For property managers, HOA boards, and community associations, security and convenience must go hand in hand. Unfortunately, traditional HOA gate systems, community gate systems, and residential gate access control systems—such as callboxes, keypads, and card readers—are expensive to install, difficult to maintain, and lack the flexibility that modern communities require.

Cellular gate entry systems like Sentry Solo eliminate these challenges by delivering a smartphone gate entry system that controls access remotely, provides real-time reporting, and improves both security and resident satisfaction. From condo gate entry to townhouse gate visitors and apartment properties, Sentry Solo modernizes community gate access systems while reducing costs.

Industry Insights: Why Mobile Credentials Matter

A Q2 2024 study by Parks Associates found that residents living on properties with access control systems supporting mobile credentials reported a 20% increase in satisfaction compared to those using outdated hardware-based gate security systems (SecurityInfoWatch).

The Security Industry Association confirms that cellular and cloud-based community gate access systems with smartphone integration are becoming the new standard, enabling property managers to control entry points, automate vehicle gate access control systems, and manage visitor credentials from anywhere. (Security Industry Association).

Why Traditional Gate Security Systems Fall Short 

1. High Costs & Maintenance

  • Callboxes, card readers, and wired gate access control systems require costly installation and frequent upkeep.
  • Maintenance contracts quickly drain HOA and property budgets.
  • Updating access credentials often requires on-site technicians, adding time and expense.

2. No Real-Time Oversight

  • Hardware-only neighborhood gate systems lack centralized management tools for tracking entry and exit events.
  • Property managers have no efficient way to monitor who is entering or exiting in real time.

3. Resident & Visitor Frustration

  • Shared PIN codes create security risks and inconvenience.
  • Guests, contractors, and delivery drivers face delays with outdated gate security systems.
  • Condo and townhouse residents frequently complain about clunky access methods like keypads or fobs.