Should you buy a freestanding home or in a gated estate?

If you are in the market to buy a home, deciding between a freehold property or opting for a home in a gated estate is usually one of the first questions you need to answer to ensure you find what you are looking for.

Over the last couple of years, properties in gated estates have risen in popularity, not just for wealthier buyers, but also with first-time buyers opting for sectional title properties within these estates. 

Data has shown that in 2010, an estimated 13.1% of all properties sold in South Africa were located in estates. While this drifted higher in subsequent years, by 2019 an estimated 13.7% of all homes sold were in estates. However, this changed abruptly in the wake of the pandemic, rising to 15.4% in 2020 and remaining elevated. In 2022, 16.4% of all homes sold were in estates.

But will living in a gated estate suit your lifestyle and budget? We take a look at some of the advantages of both free-standing properties and homes in gated estates.

Free-standing properties

Upgrades are your choice

After purchasing a property, you can execute upgrades or expansions as you wish. These upgrades would still need to be approved by the municipality and in some instances, your neighbours. For the most part, however, you can redesign as you wish. The only limits would be your budget and your imagination. 

Space will never be an issue

Living in a free-standing property allows you the space and freedom to extend or expand your property without anyone hampering your decision. The freedom of a free-standing house means the ability to use space as you choose. This is again, subject to legal limits determined by the municipality and ensuring that all extensions are fully compliant with health and safety and building regulations.

Room for children and pets 

If you have a family with small or young children, you may be reluctant to live on shared property or an apartment block. These properties are usually smaller and often do not accommodate children or pets in a manner where they will be free to play or have fun. The family dog may not have their daily walk and space to roam free but with a free-standing property, there are various ways to accommodate all. 

Gated estates

Prime security

Gated estates are known for security above all. Choosing to purchase a property in a gated estate comes with the assurance that you would be purchasing a property that is safe and secure. This is especially important as you examine the current state of society and levels of crime associated with your respective city or area of choice. Security has never been more important than now and will continue to remain a major concern in the years ahead.

Convenience on your doorstep

Along with the security of living in a gated estate, there is also the convenience that comes with it. Secure estates are often built to be in close proximity to selected amenities and their various offerings. These offerings in most cases include a convenience store of some sort, a petrol station, a gym in some cases, and even a shopping centre (if not inside the estate there will be one close by). 

Lower insurance premiums

With living in a more secure place, there is the added advantage of having lower insurance premiums albeit risk profile dependent. The risk of home invasions and burglaries is significantly lowered when one considers the monitoring and security features on gated estates. Regular patrols and security systems linked to a rapid response team automatically translate to lower risk and lower premiums. 

Whatever your choice, make sure that you get input from a knowledgeable real estate professional to help you understand the market in your area and to navigate the sales process.