Probably about half the Mexico real estate we find for buyers is gated with some kind of security – security guards, card entrance, security code, etc.
For some buyers this raises the question – “Is the gated security necessary? Will I be victim to theft and other crime if I buy in a non-gated community or complex?â€
The simple and honest answer is “No, absolutely not.â€
Safe Cities
Playa del Carmen and the towns and cities where we have member brokers are safe regions of Mexico. As we point out fairly regularly, and as opposed to what the news in the U.S. would make you believe, most parts of Mexico are safe, and many parts are even safer than much of the U.S.
Now, just to be honest, petty theft is the only crime in Mexico which effects the regular population more than in would in many parts of the U.S. Simple measures to prevent petty theft are usually a good idea; e.g. don’t leave some incredibly easy and obvious way to get into your home – not too much different from in a larger American city.
That having been said, there are several communities (like Lake Chapala) where residents say they leave their front doors open when they’re around, and they are considerably more comfortable doing so than in the U.S.!
There are many expats who live outside of gated communities and live very comfortably and safely.
Why the Gated Communities?
So what’s the big deal with gated communities then? Why are there so many of them and why do real estate agents show it off so much? Well, there are a few reasons, which are basically the same as in the U.S.:
1. Safety & Traffic
Safety is not just about crime; reduced traffic also makes it safer to ride a bike around or go for a walk. It also just keeps it quieter.
2. Privacy
If there are green areas and parks, the gated, controlled access ensures that they are reserved for residents and their guests, keeping them quieter and cleaner.
3. Prestige and Exclusivity
“I live in a gated community near the beach.â€Â When it comes right down to it, we all like to have bragging rights!
4. You Can Afford It
This is the part that distinguishes owning a home in a gated community here; you get all the prestige and privacy, but the prices are accessible.
So, if you like the exclusivity of a gated community, go for it. But if you’re eying that home downtown, where the front door opens pretty much onto the sidewalk, likewise don’t hesitate to go for it. The gated community is certainly a nice plus, but by no means a necessity.
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Thomas Lloyd graduated from Purdue University Krannert School of Management with a degree in Management/Financial Option Investments. He has been living, investing, and working professionally in Mexico for over 16 years. In the summer of 2009, he received the first federally applied Mexico Real Estate Degree and Mexico Professional Real Estate License S.E.P. #5978657. He is the president of Top Mexico Real Estate. Contact him at (512) 879-6546.
The TOP Mexico Real Estate Network; “Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely!â€
