A method provides a guest access to a defined space selectively accessible through an automated gate. The method includes the steps of causing a resident interface to be displayed to a resident via a resident data device. Guest data is received from the resident about the guest using the resident data device. The guest data is transmitted to a central station. The guest identifies when the guest arrives at the automated gate. The method also opens the automated gate to allow the guest to travel into the defined space after the automated gate is opened.