A recent survey of golfers who expressed interest in buying homes and/or joining private clubs in the Sun Belt states shows the demand for golf and real estate remains at all-time highs.
The demand to combine the search for club and home has increased to 78% of the marketplace, according to the survey done by Golf Life Navigators. A notable trend is a significant increase in buyer demand to live inside the gates of a golf community — an increase of 61% — primarily due to desires of safety, security and a controlled environment. GLN anticipates this trend to continue into 2022.
Jason Becker, CEO of the Bonita Springs, Fla., firm, said the biggest increase they’ve seen in 2021 has been the importance of the club amenities and the activities of the club for buyers during the decision process. In fact, the desire for golf amenities actually decreased somewhat, while factors such as club activities, landscaping beauty, dining options, and exclusivity of the club increased. One thing of note is the desire have programs that function as a “club within a club,” or rather, other inclusionary activities to engage in as perks of club membership.
Other results:
• 58% of buyers say health amenities will factor into their decision of which club to join and home to buy. Spa services continue to be a strong amenity desire
• 41% of buyers have a strong interest in pool amenities. A resort style pool with food and beverage services is gaining importance.
• Wine tasting (53%) is the top desired social program, followed by beach (42%) and travel (41%)
• 6% decrease in demand for a club with reciprocation privileges with area clubs
• 20% of buyers are interested in annual memberships