I live in a open community w/o gates for about 20 years. It's called "Rancho Santa Fe" in Avondale (near Luke AFB). After all that time my dues are $140/month. It's mostly for landscaping of the common areas. All homes are Mexican tile roofing, stucco construction with small front lots and nice size backyard...big enough for pool. No community property to maintain. Google the property for pictures. Our association is not anal and the homeowners are standup citizens. No mobile trailers, junk cars, etc., you are only responsible to maintain the front yard. Some homes have solar and small satellite dishes. Was a good choice in 1996 and still is. Good property values and rising. Good luck to you.
Bill B
bbryan00@cox.net