Estate Life: Is it all it's hyped up to be?
Category Property
"Location, location, location" - the trusted old saying that has determined a property's status all through history. But over the years, the criteria that a property needs to meet has changed drastically. And as such, the age-old saying has taken on a whole new meaning in today's market. From fibre connectivity to environmental impact and social status, the "location" of a property consists of much more information than simple geographic setting.
The answer to this updated concept of location, partnered with all its connotative add-ons, is the residential estate.
With residential estates, both geographical location and the benefits of a more stable, secure social environment come together to offer individuals and families an entire living experience and not just a property. But are they really all they are cracked up to be?
Let's look at some of the pros and cons of estate living:
The Upside
The benefits of research
From structure to environmental studies, residential estates are required to have done their research long before the first brick is lain Housing estates are built with longevity in mind, and as such are built to last and to have the least possible negative influence on the environment surrounding them. This may be one of the biggest benefits, knowing that your property's structure and environment is secure thanks to meticulous planning and research.
Creating a community
Restaurants, community rooms, gyms - these are just a few of the amenities that many residential estates house on their premises. They offer residents not only the luxury of quick access to entertainment but also enables residents to join their community when special events are hosted.
Infrastructure that works
With the decline of many municipal areas across the country, estates look after their own infrastructures, which puts residents in closer contact with those responsible for upkeep when things go wrong. From roads to public gardens, the environment of residential estates is the responsibility of the trustees who themselves live in the estate and benefit from their efforts.
Maximised safety
Security and safety cannot be overlooked. Residential estates enhance the safety of residents in various manners. Many estates offer security patrols and emergency response units that can assist residents at a moment's notice, while most offer at least access controlled entry and electric fencing. These protocols minimise the risk of unwanted entry into the estate and limit those within the borders of the estate to residents and friends and family of residents only.
Something for the young-uns
Residential estates are often built with a specific type of resident in mind, whether it be eco-enthusiasts, young professionals, or golfers. But there is one type of resident that estates know they will need to accommodate at one point: kids. Accordingly, estates are known to be accommodating to these highly critical residents. From crèches to walking trails, to jungle gyms, to open lawns where kids can play and get rid of their energy, most estates offer at least one avenue of entertainment for their youngest residents.
The Downside
Living within restrictions
When residing in a residential estate, you will be expected to follow the rules set up for the community by the body corporate. These rules are often there for the sole purpose of creating a mutually accommodating community, with rules governing quiet hours or how public washing lines are to be utilised. However, in certain estates, the rules can go as far as to dictate what flowers you may plant in your garden and what colour curtains you may hang in your windows.
Get comfortable with monotony
Whether it is due to the safeguarding of a certain aesthetic, the promotion of a lifestyle, or maintaining a low budget, residential estates are known for following strict design guidelines. As such, numerous properties end up looking identical, often making it difficult to capture the unique character you want in your home.
In the thick of things
While becoming part of a community is a "pro" for some residents, getting saddled with neighbours of a different personality type than yours can get difficult. When you live on a free-standing house within the estate, such issues are unlikely to concern you. But when you live in an apartment or townhouse, the proximity to neighbours can affect your living experience.
The popularity of residential estates in today's real estate market is growing, but finding the one best suited to your needs does take some doing. If you want to learn more and find the estate that will be the best fit for you, get in touch with one of our iAgents today.
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This article is a general information sheet and should not be used or relied on as legal or other professional advice. No liability can be accepted for any errors or omissions nor for any loss or damage arising from reliance upon any information herein. Always contact your adviser for specific and detailed advice. Errors and omissions excepted (E&OE)
Author: Meridian Realty
