Interest in master-planned golf and water view community homes from retirees and second-home buyers made a comeback in 2017. A focus that was once mainly centered on the coast has now moved inland to include communities on lakes and other regions.
“A rising economy, healthy primary real estate markets and a booming stock market’s wealth effect all contributed to a resurgence of interest,” says David Lott, founder and publisher of the Golf Course Home Network and GolfCourseHome.com. The GCH Network features more than 100 country club communities.
“A large percentage of our visitors are people on the cusp of retiring, and this coveted demographic flocked to communities that cater to retirees while offering a variety of popular amenities,” says Lott.
“The varied amenity menu is a key to the resurgence. It’s not just about golf anymore.“
Communities Adjust to Market Forces
The Great Recession and the slowdown of golf’s growth in the past 15 years contributed to a downturn in interest in golf communities.
“But communities have adjusted to the market,” says Lott. “Now you have nature centers, yoga and pilates classes. Passion-powered interests ranging from pottery, wine and education to hiking, kayaking, sailing and fishing have inspired communities to branch out and develop opportunities for passions to be followed.
“In some extreme instances, golf courses have been ripped out to make way for these interests. Family centered activities are big as well with the creation of village hubs and outdoor performance centers where families can gather, engage and be entertained. Family and generational interaction has become integral to community life and a key element for success.”

A Whole-Family Event: The Komen Run for the Cure on Daniel Island.
Traffic and Inquiries Surge
The result of this renewed interest was a surge in visitor traffic and sales inquiries for Golf Course Home’s Featured Communities.
Visitor traffic to GolfCourseHome.com jumped more than 20 percent in 2017 which sparked a significant surge in inquiries which were up 43 percent over 2016. That trend has continued in 2018.
Most Popular Amenities for Retirees & Buyers
Retirement communities were the most popular type of community. Amenities at the top of visitor must-have lists were marinas, 24-hour security and lake access, in that order.
Oceanfront and island communities were another important must-have.
Community of the Year
The 2017 Golf Course Home Community of the Year, Harbour Ridge Yacht & Country Club in Palm City, FL, fulfilled nearly all of these needs, earning it top community honors for the third year in a row.
Harbour Ridge features a marina on the St. Lucie River, giving boaters easy access to the Atlantic. The community also offers two championship golf courses, tennis, fitness, swimming, and a deluxe clubhouse, enabling it to hit nearly every checkbox for buyers looking for their ideal community.
GolfCourseHome.com and WaterViewHome.net are the core websites of the Golf Course Home® Network which features more than 100 master-planned golf and water view club communities in the U.S. and Mexico.
To request information about advertising on the Golf Course Home® Network, contact David Lott, Founder and Publisher, at 203-270-9357.
Press Release, Published January 31, 2018, Marketwired
Sea Pines Resort Offers Getaway Deals During Food & Wine Festival
in Discovery Package, Special Deals & Incentives, Things To DoSea Pines Food & Wine Getaway Deals
Sea Pines Resort, Hilton Head Island SC has announced a Food Festival Villa Package for stays during the acclaimed Hilton Head Island Wine + Food Festival, happening March 7 -11.
Stay in Harbour Town, just steps from the event sites, and enjoy great amenities and inclusions, among them a 10 percent discount off already reduced villa winter rates.
Public Tasting & More
Then start having fun with 25 percent off tickets to the Wine + Food Festival public tasting on March 10.
You can also plan on taking advantage of two hours of complimentary tennis per day at the racquet club and preferred golf rates at Sea Pines’ renowned championship golf courses. Send me more information about visiting Sea Pines!
> More Community Information: Sea Pines Resort, Hilton Head Island SC
About Sea Pines Resort
Sea Pines Resort is a 5,200-acre, master-planned golf and boating community in the Carolina Lowcountry, with guarded entrances and full-time security. It is home to the famed Harbour Town Golf Links and lighthouse.
The community features four golf courses, including the famed Harbour Town Golf Links (site of an annual PGA Tour event), dozens of tennis courts, the deep-water Harbour Town Yacht Basin, South Beach Marina, 14 miles of paved biking and leisure trails, an equestrian center and more. Send me more information!
Nature and Waterfront Lifestyle
The Forest Preserve encompasses 605 acres and features nature trails, lakes and a pavilion located on Fish Island. It is home to about 350 species of birds.
Harbour Town Yacht Basin is a hub of waterfront activity, offering 20-plus independently operated boutique clothing shops, gift and craft galleries, nature stores, jewelry stores and independent art galleries. Send me more information!
Real Estate
Sea Pines is a diversely amenitized community comprised of nearly 2,700 homes and over 1,000 villas. Environmental preservation and sustainable development have been its hallmarks since the mid-20th century. Send me more information!
Valentine’s Day at GlenLakes, Sun City Oro Valley Golf Clinics & More
in Discovery Package, Newsletter, Things To DoGCH Network e-News
Communities On the Water & the Golf Course
February 2, 2018
TODAY’S HEADLINES
* Getaways & Stay ‘n’ Plays – Sea Pines Food & Wine Fest Deals
* What’s Going On At… GlenLakes Valentine’s Day, Sun City Golf
Homes for Sale This Week on Golf Course Home
> The Landings, GA 3BR, Main Level MBR Suite $1.175M
> Lake Las Vegas, NV Move-In Ready 4BR $596,743
> Jupiter Country Club, FL 3BR, Elevator $598,995
> Piper’s Landing, FL 1-Level 3BR $249,000
WHAT’S TRENDING ON GOLF COURSE HOME
> What Retirees & 2nd Home Buyers Want in 2018
> Estrella del Mar Fun & Sun
> WindRiver TN Music, New Service at Ibis FL
> 2017 GCH Annual Index With Community of the Year & More
> Woodside SC Continues New Hollow Creek Construction
> New Community! The Club at Ibis, FL
> New Community! Treasure Lake, PA
Back to top
GETAWAYS & STAY ‘n’ PLAYS
Sea Pines Food Festival Deals
Sea Pines Resort, SC: Deals during food & wine fest.
> Sea Pines Resort, Hilton Head Island SC has announced a Food Festival Villa Package for stays during the acclaimed Hilton Head Island Wine + Food Festival, happening March 7 -11.
Stay in Harbour Town, just steps from the event sites, and enjoy great amenities and inclusions, among them a 10 percent discount off already reduced villa winter rates, 25 percent off tickets to the Wine + Food Festival public tasting on March 10, two hours of complimentary tennis per day at The Sea Pines Racquet Club and preferred golf rates at The Sea Pines Resort’s championship golf courses. Send me more information about Sea Pines!
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WHAT’S GOING ON AT…
Sun City Hosts Golf Clinics
Sun City Oro Valley, AZ: Improve your skills during sessions.
> Sun City Oro Valley, Oro Valley AZ just announced a slate of mid-week golf instruction for small groups. The programs happen on Wednesdays, from 10 to 11 a.m., featuring staff teaching professionals Tim Lochner and Kim Griggs.
Feb. 7 covers putting, on Feb. 14 it’s a general short-game clinic, on the 21st it’s full iron shots and on Feb. 28 the topic is driving. New and casual golfers are encouraged to participate. Space is limited and the fee is just $20 per person for each session. Send me more information about Sun City Oro Valley!
Valentine’s Day at GlenLakes
GlenLakes, FL: Celebrate Valentine’s Day with dinner, music.
> GlenLakes, Weeki Wachee FL will once again host a festive Valentine’s Day Dinner Dance in the community’s 35,000-sf main clubhouse. The event is scheduled for Wed., Feb. 14 with music by “The Retro Golden Oldies.”
A full dinner menu with everything from oysters on the half shell to prime rib to an array of sweet desserts will be featured. Reservations are required for this event. Send me more information about GlenLakes!
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12 Gray Heron Retreat, Savannah GA 31411 – The Landings
in Golf Homes, Real Estate for Sale, Real Estate NewsAddress: 12 Gray Heron Retreat, Savannah GA 31411
Asking Price: $1,175,000 Beds/Baths: 3 BRs/4.5 BAs
This custom-built home at The Landings On Skidaway Island features top-quality appointments throughout. Located at its 12 Gray Heron Retreat, the home’s upper level has two en suites, a fitness room and a bonus room with built-in entertainment center.
KEY FEATURES: 12 Gray Heron Retreat
> More Community Information: The Landings on Skidaway Island, GA
About The Landings
The Landings on Skidaway Island is a vibrant, premier golf and waterfront community located less than 10 miles south of Savannah. The community is run by its debt-free homeowners association and has been for more than 15 years. Send me more about this home in The Landings!
Landings on Skidaway Island Amenities
Resident facilities in this gated community include two deep-water marinas, 40 miles of walking and biking trails, playgrounds, a Village Library, Skidaway Farms (a community garden), dog park, nature trail and more.
The club amenities consist of six championship 18-hole golf courses, 34 tennis courts, five pools, four dining clubhouses and a fitness and wellness center with spa services. Send me more about this home in The Landings!
Real Estate Opportunities
The Landings on Skidaway Island is a community of custom homes reflecting personal expression through a wide variety of architectural styles, while unity is ensured by The Landings Architectural Review process. Homes range in price from $250,000 to more than $2 million.
Lots range from patio to full-size and estate lots, offering golf, lagoon, river, wooded and marsh views. Lots range in price from $70,000 to $400,000. Send me more about this home in The Landings!
What Retirees & Second-Home Buyers Are Looking for in a Community in 2018
in Community of the Year, Editorial Features, Real Estate News, Special Golf Community Feature ArticlesInterest in master-planned golf and water view community homes from retirees and second-home buyers made a comeback in 2017. A focus that was once mainly centered on the coast has now moved inland to include communities on lakes and other regions.
“A rising economy, healthy primary real estate markets and a booming stock market’s wealth effect all contributed to a resurgence of interest,” says David Lott, founder and publisher of the Golf Course Home Network and GolfCourseHome.com. The GCH Network features more than 100 country club communities.
“A large percentage of our visitors are people on the cusp of retiring, and this coveted demographic flocked to communities that cater to retirees while offering a variety of popular amenities,” says Lott.
“The varied amenity menu is a key to the resurgence. It’s not just about golf anymore.“
Communities Adjust to Market Forces
The Great Recession and the slowdown of golf’s growth in the past 15 years contributed to a downturn in interest in golf communities.
“But communities have adjusted to the market,” says Lott. “Now you have nature centers, yoga and pilates classes. Passion-powered interests ranging from pottery, wine and education to hiking, kayaking, sailing and fishing have inspired communities to branch out and develop opportunities for passions to be followed.
“In some extreme instances, golf courses have been ripped out to make way for these interests. Family centered activities are big as well with the creation of village hubs and outdoor performance centers where families can gather, engage and be entertained. Family and generational interaction has become integral to community life and a key element for success.”
A Whole-Family Event: The Komen Run for the Cure on Daniel Island.
Traffic and Inquiries Surge
The result of this renewed interest was a surge in visitor traffic and sales inquiries for Golf Course Home’s Featured Communities.
Visitor traffic to GolfCourseHome.com jumped more than 20 percent in 2017 which sparked a significant surge in inquiries which were up 43 percent over 2016. That trend has continued in 2018.
Most Popular Amenities for Retirees & Buyers
Retirement communities were the most popular type of community. Amenities at the top of visitor must-have lists were marinas, 24-hour security and lake access, in that order.
Oceanfront and island communities were another important must-have.
Community of the Year
The 2017 Golf Course Home Community of the Year, Harbour Ridge Yacht & Country Club in Palm City, FL, fulfilled nearly all of these needs, earning it top community honors for the third year in a row.
Harbour Ridge features a marina on the St. Lucie River, giving boaters easy access to the Atlantic. The community also offers two championship golf courses, tennis, fitness, swimming, and a deluxe clubhouse, enabling it to hit nearly every checkbox for buyers looking for their ideal community.
GolfCourseHome.com and WaterViewHome.net are the core websites of the Golf Course Home® Network which features more than 100 master-planned golf and water view club communities in the U.S. and Mexico.
To request information about advertising on the Golf Course Home® Network, contact David Lott, Founder and Publisher, at 203-270-9357.
Press Release, Published January 31, 2018, Marketwired
2 Vista Outlook Street, Henderson NV 89011- Lake Las Vegas
in Golf Homes, Real Estate for Sale, Real Estate NewsProperty Address: 2 Vista Outlook Street
Asking Price: $596,743 Beds/Baths: 4 BRs/4.5 BAs
The 3,125-sf home at 2 Vista Outlook Street within Lake Las Vegas is a Plan 2 version of the opulent The Peaks collection. It occupies a prime corner lot and is move-in ready.
KEY FEATURES: 2 Vista Outlook Street
More Community Information: Lake Las Vegas, Henderson NV
Lake Las Vegas is a resort-style oasis set on the shores of a 320-acre freshwater lake in Henderson, Nevada. The area is one of the country’s most dynamic regions for lifestyle and recreation. Henderson, located just minutes from the Vegas strip, offers all the resources families need for active living.
Miles of shoreline and the lake itself provide multiple opportunities to relax, cruise and play. Resident water activities include boat rentals, yacht cruises, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and more. Send me more information about Lake Las Vegas!
Jack Nicklaus Golf & More
The luxury lifestyle at Lake Las Vegas ranges from golf to shopping, fine dining and events. Golfers come from around the world to play the renowned Reflection Bay Golf Club, the only Jack Nicklaus Signature course in Nevada.
Sophisticated dining and shopping flourish at the community’s Montelago Village, along with summer concerts, holiday festivities and live entertainment. Send me more information about Lake Las Vegas!
Courting Health & Wellness
The private Lake Las Vegas Sports Club offers amenities to promote health and wellness, outdoor activity and leisure recreation. This exclusive club has something for the entire family, including family and adult-only pools, world-class fitness facilities, tennis and pickleball courts.
The good news for home buyers here is that the club’s $5,000 initiation fee is waived when you purchase your new residence. Send me more information about Lake Las Vegas!
179 Tresana Boulevard, Jupiter FL 33478 – Jupiter Country Club
in Golf Homes, Real Estate for Sale, Real Estate NewsProperty Address: 179 Tresana Boulevard, Jupiter FL 33478
Asking Price: from $598,995 Beds/Baths: 3 BRs/3 BAs
This Genova model residence at 179 Tresana Boulevard is part of the well-regarded Carriage Homes collection from Toll Brothers. It is superbly crafted and will be move-in ready by March.
KEY FEATURES: 179 Tresana Boulevard
> More Community Information: Jupiter Country Club, Jupiter FL
About Jupiter Country Club
Jupiter Country Club is a private, gated country club community on 483 lush acres in upscale Palm Beach County. This Treasure Coast community features a Greg Norman championship golf course and is accented by Tuscan-Mediterranean architectural themes.
World-class amenities include two spectacular Mediterranean-inspired clubhouses, resort-style pools, tennis courts, and an array of other recreational amenities that offer you a world of social opportunities – all without ever leaving the comfort of your community. Send me more information about Jupiter Country Club!
Jupiter Country Club Golf & Fitness
In addition to its Greg Norman Signature Golf Course, the community includes an abundance of lakes and nature preserves, creating a relaxed, serene environment. A graceful main entrance with a staffed, gated entrance welcomes residents and guests into the community.
Fitness enthusiasts enjoy the Jupiter Country Club’s Sports and Social Club, a 12,000 square foot-health and fitness center with resort-style pools, state-of-the-art fitness equipment, six HAR-TRU® clay tennis courts, indoor/outdoor casual dining, massage room, and locker facilities. Send me more information about Jupiter Country Club!
Four Collections
Luxury builder Toll Brothers is offering four collections of residence at Jupiter Country Club. Home prices range from the upper $300,000s to over $1.3 million. Every home will have either a golf, lake, or preserve view. Send me more information about Jupiter Country Club!
4581 SW Parkgate Boulevard, Palm City FL 34990 – Piper’s Landing
in Golf Homes, Real Estate for Sale, Real Estate NewsAddress: 4581 SW Parkgate Boulevard, Palm City FL 34990
Asking Price: $249,000 Beds/Baths: 3 BRs/3 BAs
This custom single-level home at 4581 SW Parkgate Boulevard comes with an excellent view of the first fairway. Play golf on an award-winning championship course with no trail or cart fees.
KEY FEATURES: 4581 SW Parkgate Boulevard
> More Community Information: Piper’s Landing Yacht and Country Club, Palm City FL
About Piper’s Landing
Piper’s Landing is a private, gated, golf community covering more than 600 lush Florida acres. Its array of amenities includes private yacht basin and championship golf course.
The clubhouse underwent a $7.3M total renovation in 2016. The resulting 31,000-sf facility is both beautiful and functional and it is the focal point of the social life here. (Equity buy-in and HOA dues required.)
Additional amenities include a lavish, resort-quality tennis center and fitness program.
The total number of residences at Piper’s Landing is limited to 270 homes and 32 condominiums–a perfectly sized community. Every lot is generously sized from a minimum half-acre to an acre-plus. Send me more information about Piper’s Landing!
Piper’s Landing Harbor
The community’s naturally protected private yacht basin offers access to the Atlantic Ocean and inland travel from Miami to Virginia (Intracoastal Waterway). The basin is recognized as one of the safest and most accessible on Florida’s east coast.
The basin is your starting point for a cruise into the Indian River Lagoon and onward to a section of the Atlantic that’s known as the Sailfish Capital of the World. Send me more information about Piper’s Landing!
Golf Homes, Waterfront Homes & More
Real estate offered includes waterfront homes, custom homes, golf homes, courtyard villas, cottages and lakeside condominiums. Prices begin in the $100,000s (courtyard villas, cottages and condos) and range up to $1 million+ for homes. Send me more information about Piper’s Landing!
Visit Harbour Ridge Yacht & Country Club, FL
in Discovery Package, News, Things To DoVisit Harbour Ridge
Harbour Ridge Yacht & Country Club presented by HR Properties, Stuart FL invites you to schedule a visit for lunch, a day or longer – luxurious rentals are available. Please inquire about pricing which vary according to your length of stay.
You’ll discover, and have use of, all that Harbour Ridge has to offer: two golf courses designed by Pete/PB Dye and Joe Lee, the Yacht Club and St. Lucie Riverfront marina, tennis courts, new lifestyle center, community pool and dog park. Send me more information!
> More Community Information: Harbour Ridge, Stuart FL
About Harbour Ridge
Harbour Ridge Yacht & Country Club, presented on GolfCourseHome Network by HR Properties, is an 885-acre, award-winning, private, gated, recreational community. Featuring major facilities for golf, boating, tennis, fitness and a workout area for man’s best friend, your dog, this member-owned, equity club maintains more than 40 percent of the community in its natural state. Send me more information!
36 Holes of Golf
The community features two championship golf courses designed by two of America’s top architects. Joe Lee authored the Golden Marsh Golf Course and Pete Dye designed River Ridge Golf Course. The pair provides, to the delight of residents, two completely different challenges in style and design. Send me more information!
The 14th Green on the Golden Marsh Golf Course.
Real Estate Options
Harbour Ridge is divided into 28 separate villages, each responsible for their own government, but under the control and guidance of the main Property Owner’s Association. Custom homes are featured in two sections of the property, River Pointe Village and Harbour Village.
Prospective buyers also can choose from 14 different home and condominium styles. All residences are placed on spacious lots.
Covered lanais enjoy golf, water and nature views.
When combined with golf courses and other open space, green space totals approximately 70 percent. With 659 residences on its 885 acres, the community has a low density of about one resident per 1.25 acre. Send me more information!
Helicopter Golf Ball Drop at Sun City Oro Valley, DC Ranch Expansion & More
in Discovery Package, Newsletter, Things To DoGCH Network e-News
Communities On the Water & the Golf Course
January 26, 2018
TODAY’S HEADLINES
* Getaways & Stay ‘n’ Plays – Harbour Ridge Getaways
* What’s Going On At… Helicopter Golf Ball Drop at Sun City
* Community News and Updates – DC Ranch $8.5M Expansion
Homes for Sale This Week on Golf Course Home
> Solivita, FL Quick Move-In 3BR From $360,990
> Golden Ocala 3BR, Gourmet Kitchen $428,890
> Carolina Colours, NC Golf View 3BR $368,000
> Desert Mountain, AZ 3BR on Corner Lot $885,000
WHAT’S TRENDING ON GOLF COURSE HOME
> Estrella del Mar Fun & Sun
> WindRiver TN Music, New Service at Ibis FL
> 2017 GCH Annual Index With Community of the Year & More
> Woodside SC Continues New Hollow Creek Construction
> New Community! The Club at Ibis, FL
> New Community! Treasure Lake, PA
Back to top
GETAWAYS & STAY ‘n’ PLAYS
Harbour Ridge Getaway
Harbour Ridge, FL: Enjoy marina, dining & more during visit.
> Harbour Ridge Yacht & Country Club presented by HR Properties, Stuart FL invites you to schedule a visit for lunch, a day or longer – luxurious rentals are available – and discover Harbour Ridge: the community’s two golf courses designed by Pete and PB Dye and Joe Lee, the Yacht Club and St. Lucie Riverfront marina, tennis courts, new lifestyle center, community pool and dog park. Send me more information about Harbour Ridge!
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WHAT’S GOING ON AT…
Sun City Helicopter Golf Ball Event
Sun City Oro Valley, AZ: Look to the sky during event.
> Sun City Oro Valley, Oro Valley AZ will award valuable prizes to a group of winners of its festive and fun Helicopter Golf Ball Drop, happening Fri. Jan. 26 from 12 noon to 1 p.m. at The Views Golf Club driving range.
Cost is $10 per ball or 3 for $25. Each ball has a designated number identifying its buyer. The entire stock of numbered balls will be dropped from a helicopter—closest to the flag wins. Event is a fundraiser for the men’s and women’s golf associations at Sun City Pro Valley. Send me more information about Sun City Oro Valley!
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COMMUNITY NEWS AND UPDATES
DC Ranch Launches Major Updates
DC Ranch, AZ: Plans updated kitchens, golf facilities & more.
> DC Ranch, Scottsdale AZ has approved an $8.5 million updated facility and expansion.
The expansion will include a new fitness center, group exercise rooms, golf fitness facility, a new resort style pool, a casual indoor dining room, poolside bar, expanded kid’s playroom, expanded ladies lounge, a larger Clubhouse kitchen, and an upgraded golf practice area. Send me more information about DC Ranch!
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2639 NW 82nd Cir, Ocala, FL 34482 – Golden Ocala
in Golf Homes, Real Estate for Sale, Real Estate NewsProperty Address: 2639 NW 82nd Cir, Ocala, FL 34482
Asking Price: $428,890 Beds/Baths: 3BRs/2.5BAs
This 1,873-sf split-level home at 2639 NW 82nd Cir is a desirable end unit. The community’s World Equestrian Center is only steps away.
KEY FEATURES: 2639 NW 82nd Cir
> More Community Information: Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club, Ocala FL
About Golden Ocala
Situated in the heart of horse country, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club is a 1,150-acre private, gated community with 24-hour security. Its championship 18-hole Ron Garl-designed golf course features eight professionally-recreated tribute holes modeling some of the world’s finest courses including Augusta, Royal Troon, Baltusrol, Muirfield and St. Andrews. Send me more about this home in Golden Ocala!
Horse Capital of the World
Marion County is known as the Horse Capital of the World and home to many pristine natural areas, shopping and dining opportunities, museums, and performing arts venues. Ocala is less than an hour away from the quaint town of Micanopy, The University of Florida in Gainesville and the many exciting attractions of Orlando.
Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club is also less than a two hours’ drive to Florida beaches including those near historic St. Augustine, the oldest town in the United States and Daytona Beach. The major metropolitan areas of Tampa and Jacksonville are only about one-and-a-half hours away. Send me more about this home in Golden Ocala!
Real Estate
Golden Ocala offers homesites and an array of new home options, from maintenance-free golf homes to expansive custom estates. The homes range in size from around 2,000 square feet to estates starting at 6,000 square feet and larger. Lake and wood view homes feature 2-car attached garages, free maintenance and customizable upgrades and décor. Send me more about this home in Golden Ocala!