Are Gated Communities Overrated?

Today’s most popular property is 10137 Lamplighter Square in Cupertino. This 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms home has the perfect address to brighten up a cold and wet December Friday. This home features views of the hills, a remodeled kitchen, sparkling clean bathrooms, real hard wood floors and a favorite of mine cathedral ceilings. Aside from the fact, that this home is in a cul-de-sac it’s also located in a gated community. Are gated communities worth paying a premium for or are they a waste of money?

Growing up my father told me that location is the best determinant of value. Today’s most popular property represents examples of “the best” locations to live in a residential neighborhood. What monetary value can both a cul-de-sac and a gated community really provide?

In my understanding, a gated community really provides safety and exclusivity. These home are more safe because of the limitations on in and out privileges. Therefore, these limitations provide a sense of control which home owners appreciate as safer neighborhoods. Additionally, more expensive homes are located in these gated communities in order to attract buyers who would pay more money for that quality. Accordingly, these homes become more exclusive not necessarily because of higher demand, but as a result of higher price points which keeps certain buyers out. In my opinion, when you have the chance to live in these safer and more exclusive homes please do. There really isn’t a price tag you can place on these qualities. However, when it comes time to sell those qualities will be easy selling points for buyers to understand. In turn, it means more money for you!