If you were to envision the perfect SW Florida lifestyle, what would your vision look like? If you are like most people, you first fell in love with SW Florida during a family trip or a resort vacation.The sun, nearby beach, outdoor activities, and the ability to enjoy amenities such as a sparkling poolside afternoon had you hooked. Who wouldn’t be? But then approximately seven days later, reality set in as you packed your suitcase and boarded that return flight home.Vacations are wonderful, but they don’t last forever.
But what if they could?
That’s where gated community living comes in. Here in SW Florida you can truly experience your dream vacation seven days a week, without ever returning home, –because you are home!
SW Florida Resort Style Living – Gated Communities
Over the past decade the popularity of gated community style living here in SW Florida has greatly increased. Especially here in Lee County, real estate in gated communities can offer you a lifestyle you may have only dreamed about in the past. Our communities offer the following:
- Gated access for security
- Stable property values due to HOA rules
- Resort style amenities, such as golf, boating, swimming, bbq grills, a community fitness center, shops, restaurants, nature and walking trails, planned activities, and more.
Gated communities in SW Florida are generally located on prime land and offer niche amenities centered on specific interests. Some gated communities are built with property right on the golf course while others are built to attract boaters, providing an on-site marina and waterfront properties complete with backyard boat docks. These, along with Homeowner Association (HOA) rules and master planning allow for home values to remain steady or rise.
SW Florida Gated Communities – An Explanation of HOA’s
The HOA, or home owner association, plays a large part in gated community living. When purchasing a home in a gated community there will be a predetermined annual HOA fee involved. This fee can generally be paid monthly and can average anywhere from $100 per month on up to four or five hundred.
Why the fees? HOA fees are what actually brings you the resort lifestyle. The number one feature or perk of a vacation is the fact that you get to enjoy all the amenities, such as a lazy afternoon by the pool, without any of the upkeep or maintenance. Think about how many weekends are currently spent on landscaping projects or cleaning the pool if you have one. A community pool allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy life without ever worrying about the upkeep. Other gated communities use HOA fees to provide and maintain the golf course, boat docks and/or a marina, a fitness center, on-site security and gate guards, community activities, and/or lawn maintenance.
SW Florida Gated Communities – Common HOA Rules
The HOA is also responsible for creating, regulating, and enforcing the rules of the community. When purchasing a home in a gated community ensure that you are fully aware of all rules and regulations. This will help you avoid any surprises or potential disputes.
Common gated community rules can include:
- Mandatory upkeep and appearance of the outside of your home
- The colors of exterior paint used
- Type, color, and height of allowable fencing
- Type and size of pets
- Allowable landscaping (Banyan trees are not allowed due to the damage the roots wreak on septic tanks and drainage. Certain vines are considered a menace and also may not be allowed).
- Storage of boats or recreational vehicles
- Commercial vehicles may not be allowed to park overnight on driveways (Commercial vehicles are often defined as any car or truck which displays a company logo in any form).
Gated communities can be a great SW Florida real estate investment option for anyone including singles, couples, families, and seniors. The stability of home values and the resort lifestyle are huge perks for gated community living, especially considering the state of our national economy and the real estate market. This along with added security and protection, along with a lifestyle that is custom tailored to your interests can make Florida gated community living perfect for anyone.
If you are interested in Florida waterfront homes for sale, SW Florida real estate investment property, or any other Florida real estate for sale, consider purchasing a home in a gated community. Give us a call today. We promise to provide you with a remarkable experience!