One of the first points I get a lot from clients coming from Brazil, when discussing what they want or need in the property they are looking for, is that they are looking for a house in a condominium.
I thought it would be worthwhile explaining a little more about the characteristics of real estate here, since I understand that the security factor, which is a major concern for those coming from Brazil, has a major influence on the search for a gated community. When we think of houses in condominiums, we're talking about the vast majority of houses here in Orlando, Winderemre, Winter Garden, etc.
Most houses are already developed within an area, a condominium, which will have its own management association and its own rules, leisure area and security.
What differs here is whether the condominiums are gated or not. Gated communities tend to have fewer houses or sub-condominiums within them, and in general, the cost of the HOA (condominium) will be a little higher, since you now have an electronic gate or guardhouse, staff and systems to maintain. In addition, the inside of the condominium is now the responsibility of the residents and not the municipality. This means cutting, removing and maintaining not only the gardens, but trees, gates, asphalt, the quality of the streets, sidewalks and more.
In vacation areas, condominiums tend to be closed with gates and guardhouses, since the concept is different and the circulation of people is much greater, in addition to the need for greater identification, check-ins, reservations, etc.
In newer, essentially residential areas - I can use Winter Garden as an example, or even Lake Nona - we see more and more condominiums opening up. They still have a very well-defined entrance and gate, their name, and only residents and guests are allowed to enter, but they don't actually have a gate.
In this more innovative model, the monthly maintenance cost drops a lot, or remains similar, but provides a much larger leisure area, resort style, activities for residents etc. The clubhouse, with its swimming pool, gym, playroom, lounges, yes, usually gives key or digital access to residents only.
Security, as a general concern, is not affected, given that we are talking about areas with a very good level of security, low crime and, in any case, even without a concierge, these condominiums usually have a security company working there.
An interesting factor to remember is that these condominiums, whether open or gated, are very well monitored, the rules clearly reinforced and it is common to receive notifications of corrections to be made: the colors of the houses, places to park the car, cleanliness and general appearance of the garden, yard, swimming pool, etc. are constantly monitored so as not to affect the general appearance of the condominium and protect the value of the property, keeping the area, as a whole, uniform and well cared for.