Thinking of living in a gated community?
If you are considering buying or renting a property, chances are that you have considered living in a gated community. There are several factors that you need to take into account while making this decision. I know that the thought of living behind a gate, especially one protected by security guards, seems glamorous, secure, and grown up; the fact remains that there are both pros and cons to this decision. Let’s talk about them.
Isolation from the larger community: This can be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on what kind of lifestyle you prefer. There is reduced traffic in the vicinity of your house, less noise, less crowds. All of which can be a very good thing, especially in a country as populated as India. It can give you an unparalleled sense of privacy. There can also be commercial buildings inside a gated community. You don’t need to travel far for vegetables, groceries,etc. Getting home delivery for all the basic things, might also be a good option for you. Some gated communities also have schools and play area for kids. You don’t have to send your kid too far from you to study. Its will save travel time for kids and less tiresome.
Higher cost of living: Depending on the services/facilities the gated community offers, the price of your property increases accordingly. A gated communities with a good security staff, maintenance staff, and general management of the utilities will charge you accordingly. All of this, however, does result in a higher quality of living in a gated community. If the people in the community keep an eye on it, the input of money can result in a well maintained community space.
Sense of community: There are many rules and restrictions that a gated community can enforce, depending on the management and the general consensus of people in the gated community. Because of the general sense of closeness that a community fosters, people may also be inclined to enforce arbitrary social conditions in a gated community. This can range from very restricted parking space to a well detailed ‘what not to do’ in your life. If you are a family just looking for some peace and seclusion, this might not be a bad thing for you. Some people also find a better lifestyle after moving inside a gated community, due to the sense of closeness with the neighbours.
Security: While not enough concrete data exists to prove whether the crime rate actually decreases inside a gated community or not, there is a general consensus that living in a gated community can give you better perception of security. Having a gate, a security guard, and in some cases CCTV cameras between your home and the general world does seem a good idea. It also feels a lot safer. For people with children, this can also give a better area for child rearing. Most gated communities also have recreational spaces for the use of community members, which can be a safer option for kids compared to the public options.
Well, that’s the best basic advice that we can give you. Good luck, and may you make the best decision possible. Keep watching this space for more information, and you can write to us for further information.
