Hey Jim:

Great topic. I have a couple friends here in Lauderdale who live in a huge luxury condominium community (272 residences, set on approximately 10 acres). Of course, it is a gated community with a 24-hour guard. I hate going over there because it is a complete pain to deal with.

First, if you’re not on the “permanent guest list” you must present a photo id, license plate number, resident’s full name and full address. In fairness, you should have and know that information regardless. Once you past the test, the guard will then call the resident to receive approval for your right of entry. The guard will then present you with a lovely “visitor pass” for your front dashboard, that will expire in 24-hours.

When I arrive, I am on the permanent guest list (as of recently) and can normally get through security quickly (when I get to the gate). However, most people are not on the permanent guest list. There is always a line at the gatehouse for visitors trying to get in. On average, I normally wait 10 minutes before it’s finally my turn to get through the gate.

Every time I am waiting in line, I think “who honestly lives here that would need this much security.”

To make a long story short, there is NO false sense of security at this community. I am sure it keeps burglaries/robberies very low.