Gated Communities offer residents some obvious advantages - the amenities within the gates like golf, pool, fitness facilities, spas, restaurants, pools, tennis and a wide range of others. Qualified staff operate and offer personalized instruction on how to use the available facilities. You will also enjoy privacy from unwanted and uninvited visitors, security and the assurance that you will be living with others who share your socio-economic values and standards. The grounds typically are well manicured and cared for by someone else. There may be prestige as well, associated with being in an exclusive community.
There are also some not so obvious advantages. Protective covenants, standard in most gated communities, assure that all construction and exterior changes meet minimum criteria. They also regulate use and prohibit undesirable activities like raising farm animals and auto or boat maintenance in the yard. There is always someone, the guard or gate monitor, who can receive packages. While away, many communities will, if notified, monitor your home. Often the maintenance and service staff may be hired on the side to perform tasks that you are unable or would rather not do. Stable appreciation, often more than the surrounding area, is likely because of the aforementioned benefits.
What should you ask prior to purchasing in a gated community?
1) What amenities are most important and are they offered? Horse enthusiasts will want an equestrian center, golfers - a course, boaters-a marina, etc. 2) How much are the dues? Who collects them and what do they include? The management of the community and its amenity package before and after the developer is active are key to both your enjoyment and ability to resell your property later. 3) What is the governing structure of amenities and who owns them? Often a property owner's association (POA) will purchase the major amenities once the developer reaches a defined point in sales. If this is the case, what is the amenity purchase price? There is often a formula like twice the annual revenue, as part of a contract between the principal and the POA. What provisions are being made for this purchase? Will it require an assessment? If so, what is it projected to be? Does the POA fee also include 24-hour security, i.e., office patrol? Many times the gates act only as a barrier but do not deter criminal activity. 4) Is there a club? If so, what is its structure? Must we join? Often club membership is optional, though sometimes it is required to use the amenities. 5) Who else will be using our amenities? If private, then only members have use, otherwise be sure that affluence of the resort guest is equal to or greater than that of the owners. Price of use for non-owners and access will help answer this. If semi-private, are there any members-only areas and privileges? 6) Are the owners happy? This is the best indicator to know whether a community will meet your expectations. If there are others who have similar likes and dislikes and they are satisfied, odds are you will be too.
About the Author David Scott is a contributing writer for Living Southern Style and Ideal Destinations magazines, which covers planned , retirement and gated communities.
