In the ever-evolving landscape of real estate, the allure of landed property remains steadfast, particularly with terrace houses emerging as sought-after units for a diverse range of property seekers, due to the more affordable price tag of this property genre.  

Despite the undeniable appeal of spacious living and distinct lifestyle advantages that come with owning landed property, it is not without its own set of challenges, especially in the context of modern living dynamics.

In contrast to the streamlined amenities and shared spaces characteristic of modern condominiums and serviced apartments, residing in a landed property presents unique hurdles that residents must navigate.  Several research papers by local universities and a research house on behavioural adaptation concerning landed properties highlight some of these constraints.

While the allure of expansive outdoor space and a sense of privacy may draw individuals and families to landed homes, certain specific challenges can arise, requiring thoughtful adaptation and innovative solutions, according to a study case by Universiti Teknologi MARA’s Faculty of Architecture, Planning and Surveying.

Illegal parking and unkempt back alleys

For those enclaves that are not gated and guarded whilst residing close to public amenities such as parks, popular suburban eateries or public transport stations, many residents often complain of strangers parking their vehicles in the narrow back lanes blocking access ways.

“My back door is always blocked by illegal parking,” lamented one resident, adding that she resorted to putting obstructions at her back entrance to stop people from parking there.

Moreover, the presence of unkempt back alleys and communal areas can also detract from the overall aesthetic and livability of a landed property community, posing cleanliness and safety challenges for residents.

Moreover, there is always the worry of safety and security if strangers have free access to the back lanes. In addition, unwanted parkers sometimes peek into the houses, intruding on the privacy of owners. In fact, the majority of landed property owners are of the opinion that behavioural adaptation is required to maintain privacy, unwanted social interaction and security. 

Locking both the front and back gates to the house and closing the door are common practices for this reason which indirectly influenced the level of interaction with neighbours. Such privacy concerns often arise in the more densely populated areas, where close proximity to neighbouring properties can compromise the sense of seclusion that many homeowners value.

The desire for lush greenery and personal garden spaces can also clash with the realities of urban living as land scarcity and maintenance concerns pose obstacles to creating and preserving outdoor sanctuaries. For example, most terrace or linked homes have limited garden space. Ideally, there should be garden spaces or communal green areas where children can play with other neighbours’ children, while parents can easily observe from inside or outside their homes. 

So whether children are playing badminton, learning how to cycle or playing tag, these communal spaces present safe areas for them to interact with each other, as opposed to playing on the streets. Additionally, such spaces are also suitable for the older generation who might want a shady spot to do their morning tai chi or stretching exercises.

Despite the challenges, landed property living remains appealing due to the desire for greater independence, space, and a sense of rootedness. By proactively addressing the unique challenges of landed living, residents can maximise their properties' potential while fostering community and belonging. Although modern living presents obstacles, the resilience and adaptability of landed property communities offer promising opportunities for growth and innovation. By embracing change and working together to overcome challenges, residents can create thriving, sustainable neighbourhoods that redefine contemporary living.

However, not all property developers have the same frame of mind when it comes to putting their own signatures on landed properties.

Developing holistic homes

Since 1995, Gamuda Land has been developing holistic townships, ranging from Kota Kemuning and Valencia to Gamuda Gardens, Gamuda Cove and twentyfive7, creating living spaces with environmental sustainability and community at the heart of their operations. 

As a leading property developer, Gamuda Land develops homes tailored to Malaysians' needs, addressing evolving demands with innovative design and sustainable architecture. What elements do you consider important in your future home? Scan the QR code or click on this link (https://forms.office.com/r/Y4bX0xKB3E) and take the Gamuda Land survey to let us know how we can build better homes to suit your needs.

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This article was brought to you by Gamuda Land.

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