Buying a new home. Why do the glass doors have locking gates on the outside!?

Question

New home has double glass doors downstairs to the backyard. Why are the security bars able to lock from the oustide only (padlock). Can anyone in the Washington DC or Maryland area answer this for me?

Answer 1

Poor design or doors installed by Harry homeowner (not a professional).  I doubt there is any more to it than that, but budget for getting that fixed if you want the place (if you use those doors at all this will be a major pain in the neck, but this isn't really a major expense either).

Answer 2

I don't think this is a geographical question... it has to do with the preferences of the previous owners or developer who installed the gates. Sounds absurd to me... but then again we viewed homes with Barney purple walls and sliding doors leading to a drop off the side of the building. People are just odd when it comes to home improvements and design.