Planned communities are residential areas designed with a specific layout and purpose in mind. They often include a mix of housing types, parks, schools, and commercial spaces, all integrated to promote a sense of community. These developments are typically created by developers who carefully consider factors like traffic flow, green spaces, and amenities to enhance residents' quality of life. Many planned communities also feature rules and guidelines, known as covenants, to maintain property values and ensure a cohesive aesthetic. Examples of planned communities include master-planned communities and new urbanism developments, which focus on walkability and sustainable living.