Get ready to tee off your home search! Golf course living provides a great community and lifestyle that offers fun amenities, beautiful homes, manicured lawns and all the golf an avid player could ever want to play. Of course, there are downsides like wayward balls that may break a window, but for the right buyer a home on a golf course could be a great option. If you’ve ever considered living on a golf course, here are some high-level points about golf course living:
1. HOA and POA dues
Often, golf course homes have HOAs (homeowners association) which function as any other community HOA would to regulate neighborhood appearance, handle financials and keep the community rules in place for safety and aesthetics. Some golf course communities may also have POAs (property owners association) and these are very similar to an HOA except that POAs focus more on things in the community that aren’t residences such as lakes, sidewalks and the greens. When touring golf course homes, be sure to inquire about these dues.
2. Maintenance requirements and restrictions
As a segue from HOA and POAs, obviously golf courses value a certain aesthetic and work very hard to keep up the maintenance of the homes and surrounding property. The HOA may have certain rules for homeowners about what they can display or keep in their yards or fences, in order to maintain that immaculate golf course appearance. On the upside, that means the community will always look great but it’s important to double check the rules, if you plan on doing some landscaping or external decorating.
3. There are different property types
Not all golf course communities are the same, and there are many choices depending on what you’re looking for and what fits your lifestyle. While some homes that sit on Denver-area golf courses are traditional single family homes, there are also golf course communities which are condominiums and townhomes, and others that cater specifically to the 55+ community and are better suited for retired home buyers. Also double check if the golf course is private or open to the community, if that is a concern you have.
4. There are different amenities
Not every golf course property in Colorado offers the same amenities either, and it’s important to narrow down your home search by identifying the amenities most important for you. Whether your lifestyle is kid-friendly and young professional or retired and enjoying a slower life’s pace, there are amenities that fit your desires. Some common ones include community clubhouses for events and parties, pool and hot tub access, fitness centers, tennis courts and planned social activities.
5. Some course are public, others are not
Did you know that some golf course communities are open to the public while others are open just to those who live in the community? If it’s a concern for you to only have the course open to you and your neighbors then you’ll want to look for private residence golf course communities. However, if you enjoy the idea of living on a public golf course for more fellow players to join in with, then you’ll want to look for that. Every community is different, so think about what type of access is important to you.
6. Golf course homes gain appreciation quickly
Due to the manicured lawns, great views of the mountains and top-of-the-line home upgrades and amenities golf course homes often have a high resale value and tend to gain equity fast. Of course in this market, homes are selling quickly in general but even when the market is down, golf course homes tend to be stable. Especially homes in highly sought-after communities and those that often add upgrades to their courses.
7. Insurance needs can vary
Depending on where your new home is situated on the course, you may be at a higher risk of a stray golf ball hitting your home or breaking a window. Homeowners insurance needs can be different for a golf course home, as compared to a standard single family home. Be sure to discuss your needs with your insurance company and understand the coverage options.
Are you interested in golf course properties? Are you in the market to buy or sell your home? Call and text me at (720) 323-4176 or email me at [email protected]
