approves such action. Or if the gated community is an actual city. Most aren’t…
Not all gated communities have live guards either, and automated gates aren’t very difficult to breach once someone gives out the code to the pizza delivery guy.
That being said, crime still occurs in gated communities and you shouldn’t let your guard down just because there’s a nice little fence around your community. Heck, the neighborhood kids could be the ones stealing from you…
Source: Pros and Cons of Gated Communities | The Truth About Realty.com