When you picture a gated community, you might imagine mansions, country clubs, and exclusivity. But in today’s market, gated living isn’t just for the ultra-wealthy – and many new construction homes are built in gated neighborhoods.
Before you buy, weigh the pros and cons.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Enhanced Security: Safety is the top draw. Gated neighborhoods limit who can enter – whether through guards, keypads, or virtual gates. | Rules, Rules, Rules: HOAs come with standards – and plenty of them. There are less freedoms to make design changes. Seek approval first. |
| Less Traffic, More Peace: With limited entry points, traffic stays low without commuters and speeding. More comfortable with kids playing outside. | Parking and Guest Limits: Limited visitor and street parking is a concern. Plan ahead for guest access and parking. |
| Consistent Curb Appeal: Typically an HOA maintains roads, landscaping, and shared spaces. Expect manicured lawns, uniform home designs, and fewer eyesores. Dues often cover services like snow removal, and trash pickup. | Amenities Affect Value: Gated homes often cost an average of $30,000 more upfront according to the American Real Estate Society. Shared amenities including clubhouses or pools can affect resale value because of high maintenance and upfront costs. |
Bottom Line
If you’re buying new construction, don’t just evaluate the floor plan – evaluate the community. The key is to decide what kind of lifestyle you want when looking at homes in various neighborhoods. Gated or not gated it all depends on you and your family’s priorities.
Julie Gordey
A lifelong educator, Julie Gordey, is a retired school administrator. After years of focusing on education, this University of Texas graduate now travels and enjoys freelance writing for BDX and NewHomeSource.com.