SAFETY is an issue close to everyone's heart and the 24-hour security system at Puchong Hartamas Kim Crest is definitely a pull factor that attracts house buyers.

They are happy that they can worry less about burglaries, break-ins, thefts and robberies in the neighbourhood with the hourly patrols and single entrance-cum-exit.

Businessman Chin Foo Heng said the tight security was what spurred him to move from Bandar Puchong Jaya to Puchong Hartamas early this year.

"My previous housing area was not as safe. Here, we once forgot to close the front door for the whole night and nothing happened," he said.

Another house owner, Polly Lim Poh Lee, echoed Chin's views.

"Since the neighbourhood is gated and guarded, we feel safe allowing our kids to play outdoors," said the marketing manager who is the mother of two children.

Besides the security system, many of them were attracted by the tranquillity and cosiness of the neighbourhood near Bandar Puteri.

"It's exclusive and quiet, while my previous neighbourhood was too crowded," Chim Weng Cheong, who moved into Puchong Hartamas last month with his wife and one-year-old daughter, said.

"This is like a quiet place next to a bustling city and my tension from work disappears as soon as I come home to a relaxing environment," Chin added.

Lim added that with the streetlights being turned on at night, the neighbourhood projects a totally different view and it is very attractive.

The owners find the house designs appealing too.

"The squarish living room and dining hall, as well as the staircase, are well designed. It's clean-cut. The workmanship is good, too," said Chim.

Kevin Phang, who has just moved into his new house in mid-April, said the house is spacious and can accommodate his parents, twin brother, his wife and himself.

He is also particularly satisfied with the developer's quick response to rectify the minor defects.

"They are very helpful and they meet the customers' needs," the 32-year-old said.

There are 246 units - double-storey and 2½-storey link houses - in Puchong Hartamas Kim Crest.

House owners pay monthly fees for the security and cleanliness of the common area, which are carried out by a maintenance company appointed by the developer.