Pros and cons of living in a residential estate

Gated residential estates have increased in popularity over the past few years in South Africa. Buyers are being swayed by the amenities that they offer, such as fitness centres and creches. Safety and security is a major driving force encouraging buyers to choose estate homes. However, it may not be your cup of tea if you do not like the rules and regulations that come with it. Property in residential estates also tends to come with high price tags. 

Let's explore the pros and cons of living in a residential estate:

Safety and security

Residential estates have 24-hour security guards who are on constant patrol at the entrance and around the estate. They are usually on foot or patrol vehicles. Estates are generally equipped with camera surveillance, controlled access points, and high walls with electric fencing. 

The flip side of living in a highly secured environment means that residents can be limited to the number of guests they are allowed at a time. Delivery services may not be allowed to your door; meaning that you would need to collect your items at the entrance each time you place an order.

According to Stats SA, the number of households that experienced burglaries in the five years has increased from 2,1 million in 2015/16 to 2,3 million in 2019/20. Taking these alarming statistics into consideration, the Val de Vie Estate have placed security and the safety of their residents as a top priority. With state-of-the-art technology and 24 hours response teams, residents have assured peace of mind. The estate further boasts an award for "Safest House in Africa".

Access to amenities

Buyers look for value for money when searching for a home. Residential estates offer just that. Depending on the type of estate, amenities can include hiking and cycling trails, sporting facilities, golf courses, schools, restaurants, and more. 

The con to having access to amenities is that they can be overcrowded. You may need a prior booking to play a round of golf or tennis. The swimming pool, for instance, will not only be for private use for you and your family.

What sets the Val de Vie Estate apart from the rest is the fact that they have a working wine farm, a Polo Pavilion, and a signature Jack Nicklaus golf course. The estate also features a fenced 4.3 ha conservation area which is home to a herd of indigenous Springbok and Zebras. 

Residents are also spoiled for choice with the Ryk Neethling Swimming School, biokinetics services, two squash courts, a sauna and steam room, a gym, two floodlit tennis courts outside, and even three fitness centres.

Rules and regulations

Having rules and regulations at a residential estate protects your well-being. For example, it is in your best interest, and for other residents, visitors are only allowed until a certain time. Other rules in an estate can include speed limits, no loud music, and no littering. It can even go as far as having your house painted in a certain colour to ensure that there is uniformity within the estate. 

You are not exempt from following rules set out by the body corporate, even if you have the most expensive house in the estate. Imagine buying your dream house only to be told that your pets are not allowed on the estate. To prevent any future issues, ensure that you are fully aware of what the estates rules and regulations are before making an offer to purchase.

Higher property prices

Living an exclusive lifestyle in a secured residential estate with access to amenities will come at a higher price tag. This also means that if you decide to sell your property in the next few years, the chances of making a profitable sale is highly possible. You will also need to contribute to the ongoing costs of managing and maintaining your property. Many of the amenities may also require membership fees. 

Are you looking for the ideal residential property to call your home? With tons of amenities and top security, Val de Vie Estates is exactly what you have been looking for. Contact Knight Frank today and our agents will help you find your sanctuary.