Our cottage happened to be a new gated community when we bought it. The gates did not influence our decision either way, nor can I say I think about them much today. We just liked the cottages and the way the community looked, in large part because it was a small quiet unpretentious community -- gates don't necessary suggest pretentiousness. The gates were open during the day and closed at night. My only concern is how we'll have pizza delivered in the evening if we ever order pizza to be delivered. (I think we'll figure that one out).