Finding the Right Golf Course For That Permanent Golf Vacation!

If your idea of a perfect retirement is playing 18 holes every day, then buying a house in a golf course community might appeal to you. However, before you commit yourself to a life on the links, there are a few things you should consider.

Location, location, location
There are pros and cons to living along a golf course. Living next to a tee box may cut down on the chance of your house being hit by a stray shot, but you also have to deal with a constant stream of visitors, especially on weekends, which can get very loud and be a real nuisance. Living along the fairway can cut down on the noise and invasion of privacy, but the chances of being hit by an errant shot go up. Of course, if you live next to a green, your chances of both problems increase. Another thing to consider is that greens and tee boxes are mowed often and usually early in the morning before play starts. You need to weigh these issues carefully when selecting a home.

What’s the price to join?
Don’t assume that buying a home in a golf community comes with a club membership. Unless such a thing is specifically spelled out in your purchase contract, you will probably have to buy a membership like everyone else. Inquire as to what levels of memberships are available and whether community residents get any perks, such as discounted golf and preferences for tee times.

Golf cart power
This may not be something most people would think of, but the kind of golf carts used on the course can make a huge difference when it comes to noise. Gas-powered carts make a lot more noise than electric ones and also emit fumes that might spoil the smells of nature. Make sure to ask what types of golf carts are used at the community you are considering.

Where do the golf carts roam?
Depending on the layout of the course, golfers may have to cross streets and sidewalks to get to certain holes. You want to make sure you know the rules regarding rights of way and other issues. Also, many golf course communities allow residents to tool around in carts on internal private streets. Make sure you understand the rules regarding cart use.

Rules for fencing and netting
At some point, all those balls hitting your house and golfers traipsing through your backyard chasing an errant shot may become too much, at which point you might want to erect a fence to give you some privacy or prevent damage. However, you might find yourself out of luck. You need to check the fine print of any sales or homeowners association contracts to make sure you will have this option. Many golf course communities have restrictions on such barriers.

If you are not sure about committing to the golf course lifestyle full time, you might try it out on a trial basis by investing in a timeshare. This will give you a chance to spend a week or two living at the course every year, allowing you to see what it is like and what difficulties you may encounter. If you then decide to buy a home, or if you decide golf course living isn’t for you, you can let the time share experts help you sell the interest in your timeshare property.

Are you looking for a permanent golf community? If you live in one, tell us what’s it like? Would you recommend it?