Shopping for a Home in a Gated Community

Unless it’s Halloween or I’m expecting company, I hate the sound of the doorbell. My dogs go berserk and it’s usually not worth the hassle to fight them for the crack in the door to chat with the magazine salesperson or the guy that wants to trim your trees.

It's not a big problem since unless there’s a big election around the corner, my doorbell is usually pretty quiet. But for those who dislike the random stranger pushing their bell even more than I do, the gated community holds a lot of appeal.

Here’s a look at some homes for sale in gated communities. There’s a big range of prices, and something for every budget.

Alamo

3185 Stonegate Dr. is offered by Dan & Ben Dianda of Acquire Properties. Stonegate is a delightful neighborhood. It’s the only manned gate in Alamo, and located at the base of Mt. Diablo, it is quiet without being too far from the freeway. The HOA dues are $160 a month, which has always seemed low to me since it includes the security gate as well as two beautiful tennis courts. This home has 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 4,085 square feet on a 1/3 acre lot. The backyard has both a pool and lovely views. Priced at $1,369,000. See the virtual tour. For showings or more information, please call Dan at 925-570-4331 or Ben at 925-858-1511.

Danville

228 South Ridge Ct. is offered by Anna Boucher of Sotheby’s International Realty. Located inside the gates of Blackhawk, this Tuscan-style estate is privately gated as well. With 6 bedrooms, 11 bathrooms plus 2 powder rooms, and over 16,000 square feet, this is truly a one-of-a-kind property. The lot is nearly an acre and includes a dramatic infinity-edge pool. Special features include a ballroom, a gym with juice bar, a 650 square foot loggia with pizza oven, and a theater room with seating for 20. Priced at $10,500,000. See the virtual tour. For showings or questions, please call Anna at 415-860-1399 or her co-listing agent Patrick Abshire at 925-285-1582.

San Ramon

3063 Ashbourne Circle is offered by Sally Thornber of Lure Fine Real Estate. This is a five bedroom, five-and-a-half bathroom home with 5,846 square feet in Norris Canyon Estates. The neighborhood has a manned security gate, tennis courts, club house and playground, with HOA fees of $145. This home has a great location, directly across from the community tennis and basketball courts, providing privacy with no across-the-street neighbors. There are many quality upgrades, including a stunning staircase that makes a great first impression. The fabulous backyard has a swimming pool, spa and rock waterfall. Priced at $1,499,000. See the virtual tour. For showings or more information, call Sally at 925-362-4200.

Dublin

3240 Maguire Way is offered by Scott Fuller of Keller Williams. Located in Dublin Ranch Village, this is a top floor unit with upgrades throughout. The HOA fees are $280 monthly and include the gated entrance, pool & spa, an exercise facility, and club house. The condo, a one bedroom, one bath unit with 840 square feet, is subject to income restrictions (ask Scott for details). Priced at $170,000. See the virtual tour. For showings or more information, please call Scott at 925-567-6720.

Pleasanton

3035 Bersano Ct. is offered by Brad Kaune of Home Marketing Alternatives. Located in Ruby Hill, a gated community with golf course, club house, tennis courts, and pool, this home is situated at the end of a cul-de-sac with HOA dues of $215/month. Built in 1998, there are 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms and 4,025 square feet on a large 2/3 acre lot. The gourmet kitchen has a sitting area that overlooks a private courtyard and opens to the family room. The home has beautiful curb appeal with a circular driveway and lush landscaping. Priced at $1,479,000. For showings or questions, please call Brad at 925-829-1797.

Livermore

102 Windward Common is offered by Michael Ferketich of Keller Williams. This is a 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom, 2 story condo with almost 1,400 square feet. Built in 1999, the unit includes a 2 car garage and fireplace. The HOA is $250 monthly, and this includes the security gate and pool. Priced at $272,500. For showings or questions, please call Michael at 925-453-3472.