GolfCourseHome.net and Founder & Publisher David Lott are featured in today's New York Times in an article appearing in the Escapes section entitled 'Choosing the Right Course.' Reporter Billie Cohen quotes Lott numerous times throughout the article.
An excerpt:
The most important thing is to determine the community’s financial stability. Begin at the source: the developer.
“Start with a direct question, hoping for an honest answer,” said David Lott, publisher and founder of Golfcoursehome.net. “Ask, ‘Given the current market, what safeguards are there, for people who buy into this community, that it’s going to remain financially stable?’ ”
Mr. Lott continued: “If the developer is gone, then you ask about how the community maintains its financial stability now. A lot of communities have an HOA, a homeowners’ association, and you should find out how secure that is.”
Other Amenities?
In addition to off-site amenities, consider the on-site perks. Golf is a given, but, Mr. Lott said, more and more people who move into golf communities don’t play. Find out what else the development offers.
“You assume it’s going to have a swimming pool, tennis courts,” he said. “What other things? Is there hiking and biking and walking trails? Yoga classes, Pilates classes? What kind of restaurant do they have? Is it fine dining or a snack bar? Do they have both?”
In addition, are there activities to do with children, grandchildren and friends?
“A lot of people move into a community because it’s near their children,” Mr. Lott said. “So wouldn’t it be great to be in a place and have your children and your children’s children say, ‘Let’s go visit Gramps; they’ve got a great lake there!’ ”
Meet the Neighbors
Also, meet the neighbors. They can provide insider information about what it’s like to live and play there, as well as tip you off to the vibe of the place.
“Some communities have what is called an ambassador program,” Mr. Lott said. “It’s an actual list of people who have volunteered to be ambassadors at the club or even at their hometown.”
If you walk around and don’t see many people, take note, he said. This might be a seasonal community; make sure it matches your travel patterns and social life.
Looking Well & Being Friendly
Also, first impressions count. Pay attention to the cleanliness and quality of the grounds.
“These clubs spend a lot of money on their appearance, so it should be something you’re proud of,” he said. “If it doesn’t look like it’s in great shape, then that makes me think the financials aren’t that great.”
And, finally, is the staff friendly? “It’s amazing what kind of an impact a warm, welcoming, friendly attitude is among the people who are going to be servicing you at the community,” Mr. Lott said.
For the full text of the article, click here.
GolfCourseHome.net was launched in the fall of 1999 and will celebrate its 10th anniversary online next year. Lott, a former writer for Golf Digest, has been covering the golf course real estate market since 1985.
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