According to findings in an online survey, safety and security have become top priorities for potential house buyers.

AS a result of the increasing number of break-ins and the worrying crime rates, there has been a wave of gated and guarded (G&G) housing developments that are putting safety and security on the top of their priority lists. This shift in paradigm matches the demands from the pool of potential buyers in Malaysia who are perceptibly more drawn towards developments with enhanced security features.

In order to understand the market’s sentiments, StarProperty.my recently carried out an online survey to gauge the public’s perception on this issue through a series of questions.

According to the feedback from 546 respondents – comprising 77% male and 23% female aged 20 and above who are mostly professionals, managers and executives – 92% of them have a preference for G&G developments.

G&G developments have been gaining much traction in the world of real estate. Seven-eight per cent believe that this is because such developments offer a greater sense of safety and security.

To echo their stance, the majority of the respondents would expect G&G developments to include several prominent features. Ninety-one per cent of the respondents expect these developments to have 24-hour security patrols in addition to perimeter fencing while 84% expect to have at least one guard house within the surroundings of the development.

A comment that stood out from others came from a respondent who cited “the availability of a management and maintenance team to oversee the upkeep of public areas” as among the important criteria of living in G&G developments.

Exclusivity and privacy are not the only reasons why potential buyers look into G&G developments; “snob appeal” is also cited as part of the charm of owning a G&G development. Homeowners in gated communities have a higher pride of ownership and are more inclined to keep their property in top notch condition.

However, the most common downsides to living in a G&G community are the increased costs (monthly fees), irresponsible and under-qualified security guards as well as difficulty for visitors to gain access.

Based on the respondents’ analysis, the majority of the participants hold the belief that safety and security are fundamental aspects to consider when it comes to purchasing a house. The participants also revealed that exclusivity multiples the appeal of owning a G&G development.

Source: StarProperty.my