Featured alt: A person looking at golf clubs in a shop.

Tips on What to Look for When Buying a Golf Course

Buying a golf course can seem like a lucrative endeavor. Seeing that most golfers are middle to high-income people, you stand to yield quite a decent revenue. But, as you've likely guessed, purchasing a golf course isn't something you should take lightly. In this article, we will outline what to look for when buying a golf course and the key factors to keep in mind.

What to look for when buying a golf course

A golf course, in its essence, is a business. As such, it is important that you approach buying a golf course as a business investment. If the business factors related to the golf course indicate that it will be profitable, you should consider purchasing it. If not, you must be ready to drop this investment opportunity, regardless of its cheapness. Let's now take a look at the essential factors to keep in mind.

Why is the golf course for sale?

A golf course isn't a cheap facility to make. It takes months of research, construction, and development in order for it to see the light of day. Therefore, if you've stumbled upon a golf course for sale, you likely won't be its first owner. There is usually a reason why the previous management chose to put their golf course for sale. And, if you want to be responsible with your money, it is important that you find the true reason behind the sale.

 The more you can learn about the history of the golf course, the better.

Alt: A golf course owner describing the golf course.

Mind you, the fact that a person is selling their golf course doesn't mean it isn't or couldn't be profitable. Some people plan on moving away. Others would like to retire. And some simply tire of running a golf course and would like to move on to something else. But, while all those reasons are valid, you mustn't buy the golf course under fall pretense and end up hemorrhaging your money.

How will you make it profitable?

The next thing to consider is making money from your golf course. Different revenue streams are available, and you need to outline which will likely yield the most considerable revenue. For instance, you can choose a private, semi-private, or public golf course.

It should go without saying that you need to have some pro shop for your golfers. The essentials like gloves, balls, and tees should be available to anyone in need. Of course, you can offer cart and club renting as an extra way to make enjoying your golf course easier, and if the golf course you are considering has all this, all the better.

Food preparation and storage

It is usually expected that the golf course will have some refreshments. Golfers will at least want a cup of coffee or enjoy a drink after a good day of golfing. Therefore, it is only natural that your golf course should have a bar. Almost all golf courses do, so we will assume that the one you are considering also has it. But, an essential factor to consider when buying a golf course is whether or not you will offer food. Food can be a significant factor in whether or not your customers will visit you and how long they will stay.

 It is certainly a big plus when a golf course comes with a fully decked-out kitchen.

Alt: Professional cooks working in a professional kitchen.

Keep in mind that to sell food you will need extra facilities. You will run a restaurant besides your golf course, which is a large project. And know that while selling food can be profitable, it is not a fortune maker. The profit margin for food averages between 3-5. Also, remember that you will have to have special storage for food. Professionalmover.ca advises that you only use climate-controlled units and keep a close tab on all perishable food items. These units can be pretty expensive to install. So, consider whether or not you want to offer food.

Location

One of the most important factors in whether or not a golf course will be profitable is its location. A well-situated golf course will naturally be drawn in golfers and see decent profits. If there simply aren't enough golfers in your relative vicinity, you'll have a hard time making decent revenue. Also, if there are already established golf courses to compete with, you likely won't come out on top. So, carefully consider the location of your golf course and the factors that can impact it. Things like:

• Weather conditions.
• Tourism.
• Accessibility from major roads.
• Local golf trends.
• The number of potential golfers in the area.

A good idea is to look for golf courses situated in an area where fresh golfers have moved in. That way, you can make use of the golfing community while not having to compete with a local golf course. If you do need to compete, know that you will have to give golfers a good reason why they should choose your course over your competitors.

 In order to know what to look for when buying a golf course, you need to consider what demographic is most likely to visit you.

Alt: A mother and a daughter playing golf.

Running costs

If you haven't so far, we would strongly advise you to research and carefully estimate the running costs of a golf course. While you might have a ballpark figure in mind, you need to be as precise as possible in order to know how much your golf course will actually cost you. Keep in mind that besides simply paying for workers' wages and supplying your shops and restaurants, you also need to account for the following:

• Marketing.
• Maintenance.
• Security.
• Insurance.
• Water, gas, and electricity.

Ideally, when looking for a golf course, you will prioritize those that have a well-kept account of their previous expenses. By using these, you can have a much clearer idea of what your golf course will cost you. You can then make the revenue estimate and see whether the golf course will actually be profitable.

Conclusion

By now, you should have a fairly good idea of what to look for when buying a golf course. As we said in the beginning, the crux of finding a decent golf course for sale is to analyze it as a business. The better you can do so, the more likely you are to see decent returns on your investment.

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Here we will outline what to look for when buying a golf course and what mindset to have when you start looking for one.

Alt text: A gorgeous golf course with a great location

The Importance of Location When Buying a Golf Course

The number of people who regularly play golf in the US alone is millions. Many people have decided to capitalize on that vast market by buying/investing in a golf course. However, if you plan to buy a golf course, you must understand that it’s not a business with guaranteed success. You have to be careful about making such a huge investment. Every aspect of this has to be meticulously thought out. With more and more golf courses closing their doors every season, it’s a high-risk, high-reward market. One of the most critical aspects is fully grasping the importance of location when buying a golf course.

A good location for your golf course can make or break your investment plan. Let’s go through some of the main points of interest regarding golf course location and what you can do to make the right choice.

Why is location important?

A good location is essential for every kind of business within the service industry, including golf courses. A good site presents a massive boost to your business’s marketing strategy. There are two main goals to remember when choosing your future golf course location.

Firstly, it must open your business to the largest possible market. Your course must be in an area with many present-day and potential future golfers. And secondly, the location shouldn’t be in a highly competitive area where your business wouldn’t stand a chance. If you’re looking at a golf course that was recently shut down and you see two other ones on your way there, there’s a fairly obvious reason why the previous one failed. You should focus on untapped areas or, at the very least, areas with golf courses that you know you could beat in marketing.

How to choose the right location?

There are many tips out there regarding how you should go about buying a golf course. But we also wanted to give you a more in-depth look at how you should choose the correct location. There are several important factors to consider to select the right spot when buying a golf course. Some of the most important ones are as follows:

1. Accessibility from major roads,
2. The number of current golfers,
3. The number of prospective golfers who haven’t played yet,
4. Tourism,
5. Seasonality,
6. Demographics,
7. Population density,
8. Golf trends in the area,
9. The number of other courses,
10. Weather conditions.

Once you’ve gathered all this information, making the right decision will be much easier.

Your marketing plan should affect your location choice

Another essential factor to consider if you want to choose the right location when buying a golf course is what you will be marketing your golf course as. The best way to get this idea across is through examples. Let’s consider two popular options with different location needs.

Resort based

If you plan to market your course as a destination resort, you should focus on looking for a touristy area. Additionally, population density and accessibility might not be as big of a factor. Since the point of this would be to have golfers in the resort already, the course doesn’t need to be near any residential areas or other landmarks. You should focus on things like having a good view and being able to offer all of the necessary utilities (groceries, pools, restaurants, bars, etc.) on or near the site. Another essential aspect of resort-based golf courses is seasonality and weather patterns. You have to ensure the tourism season matches up with favorable golfing weather conditions.

Pay to play golf course

On the other end of the spectrum, a popular investment choice would be golf courses open to the public and pay-to-play based. If this happens, things like accessibility and the local population will be critical factors. You’ll need a wide selection of potential customers who can quickly get to and from the course. A location around 20-30 minutes outside a well-populated town or city would be ideal. The local weather is also much more important than things like seasonality here. Your choice of location when buying a golf course must allow you to open your doors to customers for as much of the year as possible. That also means avoiding areas known for heavy storms and similar weather issues.

Supply accessibility is an essential factor as well

Although we have already concluded that easy accessibility for patrons isn’t a key factor in every single situation, there is another form of accessibility that is almost always important - supply accessibility. That is important in two main ways.

Firstly, you’ll always need new supplies while your golf course is running. You’ll be spending a lot more money if your golf course is hard to access by vans and trucks. For example, if you have a bar on-site, you’ll need to occasionally check drink options and similar things. Some supply firms will charge more if special conditions require them to bring those supplies to you. That means that the location of your future golf course should still be near certain larger roads and have good access points.

Secondly, if your golf course is in a location that’s hard to access, it’ll significantly increase your initial investment. For example, experts from Best Movers NYC advise you to consider initial moving expenses after you buy your new golf course. You’ll have to bring in new furniture, which will cost extra if your golf course is hard to access and very far from central urban areas (most moving companies charge by mileage). 

To conclude

Buying a golf course is a considerable investment. We hope it’s now apparent how much more goes into choosing its location than meets the eye and how important it is to make the right choice. Of course, choosing the best possible location when buying a golf course is just the beginning. Plenty of other important dos and don’ts of this wonderful yet risky investment exist. But this is an excellent place for you to start.

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Meta: Choosing the right location when buying a golf course is essential. Luckily there are some tips on how to ensure you’re doing so.

Focus keyphrase - location when buying a golf course

Alt: A golf course.

How to Minimize the Impact of Golf Courses on the Environment

There is a good reason why many golfers are also nature admirers. After all, if you spend enough time playing golf, you cannot help but admire the beautiful nature surrounding you. Unfortunately, while gold courses can look like the perfect blend of man and nature, they are rarely so. In practice, golf courses can be pretty damaging to the local ecosystem, which is why owners ought to know how to minimize the impact of golf courses on the environment.

Different ways to minimize the impact of golf courses on the environment

The main thing to understand about the impact of the golf course on the environment is that the most significant factor is maintenance. While it may look green, being covered with grass and all, maintaining all that greenery is anything but. Fortunately, there are ways to make everyday maintenance tasks more eco-friendly. And once you add all those methods up, you can do quite a bit regarding environmental benefits.

Work on biodiversity

The first way to minimize the impact of golf courses on the environment is to add more biodiversity. Remember that the golfers aren't the only ones that use the golf course. Or at least they shouldn't be. And creating a golf course can disrupt the local wildlife quite substantially. So, if you wish to make your golf course greener, you can start by improving the environment for local wildlife.

You should always consider the local wildlife when managing a golf course.

Alt: A couple of birds on a branch.

Before buying a golf course, you should familiarize yourself with the local flora and fauna. That way, you can look to incorporate it into your golf course. Ideally, you will designate large pieces of land where animals and plants can thrive. Such pieces require far less maintenance than the rest of your course, as it is natural for them to grow and develop. And, if you plan properly, they can become an integral and quite beautiful part of the whole golf complex. You can even offer your members pamphlets that will detail the local wildlife. That will make them appreciate it even more, as they will understand what is surrounding them.

Avoid pesticides

You can expect pesticides and fertilizers to maintain your course. After all, having a golf course without pesticides and fertilizers is essentially impossible. But, while you have to use these, it is up to you to choose the type you will use and how often. You will find more eco-friendly options for pesticides and fertilizers if you do some research. Using the more organic alternatives can be a great way to reduce your ecofootprint and ensure that your fairways are still as fresh as ever. Whether renovating or building one from scratch, you can consider some pest-resistant grass for your golf course.

All in all, there are options out there that are both eco-friendly and cheaper. All you have to do is look for them.

You need to understand the maintenance process if you wish to minimize the impact of golf courses on the environment.

Alt: A golf course.

Get food from local providers

Shipping is a significant factor in global warming. After all, it is hard not to notice the eco-footprint once you consider all the vehicles that have to deliver goods worldwide. Therefore, a straightforward way to help your environment is to get food and beverages for your club from local providers. Ideally, you will also make sure that they are responsible for their products and that they conduct their business in an eco-friendly manner. But, even if they are not, the fact that you are reducing the necessary amount of shipping is beneficial.

Of course, you will have to get some exotic items to have a decent menu. But, even if you get them in bulk, you can still minimize the shipping required. Climate-controlled storage can be a neat way to store extra supplies and reduce the frequency of shipments. However, Fairfax Transfer and Storage experts suggest you consult the storage company carefully and ensure their units are suitable for perishable goods.

Limit water usage

If you wish to minimize the impact of golf courses on the environment, you will need to consider your water usage. Most golf courses are quite irresponsible with their water use. To minimize this, you need to consider carefully what kind of water your use and how you use it. Your aim should be to primarily use recycled water and rainwater. There are systems you can install to automatically harvest and store both. Another thing to do is to install an efficient sprinkler system. Doing so will lower the management costs and ensure that you are only using the necessary water for maintenance.

You'd be surprised at how beneficial it is to have a top-notch sprinkler system.

Alt: Sprinklers represent one way to minimize the impact of golf courses on the environment.

Invest in eco-friendly waste management

If you have a restaurant as a part of your club, you likely create a considerable amount of waste. So, if you wish to improve your golf club, you should consider how you dispose of that waste. Compost bins around your restaurant are a natural first step. Having them makes your club greener and provides you with natural fertilizer.

Apart from this, you can use recyclable materials for various packaging and talk with local waste management companies about how they can help you.

Final thoughts

As you can see, there are numerous ways to minimize the impact of golf courses on the environment. The only limiting factor is how serious you are about doing so. The more you look into it, the more eco-friendly options you'll find. And we would only advise you not to stop your research on a superficial read. Take an in-depth look into all the aspects you are considering and see how they will impact your club and the environment. More often than not, you will find some surprising long-term effects that simple online articles cannot properly cover. And you'll soon see why evaluating golf courses isn't easy. But, even the fact that you've finished our article gives us hope that you value the environment and that you understand how much better it is when businesses choose to work with nature and not against it.

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There are different ways to minimize the impact of golf courses on the environment. The only question is how serious you are about doing so.

How to Know the True Value of a Golf Course

Alt-tag: A man playing golf on a golf course during sunset.

Golfing has been among the best upper-class sports in the last hundred years. The golf course industry has experienced several significant booms in the 20^th century United States. Today, owning a golf course can still be a very lucrative business. Even though there are fewer golf courses now than in the early 2000s, there are still plenty of golf enthusiasts today. Also, since the 2020 lockdowns started, golf has seen a resurgence of new players and returning ones. Many American athletes count among the twenty-three million golf enthusiasts in the United States who still love playing golf. However, buying or selling a golf course can be tricky. There are several things to consider if you want to know the actual value of a golf course.

For example, determining the value of a golf course property can pose a difficulty due to the sheer size of the land. Another essential factor that vastly affects the value of your golf course is its location. Let’s discuss some of these key elements in more detail.

Golf courses have many values

Golf courses are expansive pieces of land with many acres and can thus have multiple values. How the land is used or planned to be used will determine which value is counted. An investor might value the land differently from a golf course enthusiast because he would only see land to build.

In addition, some appraisers value the land according to the rates of development land in that area and include the golf course price. That is a mistake many golf course owners make as well. You cannot have a golf course and development land, so you must separate these two and consider only one. Building golf courses on development land is usually quite expensive, especially if it's high-priced. However, it is often done with landowners for aesthetic reasons or personal satisfaction.

Alt-tag: A view of a well-maintained golf course.

Caption: Golf courses are vast lands for which some buyers may find other users.

Some factors that influence the value of your golf course

Overall, owning a golf course generally increases property value by around 8%, another reason why some landowners have them. There is, of course, the risk of attracting fewer potential buyers. Although there are many benefits to buying a golf course, golfing is less popular among millennials and younger generations. Consequently, you might have a smaller pool of potential buyers. However, golf course selling is not like selling a house anyway. The golf course market is more specific and will have a narrower audience of buyers compared to the housing market. Having patience is key if you’re looking to sell your golf course.

In general, how valued your golf course will be in the eyes of your buyers depends on the property's demographics and location. Upper-class neighborhoods where people may have the money to maintain and enjoy the golf course will appreciate it more, naturally. You will find more buyers for your property in such a neighborhood. However, to a regular middle-class downtown citizen, a golf course will bring many maintenance costs. That might repel many middle-class buyers when you list your property.

Alt-tag: An upper-class real estate with a golf course.

Caption: Location can affect the value of a golf course.

Therefore, consider the type of buyer you want to attract when determining the actual value of a golf course. What may be a great golf course to you could just be an expensive-to-maintain field of grass to someone else.

Establishing the worth of the golf course

Market price comparison is essential if you want to know the true value of a golf course. However, this can be difficult as golf courses come in many sizes and are in diverse locations. Different states have different markets. Therefore, making a cross-state comparison of the prices is difficult. In addition, golf courses don’t sell as often as houses, so you may find outdated information about a golf course sold years ago. The prices change with the economy, so it can be challenging to pinpoint the best price for a golf course. You will need help from an expert on this topic if you wish to buy or sell your golf course at a reasonable price.

Another thing to consider is the equipment and facilities on the golf course. Whether you are buying or selling, you will need a place where you will be able to store the golf equipment, tools, and golf carts while the transaction is being done. The experts at Helix Transfer & Storage say that renting a temporary storage unit is your best bet. That is so because storage units are well-ventilated and safe for golf gear. And in addition, you only have to rent the unit as long as you need the extra space. Once you have dealt with the transaction of your golf course, you can move your equipment out of the storage.

Alt-tag: A buyer’s agent helping the client know the actual value of a golf course.

Caption: Having an expert with you can help you value a golf course much easier.

Final thoughts

As you can see, there are many factors to factor in when determining the right price for a golf course. Remember, there are multiple values for golf courses depending on their use. Different buyers and appraisers will value the land differently. It is best to get help from an expert in this field to determine the right price for your property.

Additionally, your golf course's demographics and location will significantly affect its value. You will find a buyer for your golf course much easier if you are in an upper-class area. That is so because golf course maintenance too expensive for most middle-class residents. Therefore, arm yourself with patience until the right buyer comes. Now you know some of the dos and don’ts of buying a golf course. If you want to know the actual value of a golf course, make sure to keep these factors in mind during the evaluation of your property. Good luck.

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Top Benefits of Buying a Golf Course

In the United States alone, there are 23 million golfers. That is quite a big industry that might get you interested in buying a golf course. However, you should also know that many golf courses have closed since 2011, so success is not guaranteed. Running into golf course ownership may often be quite risky. Therefore, you must carefully decide where you put your money and how you operate your course. A golf course is similar to a child in that you can't take your eyes off it for a second. At the same time, golf courses, like any other business, can become more successful by boosting revenue or cutting costs. Moreover, there are other benefits to buying a golf course, and this is what we want to share with you. Continue reading to see why purchasing a golf course might be the best investment.

It’s convenient.

One of the primary reasons someone would want to own a golf course is for pure convenience. As an owner of the course, you have the rare opportunity to play as much golf as you like. You may simply wake up and play a complete round or nine holes if you just have a few hours. You'll also be close to the golf clubhouse and other amenities, including tennis courts, fitness centers, restaurants, pro shops, and more.

Caption: If you love playing golf, owning a golf course will be a dream come true.

Alt: Man playing golf.

The scenery is beautiful.

When you choose to own a golf course, you will surround yourself with lovely rolling hills and emerald fairways. In addition, if you live on the golf course property, these breathtaking sights are accessible from the comfort of your home. Furthermore, some courses are built along the ocean or a river, creating spectacular scenery. As an extra benefit, if you live on a golf course, you won't have to bother about landscaping or mowing your grass because the golf course will be kept in beautiful condition.

However, these beautiful views occasionally come with a disadvantage when you live among them. You might have to cope with some golf balls in your home now and then. Depending on where your house is on the course, you may suffer the unfortunate outcome of a golf ball striking your house or vehicle. As a result, if you want to enjoy the full benefits of buying a golf course, make sure your home is far enough from it.

You will have lots of activities.

Depending on the seasons in which you are open for business, you will have different activities to do on your golf course. During the playing season, you'll need to focus on maintenance to keep everything running smoothly. For example, you should provide proper watering and mowing or fix damaged equipment. Aside from customer service, you'll also aid golfers in need and collect course fees.

During the off-season, you have less business, or the course is closed to golfers. That time is suited to more intense tasks such as non-emergency repairs and more thorough routine maintenance duties. That is also an excellent time to prioritize infrastructure investments. As a result, if you are an active person who is always looking for new activities, consider investing in a golf course. There will be plenty of things to do to keep you occupied.

Caption: If you love being active, one of the benefits of buying a golf course is that there is always something to do.

Alt: A person cutting the grass using a lawn mower.

Golf courses are affordable.

If you think a golf property is expensive, you are mistaken. That is because these properties guarantee better and healthier living. But, if you look closely, you will discover that the prices are slightly higher than those in the surrounding suburbs. Furthermore, if you intend to invest in a luxury property, the difference in price decreases even more. The advantage is that you will own a golf course and will be able to build a home near it.

However, when the time comes to open your golf business or move to your golf course property, ensure to ask for assistance with the process. Experts at Verified Movers recommend hiring a moving team to help you bring all the equipment and all your belongings. That way, your business may get off to a good start with all of its equipment safely transported.

You get a source of income.

Course fees will be your most important source of income, accounting for a sizable amount of your total earnings. Even so, there are other ways to make money when you own a golf course. For instance, you can sell equipment, rent golf carts and other equipment, offer lessons, and sell food and refreshments. If your clubhouse has a restaurant, you may expect to make money from it. At the same time, your regular expenditures will include course renovations, facility maintenance, and employee salaries.

Caption: If you open a restaurant in your golf club, you can increase your earnings.

Alt: Person holding two plates of food.

You can create a community.

Golf facilities provide a unique potential to develop a community through holding competitions and events. That comes in addition to customer loyalty marketing strategies you might use. The key to making these competitions truly enjoyable is in their administration. Therefore, ensure that the players' tea comes on time, the food is tasty and ready when it has to be, and the service is impeccable. If your players observe a lack of organization, they will have a negative opinion of your course. At the same time, your efforts to be a great host will pay off in the long term since people will keep coming back. And, with a performant software platform to back up your tournaments, selling tickets or keeping events organized will be much easier.

You invest in your future.

A golf course offers long-term value, just like all other commercial assets and businesses. You can expect higher earnings if you manage the golf course effectively, keeping in mind the marketing techniques of obtaining new clients.

In addition, aside from putting up golf sessions and tournaments, there are several methods to produce value with a golf course if you invest in it. For example, if you open a restaurant within your golf club, you can make a lot of money, especially since the rates won't be cheap given the location. However, choose your personnel carefully since they'll deal with high-end clients.

Final words

As you can see, there are many benefits to buying a golf course. However, keep in mind that running a golf business is not as easy as buying one. Therefore, be prepared for what is coming and do your best to stand up to the plate. Also, surround yourself with the right people, and you will perform your responsibilities flawlessly.

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Starting a home-based business is a great way to become your own boss because it allows you to enjoy the benefits of working on a flexible schedule. If your home doesn’t offer the right work environment, however, things can get stressful pretty quickly. That’s why many homeowners choose to make a move while starting their business at the same time, and although this can come with its own stressors, it’s possible to do both successfully if you’re well organized and have some helpful resources at hand.

Think about what your home needs in order to help you run your business; do you require more space? A dedicated area for packing and preparing orders for shipment? Will you need to buy a separate property for your golf business? Golf Courses For Sale offers available property listings so you can find the perfect spot for your practice range or retail center.

You can use this guide to get started with the moving process as you build your golf business idea:

Create a business plan that works

Without a detailed plan, it will be next to impossible to turn your ideas into reality. A solid business plan will include everything from the number of employees you’ll need to hire to the amount of income you expect to have in the first year, and while making those projections can be challenging, they are essential. Do a little research on how to write the perfect business plan; not only will this give you peace of mind, but it will also ensure that the process is as easy as possible as you combine your professional goals with moving to a new home. Keep in mind that you’ll need to do some exhaustive market research on your competitors before writing the plan.

Create a timeline for your home search

Once you have a business plan worked out, think carefully about what you want in a new home. List your needs and consider the things that you can live without if necessary. Create a timeline that will allow you to stay focused as you look for a new living situation while getting your golf business up and running, keeping in mind that it may take months to find the perfect listing, make an offer, have it inspected, and close on the property.

It’s a good idea to keep all important paperwork related to your business together in a safe place so you can easily access it since orchestrating a move can be a chaotic time; better yet, scan documents and save them in the cloud. It can also be helpful to work out a plan for moving day ahead of time, especially if you have children and/or pets, as this will help to reduce stress on the big day.

Market your golf business with a free Facebook ad

Marketing plans are major aspects of any business, but creating and implementing a strategy for spreading the word about your golf company can be expensive and time-consuming without the right resources. Luckily, social media has made it easier than ever to garner new customers and share important news, and many of these marketing options are free or low-cost. You can even design a Facebook ad on your own using a template, adding your own photos, text, and branding information to create and instantly download an eye-catching advertisement.

Strike some work/life balance

While moving and starting a business can be an exciting life change, it can also be challenging in many ways. It’s important to find a good work/life balance from the beginning, such as creating a dedicated office space for yourself in your new home that allows you to work without distraction and close the door when you’re done for the day. It can also help to network with other small business owners, both locally and online, to find support and helpful tips.

Starting a home-based business while moving requires careful organization, and with resources like social media marketing tools, you can stay on top of every detail while settling into a new space. Giving yourself time to rest is also essential for your physical and mental health, so practice self-care during this process.

Have a question for the pros at Golf Courses For Sale? Get in touch via the contact form.

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The Dos and Don'ts of Buying a Golf Course

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Alt.tag: a golf course with a golf ball at the center

Every book lover dreams of having their own library at home. And the same may be said about golfers. What passionate golfer doesn't dream of buying a golf course of their own? However, setting up a library at home is a bit simpler. A cozy room and bookshelves filled with some all-time favorites are an excellent start.

On the other hand, purchasing a golf course is a much more complex and overwhelming task! It's a significant investment that will require a lot of time, money, and effort. What's more, passion and enthusiasm aren't enough. You also need to keep a cool head and have a bit of know-how and experts at your side. Luckily, you're at the right place! Here we'll discuss some dos and don'ts of buying a golf course and help you make the right choices.

Firstly, assess your finances

So, while purchasing a golf course differs from buying other real estate types, the first step is still the same. You need to assess your financial situation and see how much you can invest in this venture.

Although a golf course can be a lucrative project, it's also a costly investment. As a considerable risk is involved regarding profitability, many traditional lenders are not willing to finance this operation, especially if you're a first-time buyer.

Therefore, resist checking all those tempting golf course listings for a minute. Instead, focus on getting a clear picture of where you financially stand and your options.

Consider your primary revenue streams

Of course, your major concern when planning to buy a golf course is how you will make money. After all, it's a significant investment, and you want to be sure you'll be able to make a profit.

Because of that, it's important not to make rash decisions. Even if the golf course you have your eye on seems perfect, step away and take a minute to assess its revenue potential.

Firstly, not all golf courses are the same, and they earn money differently. Your main revenue streams will, in part, depend on the type of the golf course:

• private - exclusive club and memberships
• public - selling green fees and attracting new members
• semi-private - a combination of the two mentioned above.

Caption: Potential revenue streams are the critical aspect to consider when buying a golf course

Alt.tag: golf course amenities

Additional ways to make money

Once you've settled for the type of golf course you want and feel confident about your profit, you're ready to move on. But don't neglect other ways of generating revenue.

Your visitors will want many other services and products besides a good game. And all of these can create profit:

• pro shop - golfers will need gloves, balls, and tees; and if your shop does well, you can expand on other equipment and merchandise
• golf carts - there's a variety of types and models, and renting them will increase your revenue
• food and drinks - a snack bar, a restaurant, or anything in between will boost profits, create a unique experience for your guests, and build a sense of community
• golf lessons - offering lessons to children and beginners can help you attract new visitors and generate profit

Location is vital when buying a golf course

This is important: don't buy a golf course without a lot of thinking and researching its location. After all, your business depends on visitors, and how many of them you'll have depends on location. You may have the best course in the world, but if you ignore the following, your business won't flourish. So, check these factors about the location before purchase:

• the number of golfers (current and prospective)
• competition - you don't want too many other courses around, but if there aren't any, it might be a sign of lack of interest
• demographics
• accessibility - is it easy to reach
• seasonability and tourism
• golf's popularity and trends in the area 

Caption: Let experts help you make the right decisions

Alt.tag; two men discussing buying a golf course and shaking hands

Find the right help

It's easy to say: Check this data, research that topic, etc. However, it's not so easy for you to do all of that. And while you can do quite a bit of research on your own, we strongly recommend that you find some seasoned experts to guide you along the way. It would be risky to do it entirely by yourself. Every mistake is costly in this enterprise and can have long-term consequences. Commission you will pay is insignificant in comparison.

So, what experts do you need?

Firstly, you're going to need a lawyer. If you're buying an existing golf course (and not building your own), you want to ensure everything is all right with the property. There's a lot of paperwork, permits, and laws to consider, so it's best to have an expert at your side.

Next, if the golf course you want to buy is not close at hand, you may want to move where it is. And while relocation seems simple in comparison to your undertaking, it's no less important. So, don't waste your time and resources on the move. Instead, hire moving services and plan an easy transfer with pros. That way, you can focus on purchase matters while they deal with your belongings.

But, by far, the most critical expert you'll need is a golf course consultant. They're professionals who know this field inside out. They are familiar with the local market and trends and can also advise you on how to attract visitors, improve your golf course, and market it. Their knowledge and skills make them invaluable to every golf course owner.

Caption: A golf course maintenance is a demanding task

Alt.tag: a beautiful and well-kept golf course

Renovation - is there a good ROI?

Lastly, in what shape is your golf course? You need to analyze the condition of the course and be realistic about potential issues. The last thing you want to do is invest your money into a bottomless pit of a golf course.

That is why you need to check everything - from the course maintenance to the upkeep of your buildings and facilities. In some cases, golf course renovation may be an excellent idea.

However, if ROI on these renovations doesn't sound promising, choosing another property is better. After all, even if your golf course is in top shape, you'll need to invest in it after purchase. Marketing, staffing, management, etc., will all add to the cost. But, they'll also attract visitors and enhance their experience, increasing your profit.

The bottom line

As you may see, it's essential to consider all the relevant factors when buying a golf course. It's a considerable investment, and everything matters, from finances and revenues to location and expert guidance. But if you do your research and make smart decisions, you'll soon enjoy all the benefits and pleasures of having your own golf course.

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Average start-up costs vary widely when it comes to opening and operating a golf business, depending upon location, size, and type of operation. This isn't considering the amount of time you invested or the costs that arise along the way. That's why selling your business is such a major decision, and here's some insight from Golf Courses For Sale to assist in the process. 

Considerations 

Before you choose to sell, look at the current economy. Gaebler Ventures notes that if the economy is currently thriving, buyers are willing to pay more. On the other hand, if you choose to sell during a sluggish economy, you may not get much out of your golf business and may risk merely breaking even, or worse yet, losing money. 

Consider how you feel about the business as well. Do you go into work each day ready to start anew, or do you dread every second of running your company? If it's no longer rewarding, it may be time to sell and move on. 

Value of Your Business 

How do you price your hard work, sweat, and tears? Microcap.co points out that you can get a generalized idea by multiplying your business' earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) by four. 

Therefore, if you turn over a profit of $500,000 each year and spend $100,000 on goods, your gross profit is $400,000. If your operating costs are $100,000, your EBITDA is then $300,000. Using the aforementioned formula, you can sell your company for around $1,200,000. 

Take a look at the value of other similar businesses in the area as well before you settle on an asking price. 

Prepare Your Financial Statements 

Begin getting your financial documents in order once you decide for certain to sell. You want to prove to prospective buyers that your golf business has been profitable. 

Some examples of the financial statements needed include the following:

• Profit and loss statements from the current year and the last two to three years
• Business tax returns from the past two to three years
• Current balance sheet
• Insurance policy information

Also, have any employment agreements and supplier contracts handy. That way, if the next owner plans on keeping the company managed the same way, they can do so easily.  

Simplify Business Processes with an Online Invoice Maker

Prior to selling, simplify your business processes as much as possible. Running a company purchased from someone else is by no means an easy task. It requires work and a risk taker's mentality. You can, however, reduce some of the burden on the buyer by getting your finances in order and making the management process easier. 

For instance, you can streamline your invoicing process to ensure the owner gets paid promptly. You may accomplish this through the use of an online invoice generator. Using an online invoice maker makes a huge difference. This program lets you select a pre-made template and personalize the invoice by adding your logo, photos, and text. Ideally, search for a generator that gives you the option to download the invoice in a compatible format.

If You're Ready to Sell, Prepare Correctly 

When you're ready to sell your golf business, take every step to prepare the right way, including estimating your business' value and getting your paperwork gathered. A good first step is to check out Golf Courses For Sale to see what properties are available.

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CREDIT: All-Pro Reels, Patrick Mahomes (51608431671), CC BY-SA 2.0

There is nothing better than a relaxing round of golf on a warm day.

Strolling around one of the beautiful golf courses in the United States, or even traveling the world looking for 18-holes, golf is a great social pastime. Sure, it gets competitive at the top end, with tournaments taking place with millions of dollars at stake, but it is also something the average Joe can enjoy with a few friends.

There’s rarely such a thing as a friendly round of golf, in as much as there’s always a bit of competition. Whether you’re trying to beat your buddy from the accounts department or watching Jon Rahm attempt to defend his 2021 US Open title at The Country Club, golf is a great leveler. Unless you happen to be playing a round with Rahm, in that instance, it might not feel so great!

You might not get to play a round with a top professional, but some amateurs do. Those amateurs are other sports stars who enjoy golf, either playing in celebrity tournaments or getting a few pointers from their professional friends. In fact, golf is popular across many other sports, with some huge names liking nothing more than getting out for 18 holes.

Here, we present some huge US sports personalities who like to step out on the fairway.

Michael Jordan

CREDIT: Gapvenezia, Cazzaro Jordan, CC BY-SA 3.0

Michael Jordan wasn’t just any old basketball player; he was one of the most famous in the world. His name is still synonymous with the court, many years after he shot his last hoop. He lends his name to signature sneakers which have become popular worldwide, and he also likes a round of golf.

Jordan is something of a dab hand with a putter. Essentially Sports reveals he has a handicap of 1.3, better than many celeb golfers. He’s been playing for almost 30 years and has shared a course with Tiger Woods on the charity circuit.

Patrick Mahomes

CREDIT: All-Pro Reels, Patrick Mahomes (51608431671), CC BY-SA 2.0

Patrick Mahomes is one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL today, a four-time Pro Bowl star with a Super Bowl MVP to his name. His team, Kansas City Chiefs, are among the favorites with Ladbrokes for Super Bowl LVII, and at just 26-years-old, Mahomes still has a significant portion of his career ahead of him. If they don't add to that tally this season, another is sure to come at some point.

He escapes the pressure of football by gathering his clubs for a round of golf. He’s played in the American Century Championship since 2020 and appeared in the 2022 edition of The Match alongside Josh Allen.

Justin Verlander

CREDIT:  SD Dirk on Flickr, Justin Verlander 2008, CC BY 2.0

Verlander is an eight-time All-Star and 2017 World Series champion. The 39-year-old spent much of his career with Detroit Tigers but moved to Houston Astros in 2017. As recently as June 7, he became the career active strikeout leader after striking out 12 hitters over seven innings pitched in a victory over the Mariners.

He also likes to strike a golf ball, although he’s not quite as confident. He said in an interview he was happy pitching in front of 10,000 but felt butterflies hitting a drive in front of five people. Despite those nerves, he’s been playing golf since he was a youth, and he has a handicap of four.

The Most Critical Factors in a New Home

Few decisions in your life will compare in significance to purchasing a home. It will likely be your biggest investment to date, and you want to prepare thoroughly before signing the dotted line. How much house can you afford? What’s the best neighborhood for your family? Should you buy a fixer-upper? 

It’s essential to ask these kinds of questions as you navigate the road ahead. Below, Golf Courses For Sale will discuss some of the most crucial factors to consider when searching for your next home!

The Payment Arrangement   

 Buying a home requires you to pay a significant amount of money. Not only do you have to pay a down payment (with most home loans), but you must be able to afford the monthly mortgage payment. 

Take time to research various home loans and speak with multiple banks and lenders so that you can compare repayment plans. The goal is to find a reliable financial partner who will work with you while also helping you avoid costly mistakes. 

To get an idea of how much house you can afford, use an online mortgage calculator, which will estimate your payment while including all fees, such as your HOA, PMI, taxes, insurance, and interest. Take an honest assessment of your financial position, and if you are not comfortable with a home purchase just yet, consider renting and giving yourself more time to save.

The Location    

Location remains one of the essential aspects of real estate. Ideally, you will find a home that provides convenient access to work, school, community activities, recreation, shopping, medical facilities, and other essential establishments. You also want to be able to access the main roads. 

Taking time to research and visit the location of any home you are considering beforehand can help you avoid purchasing a home in a neighborhood that is difficult to get into or out of. And if you live near all the things you need in your daily routine, you can save time and money on transportation. 

One thing to consider is buying a home on a golf course. Living on a golf course comes with tons of perks and amenities, especially given the resurgence of golf in recent years. Home values in golf communities are steadily rising, making it an excellent long-term investment. Turn to sites like Golf Courses For Sale to kickstart your property search!

The Style of Home 

There are many different home styles to consider when starting the next chapter in your life. For example, you can choose from farmhouses, bungalows, Victorians, tutor-styles, condos, apartments, townhomes, and many others. Your lifestyle and personal preferences will determine the type of home you should purchase. 

You need to consider the home’s design as well. Your house should be attractive inside and out. Stellar interior design and curb appeal can go a long way in keeping you satisfied and maintaining home value should you ever choose to sell.

The Home’s Condition           

As with styles, homes come in many different conditions as well. If you opt for a newly constructed home, you probably won’t have to worry about repairs, improvements, or maintenance problems. But you will pay more for it upfront. 

On the other hand, many first-time homeowners go with a fixer-upper because of the low purchase price. However, keep in mind that many fixer-uppers require more time, energy, and money than they are worth. If you want the charm of an old house, look for one with good bones that allows you to live comfortably as you gradually make the improvements you envision.

Conclusion 

You want your next home to suit your lifestyle for many years to come. Consider factors like those above to give yourself the best chance of finding the right home. 

Don’t rush into this decision. Take time to evaluate your situation, and research homes and locations until you find the perfect match. Your patience and hard work will prove well worth it in the end!

Are you looking to buy or sell golf course real estate? Visit GolfCoursesForSale.com today!

Exploring the Benefits of Living in a Gated Community with a Golf Course

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Alt-tag: Family that's living in a gated community with a golf course fooling around a golf cart during sunset

When it comes to finding a new place to call home, many people find themselves torn between the excitement of living in a bustling city and the peace of living in a quiet and serene environment. But what if you could have the best of both worlds? Living in a gated community with a golf course is the perfect answer for those who want to experience luxury, tranquility, and recreation in one place.

What Makes Living in a Gated Community with a Golf Course so Desirable?

To help you decide whether this would be the right move for you, we've consulted golf course real estate experts, and here are the most significant benefits of living in this type of community.

Caption: Many people dream of living in a gated community with a golf course for a good reason.

Alt-tag: Gated community with a golf course during sunset

High Level Of Security

Security is a significant concern for many people when choosing a new place to live. With crime rates on the rise in many cities, it's understandable that you would want to live in a safe and secure environment, especially if you have kids. That's where living in a gated community with a golf course comes in.

With security personnel monitoring the entrance 24/7 and the community's perimeter, residents can be assured that their families and properties are well-protected. Not only does this provide peace of mind, but it also creates a sense of community, as residents can feel confident that they're living in a neighborhood where they can rely on their neighbors for support.

Access to Amenities

When it comes to living in luxury, amenities play a crucial role. And that's what residents of a gated community with a golf course can expect. When browsing stunning gated communities, you'll probably notice these communities offer an abundance of top-notch amenities that cater to a wide range of interests and needs. From fitness centers to tennis courts to spas, residents can access everything they need for a comfortable and active lifestyle.

The beauty of living in a gated community with a golf course is that residents can enjoy all these luxuries without having to leave the community. They can take advantage of the facilities whenever they like, without worrying about driving to a different location. This convenience makes it easier for residents to live a healthy and active lifestyle while enjoying all the comforts of modern living.

In addition to fitness and recreational amenities, many gated communities with golf courses also offer community events, such as barbecues, pool parties, and holiday celebrations. These events provide an excellent opportunity for residents to socialize and connect with their neighbors. Whether playing golf or simply relaxing by the pool, residents can always find something to do in their community.

Various Options for Recreation

One of the most significant benefits of living in a gated community with a golf course is the wide range of available recreational opportunities. If you're an avid golfer, you'll love playing a round on the pristine greens. But even if you're not a golfer, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the great outdoors.

Caption: On top of golfing, gated communities offer plenty more recreational opportunities.

Alt-tag: People learning how to play golf on a course

These communities often come with swimming pools, too. Or, you can go for a walk or bike ride through the scenic grounds or simply relax on a bench and enjoy the beauty of nature. The community provides a unique environment that allows residents to connect with nature and engage in physical activity, helping promote physical and mental well-being.

Higher Property Values

Buying real estate in golf communities is on a constant upward trajectory, with home buyers willing to pay premium prices for the privilege. While the initial cost of these homes might be higher than traditional single-family homes, their resale values in prime locations are simply unmatched.

The location advantage is a major draw for these homes, as they are usually located near country clubs, offering breathtaking views of the golf course. These views alone can increase the property's value by a significant 15-30 percent, and that's just the tip of the iceberg. Imagine the value of a property directly on the course! However, it's essential to be aware of rental occupancy restrictions imposed by the community association and any age restrictions that may be in place. These details can make a big difference in determining the suitability of a neighborhood for investment purposes.

Therefore, if you ever decide to sell, you can be almost certain you will generate profit and have a quick sale. But be mindful and know that your home is in a gated community with a golf course doesn't mean you shouldn't take your sale seriously. Make sure to stage your home first and make it as appealing as possible to potential buyers. For instance, simply decluttering and personalizing the space can go a long way. If you don't have room for extra belongings in your home, you can always listen to the advice from experts from My Brooks Moving New Hampshire and rent a storage unit.

The Sense Of Community

Living in a gated community with a golf course gives residents a strong sense of community. With like-minded individuals residing in the same area, making new friends and socializing is easy. Whether participating in a golf tournament, joining a book club, or simply enjoying a meal at the clubhouse, there are always opportunities to connect with other residents and form meaningful relationships. This sense of community can help residents feel more connected to the neighborhood and their neighbors, making it more enjoyable to live in.

Scenic Beauty

One of the defining characteristics of a gated community with a golf course is the breathtaking natural beauty surrounding it. With lush green landscapes, rolling hills, and peaceful lakes, it's easy to feel like you're on a permanent vacation. The meticulously manicured lawns and serene surroundings create an atmosphere of tranquility and relaxation, making it the perfect place to call home. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape from the stress of city life or simply want to enjoy the beauty of nature, a gated community with a golf course is the perfect place to do so.

Caption: Living in a gated community comes with access to gorgeous scenery.

Alt-tag: Bird's eye view of a golf course

So is Living in a Gated Community with a Golf Course for You?

When choosing the right place to call home, it all comes down to personal preferences and lifestyle. If picturing waking up each morning to the sound of birds chirping and the gentle rolling of the golf course, surrounded by neighbors who share your passions and values makes you happy and excited, then living in a gated community with a golf course. Therefore, wait no more but reach out to golf course real estate pros who'll help you quickly make this lifestyle your reality.

Meta: Are you seeking a way to escape the chaos of city life? Then living in a gated community with a golf course might be just the thing for you.

KW: Living in a gated community
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Al tag: A perfect home found thanks to tips for a successful golf course home-buying experience.

Tips for a Successful Golf Course Home-Buying Experience

Buying a golf course home is not as simple as buying a regular one. Some unique aspects of the process are easy to miss, even if you’ve bought such a home. So, we’re prepared some tips for a successful golf course home-buying experience to help out!

Work with an experienced professional

Now, if you want to buy a golf course home successfully without any prior experience, or even with experience, for that matter, your best bet is working with a professional. There are two options you have here, depending on your preferences. First, you can find a qualified real estate agent and check their references. It is possible that they are not just excellent at their job. They might also have experience with helping their clients purchase a golf course home in the past. The second option is looking for an on-site agent. You see, plenty of courses have their real estate brokerage that can handle the sales of properties tied into the course. They would also be intimately familiar with the local area and provide the best insight into it. Of course, this means they are working for the course and might push for a higher purchase price.

Caption: An experienced realtor will help you find a perfect course to settle on.

Alt tag: A golf course aerial view

Private vs. open courses

The next thing to consider for a successful golf course home-buying experience is whether the course you are interested in is private or open. Both sides come with their advantages and disadvantages attached. Having a home on a private course means you can enjoy it anytime without worrying about dealing with strangers. On the other hand, a course open to the public brings the potential to meet new acquaintances and make friends with the same interests as you. It does, however, also mean dealing with noisiness and occasional crowds. Maybe even some waiting time when you want to use a part of the course someone else is on.

Know what you want to do with the property you are about to purchase

If you buy a golf course home, it is possible to acquire the course it is on. However, for a successful golf course home-buying experience, it is better to have planned ahead of time if you opt for doing this. If you aren’t interested in running a course or aren’t sure you can do it well, it may be better to buy a home. That will let you take full advantage of the course, and someone else will worry about running it. After all, one of the biggest don’ts of buying a golf course is not knowing how to maintain it.

Pay close attention to the location

The location of a golf course home is crucial. There are two things to keep in mind here. First, whether the home is on the course or nearby, that will provide a different experience in your everyday life and when moving in. If the house is on the course, you need to look into moving and hiring moving services in Florida to find a team that can handle this properly without damaging the course. The second thing to consider is the home’s location concerning the other neighborhoods and even the local town or city. Expansive golf courses tend to be slightly removed from densely urban locations, complicating work travel.

Caption: Good location is the key to a successful golf course home-buying experience.

Alt tag: A golf course in an urban setting

The importance of local amenities

Another thing to look out for is the local amenities. Considering what we said about the typical location of golf courses, you do not want to get stuck living in a place where the nearest grocer is half an hour’s drive away. Not to mention other necessary and simply convenient amenities, such as larger clothing shops, a hospital, a school if you have kids, etc. Or even simply access to public transport such as a bus stop! You might think you’d enjoy living in an isolated location until you try it.

Always visit the location before committing to a purchase

The simple truth is that when buying a golf course home, showing up for a viewing is even more important than a regular property. That is because you want to see the course itself. Check out its quality and the atmosphere, and even meet a few locals. All of these will become a part of your daily life. And if you enjoy golf enough to buy a home on a course, then you want to at least know you’ll enjoy using it! Evaluating golf courses is difficult, so trying to do it over a camera almost always ends badly.

Caption: Finding a perfect golf course home requires visiting.

Alt tag: A picturesque home on a golf course

Do not fall for the appeal of fixer-uppers

Unfortunately, like when buying a regular home, fixer-uppers represent a considerable risk when buying a golf course home. That is even more apparent if your purchase also extends to the entire course. A neglected course is not easy to rejuvenate. It will take a lot of time, effort, and, yes, money to get it back in good condition. That means the final cost can end up wildly over your budget. Because golf course homes are not cheap already, this can turn into a serious regret that sours the entire experience.

Look into the local community

The final tip for a successful golf course home-buying experience we have to offer is to look into the local community before committing to a purchase. That is because there might be a local club whose membership is obligatory for everyone living there. You might not want to get forced into something like that if all you want is a nice home where you can enjoy your hobby and relax. Being forced to socialize is not exactly conducive to that.

Final comment

With our tips for a successful golf course home-buying experience on your side, you’ll undoubtedly find a perfect home! Make sure to give every step in the purchase process its due consideration, and you’ll be fine.

Meta Description: Check out our tips for a successful golf course home-buying experience to guarantee you find a property you will enjoy living in for years!

Keywords: Successful golf course home-buying experience

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The pros, cons, and points to ponder as you look ahead at buying recreational land for public use.

If you have dreams of setting up your own golf course, you’ve come to the right place. GolfCoursesForSale.com is where you can connect with the property of your choice. But, it takes work and lots of preparation. Today, we present a few things to think about before you take a swing at buying your own golf course.

Start-Up Basics

As with any endeavor, buying a golf course means doing your research. While this might sound like all you need to do is tough it out for 18 holes every day for the next six months, the truth is that there is much more to it than deciding whether the course is fun and marketable. You must be diligent and take steps, such as doing market research and analyzing the financials. You also want to sit down with everybody from your employees and customers to your legal and financial team to make sure that you are making sound decisions.

Something else to consider here is marketing. Even if you’re a former PGA pro, You still have to understand the basics, particularly if you’re running on a small budget. Look for ways to cut marketing corners without sacrificing quality. You might, for example, use an online service for logo design. These make it easy to customize with text and visual elements so that you can have a solid foundation for a branding package that will get you noticed.

You also need to make sure that you go through the business formation, licensing, and ensuring steps. You have the option to file your LLC online, but you will need to meet with somebody local to ensure that you're set up with the proper licenses, particularly if you plan to serve alcohol on your property. You also want a comprehensive commercial insurance plan that includes liability, business interruption, workers' compensation, and more.

Ground Up or Already on the Ground?

For most of us looking to break into the world of golf course ownership, buying an existing course is the way to go. Investing in a company that already has a proven track record makes it a bit easier to finance. Further, if you’ve done your diligence and scoured the books, you know that it can be profitable when managed well. Further, you and your family can jump in and learn from the workers who know your new business best.

All the positives aside, there are hurdles to buying an existing business of any kind. If you choose an outdated property, you may have to invest in upgrades. This could require taking out an additional loan – Business Partner Magazine notes that you’ll need to be careful when choosing your lender.

You may also find it difficult to rebrand an existing business as it already contains elements of the former owner’s personality. When they were deeply ingrained in the community, changes might be difficult for your customers to adapt to. This is where getting to know your clients will come in handy, and you can do that anyways, from simply talking to them as they come in to utilizing online tools that aggregate data about your current and potential clients.

Sometimes, it makes sense to start from scratch. If you have a very specific idea about how something should be built from the ground up, you may struggle to adapt to the existing infrastructure. Keep this in mind as you are searching for a property, and choose a piece of land that can easily adapt to your wants, needs, and vision.

Don’t spend your next 10 years wondering what might have been. If you think you’re ready, now is the time to make your move. Buying a golf course is a big deal, and it might just be the opportunity you need to connect with yourself, your community, and your loved ones. But, before you get started, make sure that you understand the pros and cons, do your diligence, and get ready to roll up your sleeves and brace for what might be the best decision of your life.

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Article by Suzie Wilson

Plan for a Move While Starting Your Golf Business at the Same Time

Starting a home-based business is a great way to become your own boss because it allows you to enjoy the benefits of working on a flexible schedule. If your home doesn’t offer the right work environment, however, things can get stressful pretty quickly. That’s why many homeowners choose to make a move while starting their business at the same time, and although this can come with its own stressors, it’s possible to do both successfully if you’re well organized and have some helpful resources at hand.

Think about what your home needs in order to help you run your business; do you require more space? A dedicated area for packing and preparing orders for shipment? Will you need to buy a separate property for your golf business? Golf Courses For Sale offers available property listings so you can find the perfect spot for your practice range or retail center.

You can use this guide to get started with the moving process as you build your golf business idea:

Create a business plan that works

Without a detailed plan, it will be next to impossible to turn your ideas into reality. A solid business plan will include everything from the number of employees you’ll need to hire to the amount of income you expect to have in the first year, and while making those projections can be challenging, they are essential. Do a little research on how to write the perfect business plan; not only will this give you peace of mind, but it will also ensure that the process is as easy as possible as you combine your professional goals with moving to a new home. Keep in mind that you’ll need to do some exhaustive market research on your competitors before writing the plan.

Create a timeline for your home search

Once you have a business plan worked out, think carefully about what you want in a new home. List your needs and consider the things that you can live without if necessary. Create a timeline that will allow you to stay focused as you look for a new living situation while getting your golf business up and running, keeping in mind that it may take months to find the perfect listing, make an offer, have it inspected, and close on the property.

It’s a good idea to keep all important paperwork related to your business together in a safe place so you can easily access it since orchestrating a move can be a chaotic time; better yet, scan documents and save them in the cloud. It can also be helpful to work out a plan for moving day ahead of time, especially if you have children and/or pets, as this will help to reduce stress on the big day.

Market your golf business with a free Facebook ad

Marketing plans are major aspects of any business, but creating and implementing a strategy for spreading the word about your golf company can be expensive and time-consuming without the right resources. Luckily, social media has made it easier than ever to garner new customers and share important news, and many of these marketing options are free or low-cost. You can even design a Facebook ad on your own using a template, adding your own photos, text, and branding information to create and instantly download an eye-catching advertisement.

Strike some work/life balance

While moving and starting a business can be an exciting life change, it can also be challenging in many ways. It’s important to find a good work/life balance from the beginning, such as creating a dedicated office space for yourself in your new home that allows you to work without distraction and close the door when you’re done for the day. It can also help to network with other small business owners, both locally and online, to find support and helpful tips.

Starting a home-based business while moving requires careful organization, and with resources like social media marketing tools, you can stay on top of every detail while settling into a new space. Giving yourself time to rest is also essential for your physical and mental health, so practice self-care during this process.

Have a question for the pros at Golf Courses For Sale? Get in touch via the contact form.

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We've all been there - you're at the top of your game, playing a round with buddies on the course you helped design and build. It's beautiful, peaceful, and challenging – and then, one day, something happens that ruins everything. Your grasses start yellowing and thinning out. The fairway becomes overgrown with weeds; even worse, those weeds attract bugs that eat away at the roots of your greens. Before long, players are abandoning your course for greener pastures elsewhere in town or beyond it entirely. If you want to turn around a tired golf course, keep reading the following guide.

Know your customers

The first step in turning around a course is to understand the demographics of your customers and how they play. You can break this down into specific, tangible metrics that inform your strategies regarding green management and overall maintenance. The most important figures are the average age of golfers who play at the course, their average number of rounds played per year and their average distance from home.

When updating your golf course, make sure to know your audience. Alt tag: a male golf player on the golf course

Keep in mind that these numbers may differ for women than for men. It's essential not just to know what kind of golfer you're dealing with but also whether this person is male or female. These kinds of metrics go further than simply identifying who plays golf. They help you understand why people are willing to pay money for something so expensive and time-consuming.

Embrace technology

Technology is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it can help you save money, make more money and improve your customers' experience. However, it can also make things easier for you and your team by reducing waste, saving water, and increasing efficiency. This is important because many golf course owners are small businesspeople who need more time or resources to manage their courses' technology independently.

Improve customer service

You should consider improving customer service if you want to turn around a tired golf course. The number of reviews you get from customers has a lot to do with the success of your golf course. What you can do is make the service more personal with people. For example, you could call customers to buy their names, ask them for feedback, or thank them for playing at your court. These are all simple actions, but they can mean a lot when upgrading your court.

Customer service is one of those things that makes a big difference in most businesses. In other words, if your customers are happy, your golf course will be a success. Instead of buying a new golf course, you can turn around the existing one and still attract plenty of new clients.

Improved customer service is the best way to attract more clients. Alt tag: a clear golf course

Get buy-in from the community

Once you've got a plan, it's time to get the community on board. It would help if you had everyone from local government leaders and golfers agree that the course is worth saving. You'll be asking for help from people who may not even play golf, so clearly communicate what benefits they will receive by supporting this project. Your goal is to ensure they feel involved at every step along the way, whether planning, construction, or just opening day. Updating your golf course will require support, especially from influential businesspeople.

Create a plan for marketing the course and recruiting staff

Developing a marketing plan is essential as you get your course in order. The process is quite simple and can be completed in a few days. You first want to define your target audience – what are their interests? Once these questions have been answered, then it's time for the fun part: developing an advertising strategy. To turn around a tired golf course, you'll have to present a new and improved course to people who remember the old version of it. In other words, you will have to advertise the changes you made to the course to attract more profitable players.

You can start by identifying which channels work best to reach golfers in your area. Then brainstorm ideas on how to utilize those channels more effectively than they currently are used by other courses in the region. For example, if most courses don't advertise their membership programs online, it could be because their websites aren't mobile-friendly. Finally, determine what content will resonate with viewers/listeners/readers and how often you should post that content. Once this final step has been taken into account, then all that remains is developing an editorial calendar!

Focus on the small stuff

Your golf course may look a little tired these days, but don't despair! As long as it's not in serious disrepair and hasn't been completely abandoned, there are plenty of ways to breathe new life into it.

Don't forget to pay attention to details when you turn around a tired golf course. Alt tag: golf equipment.

One of the essential aspects of revitalizing a golf course is by focusing on the little things. This can be something like new paint, new equipment, and updated signage. The key here is ensuring you're doing all these small things right. If they're done poorly or sloppily, they can make your course look worse than ever before.

When focusing on details, you should also consider the suitable storage space for all the equipment. For example, if you own a golf course in Tampa, FL, you could look for a rental unit for all your needs. Instead of overcrowding your facility with additional equipment, you can keep it safe in a storage unit close to the course.

To sum it up…

If you plan to turn around a tired golf course, you'll be making an investment, so make sure to do it right. Golf can be a powerful tool for bringing people together, but only if you're doing everything right. A successful golf course requires careful planning and a focus on community involvement up front. If you follow these steps and invest in quality people and a good marketing strategy, then you'll have no problem if you wish to turn around a tired golf course.

Meta Description: Looking for ways to turn around a tired golf course? Take a look at some of the best ideas you should consider.

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How to Get Your Golf Business Out of Debt and Create Long-Term Health 

A golf course business is only as strong as its profits, so if you are a company owner finding yourself in debt, you need to make the necessary changes as soon as possible to turn things around. Luckily, there are always small adjustments and process changes that can get you on the right path. Here are some great tips from Golf Courses For Sale on how to get out of debt and create the long-term financial health you desire.

Take a Close Look at Your Finances

If you find that you are spending more money than you are bringing in, then it is time to stop your current situation and make the necessary changes. The first step is to use robust bookkeeping software that will provide you with accurate information on your finances. Look for software that is user-friendly and allows you to track where your money is going. Having it as a mobile app is even better, as you can monitor cash flow wherever you are.

Next, Practical Business Skills notes that you’ll want to make a budget that accounts for every expense, utility, and dollar that you spend each month and then compare that with your profits and make adjustments where necessary. For instance, if employees need to be trained to be more efficient and accomplish more during the course of the day, then start that training immediately. You should always make sure that your products are high quality so there are fewer customer returns.

Additionallly, you can cut costs around tax time by modifying your golf business and turning it into a limited liability corporation. As an LLC, you will not only have less paperwork and an easier setup process, but you can get special tax advantages every April, and those savings alone could turn your finances around. Keep in mind that LLC rules differ by state, so review state guidelines for specifics.

If your financial troubles are due at least in part to a lack of payment from your own customers, there are a few tactics that can assist you, like charging late fees and helping customers set up payment plans.

Bring in a Professional

If you can’t seem to crack the code on your debt management struggles on your own, then it may be time to bring in a professional. An accounting agency can do wonders by looking at your current financial picture and providing suggestions for how you can fix the situation. They can even provide guidance if you decide to start a new product line to bring in more income.

You might also consider working with a bookkeeper who can keep all of your financial records current and properly organized so you can find what you need at a moment's notice. By keeping orderly records, you can also easily catch potential crime or lost money before it is too late.

Increase Revenue

Now that you have created your budget and you have plugged the leaks in your finances that have led to debt, you need to start making money so you can become current and then find long-term financial health.

The Golden Vineyard Branding Company points out that the easiest way to increase revenue is to raise the prices of your most commonly purchased products. If people keep buying, you will make more money, but be warned that you may turn some customers off. Another option is to keep your great prices intact but train your sales folks about upselling so you can increase the average sale and improve your revenue that way.

Of course, the best way to raise your revenue organically is to expand your customer base. You can make that happen with smart marketing. Offer a one-time promotion or a large discount that will pique the interest of potential customers. You can share the discount and other fun messaging by jumping on social media. In addition to making attention-grabbing posts, you can also communicate with your customers. They will be thrilled that your company actively tries to be part of the community.

In the end, a golf course business owner must always keep an eye on their finances and be ready to make adjustments at a moment’s notice so they can constantly stay ahead of the game.

Golf Courses For Sale is a place to buy and sell golf courses, golf-related businesses, and golf course real estate. Contact us today for more information! 941-739-3990

The sports industry is massive and lucrative, and you don’t have to be a professional athlete to reap the benefits. The industry presents a wealth of opportunities to carve out a niche in almost any type of business you can imagine. All you need is an entrepreneurial spirit and a genuine passion for golf, tennis, basketball, football, skiing, motocross, or any number of other sports.

Below, Golf Courses For Sale shares some practical tips for pursuing a sports-related small business. And we’ll even discuss using your skills to do good in your community!

Sift Through the Options

The first step to launching your sports business is looking into all the options. You may already know precisely which niche you’re interested in, but if not, follow these steps:

• Jot down your passions, experience, and skills.
• Brainstorm and research any business ideas related to the above.
• Narrow the ideas until you find one that serves your community's needs and can bring a profit.

As one idea, you could launch a business that supplies sports stadiums and arenas with lighting or become a sports venue lighting engineer. All the professional and collegiate sports venues you’ve visited or seen on TV are equipped with these powerful lights. Take time to review industry case studies and learn as much as you can about the trade. Once you have a deeper understanding of the requirements for lighting up indoor arenas and outdoor complexes, you might just land on your passion!

Another profitable business idea is to open an online or brick-and-mortar retail store that carries a wide range of sporting goods. You could supply athletes with everything from golf clubs to baseball uniforms, motocross helmets, and tennis rackets. If you prefer to be out in the field more often, you could start a sports photography or journalism company.

Ecommerce isn’t the only path to a lucrative at-home sports business. You could become a social media producer, sports agent, sports marketer, or many other types of professionals. There are countless ways to become a sports freelancer, whether you intend to work part-time or full-time.

Get Your Tools Together 

After landing on your sports business idea, research the plethora of tools on the market that can help you lay a firm foundation and spur steady growth in the years ahead. For example, you’ll need to build a stellar website that grows your digital presence. Consider going with a DIY web builder and launching a site within days. Of course, you’ll need to put more work into your site over time to ensure it’s better than your competitors!

While you’re at it, find communication and collaboration technologies that can keep you productive and boost operational efficiency. Whether you’re looking to streamline communication via email, social media, chat, video, or voice, there are tools to get the job done. And don’t forget to maximize social media and other marketing channels for promoting your brand (yes, there are many tools for that too).

Help Others   

Profit is essential, but it’s not everything. If you really want to be an integral business owner in your community, you must go the extra mile in helping residents live better lives. Constantly look for opportunities to volunteer in your neighborhood and donate to local charities. Further, consider sponsoring a youth sports team and partnering with other organizations in the community for a good cause.

Countless niches in the sports industry are ripe with opportunity. Consider your passions and expertise, and identify a business idea that can serve your community well. Whether it’s becoming a lighting engineer, launching a local shop, or becoming a freelance sports agent, you can build a flourishing sports business if you devote the time and energy.

Are you looking to buy or sell a golf property? Visit GolfCoursesForSale.com today!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nz73_IAHLok

http://www.golfweekrochester.com/FULL-ISSUES/GolfWeek-091420.pdf

Why Michael Kahn as Your Golf Course Operations Management Consultant?

Confidence. First and Foremost you can be 100% confident that I will act and advise you strictly in your best interests. Whether you're planning to buy a golf course, already going into diligence, expanding, or planning your next year's budget, I can advise you as your operations expert. You are making use of over 60-years of experience in virtually every type of golf course or golf-related business.

Home Owners Association (HOA) with a Golf Course Problem? Is your problem an HOA and Golf Course issue? I will address your particular challenge (all are a little different) with the most practical solution for everyone living in the golf course community. One thing for sure: They all have one thing in common, which is the value of their investment in their home. I have spoken to so many homeowners on this subject.

Trust You want trusted experience on your team. I have operated, financed, brokered every type of golf course including bentgrass and Bermuda grass. I will provide you with all the references you need to make you comfortable with Michael Kahn as your consultant. With over 60-years in every phase of golf course operations available to you we can work together to reach your goal.

Michael Kahn's Extensive Golf Course Business Network. I have 2,300 Linkedin connections with over 100 endorsements from golf business people from around the world. I was a member of the Golf Course Business Consultants (GCBC), an esteemed group of individuals from many specialized fields related to the golf course industry. Whether it's a Market Analysis, HR Issue, Refurbishing the Golf Course, Analyzing Food and Beverage Operations, Accounting Sources, Environmental Audits, Tee Sheet Management, Web Site, and Networking, as your consultant I become your complete set of tools to support your golf course business.

I Find Money. I Find Savings. I can make you Happy!

I am paid for providing experienced advice. Once I have completed my golf course operations analysis I am ready to advise where you can make or save money. However, I never advise in a manner that compromises your customer's experience. It's really that simple.

At one course I found an easy $1 million over 8.7 years.

How many tips (tools) do I have in my toolbox? Probably thousands. For instance, one day I walked into a golf course and within five minutes I used a simple tool that found $115,000 in pure hard cash coming in the very next business year. In fact, it amounted to $1 million in cash in his pocket in 8.7 years. It was money the owner had no idea he was entitled to! Not a bad return for a low-cost analysis.

BTW: If you don't want the truth you don't want me. For instance, if it's time to abandon ship I'll tell you (subject to my disclaimer). Am I right? In my experience and opinion, "Yes!"

GETTING INTO GOLF? WHAT I CAN DO FOR YOU?

Buying a Golf Course?

I advise you as a potential golf course buyer - especially if it will be your first golf course ownership. I help evaluate the 'deal' with a review of the property, financial history, its marketplace, and value as real estate. I can also help with negotiations, the purchase contract (not as an attorney, but as a golf course business expert). Once onboard as your consultant, you'll have my LOI, PSA, and comprehensive 300- line Diligence Spreadsheet.

Due Diligence?

Nobody knows a golf course better. As your diligence leader, I review the financial statements back at least three years. I inspect every asset, every pertinent document, and every aspect of the golf course you have under contract. When I'm finished you'll know what you are buying (or not buying). You will also know what to expect in the future as the new golf course owner.

Transition - Taking Over a Golf Course?

Taking over a golf course as the new owner is like jumping onto a moving train. The closing is likely at midnight one day and to you to manage at 12:01 AM. There are dozens of reconnects you'll need to do so that everyday business is not interrupted. You'll need to adjust so many things such as banking, management, insurance, licenses, agreements, permits (especially liquor), contracts, etc. - almost at the flick of a switch. Don't forget! You'll also need to establish your trade credit as well. I'm an expert in transitions. I've done it.

Financing a Golf Course?

I help golf course owners and potential golf course buyers find financing and working capital for their golf course operations. I've helped golf courses obtain over $50 million in golf course financing with sources like Bank of America, South Trust, Textron Financial, and others.

After over 60-years in the business, I still believe there are innovative ways to raise capital - sometimes even for courses not currently making money. No guarantee meant here. If it's an impossible finance deal, I'll tell you - saving you time, money, and aggravation. I may even

recommend you walk away!

Need an Analysis of an Operating Golf Course?

Let me analyze your golf course operation, whether it's for a potential acquisition, or it simply needs another experienced eye to get the business on track. My Operations and Management Analysis is highly in-depth. My clients are often rejuvenated and ready to apply my recommended methods to get the business back in the black (and the banker of his/her back).

Mike Kahn as Your Buyer's Broker

I am a licensed real estate associate in Florida. I work for golf course buyers from out of state who are looking for golf courses virtually anywhere in the world (but mostly in the USA). My brokerage fees are very low and I more than earn my fees, because I also act as your consultant to reduce the cost of the/a transaction. I help put a value on a target golf course property to you as a buyer, for instance:

Under a buyer-broker agreement, my client placed an offer for a golf course and went into diligence. Partway through diligence, I advised my client to walk away, but be prepared to come back at a lesser purchase price, as I had uncovered several hidden deferred issues. In fact, my client accepted my advice, withdrew his offer, but informed the seller that he would come back with what he was prepared to pay, which was several hundred thousands less. The seller accepted the lower offer and the deal closed. My client's saving was several times more than any commission.

As your buyer's broker, I work for you. I provide you with the appropriate letters of intent (LOI), legally prepared purchase and sale agreements (PSA), and my 300+/- line due-diligence spreadsheet. Then, once you get to the closing, I act as your transition consultant to help you take over the golf course smoothly and seamlessly.

Interim Management?

I provide interim operations management, which begins with an operations and management analysis. Our management may be as oversight, either on-site, or remotely, or on-site via a temporary management agreement, for which I would bring a team. Under our interim management service, there is no long term contract involved (our last one lasted four months). As a management efficiency expert in the golf course business, I can work for a short period, like a week, or for longer terms.

Sell a Golf Course?

It's the World Market that will get you the highest price. I am associated with Prime Sites USA, LLC, a worldwide brokerage firm with its fingers in many countries like Brazil, Columbia, South Africa, China, Korea, Chile, Qatar, and many more. We use discretion on your behalf as a seller. Foreign buyers generally buy with cash, so bank financing is never an issue. We obtain proof of funds before any negotiations begin.

Start with a free no-BS consultation. Write to me: mike@golfmak.com

Article Courtesy of The Daily Business Review. By Toby Snively. Published April 13, 2020

NOTE: Comments added in bold italics.

With its rich history of acclaimed golf courses, “The Sunshine State” has become a preferred destination for real estate developers seeking to build the next great golf course community. Including a golf course in a new residential community is a popular strategy implemented by developers to increase home values and promote sales. Golf course lots would sell from 20% to 50% more than non-golf course lots. A common model in Florida is for the community to be governed by a homeowners’ association (HOA) and the golf course is separately owned, operated and maintained by a golf club.

There are two varieties of this model that developers commonly incorporate in an HOA’s Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (Declaration). Under the first variety, members of the HOA are also mandatory members of the golf club. As mandatory members of the golf club, they are required to pay a golf club membership fee (example: Peridia Country Club, Bradenton, Florida).

Under the second variety, members of the HOA can voluntarily opt-in to become members of the golf club, but golf club membership is not a mandatory condition of owning a home in the community. From a sales perspective, the voluntary model has traditionally been popular with developers because it makes selling lots easier. The lots come with a right to opt-in for golf club membership and pay the golf club membership fee, but there is no requirement to do so. This article explores the tough decisions and legal implications faced by Florida HOAs when their voluntary community golf clubs do not generate enough income to cover the long-term costs of operating and maintaining the golf course. In this example, developers, bankers, and lenders were misguided by data from sources like the National Golf Foundation indicating golf participation rates on a national basis that were not necessarily applicable locally. Hence, there were not enough golf players to support the golf course.

The supply of golf course communities has served a worthy purpose in Florida. It satisfied the market demand of prospective home buyers that were looking for convenient access to recreational sports activities, amenities (clubhouse, dining facilities, etc.) and aesthetically enhanced communities. For many years, the voluntary model resulted in a mutually beneficial financial relationship among the developer, the HOA and the HOA members. The developer recouped its investment through members of the HOA participating in the use of the golf course, and the success of the golf course sustained property values in the community. A community golf course benefits the entire community, although some non-golfer homeowners choose not to recognize it. Published data establishes that a profitable golf course favorably influences property values. However, this correlation between a profitable golf course and increased property values comes with consequences for homeowners when the golf course becomes a failing business.

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In recent years, homeowners and HOAs throughout Florida have experienced a rise in golf courses failing in their communities (Turkey Creek Golf Club, Alachua, Florida, Walden Lake Golf Club, Plant City, Florida, Indigo Lakes Golf Club, Daytona, Florida). Some have attributed this, in part, to market conditions, a decrease in the popularity of golf, age restrictions in some golf course communities, and/or an array of other factors. Ultimately, without a requirement in the Declaration that all members of an HOA shall become members of the golf club and that they shall pay a golf club membership fee, the income generated at voluntary golf clubs is frequently inadequate to sustain the relatively high costs of operating and maintaining a golf course. To further exacerbate the problem, additional capital eventually becomes needed when golf course greens and bunkers need to be renovated and rebuilt after years of use. The latter issue is why you need Kahn and his associates at Golf Rescues.com, Bill McIntosh, and Cameron White. Our 150-years of combined experience in golf can sort out the golf course including clubhouses, kitchens, swimming pools, tennis courts, fitness rooms, maintenance facilities, and equipment. Your HOA surely won't know about expensive deferred issues from irrigation systems, to clubhouse roofs, to air conditioning units without proper analysis. For instance, a golf course acquired for only $1.2 million will easily need over $2 million in additional capital for refurbishes and replacements.

When faced with a failing golf course, some HOAs are taking control of their own destinies. HOAs are purchasing golf courses, generating income by requiring homeowners to make some level of mandatory contribution to the operation and maintenance of the golf course, and contracting with a golf course management company to provide highly specialized operation and maintenance services. This process generally involves an amendment to the HOA Declaration that must be approved by the HOA membership in accordance with requirements established in the HOA governing documents. Associate, Cameron White, a Florida attorney, specializes in Residential Golf Community Documentation. Some HOAs have even acquired golf courses through passing amendments that annex the golf course to the HOAs common area, and then HOA assessments collected for maintenance of the common area are used to help maintain the golf course. Because each HOA and its governing documents are different, and complex legal issues are involved, HOAs interested in acquiring a community golf course should work closely with legal counsel to examine whether golf course ownership is permissible and whether it is in the best interest of their specific community.

HOA golf course ownership has not been without its share of controversy. Requiring homeowners to fund a failing golf course can expose the HOA to potential legal challenges from dissenting homeowners. There are various reasons that homeowners may disagree with the requirement of contributing to the operation and maintenance of a golf course. Some homeowners object to paying for a golf course that they do not use. They argue (rightfully) that they did not agree to pay a golf club membership fee when they purchased their home, and they claim they would not have purchased their home if paying a golf club membership fee was a condition of homeownership in the community. Some homeowners also reject the notion that a mandatory golf club assessment (contact, mike@golfmak.com, us to review an assessment to learn how justified it may be) is justified by the increased value of owning property adjacent to a well-manicured golf course.

However, most Florida courts have taken a narrower focus when ruling on whether an HOA can enforce an amendment to its Declaration that changes from voluntary to mandatory golf club membership. Courts that have ruled against such amendments have done so based on the legal principle that any amendments to an HOA’s Declaration should be exercised in a “reasonable manner so as not to destroy the general scheme or plan of the community.” This is founded on the principle that the Declaration is a contract, and homeowners who purchased prior to a mandatory golf course membership amendment rightfully believed at the time of purchase that they would not be required to fund the golf course. In anticipation of homeowner challenges, and to incorporate the considerations raised by Florida’s courts, some HOAs have structured amendments to the Declaration to make mandatory golf club membership applicable to future homeowners only or to provide homeowners a golf course credit in the same amount as the golf course membership fee. Although these approaches do not generate income as effectively, some HOAs have attempted to minimize exposure to litigation in this way. Mike Kahn assisted a separate group of homeowners that was formed in an Arizona community, Sunland Springs in Mesa, AZ. With Kahn's analysis and evaluation, the group acquired the golf course successfully and sensibly.

CONSEQUENCES OF DOING NOTHING!

Don't just sit there and do nothing. Look at what happened at Walden Lake in Plant City, Florida. The HOA boards kept their heads in the sand for over 20-years. Subsequently, they allowed a truly beautiful community centered by a golf course to turn into a completely disgusting unsightly debacle. One homeowner lost 50% of the value of his residence to move away.

Write Mike Kahn, Golfmak, Inc. mike@golfmak.com, and the Golf Rescues team including Bill McIntosh and Cameron White.

Water Treatment Technolgy

It’s not unusual for Justin Mandon to wake up in the middle of the night and check his smartphone. But unlike most users reading text messages or scanning their social media accounts, Mandon, the superintendent at Pasa Tiempo Golf Club in Santa Cruz, California, is looking at an app to monitor the course’s water treatment plant.  In 2017, the highly-regarded public course built a recycled water treatment facility – storage tank, filtration station and pump station – behind its 13^th green. The project cost $9 million, but it’s paying quick dividends: Pasa Tiempo saved over 40 million gallons of potable water in its first season (May-October 2018) with the facility, according to Mandon, and about $500,000 in potable water costs.

It has given the facility three water sources: recycled water from Scotts Valley, potable water from Santa Cruz and water from its own well. These resources are invaluable given the risk of drought conditions that affected properties such as Mountain View Golf Course, a daily-fee course in Santa Paula, California, north of Los Angeles, which closed on Jan. 2 after 50 years of operation. Course operators cited the low level of the Santa Clara River, which has dried up four years in a row, that led to restrictions in watering fairways, according to an article in the Ventura County Star.

Golf Course Industry Needs to Effectively Manage & Conserve

“We happen to think that long-term, water is going to be the biggest obstacle to the game of golf, more than participation, more than anything,” said Mike Davis, the USGA’s executive director.  That’s because water remains a precious commodity — and an increasingly expensive one — that the golf course industry needs to effectively manage and conserve.  It’s an issue that touches every sector of the golf industry, from municipal and daily-fee courses to private country clubs and resort courses.  The goal, says course architect Forrest Richardson, is to get the highest form of control so courses aren’t delivering any more water than is absolutely necessary. Today, this can involve drone mapping, new high-tech irrigation systems, and water-saving devices that measure soil moisture, plant health, and other aspects of the course.

Good News

The good news is that the industry has been proactive.  “Golf is a business, and it’s our courses and owners who have to pay for water — they have a vested interest, and over the years it has been golf that has pushed the agenda for better and more refined coverage and conservation,” Richardson says. “The golf industry has paid for nearly all of the advanced irrigation technology brought forward in the past 40 years.”  Richardson notes that the irrigation manufacturers – including NGF Top 100 companies like Toro, Rain Bird and Hunter – have led the charge for better rotors, valves and control. The computer-controlled systems first found on golf courses were the predecessors to those now available at Home Depot in smaller devices to control backyard irrigation.

Reducing the Footprint

In addition to computerized central irrigation systems, facilities have instituted the use of on-site weather stations and are switching to reclaimed water rather than risk having water officials impose restrictions that could turn the courses into sunburned badlands. These steps have produced positive outcomes.  Golf courses in the USA used almost 1.9 million acre-feet of water in 2013, compared with approximately 2.4 million acre-feet in 2005, according to a report entitled “Documenting Trends in Water Use and Conservation Practices on U.S. Golf Courses,” and published in the scientific journal Crop, Forage & Turfgrass Management. This represents a 21.8% decrease, or an annual savings of 519,537 acre-feet compared with 2005. An acre-foot is a unit of volume equal to a sheet of water that covers one acre at one foot in depth.

Some of that savings, of course, can be attributed to acreage reduction and course closings, but also highlights the great progress toward more efficient use of water and water conservation practices superintendents are employing on the golf course and that are making them better managers.  “It’s a significant accomplishment but in some ways it’s just the beginning of what we are going to need to do,” said Rand Jerris, the USGA’s senior managing director of public services.  Data collected in the “Trends in Water Use” report also identify areas where further improvements can take place, from reducing the amount of acreage being watered and maintained to embracing water sensors and other innovative technologies, and new varieties of grass.

Research to Develop Warm-Season Grasses

USGA, which distributes approximately $2 million to various land-grant universities across the country, has teamed with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the University of California at Riverside to fund research to develop warm-season grasses that maintain heat, drought and salinity tolerance, Bermuda and Zoysia grass, and also retain their color in the winter. This best-of-both-worlds scenario would require no need for overseeding, over-watering or replanting in spring. The study started with 640 strains of grass in 2016, and 12 hybrids showing the most promise have advanced to the next stage of the trial.

Improving the Bottom Line 

The USGA also developed a cloud-based app that allowed John Sanford of Sanford Golf Design to create significant cost savings at Crandon Park, a city-run facility in Miami that is the only course in North America with a subtropical lagoon. Using GPS to track golfer movement, Sanford was able to generate heat maps that identified 19 additional acres for turf reduction. That land will be converted to natural crushed stone. An additional 12 acres will convert to naturalized plantings and another eight acres to aquatic plantings, thereby reducing the irrigated turf area by over 30 percent.

In 2019, Miami-Dade County will save $150,000 on a $1.1 million water budget from increasing efficiency of sprinkler heads and optimizing watering patterns using smart technology. Once the site master plan is completed, it will amount to $350,000 in annual cost savings.  Likewise, Pasa Tiempo eliminated 25 thirsty acres of irrigated turf several years ago, dropping from 90 to 65 and letting those native grasses, usually between fairways or around teeing areas, subsist only on winter rains.

Richardson, who used a drought resistant Paspalum turf in his re-design of Baylands Golf Links in Palo Alto, California, notes a new-found willingness among courses to reduce the turf footprint.  “In the early days of this movement it seemed that courses needed a financial incentive handed down by government, such as in California where credits for every square foot of turf removed was passed along,” he says. “Now wake-up call is that it simply makes sense to the bottom line.”

At Lookout Mountain Golf Club in Phoenix, Richardson removed two decorative lakes from the course. Millions of gallons of water were being lost to evaporation and underground seepage. So, he converted the man-made lakes to desert hollows, while preserving the strategy and aesthetics of the golf course. The annual water savings is estimated to be more than ten million gallons.  “Everyone wins, mostly the savings in water cost,” Richardson said.

Brown is Beautiful

Jerris contends that if the industry fails to make significant changes in the way it consumes water, there could be a day where golf in this country looks like skiing, becoming a very seasonal activity and confined to where there is enough natural rainfall to support turfgrass. At the fifth Golf Innovation Symposium held in Japan in March, the USGA presented a challenge statement for the industry to improve golfer satisfaction by 20 percent while reducing critical resource consumption by 25 percent by 2025.

“It’s not inevitable that the future is grim,” Jerris said. “What’s inevitable is that we have to move quickly to embrace some of these new technologies and embrace different attitudes to maintaining golf courses.”  That is why the U.S. Opens at Pinehurst No. 2 in 2014 and Chambers Bay in 2015, which showcased the concept of “maintenance up the middle” and that “brown is beautiful” were important conversation starters.  “It highlighted what we can do on golf courses and still provide a quality golf experience,” said Kimberly Erusha, head of the USGA Green Section.

For all these efforts, it isn’t hard to find headlines screaming that golf is a major drain on the water supply or criticize “water-guzzling” golf courses.  “There’s still a public perception that golf consumes too much water, but we’re doing a lot better than you might think,” said Craig Kessler, Southern California Golf Association’s director of governmental affairs. “The reality is that less than 1 percent of the potable water in California is consumed by the golf industry.”

Indeed, golf courses consumed 1.44 percent of all water used for irrigation in the U.S. in 2013.  Almost all regions increased their use of recycled water, particularly the Southwest, Southeast, and Pacific regions. Just as importantly, hand-held soil moisture sensors, which are available to most every course in the range of $800, help superintendents make better decisions about when to apply water to a golf course.  “Water is a concern nearly everywhere, even in places where there may be little or no water cost to the golf operation,” says Richardson.  Even so, technological advances can’t solve every issue.

After Pasa Tiempo finished building its well on No. 12, PG&E, the local utility company, told club officials they couldn’t install a meter without a physical street address. That proved to be a problem since the well is situated alongside a fairway, not a street. Eventually, Pasatiempo general manager Scott Hoyt connected with a county official who created an official address – “Mr. and Mrs. Well” now live at 86 Pasatiempo Drive collecting a lot of junk mail, he jokes.  The solution placated PG&E and allowed the club to complete the project, allowing the cost savings, and water conservation, to begin.

Source:  April 2019 /  Adam Schupak / NGF

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/deteriorating-golf-course-conditions-what-can-hoa-do-kahn/

The golf course does not put up a penny. It does not have to manage the hotel. It benefits from guest spending on food and beverage in the clubhouse, plus additional paid rounds on the golf course. It's one heck of a deal for golf courses that fit the profile. However, the profile is the catch!

That's where people doing business anywhere in the business of golf might make an easy $5,000 bucks.

I'm looking for persons who work in some capacity in the golf course business who can identify golf courses appropriate for a rooms-only hotel of 80 to 120 rooms.

Here's what I'm looking for:

1. Golf courses located along (or very close) with easy access from major Interstate or State highways. A nearby airport is a plus, and
2. The golf course must be located near a major commercial area or near a major medical center, and
3. It must have land available for purchase (or lease in the case of municipally owned golf courses) at a fair price - approximately 25,000 square feet located near the clubhouse.

It can be any type of golf course - Public, Semi-Private, Private, even Municipal.

IS THIS FOR REAL? WRITE ME, MIKE@GOLFMAK.COM, AND I'LL SEND YOU A A VIDEO LINK SHOWING A HOTEL PLACED ON A GOLF COURSE UNDER THIS PROGRAM. YOU'LL SEE IT IS BEAUTIFULLY ADAPTED TO THE GOLF COURSE. IT ADDED OVER $500,000 A YEAR TO THE GOLF COURSE.

The hotel will bring from 40,000 to 50,000 people a year to the property. It will be a rooms-only hotel. Hotel guests will patronize the clubhouse bar and restaurant and many guests will play the golf course or use the practice range. Estimated additional paid rounds to the golf course run from 3,000 to 5,000 annually.

The hotel may include a swimming pool and a fitness room - unless the golf club already has them. The hotel will share the current parking lot with the golf course. If extra parking space is needed the hotel will create it at its own expense. The hotel permitting, building, and management is all paid for by the hotel company.

The golf course will not be out a penny.

HOW DO YOU GET PAID THE FINDERS FEE?

I will send you a simple finders fee agreement that you acknowledge and return to me. Then, all you need to do is identify an appropriate golf course with the name of the principal contact. Your dated email becomes your proof of registration (if any duplicates, the email date solves it).

ONCE A GOLF COURSE IS IDENTIFIED...

Our associate hotel company will conduct a full feasibility study of the golf course and its location. If it's determined to be an Grade A location a contract will be offered to the golf course. If all goes well the deal will be conveyed to a hotel company - anything from Hyatt to Marriott, to DoubleTree, etc. That's when the finder's fee is paid.

The hotel takes it from there. It will purchase the 25,000 sq ft of land at a fair price. If it's a municipally owned golf course the hotel will lease the land for 50-years. As indicated, once the deal is signed with the golf course and conveyed (sold) to the chosen hotel chain, the finder's fee is paid. It could take a year or more to complete a deal to earn the finder.

Meanwhile, there's very little effort to earn the finder fee. If you are aware of a golf course meeting the three basic criteria you need only register it along with the contact principal with me by email. If your registration is first for that golf course you will be entitled to the $5,000 if a hotel deal is completed.

Contact me by email and I'll send the agreement.

Mike Kahn, Golfmak, Inc. Email: Mike@golfmak.com. 941-739-3990.

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/i-arrange-put-hotel-specific-golf-courses-zero-cost-course-kahn/

I used the word 'inadvertently' because I'd become a sounding board for concerned residents in golf course communities when their backyard golf courses are failing. Of course, they're concerned about the negative effect on the value of their property values when the golf course grows in. In the past ten years I've been contacted by phone, email, Facebook and Linkedin from everywhere in the USA and Canada.

"Worry about property values when the backyard golf course fails is a legitimate concern." Mike Kahn

Believe me. I've seen evidence of property values dropping $20.00 a foot overnight (the demise of the Ravines Golf Course in Middleburg, Florida). Some residential home values with dead golf courses over their back fences lost as much as 40% of their property value when the golf course closed its doors.

EVEN THE RUMOR THAT THE GOLF COURSE IS IN TROUBLE HURTS PROPERTY VALUES

Consider the problems selling a home in a golf course neighborhood - no matter whether backing on the golf course or not. When the real estate salesperson is compelled to inform the next buyer-prospect that the the future of the golf course is uncertain how's that rumor affect a potential buyer?

A 2,200 UNIT GOLF AND RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOOD MAY HAVE LOST UP TO $130 MILLION, COMBINED, WHEN THE 27-HOLE WALDEN LAKE GOLF COURSE IN PLANT CITY, FLORIDA CLOSED

In the Walden Lake disaster, homes on or off the golf course suffered. Not only did the the Walden Lake residents suffer, but the city lost a ton of tax money after having to reassess properties downward.

Walden Lake did not have to fail. It failed because the homeowners who did not play golf refused to participate in any plan designed to prop up the golf course.

"I don't chase a little white ball around a field so, I don't give a damn about the golf course!"

AS CONSULTANT FOR THE OWNER OF THE THREE GOLF COURSES I'M ACTUALLY MORE OF AN ARBITRATOR

First, I know how to manage golf courses. In fact, I argue that I'm the most experienced golf course manager anywhere. However, my job in this instance is to save a 500-home residential community from a calamity - up to $75-million combined loss in residential property values.

MY JOB IS TO IDENTIFY COMMON GROUND

The first thing the homeowners need to do is agree on a common issue. When a major loss in the value of property is the issue it's fairly easy to reach agreement on that concern. Now we have a base to work together on.

BUT THEY'RE ALL DIFFERENT

There are no two golf course residential neighborhoods alike and that's where I come in. I mean, the solution for your neighborhood may not work like it did in another because the variables are endless. My expertise in golf course operations along with my experience with the relationship between the golf course and the residents can usually result in recommending a plan that both sides can adopt.

My goal is to preserve the integrity of the golf course residential neighborhood virtually forever.

Think of it. Imagine life in your golf course community never having to worry about the golf course - ever again! I can demonstrate communities that never worry about the golf course - even though fewer than 15% of people living in the community play golf.

IF YOUR GOLF COURSE COMMUNITY IS IN LIMBO CALL ME

I will not try to sell you on me or my services. Our first conversation may be useful enough to you that you might never need me. I'm OK with that. However, if you or your HOA bring me aboard to try to help you need to know that I am not a patronizer. I can only stick to what I feel, in my experience, is the right course of action. And yes, I'm fully aware that some golf course neighborhoods are doomed to fail - mostly because they were doomed on the drawing board - long before the first D-8 rolled off the flatbed.

CALL ME: 941-730-3990. I PROMISE I WON'T BITE!

Michael A Kahn, in Golf for Over 60-years. Golfmak.com. mike@golfmak.com.

It's is a tragedy. Even if you don't play golf your community need its pride. I mean, you never use the library but you're not trying to close it, right?

Municipalities all around the USA that once bragged about their beautiful public golf courses are giving up on them. Follow this link, 'municipally owned golf course closings' and you'll see endless stories about LOSER cities closing their muni-golf courses.

I reviewed one 'muni' that was on the chopping block because it was losing $140,000 a year. Sure play had slipped in recent years, but there were still thousands of citizens playing the golf course. Nevermind the city parks, libraries, and other community services that also cost the taxpayers money - they single out the golf course. In the case of this particular city, the golf course losses amounted to 2 cents a day per person in the 24,000 population of this particular city.

So why do local politicians pick on the municipal golf course? Of course, an apparent decline in participation in golf has been in the news in recent years so municipal golf courses are an easy target for politicians. In fact, I read a comment by a city manager stating that golf is dying!

I cite one example of a municipal golf course that is thriving, Village Links of Glen Ellyn, located just west of Chicago.

Village Links thrives because it truly caters to its citizens. It's a terrific 27-hole golf course with an excellent practice range and a sporty bar and restaurant. However, it's the way it's managed that makes it so positive.

Village Links of Glen Ellyn contributes to the area golf economy because it has an aggressive teaching and learning program for new golfers. Every day all summer long they have a professional staff busy teaching men, women and children how to play golf. They don't integrate the 27-holes either. Instead they offer a 9-hole or an 18-hole round of golf. The 9-hole course is the busiest 'niner' I've ever seen. And guess what: All the surrounding privately-owned golf courses are thriving! Meanwhile, the Village of Glen Ellyn proudly boasts that the taxpayers have never been asked for a dime to support the 40+-year old golf course.

I CALL THE COMMUNITIES THAT CLOSE THEIR MUNIS LOSERS BECAUSE THEY ARE!

A golf course is from 100 to 200-acres of beautiful open greenspace. They are not only enjoyed by thousands of people - who still pay to play I might add - but golf courses are habitat for many desirable birds and animals. I look over the 10th tee at Isla Del Sol Golf Club in St. Petersburg, Florida and can hear and count endless kinds of birds that thrive around this golf course. In fact, every day I watch the once threatened Ospreys dive for fish in the golf course water hazards.

THEN THE PRIVATE SECTOR CRIES, "FOWL!" BECAUSE THEY HAVE TO COMPETE WITH THE MUNI GOLF COURSE

I won't name it but there's a city right now being told by the ownership of a competing golf course to close the city-owned golf course. Instead of sitting down with the city and coming up with a symbiotic business model that feeds both interests they go to war.

Stupid!

Wait a minute! If the private sector had its way they'd close Village Links! Meanwhile, not one private sector golf course in 1,000 lifts a finger to start new golfers. I say it again that golf's so-called powers - NGF, USGA, PGA, NGCOA do almost nothing - zero, zilch, notta- to create new golfers. I'm saying that loser cities should learn to manage their golf courses in the same fashion as Village Links. If they did, everyone will be happy.

LOSER LOSER LOSER!

A community that owns and operates a golf course proudly is showing the world that their town is a great place to live. Like the public parks, swimming pools, skate board parks, hockey rinks, baseball diamonds, tennis courts, libraries, public transportation systems, emergency systems, etc., etc. the golf course is a part of what makes a complete community. Loser cities close their public golf courses. Loser cities have no library, no museums, and no parks. I mean, after they close the golf course what goes next?

Who wants to live in a community that has nothing?

I'm serious.

Mike Kahn, President, Golfmak, Inc. mike@golfmak.com

If you care about the future of golf do your part. Circulated this article throughout the golf course business. 

Every Golf Course owner, manager, and management company needs to schedule a meeting with their PGA staff. It's a meeting where the professional staff's job description needs an update. It's implementing a simple strategy to get golf back to a seller's market.

Revised?

Every golf course professional staff needs to be committed to starting a minimum of 100 brand new golfers every year. Brand new golfers from ordinary people. But the teaching method needs to change dramatically.

START BY SHOWING NEW GOLFERS HOW TO PLAY A ROUND OF GOLF

I speak from experience because my new-golfer teaching method created a seller's market very quickly. My method was aimed at making ordinary people into golfers almost immediately. I didn't care about their skill levels. I cared about three things:

1. Pace of Play
2. Safety
3. Taking care of the golf course

Of course, I needed golf playing customers. That's what the 15,000 golf courses in the USA need right now!

MY NEW GOLFER CLASSES

I demonstrated how to play a golf course to classes of ordinary people who had never played golf before. I created several different types of group classes - women, men, couples, senior couples, and juniors.

So, lesson number one was "How to Play Around of Golf." With an emphasis on various procedures and safety. However, I began by explaining a set of golf clubs describing the 'wood' clubs, 'iron' clubs, and the putter. I described the golf ball, the reason for the dimples, the wooden tee, etc. I outlined the various parts of a golf course - teeing ground, fairways, sand traps, hazards, putting green, the flagstick, and the putting cup.

I emphasized the importance of playing around an 18-hole golf course in four hours. I recommended a few benchmark rules for them to follow such as how many strokes they should allow themselves on the fairway until they pick up and place on the green to start putting. Of course, while demonstrating ways to play, I acquainted them with basic rules of play. I emphasized the importance of taking care of the golf course.

After lesson number one I encouraged my new golfers to get out and start playing right away. "Why not get together with your fellow new golfers and arrange a game?" I would show them various times when the golf course would not be busy - great times to get out and play with less intimidation from seasoned golfers. Amazingly, many did just that.

If there's a short course anywhere in your area you should encourage your new golfers to try their first games there.

I knew my methods would work because in my early days as a starter I watched hundreds of brand new golfers with rented golf clubs tee off for their first time ever. It was in the 1950s and early 1960s. That's how golf began its post-WWII boom.

I did exactly what I outlined above in Peterborough, Ontario from 1963 to 1988. I introduced golf to thousands of ordinary people in a city where prior to opening our golf center very few even considered playing golf. I went from empty fairways in 1964 to six-hour rounds by 1970. Several new golf courses opened within 20-miles of Peterborough, and two 9-hole courses expanded to 18-holes to handle all the new golfers I created. I even had people driving 100-miles to Peterborough from Toronto to take my classes because there was no way to learn by my methods in their area.

IT STARTS WITH THE PROFESSIONAL STAFF

I highly suggest a meeting with your professional staff to discuss was to invite ordinary people to come out and learn to play golf. Set reasonable fees - never free - and a series of classes so your new golfers can see what they are about to learn. Be sure to indicate that you supply all equipment for the classes and that the new golfers need not run out and buy golf clubs just yet. In neighborhood golf courses you can promote using flyers. Running simple 'Learn-to-Play-Golf' ads in local newspapers should get results.

Here was my five-lesson agenda back in 1970:

• Lesson 1 - How to Play a Round of Golf. You'll learn about golf clubs, parts of a golf course, how to play without delay to melt into the traffic around the golf course. You'll learn basic procedures, rules, and safety.
• Lesson 2 - What you need to learn about the golf swing, ways to practice to develop your hand-eye coordination to be able to strike the ball consistently.
• Lesson 3 - How to use, practice, and play iron clubs.
• Lesson 4 - How to use, practice and play long clubs.
• Lesson 5 - Putting, chipping, pitching, sand trap shots.

During group classes, up to 16, never longer than one hour, I encouraged new golfers to consider private one-on-one lessons with a PGA professional if they wanted to accelerate their progress.

LOTS MORE TO IT, BUT THAT'S THE OUTLINE

When I say there are 10 million people out there waiting for an invitation to take up golf I'm talking as few as three people out of 100. Consider the numbers if every golf course in the USA got onboard.

• In 1990 the US population was approximately 300 million with approximately 30 million estimated golfers - approximately 10%.
• In 2017 the US population is over 330 million, but fewer than 24 million golfers - a decline of 6 million golfers - approximately 2%.
• 10 million new golfers (waiting for an invitation) only brings the participation rate back to the levels of 1990 - approximately 10%.
• If 306 million Americans currently don't play golf it means all we need is approximately 3.3 persons out of 100 to become golfers and we have 10 million more golfers - and golf is back to a seller's market.

CALLIN GOLF'S GENERALS - YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE

Golf should be booming. It's a healthy sport. All arrows point to playing golf, the benefits of neighborhood golf courses, happy social living, and living longer.

Do the Generals have any idea how much money each brand new golfer will add to the industry? WAKE UP!

The 10 million are waiting.

I'm ready to speak with any golf course owner, general manager, PGA Professional, or 'General' to help with ways to get a new golfer program started: 941-739-3990.

Do it.

Mike Kahn, Golfmak, Inc. mike@golfmak.com

26.88 Million Americans had it right in 2014 according to GolfLink.

Andrew Wood of Legendary Marketing has it right too! Get people off their butts and out to the golf course.

Golf is healthy recreation for people of all ages. It's a sport, a pastime, a recreation, a character builder, a source of vitamin D, a social activity, a personal challenge, and a mental break from daily life.

According to a CNN story, Golfers live longer. In fact, an article in the UK indicatesthat golfers live up to five years longer than those who don't play golf.

A well run municipally owned golf course can contribute to the quality of life for its citizens as well as boosting the surrounding golf industry. The best example of a community-owned golf course is Village Links of Glen Ellyn located just west of Chicago.

GOLF IS NOT IN TROUBLE! WE'RE IN TROUBLE!

Playing golf is an experience around the most beautiful manicured parks you could imagine. When located in cities and urban areas, golf courses are becoming more and more associated with the Audubon Society like Blue Hills Country Club (Kansas City, Mo. Follow the link to read how the Blue Hills golf course is a contributor.

If golf is in trouble it means we're in trouble.

Do you mean to tell me that life is better today than it was in 1975? In those days people could find the time to enjoy 18-holes of golf with friends. Isn't it strange that people living the so-called good life in 2017 cannot find enough time in their lives to play a round of golf? And what about kids?

GOLF IS A CHARACTER BUILDER FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

I ran a golf center in Peterborough, Ontario for almost 30-years. I watched hundreds of kids grow up with golf as part of their lives. Every kid I knew that played golf all summer turned out to be first rate citizens. In fact, my best summer employees came from my junior club. I found them to have great integrity. In fact, as soon as they were hired I trusted them to handle cash without the slightest hesitation.

A mother once told me that her son, a junior member, was too pooped at night after playing golf all day to get into trouble at night. She said he'd get home and flop into bed.

THOUSANDS OF GOLF COURSES ON THE BRINK WHEN THEY ALL SHOULD BE THRIVING

The press has been all over the 1,500 failed golf courses in recent years. Why would a golf course like Walden Lake in Plant City, Florida fail? It's part of a 2,200 home development of up to 8,000 residents. There should have been a couple of hundred kids playing along with their families on what was once a beautiful golf course.

The beautiful Ravines Golf Resort in Middleburg, Florida closed its doors in 2004 when it should have been on the verge of booming!

Oak Ford Golf Club, a terrific and busy 27-hole golf course in Sarasota, Florida was hosting over 80,000 rounds when I was managing the place back in '97. Oak Ford was an out-of-the-way golf course but people loved it because it was so peaceful. On any given day golfers would encounter bobcats, deer, alligators, otters, foxes, red tail hawks, spoonbills, and endless bird species along with the fun of playing golf. It's gone! It's crazy! It's a shame.

MUNICIPALITIES COPPING OUT ON THEIR COMMUNITY GOLF COURSES

It's sad. It's also a cop out. Municipalities originally opened their own golf courses for their citizens to enjoy. Municipal golf course were never planned as money-making enterprises, rather as a reflection of the good life in their community. Recently, cities all around the USA are copping out of what was one of their shining examples of a good community. I read a quote by a city official in a California newspaper saying golf is dying - the councillor's reason for voting to pull the plug on their municipal golf course.

Credit the City of Tampa Sports Authority. Tampa's Sports Authority manages three municipal golf courses - Rocky Point, Babe Zaharias, and Rogers Park. I used to play them with a few good friends in the early 90's. Man! they were busy golf courses and they still are today. The city finds the three golf courses to be valuable to the community, which one of the reasons why Tampa is one of the most desirable cities to live in the USA.

GOLF IS SOCIETY'S CANARY

I believe the plight of golf is society's canary. When life is good golf flourishes. However, the US population is up 30-million since 1990, yet the golf playing population is down by 6-million. What's that mean?

Golf is more than just a pastime for rich old men.

Mike Kahn, Golfmak, Inc. mike@golfmak.com

Failing residential golf courses: Is there a case for a class action? Should your HOA lawyer up? This article needs circulation. I need your comments.

NOTE: I am not an attorney and I do not offer legal advice.

The failing golf course community issue is serious because we’re probably talking $ billions in lost property value for which I believe there’s culpability in many cases. It began with feasibility studies that were often intentionally (wink, wink) prepared to patronize the developers, bankers, and brokers. The prize was the inflated lot prices people paid to have a golf course over their back fence.

The (possible) Dupe: Selling lots to buyers at premium prices based on the value of a backyard golf course - assumed a forever amenity.

The (likely) Truth: It was abundantly clear (to me) that many golf courses were planned based on false data and were doomed to fail from day one.

The Hit-and-Run MO: The developer only needed the golf course to prosper until he sold all the lots so he could get his ass out of there.      

At the end of this article, I invite any HOA or Country Club Board Members to a free conference call with me and colleague, Bill McIntosh to discuss these situations.

So, please circulate this posting to every person you know who lives in a golf course community where people are losing $ thousands in the value of their residential properties. Residential properties they bought under what I suspect may have been intentionally flawed pretenses. I mean many residential centerpiece golf courses (I believe) were doomed to fail from the get-go.  

PEOPLE TRUSTED THE DEVELOPERS, THE BANKERS, AND THE BROKERS

Thousands of ordinary hard working responsible America homeowners are suffering from a 20% to 40% drop in the value of their residences due to the failure of their backyard golf course. In virtually every case, these folks were sold their property by developers and brokers at premium prices, many paid two or more times the price of residential lots not backing on a golf course. The sales pitch was the beautiful backyard view and the prestige of living in a golf course community. Buyers were led to believe that the backyard golf course was creating added permanent value, which I believe was based on false feasibility studies. In the sales pitch, lot buyers were encouraged to buy premium lots on the golf course, "Before they’re gone!"

So, was a premium lot on a golf course really a wise investment? Ask the residents of the (former) Ravines Golf Resort in the Jacksonville, Florida area. Ask the residents of Walden Lake in Plant City, Florida. Ask the residents of Oak Ford in Sarasota, Florida. Ask the residents of Magnolia Plantation in Lake Mary, Florida. Ask the residents of Glen Mary in Louisville, Kentucky. Ask the residents of Turkey Creek in Alachua, Florida (you gotta see this Youtube presentation). Ask the residents of Columbia Lakes in Houston, Texas. Ask the residents of Tartan Pines, Enterprise, Alabama. Better still, ask the residents in Petaluma, California when Adobe Creek Golf Course grew in – follow the link. Ask thousands of golf course residential property owners, particularly on golf courses built since the early 1990s and you’ll hear the same story. Just about every residential golf course built since 1990, in my opinion, was doomed to fail while on the drawing board!

I believe, in my experience, many homeowners who bought lots on golf courses were duped by the developers, bankers and the brokers to pay premium prices for golf course lots based on false or wrong feasibility studies. I state that because I believe the feasibility studies were prepared to ‘patronize’ the banks, particularly, so the banker could approve the construction loans. One group that may have had an inadvertent ‘passive’ responsibility for the developer-banker-presentation is the National Golf Foundation (NGF), ngf.org. Although the results homeowners are suffering today are through no real fault of NGF, it was NGF published material that was indicating upwards of 12% participation in golf nationwide around Y2K, which was quoted in feasibility studies.

My question was; When the NGF’s national golf participation rate is stated 10%, and Michigan’s participation rate is 12.5%, wouldn’t another state’s participation rate need to be less than 10% for the national rate to be 10%?  

So, when feasibility studies were prepared by various companies (most work, I suspect carried out by kids fresh out of school) they were quoting (relying) on NGF national statistics. However, I smelled a problem with feasibility studies using NGF national statistics. For instance, (I repeat) if golf participation in Michigan is estimated at 12.5%, how can all other states be 10%? In fact, I conducted an in-house feasibility study for a golf course under construction in Springhill, Tennessee, located about 35-miles south of downtown Nashville. The original feasibility study suggested full play capacity almost on day-one.

The Springhill golf course now known as King’s Creek was being built and financed based on the standard feasibility studies of the times (prepared around the year 2000). I was working for the golf course principals at the time and I was questioning where the so-called beat-down-the-doors golf players were to come from. I requested and was given the task of doing an in-house feasibility study for the King's Creek principals and my local study spelled doom for the project.

First, I conducted my study of the Springhill-Franklin-Murfreesboro, Nashville, Tennessee golf market by actually visiting every golf course within 35-miles of downtown Nashville. Here’s, more or less, what I learned after running up over 500 miles to visit golf courses serving the Nashville and surrounding area:

In 2000, the metro population of Nashville, Tennessee, which included nearby communities like Franklin, and Murfreesboro, was approximately 1.3 million (in-city Nashville population in 2016, 684,410). Therefore, using NGF national market service area (MSA) statistics of the day, at 12%, it meant 156,000 people in and around Nashville would be golfers. At the time it was indicated estimated average annual rounds of golf per golf player was eight to ten per year (follow this link for a summary of golf participation), with core golfers playing up to 24 rounds a year. Therefore, the estimated 156,000 Nashville area golf players would (should) be playing 8 to 10 rounds, or from 1,248,000 to 1,560,000 rounds per year.

IN 2000 IT REQUIRED 30,000 TO 35,000 ANNUAL ROUNDS TO BREAK EVEN AT NASHVILLE AREA GOLF COURSES

So, in the year 2000, my research was indicating that golf courses in the Nashville area needed 30,000 to 35,000 rounds to support general maintenance, G&A, etc., (climate considered) just to break even. It meant that Nashville area golf courses should be profitable at 40,000 annual rounds, and highly profitable at 50,000 rounds. Therefore, for these purposes, I divided 1,560,000 rounds by 50,000 rounds, which indicated the Nashville area needed at least 31 golf courses to satisfy the NGF national participation demand when traced over the Nashville MSA. However, in my 500-miles of driving to all the golf courses in Nashville and surrounding areas I could not find a dozen golf courses! Not only that, but every golf course I visited was starving!

Apparently, the Nashville MSA was clearly not a 10% or 12% golf participation neighborhood.  My in-house feasibility study concluded that less than 2% of people in and around Nashville, Tennessee played golf. Of the ten functioning golf courses I could find, only one, the municipally owned golf course appeared to be hosting more than 30,000 annual rounds. I concluded that there may only be (approximately) 26,000 golfers in the Nashville MSA area. Therefore, it was my conclusion that King’s Creek, a really nice Palmer design, was going to struggle (likely fail). Well, guess what?

King’s Creek Golf Course, Springhill, TN, is still open but after all these years could never afford to add a clubhouse. In 2017 it still operates out of a double-wide, more or less.

A few years later I was involved with another golf course and residential development under construction on the north side of Nashville near I-65 at Whitehouse. The golf course was only ever partially constructed and (to my knowledge) the Nicklaus design was never completed. Several $ million was lost in that miss directed project. So, where am I going with this?

WHY SOME HOAs SHOULD LAWYER UP…

I believe, to charge premium dollars for residential lots with a golf course over the back fence, developers, bankers, and brokers painted rosy pictures about property values based on flawed feasibility studies – likely intentionally in many cases. I also believe, if the studies were based locally rather than nationally it should have been clear to developers, bankers, and brokers that what applies to San Francisco, California, doesn’t naturally apply to Savannah, Georgia.

Let me put it this way: Do you mean to tell me that a small isolated US town of 3,000 people with no golf course within 45 miles that 12%, or 360 of the 3,000 population are golfers playing 8 to 10 rounds a year?

Not a chance.

“SO, MAYBE IT’S TIME TO LAWYER UP!” I TOLD AN HOA PRESIDENT RECENTLY

I’m receiving endless calls from golf club board members and golf community residents as they watch their backyard golf course flounder. In fact, even the rumor that the golf course is failing is hurting property values and worse, causing strenuous conflict between the golf playing residents, the minority, and the non-golfing majority - the other 88% who live there but don’t play golf. It’s where I believe the golfers and non-golfers should be concentrating their collective eyes on the ball, so-to-speak because they all share one thing in common:  They’re all losing property value due to the failure of the golf course. They may have been purposely duped by developers, bankers, and brokers to pay premium prices for lots on or near a golf course that (to me) was obviously doomed to fail.

It’s for those reasons I believe there might be cases for class action lawsuits. Take, for instance, the Walden Lake golf course community in Plant City Florida.

Walden Lake was a beautiful 2,200 unit golf course single-family residential development just east of Tampa, Florida off Interstate 4. In the 90s, the Walden Lake's 27-hole golf course was a model golf and residential development. It was busy, vibrant, and the neighborhood was reportedly the number-1 source of property tax revenue for Plant City.

Today (2017) the Walden Lake golf course is closed and growing in.

With the demise of the Walden Lake golf course, I (roughly) estimate that the negative effect, collectively, on residential property values runs somewhere between $100 and $150 million – MILLION! A loss in property value of that magnitude has to hurt every resident, plus the Plant City’s tax man.

Meanwhile, the original developer, the bankers, and brokers who participated in the original Walden Lake project have made their money and are long gone.

WHO IS CULPABLE?

Walden Lake, to me, is an example of a flawed feasibility study, happily surfed by the developer to obtain the more-than-willing banker to finance the project. Then the broker earned commissions from the sale of every lot ‘duping’ (in my personal opinion) property buyers with a false assumption that the golf course was a permanent amenity.

So, who is culpable?

LET’S GO BACK TO HISTORICAL NGF STATISTICS

Up in Canada, I belonged to the National Golf Foundation over 50-years ago. I read much of the NGF material back then (until about 1990, the NGF was a golf participation builder, then suddenly changed their mission to become nothing more than paper shufflers). In particular, back then they had a publication on planning a golf course. It indicated that a golf course needed a population of at least 25,000 for there to be enough people, approximately 2,500 persons, 10%, to support an 18-hole golf course. Even at the peak of golf participation in the mid-1990s, the national percentage reported by NGF was never greater than 12%.

So, looking at Walden Lake, in 2000 there were approximately 1,100 golf courses in Florida, with a State population of 16 million, or a golf course for every 14,545 persons. Therefore, even at 12% participation, that’s only 1,745 golfers per 18-hole golf course (872.5 per 9-holes), 755 short of the 2,500 golfing persons NGF said was needed to support an 18-hole golf course.

Don’t forget, Walden Lake was 27-holes, which makes it 1 ½ golf courses, so its fair share of golfers based on Florida State-wide statistics is less around 872.5 persons per 9-holes. If the 872.5 people (fair share) played 8 to 10 rounds a year, that’s only 6,980 to 8,725 rounds of golf per 9-holes, 13,960 to 14,545 per 18-holes per year for a golf course that needs 35,000 rounds per 18-holes just to break even. Walden needed 52,500 rounds over 27-holes to break even based on the cost of operating a Florida golf course. However, I know feasibility studies factored in tourist golfers, but Plant City, Florida, home of Walden Lake is not a Florida tourist destination location like Naples, Sarasota, St. Petersburg, Orlando, or Daytona. However, the feasibilities (I assume) assumed that the 2,200 residences in the Walden Lake community would provide plenty of golfers to support the golf course - perpetually. Wrong, again! In fact, it was common knowledge that fewer than 25% of people living in a golf course community would be golfers.

So, how many golfers might there really have been in the Walden Lake development?

Statistically, a single-family home represents an average of 2 ½ to 3 persons (link here to USA household data). Therefore the 2,200 Walden Lake homes, fully occupied, should compute to 5,500 to 6,600 persons. At a 12% participation rate (NGF highest national rate ever. It’s 8.8% in 2017) that’s still only a maximum of 792 golf players. Even if the participation rate is the ‘assumed’ 25% for people who bought in a golf course neighborhood because they play golf, that’s still only a maximum of 1,650 golfers – still not enough to support a 27-hole golf course according to the original NGF golf course planning recommendations, or provide the minimum 35,000 break-even rounds per 18-holes (52,500 over 27-holes).

WHAT ABOUT CORE GOLFERS – THE 8 TO 24 GAMES A YEAR GOLFERS?

Even if Walden Lake’s 1,650 residential golfers played 24 rounds a year (actually only 48% of golfers might play the full 24 rounds) as core golfers that’s still only 39,600 total annual 18-hole rounds. Remember, Walden is 27-holes and needs 52,500 rounds to break even (believe me, I’ve budgeted golf courses all over Florida). So, what I’m saying is that the Walden Lake golf course was probably doomed right from the get-go.

So who’s to blame when 2,200 homeowners were sold their property based on a falsely rosy picture, and then later lost from $100 to $150 million in property value when the golf course sure to fail, failed?

CULPABILITY?

Examples like Walden Lake are why I think it is time for many HOA groups in the USA to consider lawyering up. I’m trying to be careful with my words. But, I mean it should have taken barely grade three mathematics to easily catch flaws in ‘smoke-and-mirror’ feasibilities that developers, bankers, and brokers used to tell people so they'd pay premium prices for golf course neighborhood properties. I mean, why couldn’t educated bankers catch such obvious flaws. Maybe they didn’t want to.

SO, YOUR $400,000 HOME IS SUDDENLY WORTH LESS THAN $300,000.

I’VE BECOME THE ‘SHOULDER’ FOR MANY HOAs. OF COURSE, THEY'RE ALL A LITTLE DIFFERENT.

We invite any golf club board member or HOA board member to arrange a free conference call with me, Mike Kahn, and my associate, Bill McIntosh, to discuss your situation. I assure you that we believe there is absolutely no more experienced source than Bill and me when it comes to golf courses and their communities. Believe me, we’ve been in the trenches in this business for over a combined 100-years. We’ve shoveled snow and dodged coconuts. We’ve lived on golf courses. We’ve operated our own golf courses.  

You’ll find our conferences, which can include anyone on your boards, informative, matter-of-fact, and helpful for your HOA in the decision processes going forward.

There’s a lot of money at stake, so don’t put it off.  

Start by giving me a call 941-739-3990, or email mike@golfmak.com.

Mike Kahn, Golfmak, Inc. mike@golfmak.com.

Twenty-two-year old daughter of a Jacksonville PGA Pro had no interest in golf until Top Golf came along.

Maybe now all golf's doomsday cry babies will keep quiet!

Mike Kahn

I’ve been in golf since the 1950s. I’ve brokered, financed, designed, managed, evaluated and consulted golf courses all around the country. At my website, Golfmak.com, I predicted the situation golf finds itself in today. My outlook was supported in a publication by the National Golf Foundation (www.NGF.org) and McKinsey and Company, A Strategic Perspective on the Future of Golf, January 30, 1999.

I had said in 1999 that 1997 was the last good year for the golf course industry overall. In 97, I was managing a Sarasota, Florida 27-hole golf course and saw the peak first-hand hosting over 80,000 rounds in a 12-month period. Rounds began to decline each year after to under 50,000 by 2006. The same wonderful money-making Sarasota golf course closed its doors forever in 2012.

The NGF document indicated there was a 100 million round gap in the industry by 2000 – meaning an oversupply of golf courses. The document indicated that growth in golf participation had flat lined in the last half of the 1990s, yet a thousand more golf courses were under construction or planned.  

I AM NOT AN APPRAISER, BUT THEY CALL ME ALL THE TIME!

I’m interviewed by appraisers and county assessors often as they try to make sense of golf course values. For instance, in Hillsborough County, Florida, two golf courses were sold in the same 12-months. They were similar in acreage, clubhouse size, and round counts. The first one sold for $8.5 million. The second golf course, only 8-miles away from the first one sold for only $2.3 million. You can imagine the puzzled county assessor trying to figure that one out.

The only conclusion explaining the perplexingly different sale prices of the two Hillsborough County golf courses was that one buyer was willing to pay $8.5 million while the other was willing to pay $2.3 million. But that sale took place when the supply-demand golf course industry was still fairly stable. By 2007 there were far too many golf courses. The ‘correction’ had begun, golf courses were closing, and golf course values began to plunge.

In recent years (2008 – 2017) statistics on golf course sales prices are all over the board. However, one trend seems consistent: Golf courses are trading between 25% and 50% of what they were trading for 20-years earlier (the mid-1990s). For instance, in 2013, I brokered a Daytona, Florida golf course for $1.25 million that was worth over $5 million 10-years earlier. I brokered a Tampa golf course for $9.2 million in 2005 that sold for $3.2 million in 2012.

DEMAND TO OWN A GOLF COURSE IS DOWN TODAY.

The number-1 factor on value/price is demand. There just isn’t the phalanx of golf course buyers out there today that there was 20-years ago. That means an available for sale golf course will sit on the market for a long time – some over 2-years without a showing or a hint of a purchase offer. Another reason golf courses sit out there for a long time is that sellers tend to cling to offering prices of 10 to 20-years ago. The reality is that today’s golf course buyers, as few as there are, know enough about the golf environment not to fall for 1997 prices.  

SO, HOW DO YOU PUT A VALUE ON A GOLF COURSE IN THE 2017 MARKETPLACE?

In the 1990s golf courses were traded on multiples of net operating income (NOI), usually from 6X to as high as 12X earnings. In the past five years, various publications and newsletters were indicating that the trading factor was based more on multiples of gross receipts (GR) – from .7X to 1.6X times gross receipts. Keep in mind, by 2010 not many golf courses were showing much in the way of profits, so multiples of earnings could not be applied. Therefore, a golf course with $1 million in gross receipts may be worth from $700,000 to $1.6 million. So, why such a spread?

When evaluating a golf course on GR, you can bet the lower valued golf course is losing money and probably has a build up of deferred issues like a redundant 25-year-old irrigation system, a leaky clubhouse roof, broken up parking lot, drainage problems, or a declining membership roster. The 1.6 X GR valued golf course may be making money and have fewer deferred issues. You hope smart diligence can sort it all out.

I can help you evaluate your golf course (link to an evaluation article on Golfmak.com), but if you want a full-blown professional appraisal, I recommend Golf Property Analysts, President Larry Hirsh.   

What about the land use factor?

LAND RIGHTS ARE GONE, SO NO THERE’S EXIT VALUE

Most golf courses built in the USA since the mid-1970s went through a permitting process whereby virtually all land rights (development rights) were given up. Usually, these were ‘finger’ golf courses that were part of residential developments (houses down both sides of the fairways). It means, more or less, the land under the golf course has no real value because nothing else can be done with it. In fact, I’m betting that 90% of the failing golf courses today are finger courses built since 1970.

Therefore, it can be said that a finger golf course less than 50-years old that loses money may not be worth anything because there is zero exit value in the land. In fact, that’s why many frustrated money-losing golf course owners who couldn’t sell their golf courses just gave up. In fact, the reason so many banks own golf courses in recent years is that many frustrated owners simply threw the keys at the banker and walked away.

IT’S A BITTER PILL. WILL IT COME BACK? I SAY YES!

After several years of golf course ownership and realizing the present value of your golf course today is disappointing after all the hard work and attention you’ve given it. If you’re an owner upside down with your bank, an equity member, or part of an investment group, you have only two real choices: Stick with it until things turn around; Or sell it for what you can get, lick your wounds, and go on with life.

If you can hold on, I believe there is light at the end of the tunnel. I say that because I believe golf is shedding the old 1935 attitude and leaping forward to the culture of today (we’ll know we’re there when the PGA Tour allows its players to wear shorts). Golf is already starting to develop more life, more excitement, as the purple haired group dies off. Golf lost the age 18 to 35-year-old group in the 1990s, but that gang is coming back – evidenced by the explosion of TOP GOLF (31 locations, 14 more planned quickly).

If you have any questions about a golf course anywhere please write me, mike@golfmak.com. I always reply.

Mike Kahn, President, Golfmak, Inc., St. Petersburg, Florida.

I hope the thousand golf courses around the country on the verge of closing can hang on a while longer. If you look at the stats from an article on Topgolf it indicates that 37% of their customers are (were) non-golfers. It confirms my point that (at least) 10-million people would try golf if given a chance. It also confirms my experience that more women would take up golf than anyone imagined - 32% of Topgolf's customers. If marginal golf courses can hang on the future appears bright.

The most encouraging stat below is the age 18 to 34 group that makes up 53% of Topgolf's customers.

I have also encouraged golf courses to relax dress codes to become more in tune with attitudes of the times - not 1935. Topgolf's atmosphere is 2017. Golf has to shake its out-of-date culture and embrace the way of life of these times - not lifestyles of 75-years ago.

WHO PLAYS TOPGOLF?

EXPERIENCE

• Non-golfers: 37 percent! (How many non-golfers tee it up at your country club? A big fat Zero!)
• Golfers who have played 1-7 rounds in the last year: 28 percent.
• Golfers who have played 8-24 rounds in the last year: 21 percent.
• Golfers who have played 25 or more rounds in the last year: 14 percent.

AGE

• 17 and under: 14 percent.
• 18-34: 53 percent. (That has been the declining group for 25-years) 
• 35-44: 16 percent.
• 45-64: 15 percent.
• 65 and over: 2 percent. (Duh!)

GENDER

• Male: 68 percent
• Female: 32 percent!

FINALLY - YOUNG PEOPLE CAN BE ATTRACTED TO GOLF!

A Jacksonville, Florida PGA Pro, Mike Lynch, said about his 23-year-old daughter, “All of a sudden, golf is a pretty cool sport to her,” Mike Lynch said. “She’s going to a driving range and wants to play at a real golf course. And all it took was playing in a casual, relaxed, no-stress environment.”

My business associate, Bill McIntosh, a PGA 'lifer', visited Jacksonville's TopGolf location recently and was blown away with the crowd, the atmosphere, and the 'life' he saw. He was especially impressed with how young the crowd was.

IF MARGINAL GOLF COURSES CAN HANG ON...

"Surveys from the other 31 Topgolf sites throughout the country indicate that 25 percent of people who have their first golf experience at Topgolf will play at a more traditional venue in the future, such as an 18-hole course or practice range. Since two-thirds of its customers have never played golf before visiting a Topgolf, the numbers game indicates a potential boost for an industry that has lost around 2 million players since peaking at more than 26 million golfers nationwide in 2005."

"And millennials, the demographic group almost all businesses are courting, make up the majority of Topgolf customers. The company estimates 53 percent of its customers are between 18 and 34 years old, eclipsing every other age group combined."

"Women are another group the golf industry desperately wants to attract. According to the National Golf Foundation, 23 percent of all golfers are women. Topgolf says 32 percent of its customers are women."

"It’s the start-up process that appeals to patrons of Topgolf. They don’t need their own clubs, memorize a rule book, be concerned with a dress code, or losing a bunch of balls in the high grass."

Hang on if you can.

Mike Kahn, Golfmak, Inc.

         - You’re the Buyer

                   - You’re the Risk Taker

                             - All the Seller wants is a Sale

Don’t be buying a golf course without knowing its true nature or value. That’s why you want an experienced golf course business licensed real estate agent working for you.

It’s your money. Who’s looking after your interests when you’re ready to buy a golf course? All the seller wants is your money. For instance, a seller is not anxious to tell you the irrigation system needs a million dollar overhaul. Meanwhile, the seller’s broker who earns the commission from the seller will only tell you what he knows, or what the seller wants the broker to tell you.

"With Golf Courses,
   It’s  Buyer Beware!"

The only way to buy a golf course in a way to protect your interests is by employing a Real Estate Broker or Agent who is an Experienced Golf Course Expert to Work for You, Not the Seller. Buy under a Buyer’s Broker relationship with your Agent or Broker.

Buyer-broker agreements are often at a lower commission rate than a listing broker’s commission rate. Not only that, but your Buyer’s Broker often negotiates all or part of his commission to the Seller’s side. That way, you get the experience of a golf course business expert at little or no direct cost to you. In the meantime.

· You’ll know better what you’re buying
· You can get help with the ownership transition
· You can get advice for setting up management

With the know-how and advice, you’ll get from a golf course business expert; You’ll have a far better chance for a successful golf course ownership experience. A buyer’s broker relationship is the only way to buy a golf course - especially in these times. 

Write Mike Kahn for a sample Buyer Broker Agreement.

.

 Michael A (Mike) Kahn

Linkedin member, Allen DuPuy, posted this article whereby another well known favorite Myrtle Beach golf course, Heather Glen, is probably going to be paved over in 2018 - http://www.myrtlebeachonline.com/sports/golf/article161878928.html

It says, " Other courses that have closed since February 2014 include Waterway Hills Golf Links, Heron Point Golf Club, Wicked Stick Golf Links, Cypress Bay Golf Club and the nine-hole Carolinas Country Club, and many of those properties are being redeveloped.

Once with 120 courses stretching from Georgetown to Southport, N.C., the Grand Strand is now down to about 90 layouts. The number could decrease even more in the next few years."

Of course, everyone is crying that 'golf is dead!' when all we're seeing is a natural adjustment from the overbuilding of golf courses for about 15-years (1990-2005).

GOLF COURSE INVESTORS ARE TRICKLING BACK

Meanwhile, I'm seeing a few investors taking a second look at marginal golf courses. After all, acquisition prices are often less than 1/3 what it would cost to build a golf course in 2017. And golf courses are land first and foremost, which attracts foreign investment into the USA. However, the purchase price of a golf course today is probably less than half the real cost because of deferred issues.

25-YEAR-OLD GOLF COURSES WILL HAVE DEFERRED ISSUES

Golf courses more than 25 years old you can expect will have all kinds deferred issues. For instance, irrigation systems have about a 20-year life span before they need an extensive overhaul or even complete replacement. (I priced a complete replacement for a Daytona area 18-hole golf course in 2013 and it couldn't be done for less than $1.3 million).

Irrigation is just the beginning of refurbishing a 25-year-old golf course. Figure the clubhouse roof, est. $60,000, the parking lot, est. $70,000, air conditioning units (some clubhouses have several) est. $30,000, kitchen equipment like stoves, freezers, and coolers, est. up to $50,000. Don't forget golf course maintenance equipment. A full pallet of new mowing and grooming machinery can run $1/2 a million. Even replacing missing small tools can 'nickel and dime' you to death.

The last 30-year old clubhouse I looked after was like a grungy old ship. Leaky roof, failing plumbing, musty smelling washrooms, worn out carpeting, dilapidated landscaping, rodents, dangerous electrical outlets, out-of-date POS system, Windows 98 computers - get the picture?

BUT ONE CAN STILL ACQUIRE A 25-YEAR-OLD GOLF COURSE AND REFURBISH IT FOR LESS THAN THE COST TO CREATING ONE FROM SCRATCH

I don't believe you can buy land and build a 'competitive' golf course today for less than $5 million - and can probably run closer to $10 million. To review the costs and maintenance budgets for golf courses review a guide by Architect, Dr. Michael Hurdzan, past president of The American Society of Golf Course Architects, Building a Practical Golf Course Facility, in PDF.

So, buying a golf course for $1 million and refurbishing it entirely with another $2 million might still make it a bargain. However, the golf course still has to pay its way. I always calculated that the fee to play a golf course would be $10.00 per $ million it cost to create the golf course. Therefore, the scenario in this paragraph means it's a $30.00 a round golf course.

I don't see why that can't work.

BONUS BUYING OLDER GOLF COURSES: THEY MAY STILL HAVE FULL LAND RIGHTS

I've learned that most golf course built since the mid-1970s gave up other land use rights via the permitting process - especially residential community golf courses. So, it means it's either a golf course or nothing. But golf courses built before the 70s may still retain their original land rights, which makes them attractive to investors because the land may someday be developed. If you're considering investing in a golf course take an areal look at it on Google Earth. If development is around the outside perimeter of the golf course (we call it a 'core' golf course) the land may have development possibilities. However, if the fairways finger through residential homes you can bet the golf course land has virtually no value.

I AM MORE OPTIMISTIC ABOUT GOLF THAN MOST

Hey! Golf in some fashion has been around as long as mankind. Golf ain't going away. I believe there are millions of people who would give golf a try if given the opportunity. I know between the late 1980s and until about 2005 they built too many golf courses while the culture of building the game had stopped - that's another story. But I look down at the 10th tee at my golf course from the 6th floor and foursomes continue through all the time - men and women.

I think golf is moving into a new era. The PGA Tour is far more athletic than it was during the days of Walter Hagen and Julius Boros. The golf swing by golf's number-1 world ranked players (in my opinion) is a highly precise action equal to an action by a champion figure skater, or a daring Circ Du Soleil acrobat. I mean they're driving 360-yard par-4s! That's athletic don't you think?

If you haven't seen golf's new sensation take a look at Top Golf. Look at how it's attracting young people. No 1935 dress codes (wake up PGA Tour). It's not long before Top Golf patrons will want the real thing - golf courses.

Golf is here to stay.

Mike Kahn

Please circulate this posting to fellow homeowners with residential property in a golf course neighborhood if the golf course is rumored to be failing.

In 2015 I consulted a group of homeowners in Mesa Arizona. Residents were concerned that the sale of their golf course by the developer to an incompetent owner could jeopardize their community if the golf course failed. After all, hundreds of golf courses have failed recently. So, they did exactly the right thing: They formed a feasibility group to gather the necessary information to help them make an informed decision.

In the Mesa dilemma, I was hired by the feasibility group to review the golf course and outline all aspects they would face if the HOA group considered owning the golf course. If so, so they could preserve it perpetually, thus, the integrity of their neighborhood forever. By becoming proactive with a feasibility committee a sense of calm was created rather than the panic and rumor - because they were taking action.

In the Mesa case, the HOA group, actually a separate group from the master HOA, purchased the golf course (I helped them establish a fair purchase price). I this case they wisely hired a highly competent golf course management company to manage daily operations. The result is now a stable community without the fear of ever losing equity in their residences due to the failure of the golf course.

Evidence indicates that golf course residential properties drop up to 30% or more if the neighborhood golf course fails and closes. Not only loss of equity in property values, but a grown in golf course is unsightly. Weeds grow higher than corn stalks and become havens for varmints - like dangerous feral hogs in Florida. A report by the sheriff's office in Alachua, Florida indicated a significant rise in crime immediately after the golf course closed - mostly home invasions.

When a community golf course fails it's a lose-lose-lose situation.

• Neighborhood integrity suffers - meaning houses are harder to sell
• Residents lose equity in their properties - some upside down with their mortgages
• The county loses tax revenue after properties are re-assessed downward

If you're even hearing a rumor that your community golf course is failing START IMMEDIATELY. Urge your HOA to form a study or feasibility group to gather the facts.

You might even be able to see visual signs that your neighborhood golf course is in trouble.

1. You might note there are fewer and fewer cars in the parking lot.
2. Clubhouse hours of operation keep being reduced
3. Grooming of the golf course lacking - like weeds in sand traps
4. Landscaping around the clubhouse becoming shoddy
5. Fluff hanging out of the seats on mowing machinery

I believe most community golf courses should be saved from closing at all cost - although, some are doomed no matter what.

I am happy to discuss your dilemma backed by my experience with the many troubling situations I've encountered in recent years. Whether you are sitting on your HOA board or a concerned resident in a golf course community, you can call me 941-739-3990, or write mike@golfmak.com. I always reply.

It's complimentary.

I won't try to sell or solicit you anything.

Mike Kahn Golfmak, Inc.

I started Golfmak.com in 1997 using the original domain name, 'golfenomics' a special word I created by joining of Golf with Economics. It was meant to connect the special economic environment that develops around a golf course. It came from my years in the golf course business and recognizing that each golf course, like fingerprints, was different from any other - except one thing ... read on for the answer. More importantly, how golf got into its mess in 2017.

In the year 2000, it was obvious to me that golf was getting itself into a big mess. I had already known that growth in participation in golf had pretty well stopped. Then, with every new golf course, the share of golf players was thinning out. For instance, most Florida golf courses in 1997 were bragging 50,000 rounds. Mangrove Bay Municipal Golf Course in St. Petersburg, Florida, actually boasted over 90,000 rounds over its 18-holes. However, I saw two clouds looming on the horizon.

A web page I originally published around 2002, included this paragraph (you can link from anywhere in the paragraph to read my full article):

With more than 3,000 new golf courses opening in the USA between 1990 and 2002, the feasibility study that supported a golf course in 1990 is well out of date. That's because many of the factors in a 1990 feasibility study simply do not apply today. One forecasting mistake 'assumed' a continuing annual increase in player growth in the USA. In fact, a National Golf Foundation (NGF) study, "A Strategic Perspective on the Future of Golf", McKinsey and Company, January 30, 1999, indicated that there may be very few more golfers in '99 than '90. Not much has changed between '99 and '02.

One of the driving forces in golf's boom years through the 60's, 70's, 80's and 90's, the baby boomers, was aging. I could see the 55-year-old in 1995 becoming 85 by 2015. It was evident at private country clubs that the membership was aging one year at a time and it was only a matter of time before their waiting lists to join dried up. In fact, when I was managing Orange Park Country Club in Jacksonville, Florida in 2001, area private clubs still had waiting lists. But by 2005, clubs like Magnolia Plantation in Green Cove Springs, near Jacksonville, originally with a rather snobbish attitude toward new golfers found their waiting list had all but dried up.

I'm not a rocket scientist but if I have a golf course hosting 50,000 rounds and a new golf course opens nearby, where the heck do you think they will get their players? Some of the stupidest feasibility studies you could imagine were indicating that a new golf course would be hosting 50,000 rounds at 'stabilization' - usually by the end of the second or third year. I know because when I was involved in golf course financing while working at the Hayward Office in Tampa. We placed over $50 million in golf course financing between '94 and 2000. I watched developers and bankers fall for 'phony' studies so they could finance and build residential neighborhood golf courses to get premium lot prices with fairway views. Again. My question was, "Where the hell are the 50,000 rounds coming from?"

In fact, there was a crack in the health of the golf course industry back in 1995 after an article in a Crittenden Golf Report indicated that a great percentage of golf course were having trouble paying their bills.

I am sure many of the failing golf courses in the USA are residential development golf courses. If anyone has statics on it I would love to have a copy to mike@golfmak.com

Where am I going with all this?

I've been saying it and I'll say it again. There are millions of Americans who do not play golf who would give golf a try if given half a chance. It begins with a simple invitation to friends and acquaintances to come out to our golf course and learn to play. In fact, here's a conversation I had with a pro who was about to give a free clinic at his country club.

The clinic was open to any member who wished to attend to learn how to improve their golf game. I immediately suggested, "Why not ask your members to invite a friend who is not a golfer or a member to take part in the free clinic?" Statistically, if ten non-golfing people were invited to take part in the free clinic, one of then is likely to get hooked on the game. Now you have a new member prospect.

What's your PGA professional staff doing to build member prospects? Does your club have a new golfer program? I mean non-golfing people from outside the club roster.

Is that so hard to do?

There is a concerted effort in the UK, National Golf Month, to stimulate growth in participation by targeting women. I'd love to see the same effort here in North America.

Maybe if my name was Nicklaus, Michelson, or Johnson the movers and shakers of the golf world would listen to me. We don't need to be losing 1,500 golf courses over the next few years. If every golf course in the country invited people out to learn the basics of the game and give golf a try the current player shortfall would disappear very quickly.

Oh! But one thing. Don't start the first lesson with the grip.

And what is the only thing golf courses have in common?

The diameter of the putting cup - 4 1/4 inches.

Mike Kahn, Golfmak.com

Follow me, Mike Kahn, GOLFMAK, on Twitter. I often circulate information I receive about the plight of hundreds of neighborhood golf courses.

PRESERVE THE VALUE OF YOUR RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY

Evidence indicates that residential values can be negatively impacted by 10% to over 30% when the backyard fairways grow in with weeds as high as an elephant's eye. Imagine if you're mortgaged up to 80% LTV and your property drops 25% overnight. You're upside down and in foreclosure. 

I believe HOA groups must stand their ground against losing equity in their residential property just because of incompetence by the management of their community golf course. Take control. Don't let the golf course disappear.

My questions:

"Why was the golf course built in the first place?"

"Why was I told by the real estate agent that I had a more valuable property because I had a beautiful view of a golf course over my back fence?"

"How can we protect our property from a 30% loss of equity (a $120,000 hit on a $400,000 home)?"

EVERYBODY BOUGHT A HOME THERE KNOWING A GOLF COURSE WAS PART OF THE COMMUNITY

I believe the community must take control of the golf course as an insurance policy to preserve the permanent integrity and value of their neighborhood. I know the argument coming from the non-golfers who say they don't give a damn about the golf course but they do give a damn about the value of their residence. The truth is that they bought their residence knowing a golf course was a part of their neighborhood. Otherwise, they should have bought somewhere else. The non-golfer in a golf course neighborhood is just as obliged to protect the neighborhood as the golfer.

Would you allow an individual who owns property in your neighborhood to thwart an attempt to preserve the value of your property just because the person does not play golf?

WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO PRESERVE THE GOLF COURSE?

I'm an expert in golf course operation and management. I have prepared budgets for several different golf courses. There are minimum requirements to keep a golf course viable and healthy. I believe minimums can be met in a manner that should not become a major burden on householders in golf course neighborhoods. For instance, if you can protect your residence for as little as $18.00 a month (don't let that number be etched into your head because it could be $28.00, or whatever) wouldn't it be an inexpensive insurance policy to protect your property value? Imagine the collective calamity when the value of your 500-home neighborhood drops $60 million because your local golf course operator failed?

A DEAD GOLF COURSE AIN'T PRETTY

A grown in golf course is a sorry sight. The beautiful green fairways are quickly overcome with weeds that grow very high. The former open fairways become populated with creatures of all kinds, many like feral pigs and hogs hide among the tall scrub and can become a danger. In Alachua, Florida the local sheriff's office reported a dramatic increase in neighborhood crime reports due to home invasions, after the Turkey Creek Golf Course, closed its doors.

ACT ON THE RUMOR

If you hear a rumor that your neighborhood golf course is failing, call me 941-739-3990, or write mike@golfmak.com. Don't wait and let others seal the fate of your neighborhood. Even if they do come up with a third party solution you can bet it will only be a matter of time till your back in the same mess. If your HOA owns it (the golf course) and it's properly set it up, you'll never have that worry again. With me, we'll begin by forming a feasibility group to gather the facts. That effort alone can reduce neighborhood stress because you're taking action instead of holding your head in the sand.

If a plan is feasible, I'll show you a great example of how the current board and each successive board can manage the golf course correctly. The result will be a permanent and enduring and valued neighborhood.

Mike www.golfmak.com

http://golfprop.com/blog/c-h-a-n-g-e-when-is-it-good-and-when-is-it-bad/

Individuals, banks, and corporations can benefit from essentially all-cash offers by way of the buyer's cash and the seller’s pure tax savings. It is as good as cash. The strategy follows the IRS Code 170 Bargain Sale, whereby the seller pays the top tax rate of 39.6% on earnings from other sources. The buyer, a qualified 501(C)3 charitable entity purchases and either operates the golf course or sells the property at a profit that they can use for their activities.

The bargain sale golf course seller usually benefits greater financially than via a traditional sale. It's a long-standing strategy first written into law back in 1917 (https://welfont.com/faq/). It is estimated that there are over 20,000 of these real estate transactions done annually with an estimated value of $8,000,000,000. Typical bargain sales have been empty warehouses, strip malls, or older buildings. Only very recently has there been a focus on golf courses.

A Bargain Sale transaction is regulated by the IRS Code Section 170 because it relates to charitable contributions of non-cash transactions. IRS Publication 526 and 561 are two additional IRS publication guidelines that further help explain the guidelines for this type of transaction.

A Bargain Sale transaction is the same as any other real estate transaction with a buyer or seller and real estate agent. However, with the IRS Section 170 Bargain Sale, the buyer is a tax-exempt entity, and the seller desires to receive a tax deduction on a portion of the transaction. Therefore, special rules apply to this transaction. Some of the unique transactions features are the following:

The buyer must be a qualified tax-exempt nonprofit.

The seller must obtain a qualified appraisal if the asset is valued over $5,000 in value.

I was contacted by a brokerage firm as a connection to the golf course world through my experience, associations, and contacts in golf. We have already placed over $9 million in offers for hard-to-sell golf courses since April 1. Two of the golf course in that group have been on the market for over two years. In a bargain sale, it is possible to close as quickly as 30-days, but more realistically, 45 to 60-days.

In each case we encourage the sellers to have our bargain sale offers reviewed by tax attorneys, or accountants familiar with IRS bargain sales.

The magic of the bargain sale is the appraisal method allowed in a bargain sale, which makes the tax deduction valuable. It's because the bargain sale appraisal is usually from 1.5 to 2 times greater than a standard appraisal (such as required by a bank). Therefore, the tax deduction is 1.5 to 2 times greater than a standard appraisal. The combination of the cash portion from the buyer and the tax saving can result in a greater benefit than a traditional sale. 

If you or your company meet the first criteria and would like to dispose of a golf course quickly, we can present you with a bonafide letter-of-intent (LOI) - usually within two weeks.   

We work with and share with brokers anywhere. Call me anytime: 941-739-3990. If I don't answer your call leave a message and I will return your call.

Mike Kahn, Senior Consultant

Golfmak, Inc.

"Everyone knows that playing golf is good for their business and career! Or do they? 

Certainly in the past there were countless articles on the benefits of business golf, but anyone under 40 may have missed them. All you see in the press today is how the game is declining and courses are closing. A 28-year-old executive could be forgiven for not appreciating the amazing value of golf to business.

With the media constantly reminding us about the demise of golf, anyone could think that golf as a business tool is finished. Sure, participation is down, but 25 million players in the US alone is not exactly a small number. It’s actually pretty impressive when you look at the number of top CEO’s, sports stars, movie stars and entrepreneurs who are avid golfers.

An estimated 90 percent of Fortune 500 CEOs play golf, as have almost all the US presidents since Ike.

Better still, executives who play golf earn an average of 17 percent more than those who don’t.

In her book Two Good Rounds, Elisa Gaudet explores how the game of golf helped pave the way to success for some of the most prominent global business leaders. "There is a special connection that exists between the worlds of golf and business, and it's a reason why many of today's business leaders have achieved success," says Gaudet.

What are you waiting for?

Once you've decided to sell a golf course, you want it sold fast at the best price - right?

Obviously, when you decide to sell a golf course, you want to sell it as quickly as possible. You also want the best price. Therefore, wouldn’t you agree that marketing to people with interest in buying a golf course is the best way to find buyers?

You can post a golf course for sale on www.golfcoursesforsale.com (GCFS). It's a website designed to market golf courses for sale worldwide in six languages. GCFS will attract a wide range of potential golf course buyers.

It makes sense that attracting more prospective buyers should result in the best selling price. 

NO BROKERAGE FEES

There are no brokerage or referral fees payable to GCFS – ever. Therefore, the decision to post a golf course for sale on the GCFS website is a no-brainer, especially by taking advantage of this 60-day free trial offer. 

LIMITED TIME INTRODUCTORY OFFER

We are introducing a new version of GCFS, so this is test period. Act now and post a golf course for sale on GCFS to the world! It's Free for 60-days. 

Here’s how to post a golf course on Golf Courses for Sale now. Go to the GCFS website www.golfcoursesforsale.com. You can enter information, even add pictures, and it’s online in just a few minutes. You’ll be showing it to the world in seven languages (English, German, French, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish). If you act now, your 60-day posting is completely free. 

POST A GOLF COURSE FOR SALE BY NAME OR GENERICALLY

Post a golf course for sale openly by name and location, or generically. A generic posting does not name the golf course or its exact location (to preserve local goodwill). Potential buyers will inquire to GCFS and be directed to you, your designee, or your broker. 

BROKER POSTINGS WELCOME

If you listed your golf course with a broker, instruct him or her to post your listed golf course it on GCFS immediately to take advantage of the 60-day free trial. 

CREDIT CARD REQUIRED FOR VALIDATION

A credit card is required for the free posting, but your card will not be charged. Registering a valid credit card is a way to confirm the legitimacy of a posting. You will be informed by email before the 60th day to give you time to cancel the posting after the 60th day. However, if you want to continue your golf course posting beyond 60-days, do nothing. Your card will be charged for a six-month posting period of $599.00 US. Your posting remains for six additional months. 

YOU CAN POST WHATEVER INFORMATION YOU WANT

When you post your golf course for sale, you complete a simple form, and you can also upload a few pictures. If your posting is generic, GCFS will place a generic picture with your initial posting. 

You can come back to GCFS to edit your posting any time. 

All generic posting inquiries will be forwarded to you, your designee, or your broker. 

NON-DISCLOSURE AGREEMENTS

If you need a simple non-disclosure agreement (NDA), for a potential buyer of your golf course, we can provide you a 'boiler' that we have on file, as long as you have a posting on GCFS. 

If you have any questions, please send by email to: info@golfcoursesforsale.com 

Good luck from Golf Courses for Sale 

BTW: You can always call me, 

Mike Kahn 941-739-3990.

The picture above was taken by me at Village Links of Glen Ellyn, a municipal golf course near Chicago. The 27-hole facility contributes to the entire area's golf economy by starting hundreds of people at the game every season.

If I suggested, there was room for a thousand more golf courses in the USA you'd think I was nuts - given the economic state of the industry in 2017. It's because I believe the golf business - run by golfers - has gone so highbrow it has forgotten an entire segment of society. It's a group of Americans aged twenty-five to seventy-five who have not yet played golf. Most will never take up the game because there is no place for them to start. I believe golf needs hundreds more low cost, player friendly courses if the industry wants a healthy economic future. This is where municipally owned golf facilities can make a contribution to their citizens and the game.

We do need 1,000 more golf courses in the USA to save many of the other 15,500 courses from going broke. We need 'threshold' recreation courses people can learn to play and enjoy. The kinds of courses we need are the ones that caused the boom in golf participation in the fifties, sixties, and seventies. We're talking golf courses people can afford to play. Golf courses they can walk. We need push-up greens, push-up tee boxes, and centerline irrigation systems. None need to be longer than 6,300 yards. We need greens with speeds at eight feet, fairways that roll, shallow sand traps (some can putt from). We need golf courses where people who can't and never will break ninety can play and enjoy - why can't a round of golf just be plain fun? The type of golf courses I’m referring to will feed and rescue the industry. Here's why.

I believe there are millions of Americans who don't play, and never have played golf, but would try the game if it was easier to get involved. There are millions of families that could afford to take an interest in golf but have no way to get started. I don't believe golf associations like National Golf Foundation, USGA, PGA, or local associations pay enough attention to the millions of Americans in the twenty-five to seventy-five year age bracket who have yet to try the game. These potential golf participants need a starter golf course - much like novice slopes at ski hills.

I’m qualified to address this issue because I started in golf when a walking round of golf was $1.25 (in the 1950's). A season membership to the course I worked at was $65.00 a year. Our golf course was a dusty, 5,400 yard, par-70 layout that was packed with golfers every day. Our tee sheet time slots were set at only six minutes. We had over 100 sets of rentals clubs that often went out twice a day. On a given day approximately one rental set in ten was to a person playing their first game of golf. I know because I was the pro shop clerk. I cleaned and stacked all 100 sets every day all summer long (Toronto, Ontario).

The rent-a-set-of-clubs era is long gone. We need it back!

Today, if you're thirty-eight years old, make $75 thousand a year, and have never played golf you won't have much of a chance to give it a try. You won't because people who play golf are not going to invite you to the golf course. At age thirty-eight, if a person has never played golf, the game is like a closed society because no golfer wants to play golf with a person who's going to score 135! Most club professionals don't want to teach beginners (because they hate teaching beginners). Meanwhile, every golf instruction advertisement says, "Improve your game."  They never say, "Come out and Learn to Play Golf!"

So, why add 1,000 golf courses to the USA when the business of golf is in trouble? I believe properly planned recreational golf courses can serve both the community and the golf course industry. In many cases, already existing nine hole courses can fill part of the gap. It’s an area where I believe municipally owned golf course can contribute to the industry rather than compete with it.

I believe municipalities can plan, build, and operate their 'recreational’ or ‘threshold' golf courses in a manner that will compliment the community and the golf industry’s general economy because they would introduce thousands of citizens to golf. They can build golf courses on redundant land, or on capped landfills. They should be designed to walk or ride. A much lower construction budget will afford lower green fees and member fees – pushup greens, etc. Each facility needs a proper teaching, and practice area, including a full-length practice range. They need to operate under a continual and ongoing program to teach and encourage people to try and enjoy playing golf. They must offer daily rental sets of clubs, rental pull carts, etc. Recreational golf courses need forward tees for women, seniors, and junior golfers. If land space allows, adding a nine-hole par-3 golf course can open doors to golf for seniors, young children, and even handicapped persons.

I suggest using eight-inch putting cups instead of the four ¼ inch sized cups. Green speeds should be no faster than nine feet. Fairway mowing heights should be high enough, so the ball sits up. Rough heights should still be easily playable. Eliminate forced carries. Don’t guard greens with deep bunkers. No recreational golf course needs to be longer than 6,000-yards. Build par-70 courses, not par-72. A par-70 golf course means more players will break 100.    

The recreational type golf course I recommend needs only a small clubhouse with a pro shop and a simple grillroom (not more than 4,000 square feet in size). It is important to plan the clubhouse to be functional, easy to operate, and easy to manage with open sightlines. The entire project shouldn't cost the community a dime, as community bonds can initially finance it, and then it can be leased to a golf course operator for an amount that is more than debt coverage. Of course, to protect the community's interest, the business would need to be operated in an 'acceptable' manner.

I have discussed this type of threshold golf course plan to several architects, golf construction companies, and financial sources. There are thousands of acres available for a recreational type of golf course project. If well thought out and planned, recreational golf courses could be created and up-and-running for less than $3 million. The finished product can include a golf course, a practice area, practice range, clubhouse, a maintenance building and parking.

We need threshold golf courses because golf courses in 2017 don't bring in enough new golf players to replace players lost by way of natural attrition (evidenced by National Golf Foundation Studies, ngf.org). Golf courses today are too long, too penal, and too expensive. The 30,000 square foot clubhouses are causing many golf courses to sink under the burden of overhead.  

For golf to get back to good health - a seller’s market - the game simply needs more adult golf players. In my (60-years) experience in golf, I learned that new middle-aged golfers will influence others like them to take up the game. They'll encourage family members, workplace associates, and their friends to take up golf.

I know! I watched it. I was part of it. I grew it.

In my career, I brought thousands of new golfers into the game over a period of twenty-five years (1963 - 1988) by operating an annual learn-to-play-golf program for raw beginners. The single qualifier to be eligible to join our learn-to-play-golf classes: STUDENTS MUST NEVER HAVE PLAYED GOLF! I supplied everything - all the clubs, balls, tees, teaching, etc. I later followed up by organizing a beginner league for the year's recruits that lasted the rest of their starting golf season.

In many occasions I watched mom, dad, or an employee from a local business take up golf in our learn-to-play-golf classes who then influenced others to take up golf. Next thing they're bringing out more people to learn and play. The golf community around me grew strength because many new golfers out of my ‘camp’ graduated to become members of the higher priced country clubs.

All that I described above happened regularly back in the fifties through the eighties. Real efforts to grow golf are not happening now. I believe it's not going to happen like it did 30-years ago as long as golfers are running the business. Golfers make decisions to suit themselves. Meanwhile, over the last 25-years, they built over 3,000 new courses, most over 7,000-yards long - putting them are out of reach for 99% of all golfers.

In my opinion, golf will get back to positive economic health in one of two ways:

1 - Abandon 3,000 current golf courses, but continue to implode down to levels in the 1930s, or

2 - Build the game the way they did in the fifties, sixties, and seventies with affordable, player-friendly threshold golf courses.

That's where I believe municipally owned golf courses can serve their immediate communities and contribute to the overall health of the golf course industry.

Repeat: If you like (or dislike) this article, please write me with your comments: mike@golfmak.com. You can call me anytime too: 941-739-3990.

Mike Kahn

http://www.golfmak.com/golf-business-faq.htm

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/golf-business-article-must-read-michael-a-mike-kahn

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/i-published-video-october-2010-view-pass-michael-a-mike-kahn

https://dealbook.nytimes.com/2014/07/07/investors-are-buying-troubled-golf-courses-and-giving-them-makeovers/?_php=true&_type=blogs&_r=1&register=google

This important message should be circulated to every golf course and homeowners association (HOA) before the neighborhood golf course even hints of failure?

First order of business is to eliminate any hint of uncertainty. I mean immediately because as soon as negative rumors start to circulate property values begin to decline. I mean your residence could drop 10% in value overnight (ask any realtor). With golf courses failing all around the country an ounce of prevention now can avoid $ millions in lost property values. Bring Kahn and McIntosh aboard now before it's too late!

We are experienced. And we are different. Read on and you'll learn our secret as to why we are the best golf course consultants anywhere. We invite you or your board to a complimentary conference call at your convenience.

You may scratch your head at first because we analyze golf courses quite differently. 

Mike Kahn and Bill McIntosh have been in the golf course business in some capacity since the 1950s. There is virtually no area, component, or issue that we have not encountered – including the rash of golf course failures. We're experienced with HOA - golf course dilemmas.

First. Mike Kahn fully predicted the current crisis in articles he posted on Golfmak.com way back in 2000. In fact, 1999 document dated January 30, 1999, “A Strategic Perspective on the Future of Golf.” By The National Golf Foundation (NGF) and McInsey & Company supported Mike's prediction. 

Even after the data outlined in the above NGF report, there was still well over 1,000 golf courses either under construction or on the drawing board. I was warning as early as 1997, “New golf courses don’t create new golfers. They have to get their players from other golf courses!” However, I also published an article that seemed to contradict my own warning, “We need 1,000 more golf courses!” link, http://golfmak.com/1000-more-golf-courses.htm. If you read the article, you’ll see I'm talking about entry-level, or 'recreational' type golf courses – not the 7,400-yard monsters designed to challenge Tiger, but chase recreational golfers away! 

BTW: Too many forced carries will eliminate up to 70% of all potential customers - seniors and women.

So, why hire Kahn and McIntosh?

The first thing Kahn and McIntosh do is analyze the subject golf course without losing site of its unique characteristics. I use a term I coined, ‘eco-economics’ which recognizes that golf courses tend to establish themselves in ways that separate them from all other golf courses. I observe the customers, the clubs and balls they play, the type of car they drive, and how they dress. I look for female players, which tells me whether the subject is attractive to that critical market representing 25% of all golfers.

I look at the homes in the neighborhood from the street and from the fairways. Little idiosyncrasies like cars in the driveways can indicate the level of neighborhood pride - even hint about the relationship between homeowners and the golf course.

Bill and I do something I guarantee no other golf course consultants do: During our tour of the golf course we stop and talk to golfers. We find out why they like the golf course, how often they play, how far they travel to play it, and where else they play. Sometimes we learn more about a golf course in a two-minute conversation on the seventh tee than searching all the data floating around the Internet.  

In my experience, two golf courses only a mile apart may have a completely different type of ‘core’ customer. Unique characteristics of a golf course are how and why a golf course business establishes its distinct eco-economics: The type of customer may be attracted by its price structures, layout, difficulty, its level of maintenance. Even the clubhouse and sense of arrival can determine a golf course’ personality. Even the tee sheet tells me about a lot about the type of customer an individual golf course attracts.

Once me (Kahn) and McIntosh have analyzed the subject, we prepare a report including our recommended courses of action.

Our clients are often (pleasantly) surprised at how we do our work. They are pleased with our thoroughness. They appreciate our sincerity.

Our clients are our references.

Your first consultation with Kahn and McIntosh is always complimentary. And we don’t stick our foot in the door. Our clients have plenty of time to check our references. 

If you, your board, or a group of concerned residents would like a conference call with Bill and me we can be available for a complimentary discussion about your particular situation. We'll answer your questions and concerns.

We are confident enough in our work that our clients can stop us at a moments notice with no questions asked.

Call Mike Kahn anytime: 941-739-3990, or send an email: mike@golfmak.com. 

Please pass this on to anyone you know who owns property in a golf course residential development. There's a link at the end of this posting that must be viewed. It shows how a golf course closure in Florida knocked $24 million off the value of its neighborhood.

The disaster associated with failing community golf courses is the negative effect on residential property values - beginning from the rumor itself. It can be a domino-effect because falling home prices lowers assessments, which lowers property taxes collected by local counties and cities. For instance, if a neighborhood of 1,000 X $400 thousand dollar residences paying $2,500 annual property taxes drops 20%, then taxes drop to $2,000 and the city/county loses $500,000 in property tax revenue. It means those bone-jarring potholes won't get fixed anytime soon.   

There is not much information out there in terms of hard data to come up with a formula for how much property values decline due to golf course closings. It's because each situation is unique unto itself. I see golf courses with only 350 residences going under. I see others that are part of over 1,000 homesites having trouble surviving. There are hundreds of factors involved.

In my view, every person living in a golf course neighborhood - fairway views or not - must become resolved to keep the golf course forever alive.

So, how much will home prices be affected by a golf course closing? Information I have learned so far runs from $20 per foot to almost 40% of appraised value. For instance, when a popular golf course in Florida closed the residents reported an immediate $20.00 per square foot drop in home prices.     

In my experience, the decline in property values begins with the moment of uncertainty. I believe, if the golf course is the centerpiece of the neighborhood and rumors indicate it is struggling to stay afloat the HOA must step in immediately to begin its feasibility study.

There is probably no way out without a financial commitment from every property within the boundary of the golf course development.

I receive calls and emails every week from residents who are fearing the demise of their backyard fairways. They see themselves upside down on their mortgages, which has already happened several thousand times in (recent) ten years.

Do your own experiment; Try sitting on each side of the table. Be the seller. Then be the buyer:

You, as property seller, set your asking price after consultation with your real estate broker and put your house on the market. The real estate agent shows potential buyers how great life will be with beautiful views of the fairways beyond your backyard.

Now switch chairs and take the role as the potential buyer. Ask yourself, "How enthused are you to own that home if you learn that the beautiful fairways behind your yard could become an unsightly weed patch?"

Real estate agents will tell you, "Even the hint of the uncertainty of the future of the golf course can be a deal-killer!"

Start Now with Your Feasibility Group. Write: mike@golfmak.com, or call me, Mike Kahn: 941-739-3990.

I believe every golf course residential development homeowners association (HOA) needs to form a feasibility group (FG) immediately - even if your golf course is currently healthy. The FG should include a source of golf course expertise in the group to obtain the best grasp on all the issues and costs associated with keeping the golf course alive and well. The key is to gather the facts about the golf course as though it has already dropped its keys on your lap.  

Some truths may well be that the golf course cannot possibly survive. If the imminent failure of the golf course is determined then plans for 'life after golf' need to be explored.

Here's a hypothetical example:

A 36-hole golf course residential community of approximately 1,000 residences. The facility includes the two 18-hole championship golf courses, swimming pool, tennis courts, a health center, clubhouse with a dining room and bar, and the golf pro shop.

The development is located not far from another development, which also has a golf course. There are 68 golf courses listed within 20-miles of the subject. The population within 20-miles of the subject is over 2.2 million.

First. At 2.5 persons per residence, 1,000 homes equal 2,500, more or less, persons. The current golf participation rate in the USA from reliable sources, National Golf Foundation (NGF, ngf.org,), Pellucid Corp (pellucidcorp.com), is 8.8%. Applying 8.8% to 2,500 persons means there may be 220 hardcore golfers in the subject's neighborhood prepared to pay to play the two 18-hole golf courses. However, for these purposes, we'll raise the participation rate to 30%, because the golf courses were the 'lure' to attract golf-playing buyers. If so, 30% being golf players would provide the golf courses with 750 golf players - 375 per golf course.

25,000 people Per 18-Hole Golf Course (NGF)

Roll back 40-years when the National Golf Foundation published information about planning and building golf courses. Their recommendation suggested that it takes a population of 25,000 persons to support an 18-hole golf course. By that estimate, the subject 36-hole golf course needs a 50,000 population on its doorstep to support itself.

If the subject is available for public play, the population density appears strong enough to support the subject (2.2 million population divided by 68 golf courses equals over 32,000 per 18-holes - healthy according to traditional NGF guidelines).

One issue a feasibility group needs to learn is the true cost to operate a golf course.

So, what does it cost to operate 36-holes of golf, plus its supporting amenities?

Although there are some economic advantages by maintaining two golf courses out of one maintenance facility (I've managed 36-holes), I find it virtually impossible to maintain 36-holes to top-notch condition for less than $500 thousand per 18-holes ($1.5 million minimum total for the 36-holes).

Maintaining and staffing the clubhouse, swimming pool, tennis courts, fitness room, dining room and pro shop, plus G&A will run up to another $1 million (at least). Therefore, the bare minimum to continue to deliver a first rate golf course and its amenities is at least $2 million.

[I don't care who calculates or 'fudges' the numbers. I defy anyone to beat $2 million to fund 36-holes plus the amenities.]

On top of the minimum $2 million cost to operate 36-holes of golf, there's the contingency fund requirement, plus up to 20% annual capital outlay for golf course maintenance equipment replacement - every year thereafter.

If the homeowners in this subject want to assure the long-term future of their golf course and the 'integrity' of their neighborhood, they will need to start the process immediately. They need to be committed to providing the equivalent of the minimum funding to sustain the golf courses and amenities in perpetuity. Any agreement along those lines must include assessment mechanisms in case of unforeseen catastrophic events.

Based on the number of golf courses serving a 2.2 million population area, the each of the subject's 36-holes has over 32,000 population to draw from. Therefore, depending on normal economic factors, etc., The subject 36-hole golf course should be relatively buoyant. However, the long term future of the golf courses is not assured. Today's golf business 'economy' suggests that this is the time to plan a perpetual future - before it flips upside down!

Therefore, the 1,000 residential units in the development would need to commit to paying at least a token monthly/annual fee to guarantee the permanent future of their neighborhood. In return for their annual fees, they get to enjoy all clubhouse and amenity privileges.Only golf is extra.

The above-outlined strategy might be a little 'pie-in-the-sky.' With many community golf course failures looming, which will hurt property values, I view committing to some form of monthly dues as compulsory. It's an insurance policy upholding the value of each residence. In fact, by assuring the future it becomes attractive to future home buyers knowing they can rely on the value of their investment into their property. Plus the bonus is that they will enjoy permanent access to the club amenities. Only using the golf course becomes an optional choice.   

I don't see any other way to preserve golf course communities. I believe if the HOA can show its determination to create a solid 'forever' neighborhood - all in one piece - for many years to come, I believe the real estate community will confirm that property values will remain stable and even increase over time.

What are the roadblocks to gaining 100% support from golf course community residents for a permanent solution for the future of the golf course?

"I don't play golf and couldn't care less whether the golf course fails or not."

"I'm too old to be concerned about the value of my property - especially after I'm dead."

"I'm retired and on fixed income. I cannot afford to pay an additional $300 a year to support the golf course."

One of the HOA's tasks will be how to get the right message out to the community so they'll climb aboard.

Many golf course communities are in the middle of the same dilemma right now. Over 800 have already failed. Follow this link to a Bloomberg Article: More than 800 golf courses have closed over a decade. Now clubhouses are going up in flames.

I don't believe there are any experts in this particular area in the golf world because it's a new phenomenon. It's a predicament that few anticipated (except me, apparently).

Finally: Here's the link to a YouTube presentation anyone living in a golf course community needs to see: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KqScfxgYf7M

Mike. Call: 941-739-3990, or write: mike@golfmak.com   

See This: A Barrie Ontario Golf Course Business Community is on the Right Track to Grow the Game

If you care about the future of golf please view and pass this link on to anyone who wants to see golf as a perpetual healthy pastime: https://gao.ca/golfbarrie/growing-the-game-of-golf-video/.

The simple video confirms a statement by my associate, PGA Member, Bill McIntosh, Golf Specialists, Inc., who says, "Lowering prices is a race to the bottom!"

The only area I would adjust is to encourage potential new golfers to get onto the golf course sooner and then teach them how to play better. Get rid of the (old fashioned) PGA method of keeping new golfers off the golf course until the pro says, "You're ready." I'm betting the drop out rate is discouragingly high.

Remember. In 1959 people who had never played golf would rent a set of golf clubs and go out and whack the ball around. If they liked it they would want to learn more. I know because I was there. That's partly how golf grew for 20-years.

I predict that the Barrie Ontario plan will be successful.

BTW: Barrie, Ontario is a city on the west shore of Lake Simcoe just North of Toronto.

Watch the video here:   https://youtu.be/BVbmXuEycDk

Mike

• 941-739-3990

• mike@golfmak.com

Thanks to the many who have been passing my post on to others who want to see golf remain healthy.

With no disrespect of Golf's ‘movers and shakers’ who write about the golf industry, I see very little in their dialogue other than what’s going on inside the moat that keeps non-golfers out.

Then when they do reach out, they don't really reach out.

For instance, if golf promotes itself on the golf channel who are they talking to? I mean they’re advertising to a virtual zero audience. There probably isn't a single non-golfer watching the golf channel. How dumb is that? Meanwhile, according to the latest NGF statistic, 8.8% of all USA people play golf. Therefore, at least 91.2% of people watching a program like Family Guy do not play golf.

Wouldn't it make sense to promote golf where the 91.2% who don’t play golf hang out? 

I wrote a while ago, “What the Heck has Weather Got to Do with the State of the Golf Course Industry!” 

It was my response to a golf industry writers report on the weather effect on rounds of play for a specific period. It comes from my favorite golf industry watchdog, James Koppenhaver of Pellucid (https://www.pellucidcorp.com/). James is a reliable non-patronizing golf business information provider. However, to me, discussing weather while the ship is sinking is like telling the ship's violin player you're perturbed because he’s out of tune. 

I agree that weather had an influence on daily/weekly/annual rounds of play. After over 60-years in golf, I cannot argue that point. But the weather has little influence on how many people are ‘golfers.’ 

Anyway, the weather is an influence over which we have zero control. For instance, an upper New York golf course I was overseeing had an increase in rounds in 2016, but it was because there was no weather interference for the entire summer. By comparison, go back four years. The spring was so late the golf course didn't get going until June. It was a disaster year.

I do believe, however, that we had fewer golfers in 2016 than we had in 2012 because a few had died (or quit golf). When a golfer dies, we have one golfer less. So, the (current) logic is to ask the remaining still alive to play more often. They're being told to pick up the slack and fill the empty slots on the tee sheet left behind by the dead guys. 

Brilliant strategy.

That's essentially one of the pushes discussed (ludicrous, in my view). They're telling golfers they must play more frequently (or else!). In my experience, compelling a (family) person to play more than they currently do just ain't going to happen (it’s like commanding people to buy more new shoes, or the shoe store will fail). Anyone who thinks the solution to saving golf is to increase rounds played by the remaining golfers is dreaming. And even if they do add another two or three plays a year, it’s not going to put much of a dent in golf’s shortfall. Golf needs millions more rounds.

NEW GOLFERS will fill the gap.

BTW: Look at Topgolf – I believe it might be the hottest thing to happen in golf since the end of WWII! Watch this: http://topgolf.com/us/tampa/. If you can get your hands on a copy of the January 2017 edition of Golfweek, page 30 you'll see the impact Topgolf is having. Or try this link (http://www.mydigitalpublication.com/publication/?m=44663&l=1&p=&pn=#{"issue_id":375558,"page":"30"}), you may be looking at golf’s next boom. And they’re not going to tell people how to dress either.

We might run short of golf courses again!

Why do I know? Been there. Done that. Here’s my experience. It is true. 

I opened a golf center in Peterborough, Ontario, a city of 54,000 people, in 1963. We thought it would be an instant home run. However, our first year was a disaster because nobody in Peterborough played golf (outside two private clubs). Our golf center was going to die …. Unless …

I decided I would create my own golf customers by teaching people how to play golf. I set up class schedules and ran newspaper ads while snow was on the ground. I supplied everything – clubs, balls, teachers, etc. Classes were not free but I offered a no-hassle money-back satisfaction guarantee. Every class sold out (and sold out every spring for 25-years). BTW: The lessons were not free because participants needed to demonstrate to me that they could afford to play golf.

Golf is not free.

BOING!: My wake-up call was the lady who said, "I have a number one wood, but I don't have a driver!" 

What I realized was that many people who have never played golf know absolutely nothing about any part of the game. We, meaning we who have been around golf for years, too easily assume our everyday golf jargon is universally understood. That wake-up is why I changed my approach to teaching new golfers.

I did not start with the traditional grip and stance and swing. Instead, I explained a set of golf clubs. Then I showed them how to play a round in four hours or less. I stuck to the most basic rules. One area I emphasized was safety - like making sure you know where everybody is before you take a swing.

I told them they could start playing golf right away. Come out and buy a green fee, rent a set of clubs, buy some inexpensive used golf balls, and have fun on the golf course. I told them not to worry about how well they played, but to be sure to play safely and without delay. Keep in mind; my motivation was to create golf playing customers now (exactly what golf needs). 

Fast-forward a few short years: My empty golf course in 1964 became an absolute nuthouse by 1972. My parking lot was too small. I had hundreds of women, seniors, couples, all hacking around having a great time. Me. I was having fun too because the golf center became a cash box - I mean a money tree! 

The lesson here is about how valuable one new golfer is to the industry.

In 1975 I tracked new golfers by estimating their golf-related spending over five years. I estimated they contributed over $5 thousand bucks into the golf industry – equipment, accessories, clothing, green fees, memberships, golf lessons, golf holidays, etc. Fast-forward to 2017 make that $10 to $15K - maybe $20K. 

Here’s the question. 

Which is more beneficial to the golf course industry; An already-golfer playing three or four additional rounds a year, or a new golfer who will play more than ten rounds a year and needs everything - clubs, accessories, clothes, lessons, beer, etc.? It should not even be a debate?

BTW: Take a look at Village Links of Glen Ellyn (http://villagelinksgolf.com/) a municipally owned golf course just outside Chicago. It's the best operated public golf course in the country. It has never asked for a dime from taxpayers. Village Links contributes to its golf course neighborhood by continually growing the game.They invite and teach hundreds of brand new golfers each year with their ‘stable’ of PGA golf teachers teaching groups of men and women. Their children's program is fantastic.

If golf can gain new traction the right way, I believe we can stop hundreds of golf courses from failing. We gotta get the industry running like any business trying to grow. It requires a major shift in the way it's currently being done.

Unfortunately, the industry's influencers are golfers. That's a problem the game needs to overcome.

Mike

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/its-impossible-manage-several-golf-courses-from-1000-miles-kahn

Evaluating Golf Courses - Not Easy Published on January 13, 2017 Michael A (Mike) Kahn Michael A (Mike) Kahn Most Experienced Golf Course Business Authority

As readers of interest in this subject, please circulate this article to those you feel have an appropriate need to evaluate a golf course. What is a golf course worth? An important question for any golf course seller or buyer – and county assessors.

PRICE SWINGS: TWO GOLF COURSES AND $6.2 MILLION DIFFERENCE

I remember a conversation I had with a county assessor who asked me to help him make sense of two golf course sales transactions (in Tampa, Florida). Quite similar but they sold for two vastly different prices. One for $2.3 million, the other for $8.5 million – a $6.2 million dollar difference. The assessor was puzzled because the two golf courses appeared so much alike and located less than eight miles apart in the same county.

The two golf course sales transactions occurred only a few months apart. Both were 18-hole residential development type golf courses, with similar middle-class neighborhoods. They had similar size acreage, similar clubhouse sizes, grasses, irrigation, etc., etc.

There were differences in revenue and earnings between the two golf courses but not sufficient in the eyes of the assessor to warrant a $6.2 million dollar difference in price.

The lower priced golf course did not show as nicely (pretty) as the higher priced course (but the assessor did not physically see the properties). The lower priced golf course had a few deferred issues, but certainly not $6.2 million worth. However, the lower priced golf course had a valuable piece of developable acreage which could be developed based on its zoning – and very quickly.

So why did one sell for $6.2 million more than the other?

The truth was, a buyer was willing to pay $8.5 million for the higher priced golf course. The evaluation was a negotiated price between the seller and the buyer. The lower priced golf course at $2.3 million was a negotiated price between the seller and the buyer. That’s how golf courses have been trading – particularly over the past fifteen years. However, the unwary buyer who comes from outside the business is more likely to pay the $8.5 million than the savvy golf business buyer (more or less the ‘fell off the turnip truck’ theory).

GOLF COURSE VALUES IN THE 90s

Back when the golf courses were ‘profitable’ they were trading on multiples of net operating income (NOI) – often referred to as Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA). In 1995 a golf course with annual earnings of $500,000 may have traded for a multiple of 6 to 12 times EBITDA. The predators – mostly the experienced golf companies – aimed for the six multiple. An individual buyer who planned to be an owner-operator might pay up to a ten multiple because a couple of those multiples were going into his pocket as management anyway.

Annual rounds (attendance) were also a price-driving factor in the 90s. For instance, daily fee golf courses in Florida during the 90s became much more valuable when annual round counts rose above 50,000 over 18-holes. In 1995, for instance, it was more or less accepted that it required 35,000 annual rounds for a daily fee golf course to break even on cash flow. Therefore, a 50,000 round golf course was a money-maker.

I used to say, laughingly, that every time a crow flew over the first tee the owner would click his round counter.

WATCH OUT WHERE THE REVENUE IS GENERATED

I’ve said for many years that when food and beverage (F&B) makes up more than 15% of gross revenues, then it’s non-income in my view because very few golf course F&B operations earn more than 10%. In fact, most golf course food service loses money.

Same goes for merchandise sales. In my experience, pro shop merchandise seldom sends 25% of sales to the bottom line and often most of the profit is still sitting on the shelves.

The revenue to look at is income from green fees, member dues, cart fees, and range fees. In my view, an ideal revenue picture should show 80% of all income coming from fees. When the dust settles, as the golf course operator you should hope that 30% of all revenue, including merchandise and F&B, is profit.

I’m betting not 5% of golf courses in the USA can brag 30% earnings.

IF YOU'RE A BUYER AND A BANKER LIKES IT SO SHOULD YOU

Another factor that can more or less support a buyer’s comfort level in the valuation of a golf course is whether or not a financial institution (bank) will finance any portion of the purchase price. Based on what I was told by an executive with a major bank, a golf course loan was regarded as a business loan and not a real estate property loan – even though it was secured by the real estate asset. Therefore, the loan was primarily based on the ability of the business to repay the loan. In fact, I was involved in several successful golf course mortgage loan applications while working with Hayward and Associates, mortgage brokers in Tampa, Florida.

Actually, recently a golf course property in Florida was valued in two separate ways by the bank: One value was based on the golf course as a business, the second was the value of the property as pure, raw real estate land. The golf course as a business was worthless in the eyes of the banker. The land as an asset, which still retained most of its original property rights was actually attractive as a financeable collateral asset.

We know the banks were rather liberal in the 90’s. That’s partly why Bill Hayward, and I successfully financed several golf courses between 1994 and 2005. My job was to help the buyer (loan applicant) write the bank-required business plans. I prepared the Excel forecast statements showing one-year and five-year forecasts.

During the positive EBITDA/NOI times, bank loans were generously running sometimes greater than 80% loan to value (LTV) based on the purchase price. Rates were often over 10% - some as high as 14% - with 20-year amortizations. However, with solid earnings, many golf courses easily earning over $1/2 million, as long as annual debt service costs were forecast to be no more than 83.3% of EBITDA/NOI, the finance application was likely to be approved. In fact, in many cases, two or more banks competed for the loan business.

I indicated the buyer’s comfort (above) because if the bank, in their analysis was prepared to take the risk of over 80% on a golf course, the buyer might consider it an endorsement of the deal.

One thing that needs to be mentioned here is that lenders then and now will take a serious look at the borrower’s apparent ability to competently operate the golf course being financed.

In 2017 the rules have changed. Many golf courses are not showing profits and cannot be financed. Sellers are telling buyers that the earnings will return, but smarter buyers are saying they won’t pay now for tomorrow's profits. With the banks gone, the only golf course finance source may be the seller.

WHAT ABOUT APPRAISALS?

Appraising golf courses in 2017 the way they do residential and commercial appraisals are all but impossible to rely upon. Golf course appraisals are difficult to trust because the three standard methods of appraisal – replacement cost, comparable sales, income approach – cannot apply at a time when golf courses in recent years, for instance, have been trading well below replacement cost. Or the $6.2 million difference I referenced in the third paragraph. In fact, I estimate that 90% of golf courses selling in the past ten years were for a price less than it cost to create them. Attempting to evaluate a golf course based on comparable sales is simply baffling. Then, how do you value a golf course that loses money - especially if it sits on land with no other redeeming value?

MULTIPLES OF REVENUE?

Articles published about four years ago indicated that golf courses were trading on multiples of gross receipts – spread from .6 to 1.6 times gross revenues. They adopted that approach because there were no earnings (EBITDA) upon which to calculate the multiple. However, if the golf course land use is restricted to remain permanent open space, meaning no development rights, and the business was not earning a profit, how can it have any value?

In my experience, golf courses created after the early 1970s were probably permitted as permanent green space, which meant all other land rights were relinquished as the permitting condition. It means the land can only be a golf course or an open field. If the land is inside city limits it may not even be used for grazing or even general farming.

It has happened that a golf course seller could not even find a ‘taker’ who would accept the keys for nothing because all the golf course can ever be is a money-pit.

I warn a potential golf course buyer this, “If a golf course on your radar is a residential development golf course you could be imprisoning yourself into a perpetual money pit!” You'll need to clearly understand the CC&R docs as part of your diligence.

We help people evaluate golf courses. We are not certified appraisers. We bring combined 100-plus-years experience in the golf course business. We've had the experience of CC&R restrictions, bank battles, failing irrigation systems, mutating grasses, mole crickets, fire ants, cedar moths, washouts, declining membership rosters, and weather disasters. We know what to look for, and how to explain things. It all comes from intimate knowledge of every type of golf facility - in snow, or under palm trees.

I answer your calls: 941-739-3990, and all your emails: mike@golfmak.com

Mike

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How Clubhouses are Sucking the Financial Life out of Golf Courses21Comment5ShareShare How Clubhouses are Sucking the Financial Life out of Golf Courses1
Michael A (Mike) Kahn
Michael A (Mike) Kahn
Most Experienced Golf Course Business Authority

Pass this on if you feel your golf club can benefit.

Here are two 'generic' examples.

Golf Course Number 1 is in Missouri. Golf Course number 2 is in New York State. All numbers are rounded. Sorry, but I cannot name these examples. I'm only trying to make a point.

Both golf courses are quality 18-hole layouts with practice ranges. Each is semi-private offering daily green fees and carts. Golf course number 1 has a 3,500 square foot clubhouse with pro shop, grill room and cart storage underneath. Golf course number 2 has a 12,000 square foot clubhouse with cart storage and pro shop in two separate buildings. Properties are similar size (acreage).

Golf Course Number 1: A 3,500 square foot clubhouse and an 18-hole golf course in Missouri. Annual sales from all sources: $700,000. Net earnings after all expenses: $200,000.

Revenues
From golf activities, green fees, cart fees, range fees, membership: $500,000.
Clubhouse concession sales, burgers, beer, Titleists, etc.: $200,000
Expenses
Course maintenance expenses: $300,000
All other expenses: $200,000 (Cost of sales, Taxes, Payroll, Supplies, etc.)
Net operating income: $200,000
Golf Course Number 2: A 12,000 square foot clubhouse with an 18-hole golf course in New York State. Annual sales from all sources: $700,000. Net losses after all expenses: ($100,000).

2. Revenues

From golf activities, green fees, cart fees, range fees, membership: $500,000.
Clubhouse concession sales, burgers, beer, Titleists, etc.: $200,000
2. Expenses

Course maintenance expenses: $300,000
All other expenses: $500,000 (Cost of sales, Taxes, Payroll, Supplies, etc.)
Net operating income: ($100,000)
If golf course number 2 had only a 3,500 square foot clubhouse the $100,000 in losses would have reversed to become a $200,000 gain. Why?

The 12,000 clubhouse at golf course number 2 required more staffing, more heating and cooling, more daily maintenance, much higher taxes, larger inventory, more fuel to run the kitchen, coolers, freezers, utilities, G&A - on and on. In fact, the 8,500 additional square feet of clubhouse added over $300,000 in annual expenses to the operation compared to golf course number 1.

On any given day, golf course number 1 needs only one or two employees to sell green fees, serve burgers, and answer the phone. One a similar day, golf course number 2 needs a cart jockey, and a pro shop clerk in the pro shop. Then the main clubhouse needs a server and a kitchen cook. When the bar opens, add a bartender.

BTW: Bartenders and cooks command a much higher hourly wage than clerks and servers.

When the crew closes clubhouse number 1, they vacuum the floors, tidy the counters and tables, check the restrooms, and turn on the alarm and lock the doors. The crew in clubhouse number 2 will tidy their work areas, then a cleaning crew comes in to tend to the 8,500 square feet of wasted space (99% of the time).

I have been advising the principal of the NY golf course to level the huge clubhouse, probably at a cost of $150,000 to $200,000. I point out the annual tax saving of over $20,000 can justify the cost of demolition. I also point out he cost of a 3,500 properly designed clubhouse, which could run $1.5 million, can turn a $100,000 loss to a $200,000 profit justifies the project.

Anyway. Big beautiful golf course clubhouses. They are sucking the financial life out of golf courses. Time to get back to pure golf with a beer and a sandwich.

Mike

Golf Course Conversion to Housing

A Southern California real estate investment company has acquired the Carmel Highlands Golf Course in San Diego, Calif. with plans to develop a housing community on the site. The prior owner closed the course in March.

33North Development Group acquired 114 acres in the Rancho Penasquitos community. “We are excited to be the new owners of this property. As we proceed in our land use planning process, it’s crucial to take the time to understand the surrounding community and its unique characteristics,” said Max Frank, one of two partners behind 33North. “Respectful listening is a core principal of ours.  So, our initial steps will include connecting with the residents of the Rancho Peñasquitos community.”

The prior owner, which also owned the adjacent DoubleTree Resort and Spa, closed the property due to escalating operational costs, including $500,000 in water expenses. The course had been open since 1967 and had recently been managed by Troon Golf.  Two other courses have closed in San Diego County, the Escondido Country Golf Club and San Luis Rey Downs. Golf courses continue to be sold for other uses across the country. According to The National Golf Foundation, more courses have closed than opened in the U.S. for nine years straight. 

Source: Golf Inc. Magazine / August 4, 2016 / Jack Crittenden

Greens at Oakhurst

A billionaire convinced four gigantic names to design a championship course on rugged southern West Virginia terrain.  Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Gary Player and Lee Trevino, along with their associates, are combining on a golf course serving as the centerpiece of the Oakhurst development at The Greenbrier Sporting Club. The project evokes memories of the build-and-boom days of the late 1990s and early 2000s. Big names, big personalities, big scale, big goals.

Intense clearing of the land has started, and Greenbrier owner Jim Justice boasts the course will play 8,042 yards from the tips. Yes, 8-0-4-2. That number will peeve those who say long, difficult courses deter the masses from playing golf. The masses, though, won’t be playing this course. Oakhurst is a private development. Justice, a West Virginia gubernatorial candidate, speaks with the moxie of a politician when describing the reasoning for building a course that takes the equivalent of 40 average 3-wood shots to play. He wants to bring a U.S. Open to his part of the world.  “This thing will be pristine,” Justice says. “Not many courses are 8,000 yards, but we will be playing at 2,700 feet elevation. We need the extra length because of the way these kids hit the ball today. It will have the most unbelievable scenery, almost like infinity greens, where you can just see forever.”

Securing a U.S. Open is the most ambitious goal in golf course development. Only two courses in the last 50 years – Hazeltine National (Minn.) and Chambers Bay (Wash.) – hosted the U.S. Open less than 10 years after completion. Throw in the fact venues such as Oakmont, Pebble Beach, Pinehurst No. 2 and Shinnecock Hills are regular sites, and the odds of the U.S. Open landing in southern West Virginia are longer than what Lloyd Christmas faced in trying to score a date with Mary Swanson in “Dumb and Dumber.”

But personalities like Justice add spice to the industry. Since purchasing The Greenbrier in 2009, he has shown a willingness to invest in every aspect of the property, including golf operations. His golf-related coups include securing an annual PGA Tour event and getting Nicklaus, Palmer, Player and Trevino to work together.

Asked if four “Type A” personalities are each designing a few holes, Justice quickly quips five strong personalities are involved in Oakhurst. He then offers a glimpse into the backroom conversations involving Oakhurst. “I want to make them get in a room together and decide we are all in,” Justice says. “It’s hard to do. Really, really hard to do. Lee was the easy one. He said, ‘All I want our three par 3s that are dogleg right."

Trevino spends the most time at The Greenbrier. He serves as the resort’s golf pro emeritus, a role tailored for the affable six-time major champion. Trevino has the least design experience of the group because he says he enjoys dealing with people more than sketches and dirt. Getting all four legends together at the same time isn’t easy. Nicklaus and Player are world travelers, and Trevino says the 86-year-old Palmer “isn’t doing real well.” When the quartet discusses plans for Oakhurst, the conversations are animated.

“We go back and forth,” Trevino says. “We have a par 5 that’s damn near 700 yards long. But you have to understand it’s down the prevailing wind, it’s downhill and you are 3,000 feet above sea level. When somebody sees it, it’s, ‘Holy moly.’ But even if it’s on flat ground, it’s not too far for somebody like Dustin Johnson.”

The idea of building an 8,000-yard golf course doesn’t surprise Trevino, who points out the Nicklaus-designed Castle Pines (Colo.) Golf Club measured more than 7,500 yards when it opened in 1981. Castle Pines founder Jack Vickers is another energy baron with a zest for golf who brought a PGA Tour event to his property. The PGA Tour ended a 21-year run at Castle Pines after the 2006 season. Before a course’s ultimate yardage causes a stir, Trevino says topography must be considered. “You look at the par 3 up here,” Trevino says pointing to Oakhurst’s location. “You might look at it and say, ‘Oh, my god, that thing is 240. I can’t reach it.’ It’s really 180 with the altitude.”

Trevino adds yardages aren’t the biggest difference between the championship courses of different eras. “Let me tell you what has changed between my Tour and today … the mowing of the greens,” he says. “That’s the only thing that has changed. If you see a guy playing a golf course today and he’s hitting a 7 iron, we used to hit a 7 iron also. The reasons their scores are lower is because the greens are better.”

The greens at Oakhurst figure to be, well, pristine. Greenbrier director of golf course maintenance Kelly Shumate and his team are visiting courses and research facilities to determine what turf varieties best fit Oakhurst. The Greenbrier team already maintains The Old White TPC for the PGA Tour’s Greenbrier Classic and two grass practice fields for the New Orleans Saints. Justice is eyeing fall 2017 to open the course, although Trevino says spring 2018 is a more realistic target.   

Source: 13 June 2016 / Guy Cipriano GCI Associate Editor

ORLANDO, Fla. -- After 16 years, Champions Gate Golf Club at the Omni Orlando resort will get new greens.

The transformation to Champion Bermuda will begin with the International Course this summer, while the National Course is scheduled to get new greens in the summer of 2017.  Patrick Dill, director of golf, said the decision to go with Champion over other modern ultradwarfs like Tif-Eagle or Mini-Verde was based on how well Champion Bermuda does in the local climate.  "We went with it because it's a little more cold tolerant. It holds its color better, it really doesn't go dormant in the winter, and we don't have to overseed," Dill said. "If it does go off color, we can show it a little better with a little turf paint."

The two courses at the resort, which opened in 2000, host between 60,000 and 65,000 rounds a year, so durability was a key factor as well, Dill said. And the fact that Champion doesn't need to be overseeded means that there's no rough transition in the spring between cool-season grass on the greens and Bermuda.  Of course, it does mean that for a few weeks after June 1, there will only be 18-holes open, and the resort is expected to be as busy as ever this year.  "All you have to do to get business is schedule a renovation," Dill said, tongue in cheek.

The International Course is probably the better of the two courses at the Omni Orlando Champions Gate Resort. Designed in an Australian coastal links tradition, the course was the site of the annual Father-Son Challenge (featuring prominent tour pros and their sons) from 2003-2008 and has played host to numerous other high-profile professional and amateur events. The links style course is designed around scenic natural wetlands, and features long carries, deep pot bunkers, tall grass-topped dunes, and large undulating greens.

Conversely, the National Course was designed in the "Florida golf resort" style, weaving its way through the naturally rolling central Florida plains, and features mature Pine, Oak, and Cypress groves, spring fed lakes, bunker protected fairways and greens, as well as small, challenging putting surfaces. Some recent modifications were made the National Course because of nearby development. The old second and 18th hole were removed and replaced with a new par-3 10th and par-4 10th, changing the course from a par 72 to a par 71.

The National Course is located next to the new Champions Gate Country Club, which is not officially affiliated with the resort. The country club, which is scheduled to turn fully private once homebuilder Lennar sells enough homes, is currently open to the public. Its reasonable green fees have attracted many daily fee players, who are being exposed to the new development around the course. In 2015, the George Clifton-designed 7,058-yard course received more reviews than another other course in the country on GolfAdvisor.com, and readers gave it high marks.  Resort guests, of course, can play ChampionsGate Country Club, and it is expected to help take up some of the slack this summer while the International Course is closed.

One of the premier resorts in central Florida, Omni Orlando ChampionsGate is also home to the David Leadbetter Golf Academy, where many of the world's top players practice and train (the public is welcome, too). Located close to Disney World west of Orlando, the 720-room hotel is a AAA four-diamond experience, with world-class dining, rooms, suites, convention space and recreational activities that include a lazy river and a lighted par-3 course for after-dark casual golf or practice, available to resort guests.

Source: Mike Bailey  Senior Staff Writer / GolfAdvisor.com /  Feb 08, 2016

Golf Course Auction

The property is an established 18-hole course within the metro Birmingham area and considered an excellent investment opportunity with the potential for high return. The 247+/- acre property includes a 6,000+/- sq.ft. club house with banquet room, bar and pro shop, updated greens, updated irrigation and a one-of-a-kind aqua golf driving range.

Serious investors will want to act quickly on this unique and lucrative investment opportunity! The live auction is set for Thursday, February 18 at 3:00pm CST with registration starting at 2:00pm CST.

The auction will be held onsite at the property located at 2150 Cumberland Lake Drive Pinson, AL 35126.  See more details and to register for auction

For more information or to schedule a tour, interested parties should call 800-445-6597 / 800-445-65978.  Visit www.NationalAuctionGroup.com/

DeMor Hills Golf Course

18 hole, par 72, championship golf course on 160 acres. Opened 1962. Course features bunkers, water hazards, thick woods & large rolling greens. Clubhouse features full kitchen, dining room, patio, gazebo & separate venue area for leagues, event rentals & dining. Sale includes beer and wine license for Sunday sales.

Property includes large maintenance barn with heated workshop, offices plus member golf cart storage buildings. Course is well designed offering challenges for any skill level playing from 5044-6035 yards. Selling turn-key with yearly memberships, golf leagues, golf carts, lawn tractors and equipment. Sales includes 3-bedroom home on-site.

Terms and Conditions Bidder Registration:

All prospective bidders must register to bid. Terms: A $25,000 cashier’s check or personal check is required for day of auction Please make the Cashier’s Check payable to yourself. Closing: Closing within 30 days of auction.

Documents Available: Bidder’s Information packets will be available on auction day. Requirements of successful bidder: 10% Buyer’s Premium will be added to the final bid to establish the final sales price. The successful high bidder will be required to sign a Real Estate Purchase Agreement immediately upon conclusion of the bidding.

Title & Taxes: Title will be supplied by seller at seller’s expense giving marketable title subject to restrictions of record. Taxes pro-rated per local method.

Brokers: Participation invited. Broker/Agent must register client 48 hours prior to auction.  Call for complete registration forms & guidelines. Agency: Auctioneer and its agents are sellers’ agents. Disclaimer: Announcements made day of auction take precedence over printed materials.

All information in this brochure was derived from sources believed to be correct but not guaranteed. All property dimensions are only approximations. Buyers shall rely entirely on their own judgment and inspections of property records. Any other terms and conditions will be announced day of auction and take precedence over printed materials.

Video

Enjoy a well produced 3 minute video of the course course and its surrondings. 

Contact:

Email:  beth@bethroseauction.com
Office:  877-696-7653

Golf Course to be offered at Auction Saturday 10 October 2015 @ 11:00 AM  / Open House: Saturday 26 September from 12:00 noon to 3:00 PM

What was Once Old is Now New

Previous hesitations have lessened and owners are more likely to move forward with renovation projects in the coming months, possibly due to interest rates reaching near record lows. Long-term sustainability efforts are within financial reach and have prompted owners and managers to improve the play-ability of their facilities.  "Our members are very busy with renovations right now,” ASGCA President Steve Smyers said in a news release. “Clubs are taking advantage of new technology and the knowledge ASGCA members bring to address areas like turf-grass removal, forward tees, bunker removal and smart water usage, leading to greater efficiency all over the course.”

National Golf Foundation

National Golf Foundation and Sirius Golf Advisors released a report on the matter. The study detailed positive economic impact of renovation projects at public courses in Dallas area. Eight courses underwent major renovations for an average of $5 million. On average, annual revenue increased from $939,000 prior to renovation to $1.6 million in the first year of reopening, the study says.   Small-scale renovations, those costing about $445,000, increased annual revenue by $1.1 million to $1.5 million on average.

This trend was evident in Golf Inc. Magazine’s Renovation of the Year competition.  Of the 22 entries the magazine received, only a single project cost under $1 million. All winning projects had a budget upwards of $1 million.  In the past, Golf Inc. has separated honorees into categories of projects exceeding $1 million in costs and those under $1 million. This year, Golf Inc. separated honorees by two categories: public and private. '

Forest Richardson Thinks

Golf course architect and 5-time judge Forrest Richardson thinks inexpensive renovations still exist but speculates they may just not be entering these kinds of competitions due to smaller scope of projects. But there may be another explanation.  “It does seem that more work is now being funded because courses have simply run out of time to keep deferring,” Richardson said. “It’s now or never. Either you’re in golf business, or not.” 

Neal Meagher Thinks

Golf course architect and judge Neal Meagher thinks post-recession economy may be the cause.  “Some industry professionals believe that the large amounts being spent to thoroughly remake some private courses are not solely a function of access to easier borrowing, although that is a part of it, but in the case of the clubs at the very high end, it also stems from their response to the recent recession,” Meagher said. 

In the competition’s 11-year history, President and Editor in Chief Jack Crittenden had yet to see such a lavish crop of entries.  “It’s quite rare to have all but one entry come in at costs over $1 million,” Crittenden said. “Regardless of cost, all honorees produced stunning renovations that make you want to grab your clubs and play a round. At the end of the day, that’s what it is all about.” 

Source: Golf Inc Magazine / July 31, 2015 / Laira Martin

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Casa de Campo Resort

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC -- Casa de Campo, the 7,000-acre luxury resort and golf destination in La Romana, Dominican Republic, announces the development of a new driving range and golf practice facility. Scheduled to open in November 2015, the 25-acre facility will replace the current driving range, and make its official debut on-par with the Dominican golf season - perfectly timed as Casa de Campo's famed golf courses reopen after undergoing seasonal maintenance in October, in addition to the much-anticipated Latin America Amateur Championship (LAAC), scheduled for January 2016.

Designed by golf mastermind Pete Dye, and his son, P.B. Dye, the space will feature 48,000 square feet of teeing room, 13 target areas, and a 400 yard driving range - allowing for more golfers to improve their game at a variety of distances. Located just south of the 10th and 11th holes of the legendary Teeth of the Dog course, the new golf facility will include a dedicated, short-game practice area with pristine bunkers, challenging grass mounds, and unforgiving depressions will be designed to simulate true course play on all three exemplary courses at Casa de Campo. In addition, the putting green will be planted with fresh Paspalum grass, the same type of grass found on the courses - allowing for continued consistency from practice to play.

The new golf facility will also serve as home to Casa de Campo's legendary Jim McLean Golf School. Under the leadership and expertise of resident Director of Instruction, Eric Lillibridge, the Jim McLean Golf School will continue to provide players of all levels with the opportunity to improve their golf game through individual and group instruction.

Casa de Campo - a member of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts Legend Collection and The Leading Hotels of the World - attracts financial moguls, politicos and Hollywood's elite with the offering of spacious hotel rooms, suites and extravagant villas. Additional draws include five-star dining at The Beach Club by Le Cirque, a 370-slip Marina & Yacht Club, Polo & Equestrian Club, La Terraza Tennis Center and 245-acre Shooting Club. Spanning 7,000 tropical acres on the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic, the world-class destination is also home to three Pete Dye-designed golf courses, including famed Teeth of the Dog, in addition to Altos de Chavon - an artisan's village modeled after a 16th century Mediterranean city with boutique shops, museums and a 5,000-seat Grecian-style amphitheater inaugurated by Frank Sinatra in August of 1982.

For ease of arrival, the Casa de Campo La Romana International Airport (LRM) is five minutes from check-in and serviced by JetBlue Airways (with direct routes from JFK three times a week) and American Airlines (daily non-stop service from South Florida). A short drive away, Santo Domingo International Airport (SDQ) and Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) operate daily with direct flights from all major U.S. airports.

For more information on Casa de Campo or to make reservations, call 1-800-877-36431-800-877-3643 FREE FREE or visit www.casadecampo.com.do

Source:  Golf News / July 28, 2015

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Space Age Golf Carts

"Blinging out your golf cart used to mean commissioning a personalized paint job or installing a stereo in the dash. Not anymore. Today's bespoke carts, complete with aerodynamic wings, iPad holsters and sticker prices approaching six figures, are unabashed showpieces that have attracted A-list owners like Will Smith and Adam Sandler. Here are a few of the coolest, and costliest, carts on the road -- and path."  Read More . . . .

Source: Brendan Mohler / Golf.com

Trump International Golf Club 

Trump does not own or develop the Trump International Golf Club in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico. The golf course and resort uses the Trump name for a fee via a licensing agreement. The club filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy under its original name, the Coco Beach Golf and Country Club.

It owes more than $78 million, but has only about $9 million in assets, according to bankruptcy court filing. More than 40% of the company's debt, $32.6 million, is due to creditors with secured claims, meaning they can claim some of the club's assets if their loans aren't repaid.  A statement from Eric Trump, a vice president at The Trump Organization, said the resort also owes Trump money.   "The owner and developer of the Trump International Golf Club in Puerto Rico has, for many months, been in default of its obligations to Trump due to their company's financial constraints and a difficult business climate in Puerto Rico," the statement reads. "The Trump Organization continues to have a great relationship and incredible respect for the developer and its principals."  It's unclear how much is owed to Trump, but the bankruptcy filings list says the resort has more than 100 creditors, and Trump is not listed among the top 20.

Donald Trump has been in news headlines since launching his campaign for president in June. At campaign launch, he touted his wealth saying he's worth more than $8.7 billion.  The partnership he has with the Puerto Rico golf club is one of his "Trump Branded Projects." In press releases about other branding deals, the Trump Organization has said the projects "represent the highest level of excellence and luxury" and "continue to raise the bar of superior luxurious living."  The

Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing indicates the golf resort plans to reorganize its business and pay creditors back over time.

Source: CNN Money / NYC 13 July 2015

Decline of Golf and Surplus Courses

Can surplus golf course land be re-purposed in a way that helps give our suburbs a stronger sense of place, that contributes non-sprawling infill development and, at the same time, better-ordered public green space and ecological services? A few signs are starting to point in that direction.  Read Special Report from Huffington Post

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Convert Golf Courses to Other Uses

For more than a decade, Salt Lake City has struggled to keep its golf courses afloat. The greens are losing money and city leaders say they have no choice but to shut some down.   “There are fewer golfers and more courses. It’s an expensive sport to get started in. It’s hard to get good at it.” ~Kyle LaMalfa, Salt Lake City Councilman.  Read more . . .

Glendale Golf Course Closing?

A bond in Salt Lake City is on the fast-track in hopes of making it on the November ballot.  "The General Operations" bond will allow the city to update or re-purpose open areas, like parks, golf courses and trails.  With 160 acres of land at their disposal in Glendale, city leaders are taking a swing at new recreational opportunities.  “We can have nature areas. We can have rugby fields. We can have cricket. We can have camping,” LaMalfa said.  See Video . . .

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You've got the Right

Golf courses worldwide have been making a concerted effort to reduce the use of water for years. Many of these voluntary actions had both the environment and budget in mind. In the Western United States, however, where drought conditions have reached dangerous and historic levels, mandatory restrictions have become the norm.

		In April of this year, California governor Jerry Brown issued Executive Order B-29-15 - ordering the State Water Resources Control Board to impose restrictions to achieve a 25 percent reduction in potable water use statewide, and to impose restrictions on commercial, industrial and institutional properties such as campuses, golf courses and cemeteries, to implement water efficiency measures to reduce potable water use in an amount consistent with the 25 percent statewide reduction.

According to Kathryn D. Horning of Allen Matkins law firm, the governor left it up to the State Water Board to determine the precise nature of the regulations. The Board adopted drought emergency regulations that went into effect May 18 and remain in effect for 270 days, unless renewed.  The emergency regulations target three different groups, urban water suppliers (water suppliers who serve more than 3,000 customers or supply more than 3,000 acre-feet of water annually), smaller water suppliers, and end users, which is where golf courses come into play.

“For end users, the State Water Board imposed a variety of use restrictions, such as prohibiting irrigation runoff and washing down driveways and sidewalks,” Horning explained. “Included among these is a restriction on commercial, industrial and institutional properties that use a water supply, any portion of which is not from an urban water supplier or a smaller distributor.  An example here would be a golf course with its own well.  Such properties must either limit outdoor irrigation with potable water to no more than two days per week, or reduce the amount of potable water usage that is not obtained from a water supplier by 25 percent.”

The two-day watering law for golf courses in California is far from black and white.  “The emergency regulations only pertain to potable water use,” Horning said. “Many golf courses use recycled or reclaimed water that is not considered potable. The emergency regulations would not apply to these properties.  “Additionally, if a golf course is supplied by an urban water supplier, it is up to the supplier to determine its own restrictions,” she added. “Many, but not all, suppliers have imposed two-day-per-week limitations. Others are imposing individual percent cutback requirements, or providing an allowance with much higher fees for increased use. And if water is supplied by a smaller supplier or the water is self-supplied, the supplier has the option of cutting back to two days per week or a 25 percent reduction.”

Washington State University has been dealing with water rights at its Pullman campus, also location of the university owned Palouse Ridge Golf Course which has one integrated water system serving the entire grounds, according to attorney Sarah E. Mack from the Seattle-based law firm of Tupper Mack Wells.  The system is supplied by multiple groundwater wells and water rights, some dating back to 1930s, in the Palouse Basin, where declining water levels in the aquifer have been observed for some time.  WSU voluntarily reduced its groundwater pumping and implemented a rigorous conservation program about 25 years ago. And, during the 2000s, the school began planning for expansion and modernization of its old nine-hole golf course, now Palouse Ridge. 

		“At around the same time, the Washington legislature amended the water code to allow municipal water suppliers greater flexibility in how they use their water rights,” Mack said. “That legislation was controversial; some environmentalists and Native American tribes objected to what they believe is an unwarranted expansion of ‘municipal’ water purveyors. WSU took advantage of the new law to obtain authorization from State Department of Ecology to consolidate its pumping in two modern wells (each of which has the capacity to supply the entire campus in case the other well has to be shut down), and to have all its water rights reflect that they are for ‘municipal’ water supply purposes.

“Although this water right change was unrelated to the Palouse Ridge Golf Course project, people opposed to using land for the golf course expansion joined forces with people opposed to the new municipal water law, and the university was embroiled in litigation over its water rights from 2006 to 2015,” she added. “This spring, the Washington Supreme Court finally ruled in favor of Washington State University.”

Can a course be guaranteed access to water? It depends on the water source and who supplies the water, according to Mack.  “In most western states, if you hold a ‘senior’ (older) water right you are entitled to use water ahead of people who obtained their water rights after you did,” she said. “But that does not guarantee that water will be available; it just guarantees your place in line.

“If you rely on groundwater and your well runs dry, you have to deepen your well. If you rely on surface water and the stream runs dry, you may be out of luck,” Mack added. “If you receive water under contract from a municipal system, irrigation district or reclamation district, usually those contracts will guarantee water deliveries only if adequate supply is available.”  Robert Good, senior vice president hydrogeologist at Leggette, Brashears & Graham, of Farmington, Conn., said access to water is regulated differently across the country, but for the most part access or usage is permissible up to certain threshold volumes.

“Water withdrawal above state-specific threshold volumes may require the user to register withdrawal with state agency.” Good said. “In some states, users must also obtain a permit from the state agency for withdrawal over the threshold volume, which considers such items as impacts to existing permitted uses, impacts to local surface water and groundwater resources, water conservation and project justification. So in most instances you could say that access is guaranteed, i.e., a property owner has the right to develop reasonable water resources on their property.

“Higher amounts of withdrawal may also be guaranteed with a registration or permit, provided you can demonstrate there are no associated negative impacts,” he added. “If your withdrawal interferes with other users or resources you may be denied access.”  Horning said California water rights are generally considered cognizable property rights, and also are based on a priority system, with senior rights holders taking priority over junior rights holders.

“Those whose rights are more junior will be cut back before those with senior rights,” she said. “However, all water use is limited by Article X, section 2 of the California Constitution to ‘reasonable and beneficial use.’ In the past, water use by holders of the most senior rights were never really questioned, but the State Water Board has become much more active in investigating all water use, and declaring certain uses not to be reasonable or beneficial regardless of seniority. 

“Also, what may be reasonable and beneficial at one point in time, may not be reasonable and beneficial at other times, such as in drought conditions when supplies are limited,” Horning added. “The concept of reasonable and beneficial use in a time of drought is one of the main bases for the emergency regulations, and affects both those who directly hold water rights, and those who receive water from a supplier based on a contract or agreement. The concept of who has rights to water and who may be limited has become very controversial.”

A course with a contract guaranteeing access to water may not be in any better position than one with nothing in writing. Regardless of any contract in place, Mack said the “guarantee” is only as good as the amount of water the supplier can deliver.  “Drought is a classic example of a condition that’s beyond the control of the water supplier which would probably excuse it from any contractual obligation to deliver water,” she said.

 
Mack added that over the last few years large water suppliers, dependent on federal permits or federal water projects, in several western states have had their supplies curtailed in order to protect endangered species. Also, drought conditions can lead to water curtailment - a town, irrigation district, or property owner with “junior” water rights would be forced to curtail use in order to protect “senior” water rights.

For Kurt Vogel, general manager of Yolo Fliers Club in Woodland, Calif., working out of three wells has been sufficient, but the club will likely cut their gallons of water used in half compared to 2013 numbers. A member-owned private golf club that was established in 1919, the Yolo Fliers Club used approximately 40 million gallons of water in 2013, but is looking at more like 20 million gallons this year.  “Right now we are all attempting to satisfy the governor’s 30 percent cutback request,” Vogel said. “We only irrigate the golf course during the months of March through September.”  The Yolo Fliers Club maintenance staff has gotten creative in an effort to lower water usage.

“We have removed certain out-of-play areas from the grassy areas that are normally irrigated and maintained,” Vogel said. “Our course covers 110 acres. We have probably eliminated 10-20 acres of irrigated turf at this time and will only attempt to keep them alive. These areas may become pretty unsightly but are really not in the playable areas of the course.”  Considering the myriad course designs and the vastly different regions in which they’re located, there really is no way of even “ball-parking” an estimate on typical water usage.

“Transpiration rates vary tremendously across the country, as does the acreage of irrigated greens, fairways and rough, soil conditions, and the types of grasses and their water needs. Other use factors include superintendent application rates and members expectations. In the northeast, a typical 18-hole golf course that includes approximately 60 acres of irrigated turf has a maximum daily water demand of approximately 300,000 to 350,000 gallons per day,” Good said, noting this is significantly above most permit threshold values. “Remember that irrigation water usage in most of the country is seasonal, occurring during the growing season. In the northeast this typically lasts from mid-April to mid-October; approximately 180 days.

So the average daily water demand is significantly less, on the order of 100,000 gpd. But note again, regulations typically consider maximum capacities and daily demands, although I am aware of a few states that consider average daily or total monthly usage.”  Whether water for irrigation is plentiful or not, the industry as a whole continues searching for better ways to keep turf grass alive and healthy. While the desire is there, much work lies ahead.

“Many courses are looking for ways to water with recycled or reclaimed water rather than potable water, but the main issue is whether infrastructure is available to bring recycled water to the course,” Horning said. “Some are exploring whether groundwater is available, especially if the groundwater is not drinkable and could be used for irrigation. Some courses are replacing turf with drought-resistant or native plants, installing smart watering systems, lining lakes and letting certain areas go brown.”

Mack suggests putting in thought and planning now to successfully navigate uncertain future. “Be proactive about anticipating and adapting to possible water scarcity,” she said. “From turf to technology, there’s so much innovation in the golf course industry; embrace it. If you continually improve your water use efficiency, you will improve your ability to adjust to climate change.”

Source: Rob Thomas GCI contributor / 6 July 2015

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The Ocean Course at Kiawah

Rated the number 4 Public Golf Course in USA / Ranked 25^th by Golf Digest as one of the 100 Greatest USA Golf Courses.  The Ocean Course hosted the 2007 Senior PGA and the 2012 PGA Championships.   Read More

Turtle Point Golf Course

Rated 48th on Golf Digest's List of 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses.  Turtle Point is a low-profile golf course that delivers a high caliber golfing experience. Read More

Osprey Point Golf Course

Osprey Point features a world-class layout.  It has a large, elegant clubhouse available for after-round libations and dining as well as wedding receptions and special events. Read More

Oak Point Golf Course

With its undulating fairways and challenging greens, the Clyde Johnston-designed Oak Point Golf Course is built for shotmakers, where strategy and a thinking approach will be rewarded over pure power. Read More

Cougar Point Golf Course

Recently rated the "Golf Course of The Year" by the South Carolina Golf Course Owners Association.  Read More

Golf Course Green Tarping

Winter kill of cold and moisture sensitive grasses on greens and tees has become a growing problem as
drought conditions throughout the upper Midwest and East, coupled with erratic temperature changes have
left course superintendents running for cover.  
 
The question is no longer whether covers work, but which ones work best. The process of selecting the
right cover has largely been one of trial and error with an emphasis on both, trial and error.  Mistakes can prove costly when greens must be rebuilt forcing club members to play temporary greens.   The GreenJacket® system has been used for several years and has proven a good, partial solution.  See Video of Tarping Procedure.

GreenJacket® says its products are as necessary as Mother Nature is not forgiving during the winter months. Snow and ice damage are always a major concern for golf course owners. Most of the firm's products are installed from mid to late November when cold weather settles in. 

Turf Cover Firms

Hinspergers - developed a unique and patented product for the Turf Industry.  Since then the evolution of the Evergreen cover has been sold worldwide to golf courses, athletic fields, tennis courts, sod farms, horse tracks and all other areas using recreation turf.

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Steve Potter knows he has to be vigilant at the beginning of the season. His course, Woodholme Country Club in Pikesville, Md., is one of the scouting points for one of the most obnoxious pests in golf: the annual bluegrass weevil.  Potter works with Weevil Trak, a Syngenta program that keeps tabs on the progress of annual bluegrass weevils. Superintendents can check to see how many pests of each stage monitor courses like Woodholme are seeing and prepare applications more effectively.

“I’ve been watching the program since day one,” says Potter. “I was always interested in it, because these little critters can make bentgrass look pretty ugly.”  He registered as a monitoring site in 2009, after keeping up with his own pests using Weevil Trak since the program launched. One of the major reasons his course hasn’t seen as much weevil damage as some is that he’s known when weevils are likely to show up and “we’ve been ready for it to come south before it’s a big problem,” he says.

In his nursery, he’s got an area where he and his assistants check regularly for weevils, alongside Sam Camuso, turf, landscape and consumer territory manager for Syngenta. The section is treated the same as the surrounding course, so annual bluegrass weevil has an equal chance of showing up.
 
“It’s kind of an ideal site, because it gets treated like the golf course, so I keep it there and everything’s constant from year to year,” he says. “We usually start scouting about late March.”  After scouting for the pests, Potter’s assistant keeps track of what he finds on a spreadsheet that gets sent back to Camuso. Camuso will also head out to the course to assist in keeping an eye out and to help train in scouting techniques. As the season has started up, they send samples back weekly as well so tracking information from the course is as accurate as possible. They tie that information to growing degree days to get a better sense of the bugs’ behavior.

“We really want to get a handle on this thing,” says Potter. “Sam sees them every day. We can pick out 20 adults in a flush, and he can usually find four or five more. And the larvae, he’s training us to look for the things because they’re just not much bigger than the head of a pin. We want to try to do everything we can correctly so we can get the best data.”  Despite the best attempts to lock down weevils on the course, it can be almost impossible to control them completely, and even a strong program can misfire if their behavior changes from year to year. Shifts in weather sends weevils to cover, or an extended warm streak early in the season prompts a long egg-laying season.

“It just seems to be an extremely adaptable insect, which explains why it can march its way across the country like it does,” says Potter. But scouting, watching other courses and using a program like Weevil Trak can help keep a course equipped to handle the onslaught, he says. Insecticides can be effective, but only if they’re applied at the appropriate time. Put down an application when the weather is changing, and you might get control of a few other pests – but the annual bluegrass weevil could outlast it.

 “The problem is that the insecticides we have right now, they don’t last a week,” says Potter. “So your adulticide, when you apply it, you either hit them or you didn’t hit them. The timing’s everything.”  And unlike some turf disease, weevils don’t just cause stress to the turf.  “I need to present the optimum product to the membership,” says Potter. “and they don’t just make a little spot on the turf, like if you miss a disease. If you miss these guys, you can have acres of turf with stress and trouble, and that’s hard to come back from in the middle of the summer.”

Scouting also means wasting less money in missed applications, where a mistake means not only fighting for pest control but also cleaning up after the damage. Getting ahead of the threat gets better control overall, and it’s more responsible for turf health over the summer as well.   “We’re really very happy, glad they do the program,” Potter says. “And that control’s why I was anxious to be a part of it. Superintendents are doing so much with IPM right now – what’s more IPM than doing all your scouting first?”

Source: Kyle Brown / Golf Course Industry.com / Pest Practices by Syngenta

The Answer

For some communities, the result has been a shrinking inventory of undeveloped land and a declining market of viable golf courses. Now that the economy is showing glimpses of recovery, many developers are looking at former, now fallow golf courses as potential sites for new development.

However, golf courses carry with them a unique and complex history, making their conversion and development a trap for those unaware of or unprepared for the myriad of land use, environmental, liability and public relations issues that certainly lie ahead. Here's what your company should know when developing one of these projects.

Land Use Issues

In most communities, golf courses are zoned as commercial, recreational or green, open or park space. The development of these spaces into a residential use requires a rezoning of the land. This carries with it the typical land use change obstacles of neighbourhood opposition, reassessment of impacts and compatibility analysis. A conversion of a golf course, however, carries with it an extra layer of angst.

Many developments were created with a golf course center-piece, and many lots were sold with boasts of golf-course views. Neighbours will feel a sense of possessiveness toward the golf course as if its continued existence is a matter of right. Some local governments have even carried that concept into law, creating substantial burdens and restrictions upon those seeking to convert a golf course.

So what is a developer to do? A growing number of golf courses have succumbed to the bad economy of the last few years. Many of those courses have been abandoned, left to sit fallow. Neighbours accustomed to pristine views of well-manicured fairways now stare at weeds, pests and rodents. If choosing between a pristine golf course and a new residential development, who would not want the course? But when those choices are an eyesore and a new residential development, in many cases the balance shifts. While still not an easy road, today’s economic climate may at least result in a developers’ plan being objectively considered.

Environmental Issues

Perhaps the single most intimidating issue for those contemplating the conversion of a golf course is the environmental issue. With histories of arsenic and pesticide applications, and the health hazards associated with both, golf course conversions should be approached with environmental caution.

Caution should first be exercised in the due diligence phase. Keep in mind that most environmental laws impose liability for contamination on anyone in the chain of title. Therefore, it is important to know what the environmental condition of the property is before you buy it.

Second, many jurisdictions impose a duty to report contamination on the owner or operator of a property. As a prospective purchaser, it is unlikely that you would be considered either. As such, you have a limited look-see opportunity before you find yourself not only in the chain of title but with a corresponding duty to report.  If contamination is found, potential liability must be analyzed not just for the assessment and any required remediation of the contamination, but also for potential liability to residential home buyers, users of the amenities, and potentially to adjacent land owners whose property may be affected by any contamination originating from the golf course.

But there is some good news. Advanced soil management techniques including soil blending and capping, risk-based tools to address soil and groundwater contamination and a myriad of institutional controls which may include deed restrictions to reduce or prevent human exposure to the contaminants can all be used not only to address but even resolve the contamination. In many instances, the use of these tools can result in the property receiving the environmental equivalent of a clean bill of health. It is imperative, however, to find environmental, engineering and construction professionals knowledgeable about and experienced in golf course projects to maximize your chances of success and minimize the costs associated with achieving that success.

Construction Costs

When pricing golf course conversion projects, it is important to consider and budget for non-traditional items such as additional public zoning hearings, disposal costs for any contaminated soils required to be removed, additional clean fill if needed to cover or cap remaining contaminated soils, specialized dewatering in the event of contaminated groundwater, and the professional fees associated with managing the increased land use and environmental compliance issues.  The good news is these projects are typically on prized pieces of land and in high-demand areas. Even with the increased costs associated with golf course concerns, many developers find the success of these projects to be worth the cost.

Public Relations

Don’t be caught flat-footed on the public relations front.  There are very bad words to be associated with new residential development, including “arsenic,” “pesticides” and “cancer.” You must, therefore, manage the process. This starts by knowing the condition of the property before you begin. Hire strong and experienced compliance professionals, make sure regulators and public officials are kept in the loop and keep neighbours informed. Remember, the continued use of the property as a golf course means the continued legal application of pesticides and herbicides. To convert the golf course into a new use stops that practice.

Gaining the Advantage

Overcoming common golf course obstacles takes preparation along with the right tools and the guidance of experienced professionals.  A successful conversion is dependent upon identifying the traps so they can be avoided. As more developers consider golf courses as targets for new development, the issues that can be the downfall for the unwary can give the knowledgeable developer a significant advantage.

Source:  Dawn M. Meyers is a partner with Berger Singerman LLP and manager of the firm’s government and regulatory team, concentrating her practice in the areas of government contracting, airport and port regulations, environmental and land use law, administrative law, and general governmental regulation. / Construction Today.com

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Founders Group International (FGI)

FGI acquired 12 golf courses from National Golf Management for a reported $19.2 million in late April, the Horry Independent reported. A few days prior it had announced the purchase of Traditional Golf Club in Pawleys Island and Wild Wing Plantation near Myrtle Beach. Both had been owned by different investor groups and managed by National Golf Management.  FGI had acquired seven other courses in the prior eight months, including three from Classic Golf Group in October for $11 million. 

Chinese investor, Dan Liu and New Yorker Nick Dou are primary owners of Yiqian Funding, Founders Group International’s parent company. Dou will serve as president of Founders Group International, and day-to-day management responsibilities will be spread among key executives for the organization. No changes to staffing at individual facilities are planned at this time.  “Not long after their first golf purchase in the Myrtle Beach area in 2014, our board has been in touch with FGI, forming a closer relationship when we agreed to the sale of Aberdeen to them,” said Bob Mauragas, president of National Golf Management, now known as Strand Golf Management.

“Throughout this relationship, we've been very impressed, not only with their enthusiasm for golf in this market, but also with their willingness to invest significant capital in our community. Because of this, as well as a commitment to retain our team members, we decided that this was a great opportunity for our area and our parent companies.”  The courses acquired in the latest acquisition are: Grande Dunes Resort Course, King's North at Myrtle Beach National, Litchfield Country Club, Myrtlewood, Palmetto, Myrtlewood Pinehills, Pawley's Plantation, Pine Lakes Country Club, River Club, South Creek at Myrtle Beach National, The Long Bay Club, West Course at Myrtle Beach National and Willbrook Plantation.

The company’s previously acquired courses are: Aberdeen, Burning Ridge, Colonial Charters, Founders Club, Indian Wells, River Hills, TPC Myrtle Beach, Tradition Club Wild Wing and World Tour.  The acquisition also includes National Golf Management’s call center known as “Tee Time Central,” its golf package operations known as “Ambassador Golf” and “Myrtle Beach Golf Trips,” the most visited golf-related websites in Myrtle Beach including www.mbn.com/  www.myrtlebeachgolftrips.com   / www.myrtlebeachtrips.com  /  www.mbgolfinsider.com  and National Golf Management’s local membership program known as “Prime Times.” 

“We are incredibly excited about this acquisition,” Dou said. “Not only does it add 12 great golf courses to our portfolio, it adds a marketing engine, call center and high traffic websites that will help drive rounds and revenue. We now have a diverse and experienced management team made up of skilled golf industry veterans to help us continue our success into the future. We have made a substantial investment in the Myrtle Beach community and look forward to a bright future here.”

As a result of the sale, National Golf Management is re-branding itself as Strand Golf Management. Strand Golf Management has retained National Golf Management’s board of directors. It will manage Arcadian Shores Golf Course and Waterway Hills Golf Links, two Myrtle Beach-area courses that the company previously operated. It is also managing Blackmoor Golf Club until the course’s management contract expires at the end of June, when further plans will be decided. Farmstead Golf Links and Meadowlands Golf Club will be self managed reported Sun News.

Founders Group International is now the largest owner/operator of golf courses and clubs in Myrtle Beach and one of the largest employers in the area. It is partnering with Chinese travel agencies to bring more golfers to the area. Both Liu and Dou plan to live in the Myrtle Beach area.

Source:  Golf Course Magazine.com / Laira Martin /May 7, 2015

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Apple Watch and Android Wear

GolfNow app available for Apple Watch, Android Wear featuring on-course yardages, in-app scoring.  Apple Watch and Android Wear versions of the GolfNow App ($29.99 annual subscription) will allow golfers access to an innovative on-course GPS function which provides hole-by-hole yardages at more than 30,000 golf courses around the world. The GPS function clearly displays distances to the front, center and back of the green, with additional relevant yardages on each hole accessible by swiping left/right on the watch. App users also will be able to keep score during their round in multiple gameplay formats by tapping on the scoring pencil function after completing each hole on their way to the next tee box.

"Golfers will now be able to access the on-course GPS and scoring functions made popular by GolfNow's Mobile App through the clear and easily accessible display on the face of their Apple Watch or Android Wear device," said Mike Lowe, vice president of product development and user experience for GolfNow.  "The watch-specific versions of the App, along with our previously released GolfNow Mobile App are bringing technology to golf in new and innovative ways to make the game more engaging and fun, and helping to fulfill GolfNow's mission to encourage more golfers to play more golf by utilizing the benefits and conveniences of technology."

The Apple Watch and Android Wear GolfNow App are extensions of the previously released premium version of its Mobile App last October, featuring a modern, intuitive feel that utilizes location services and Google Places to personalize the tee time booking experience to allow golfers to easily search for courses in their area. The advanced search allows golfers to select a course and tee time based on several criteria including location, price, time of day, and rating, which is based on GolfAdvisor.com reviews. The premium version of the Mobile App also showcases the on-course GPS platform; a personalized statistical analysis dashboard to help golfers improve their game; and in-round scoring.

About GolfNow

Founded in 2001, GolfNow is the leading online tee time booking and golf course technology and services platform offering more than 2 million registered golfers more ways to stay connected to their favorite courses and tee times through the web, e-mail and mobile devices via the GolfNow Mobile App, which features on-course GPS tracking, in-round scoring and game tracking.  GolfNow provides tee time access and technology offerings to more than 8,000 golf courses around the world, and is part of the suite of digital businesses managed by Golf Channel, which is seen in more than 200 million homes worldwide through cable, satellite and wireless companies. For more information, go to GolfNowSolutions.com.  Golf Channel / GolfNow Communications Contact: 407-248-3267 / Jeff.Szklinski@golfchannel.com

Source: Golf News for Tuesday, May 5, 2015 | Technology

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Fundraiser - At Bollinger Open

Friday, June 12, 2015 | 2:00 pm
Andrews Air Force Base Golf Course

» Register (PDF)

Our primary fundraising event is the Bollinger Open, an annual golf tournament held at Andrews Air Force Base Golf Course.

The tournament attracts a wide variety of participants, including Members of Congress, Committee and Congressional staff, housing industry lobbyists, economic developers, and many others from across the country. The Open has also seen its share of golf professionals participate in the past, including Ed Sneed, Nancy Maunder, Jim Talbot, M.J. Smith, Brandi Underwood, Kathleen Robinson, Janet Ortega, and Tiffany Faucette.

Participant Information

You don't have to have a great handicap to play in the Bollinger Open, only a willingness to support a wonderful cause. If you are interested in playing in the tournament, please proceed to the download a registration form (PDF). Included in the $150 fee ($125 for retired persons and Federal employees) is your green fee, golf cart, dinner, and prizes

The format is a scramble with the best of four shots used. You do not need a foursome to play; we will be happy to place you in a foursome, so you can have fun and make new friends.

Course Information

The tournament is at The Courses at Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland that boasts three championship golf courses of extraordinary design to offer an enjoyable challenge for all skill levels.

» Learn more about Andrews Air Force Base Golf Course

Sponsorship Information

Over the years, many individuals and organizations have helped further our cause through sponsorship, in both cash and in-kind contributions. There are a variety of sponsorship packages and many include a number of complimentary tournament registrations. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, you can download a sponsor application form (PDF).

Golf Club Acquisitions

ClubCorp announced that agreements have been signed to acquire six golf clubs for a total purchase price just under $44 million from sellers Stratford Golf Partners and Accord Golf Capital. The acquisition of the four private clubs, one semi-private club and one public golf club will be funded from existing liquidity.  Stratford, an affiliate of New York City-based Och-Ziff Capital Management Group, had acquired four of the six courses from Textron Financial in 2013. Textron had foreclosed on all four.

ClubCorp plans to reinvent and renovate all six clubs through a multi-million dollar investment including the addition of amenities, functionality and programming to improve member experience. With the addition of the six properties, ClubCorp’s presence of golf and country clubs increases to 32 in Georgia, ten in North Carolina, two in Tennessee, eight in Virginia and 14 in Florida. The six golf clubs are:

Bermuda Run Country Club in Bermuda Run, NC, a private country club featuring 36 holes of championship golf, two clubhouses, an Olympic pool with lazy river and tennis center.

Brookfield Country Club in Roswell, GA, a private country club featuring an 18-hole golf course, clubhouse, pool, tennis and fitness facilities.

Firethorne Country Club in Marvin, NC, a private country club with an 18-hole golf course, clubhouse, Water Park with four pools and a tennis complex.

Ford’s Colony Country Club in Williamsburg, VA, a semi-private golf club offering three 18-hole golf courses, indoor and outdoor practice facilities, and a clubhouse with upscale and casual dining.

Legacy Golf Club at Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton, FL, a public golf club featuring an 18-hole Arnold Palmer-designed championship golf course, practice facilities and the Legacy Grille.

Temple Hills Country Club in Franklin, TN, a private country club offering 27 holes of championship golf, a clubhouse, junior olympic-size pool and tennis courts.

Ford’s Colony Country Club has a rocky history. It filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2010, according to Williamsburg Yorktown Daily. Prudential took ownership of the club and its three courses. After spring 2011, the property went up for sale for $8.5 million. In 2012, Accord Golf Capital and Och-Ziff Real Estate purchased the club. 

“This acquisition represents one of the smaller portfolios that continue to be attractive to us, and is consistent with our strategy to grow via acquisition and reinvention,” said Eric Affeldt, ClubCorp president and CEO. “These clubs fit well with our stated goal to continue consolidating a very fragmented industry. We welcome our new members and employee partners to the ClubCorp family, as we expand our portfolio of clubs across the country.”

ClubCorp’s portfolio has increased by 33 percent since the company’s initial public offering in September 2013. In 2014, it acquired Sequoia Golf and its 50 properties — 30 owned, 3 leased and 17 managed — for $265 million. It also acquired two Tournament Players Club — TPC Piper Glen in Charlotte, N.C. and TPC Michigan in Dearborn — in a portfolio deal of three properties. ClubLink acquired the third property, TPC Eagle Trace in Coral Springs, Fla. The three properties sold for a total of $10.5 million.

The six golf clubs will join ClubCorp’s O.N.E. (Optimal Network Experience) program, which provides members with benefits including complimentary green fees and complimentary dining at over 300 private clubs in the ClubCorp network. Members also receive special offers at more than 1,000 resorts, hotels and entertainment venues.

“We are very excited to add these six clubs to our industry leading collection of clubs,” said Mark Burnett, ClubCorp chief operating officer. “As they are all located in existing ClubCorp markets, we are able to enhance the value of ClubCorp’s unique O.N.E. program in several of those markets in addition to providing more world-class golf for our many traveling members.”

ClubCorp currently owns or operates 203 clubs located in 26 states, the District of Columbia and two foreign countries. Once this acquisition is finalized, the total 18-hole course count will be 209.  The Dallas-based company owns, leases or operates 142 properties through join ventures, and manages 12 golf and country clubs. It owns, leases or operates 46 business, sports and alumni clubs through joint ventures, and manages an additional three clubs of this kind. ClubCorp is the largest owner of private golf and country clubs in the United States. It owns the underlying real estate for 118 of its golf and country clubs, consisting of over 27,000 acres of real estate. 

Source:  Golf Inc. Magazine / 23 March 2015 / Laira Martin

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SXSW Coming to Austin

AUSTIN, Texas -- The 10-day SXSW tsunami that shakes our town out of its winter hibernation is the biggest event of the year in Austin.  I've attended the festival in a variety of ways over the last six years. I've also had complete burnout and skipped the hubbub all together and gone to Mexico. Everyone who attends SXSW ultimately experiences some kind of overload, often sometime around hearing the word "disruption" 20 times before lunch.

While visitors during SXSW might think everywhere -- from hotels to restaurants to buses in Austin -- are packed to the gills, nearby golf courses aren't all that busy during the event. But March is a great time of year to play (or just be outside in general), and Austin is one of the most accessible cities for golf, whether you've never touched a club or have mad game.

Where Beginners can Play Golf in Austin during SXSW

For casual golf or for beginners, the first and only place to go is Butler Park Pitch & Putt. Shaggy St. Augustine grass, teeing mats and all, this is where true locals go for happy hour.  With an $8 green fee, the longest hole is 115 yards (downhill), they have $1 clubs and balls to use in the pro shop, and it's first-come first-serve. It's also BYOB. It's not uncommon to see eight-somes out there. Read up on the murder that took place in the clubhouse in 1951 to earn a little local street cred. Score a hole in one, and you'll earn the honor of your name on the clubhouse wall, not to mention the privilege of picking up a hefty Sixth Street bar tab.

If you want the casual golf experience but with a little more 21st century tech, head northwest to TopGolf, which opened its Austin location in 2013 and has become one of the best nights out beyond the urban core. The technology that puts microchips into balls so you can play a variety of games hitting to targets would make any techie, no matter how sports illiterate, applaud the concept.  If you're a SXSW badge holder, you can RSVP for the SXSW Sports Golf Challenge at TopGolf on March 12. Entry is $85. If you're one of those festival-goers strutting around with Google Glass, download the GolfSight App, which provides GPS and other tracking tools.

Austin-Area Golf Courses for Better Players

For a more proper golf experience, there are a handful of munis that are pretty easy to get on weekdays. The closest to downtown is Lions Municipal Golf Course, an old west-side haunt nearly 100 years old. Little more than 6,000 yards, everyone from Ben Hogan to Tom Kite and Ben Crenshaw know it well.  If you're on the east side of town, head to Morris Williams Golf Course, the former home course of the University of Texas. It's a little longer and challenging.  A couple other centrally located courses that are easy to get on but aren't always in the best shape are Hancock Golf Course (nine holes) and Riverside Golf Course. This is the first year that Uber and Lyft are operating (legally) in Austin, so getting to any of these central courses should be a breeze, whether you have a car or not.

The area's better semi-private and resort courses are a little further outside downtown. Two of my favorites are Avery Ranch Golf Club and Falconhead Golf Club. A step up from those two is Wolfdancer Golf Club, a resort course attached to the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines east of town that has some of the best scenery in central Texas not to mention a pretty tough layout.  To play Barton Creek's two courses in the Top 100, you have to stay at the onsite Omni resort, but if you waited this long to book your hotel room for SXSW, there may be a Motel 6 in Round Rock with rooms for you.

The Austin Dining Scene During SXSW

Downtown Austin's bar and restaurant scene is thrown upside down during SXSW. Many venues become corporate hospitality venues or become official venues for shows or conferences. Calling ahead to make sure a spot is still open to the public is never a bad idea.  However, no one goes hungry in Austin. Food trucks are on every corner downtown.  And now it's time for the obligatory, "Where to get barbecue in Austin" graph:  I'll be up front -- I think most BBQ in Texas is dang good, and burning an entire morning waiting in line for a meal at renowned Franklin's is absurd. (A two-hour line for great brisket makes sense in India, not central Texas.)

Take solace in the fact that few joints do Texas brisket poorly around here. Ironworks, steps from the Austin Convention Center, is an obvious place to go and serves pretty solid meat in a down-home atmosphere. Chances are there will be a line out the door, but they shuffle people through pretty quickly. North of downtown, Stiles Switch has quietly made a good name for itself in business for a couple years now.

A little closer to downtown, Black's BBQ (of nearby Lockhart fame) recently opened a satellite location off 31st & Guadalupe, and it's just off-the-beaten-path enough to never be packed. Also, County Line is a big, friendly restaurant with two locations where you can have a sit down meal with colleagues. Salt Lick is, of course, another area institution, but it's about 45 minutes outside of town.  A few of my other favorite central restaurants (non-barbecue) that are just beyond the clutches of SXSW mayhem are Second Bar + Kitchen (slightly upscale pub food), FINO (Mediterranean tapas and paella), Vino Vino (great wine list with a variety of entrees and apps) and Salty Sow (great meats).

As for the uber-intense Austin breakfast taco scene, I pledge my allegiance to Torchy's. There are numerous locations, but the trailer on S. 1st Street just south of Town Lake is my favorite on a pleasant day (BYOB).  So enjoy SXSW everyone. I hope you're able to off-set fluorescent lighting and projection screens with plenty of sunshine and exercise. Tip your pedicab, and whatever you do, don't complain to a local about the traffic.

Source: Brandon Tucker, Managing Editor / Golf Advisor / 5 March 2015

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UltraMax Systems

The UltraMax Series includes four models with a range of performance values and price points: UltraMax Clear (economy); UltraMax Green (economy plus); UltraMax Red (super strong); and UltraMax Blue (premium). All hoses have machined brass couplings and are available in ¾-inch and 1-inch widths, and 50-feet, 75-feet and 100-feet lengths. Custom lengths can also be specified.

UltraMax Clear and UltraMax Green are fabricated from Pliovic material and reinforced spiral yarn for strength. Clear is lightweight and has a 600 psi burst pressure; Green has a thick outer wall and 800 psi burst pressure. 

UltraMax Red is made of EPDM synthetic rubber and reinforced with spiral synthetic yarn for extra strength under high working pressure. It has 800 psi burst pressure and is kink, tangle and abrasion resistant. It is also available in 25-feet lengths.

UltraMax Blue, a premium product, has a 1200 psi burst pressure and is made from durable TPE material. The hose is highly flexible and lightweight, up to 45 percent lighter than comparable quality hoses, yet proven ultra durable.  See UltraMax Features.

Underhill International manufactures an expanding line of turf care products for golf courses, including Profile Solid Metal Nozzles, Mirage Series Long-Throw Sprinklers, Gulp Pumps, Wetting Agents, Flo-Pro Injection Systems, 2Wire Controllers and Converters.

Source: Golf Course Industry News / 3 March 2015 /