Gated Communities Grow in Popularity

The demand for gated communities is growing according to the U.S. Census. More people seem to be interested in the idea of purchasing property in a community with a gate around it and a security guard notating the ins and outs residents and guests make.

However, does paying for the guard and the gate, really make all that much of a difference, or are people just buying into an image of safety?

Gated communities tend to be higher priced than non-gated communities by 5 to 7 percent. Homeowners who do end up seeking a gated life, believe the walls create a sense of security and also privacy from the outside world. Others view it as a false sense of security and still others see the security guard as a nuisance (not liking the idea of someone keeping a record of how often they come and go from their homes).

Despite the differences in opinion, gated communities are the fastest growing type of housing. However, if you are able to save thousands or maybe even a few hundred dollars a month, would you be willing to give up the gated life?

In many places, walls are no deterrent for thieves and the security guard sometimes poses as little threat for people who want to enter the track of homes. There are some cases where the security guards do not even stay in the little hut at the entrance of the complex (it really just depends on where you live because some security services are better than others).

Incidentally, one of the downsides to living in a gated community is that the ease with which you can enter the complex or track is not as easy as a non-gated community. Some systems require that you enter in a passcode or swipe some sort of badge before the gates are opened. Some people find this to be a nuisance.

In addition, if you are having guests over, the inability to easily come into the complex, does not exist. You either end up having to buzz that person in or figure out some other creative way of getting that person inside.

In addition, the extra safeguards to keep people out, doesn't keep the thieves out if the thieves live inside the community.

Depending on the area in which you are purchasing property in a gated area, you may end up paying a considerably higher price. In such case, you have to really ask yourself if it is worth spending the extra money. Remember, if someone is going to break in, wouldn't a gated community seem even more tempting than a non-gated community?

In the end, all of this comes down to personal choice and however much you have budgeted for yourself to spend on your new home. But remember to weigh your decision carefully. There are no guarantees when it comes to safety.