By Mark L. Baker, ASLA, President
Wood+Partners Inc.
Founding Member,
GCH Retirement Planning Advisory Board
The real estate market for golf and residential amenity communities has changed dramatically over the recent decade. The National Golf Foundation reports that more than 600 courses were closed between 2006 and 2013. Many of the Great Recession’s golf course closures occurred within residential communities.
This downturn has forced developers, property owners, associations and managers to come up with new answers on how to best attract and serve today’s buyer. And they have responded—with new ideas, new planning concepts and evolving new development trends. Further good news is that today’s economy is much improved and home sales are recovering.

Haig Point, SC: Waterfront & equestrian are important amenities.
The U.S. Census Bureau also reports that demographics are changing. For the first time in U.S. history, the Boomer generation is no longer the largest one. Today’s Boomer population of 75 million has been surpassed by Millennials which now totals 83 million. These two groups represent the largest segments of today’s real estate market.
What Boomers Want
Boomers are living and working longer, looking for opportunities to connect with others and stay engaged with kids and grandkids. More than the generation before them, they are seeking healthy and active lifestyles with multi-generational activities.

Reynolds Lake Oconee, GA: Outdoor, multi-generational gathering spaces reinforce ties to family and nature.
They feel the need and desire to have authenticity and want to be part of something important, to be good stewards of the environment and to continue learning.
What Millennials Want
Millennials are also looking for authenticity and active lifestyles. In addition, they are high tech and plugged in and want opportunities to stay connected to their peers and family. They are skeptical regarding real estate value and want to live, work and play with others in their cohort.

The generations grow closer with mutual interests & shared fun.
Many desire urban living in cities or village-like settings surrounding the urban core such as NoDa, the popular arts district in Charlotte, NC, or the Virginia Highland in Atlanta.
Lifestyle Trends
Today, people have less leisure time and want to engage in meaningful activities with others. Communities are focusing on these and other lifestyle trends as they plan and develop amenities to better attract buyers.

Today’s buyer is looking for meaningful shared interests.
Access to nature, walking and biking, canoeing and kayaking, multi-generational swimming pools and recreation facilities have become must-have amenities.
In addition, you’ll find more small, quaint retail villages organized around civic open spaces for community events and festivals. These are the key amenities you’ll see in today’s most successful communities.
Transformed Communities
WindRiver, a lakefront and golf community in the East Tennessee and Knoxville area is a good example of a community that is being transformed to appeal to today’s buyers.

WindRiver, TN: Wide open spaces, nature & a lakefront lifestyle.
WindRiver, formerly known as Rarity Pointe, was part of the Rarity Communities group which included multiple large scale communities developed and marketed primarily as golf course communities.
This community, now under new ownership, is being transformed into an active lifestyle, lakefront community with trails, open spaces and parks. It also offers a recreation amenity with a multi-generational swimming pool and recreation center, an inn and a marina with a club lifestyle on Tellico Lake.
Open Space & Gathering Places
New development activity at WindRiver is organized around multiple gathering places and centers of activity. These areas are complemented by diverse real estate offerings and amenities that appeal to a broad range of buyers and demographics.

WindRiver, TN: Renovated golf course plays shorter.
Golf is still very much in the mix, though. The golf course has been renovated, new tees were added to shorten holes and make play made more enjoyable. The beautiful golf course also serves as an amenity and a welcoming open space that enhances the rolling English countryside feel of the community.
Oldfield Embraces the Outdoors
Oldfield in Okatie, SC is another example of a successful amenity community with golf. An active lifestyle community, Oldfield offers a full range of choices and amenities embracing the outdoors. The stunning Greg Norman-designed golf course is now just one aspect of a full and rich experience.

Oldfield, SC: The Country Store, a reminder of old times.
Wellness, nature-based activities, historic assets and learning are all important aspects of life at Oldfield. This community was designed to reflect and enhance its rich cultural history and farm-like equestrian setting overlooking the Okatie River’s marshes and creeks, and it does.
Good News for Golf
The good news is that golf today can remain as an important recreation component, adding to a communities’ open space qualities, sense of place and recreation offerings. There are, after all, some 25 million golfers out there.
So in today’s changing market, look for forward-thinking communities with golf that are diversifying community life by providing recreation and learning opportunities that build on their unique qualities and sense of place.

The Field Club, Martha’s Vineyard, MA: Easy in, easy out for all.
Communities that have golf as an amenity will continue to offer it, but golf will no longer be the central defining amenity and social hub.
Look for communities that provide opportunities to gather and socialize in village greens, multi-generation recreation centers and swimming pools. See if they have access to nature, biking and walking by water. These are the communities that will be the most attractive to the current and next generation of buyers.
About the Author
Mark L. Baker, ASLA, President,
Wood+Partners Inc.
Mark Baker is President of Wood+Partners Inc., a regional land planning and landscape architecture firm with offices in Hilton Head Island, SC and Tallahassee, FL. In addition to being the firm’s President, Mark serves as the firms Director of Marketing and Partner-in-Charge of numerous public and private sector projects. He is also a Founding Member of the GCH Retirement Planning Advisory Board.

Oldfield, SC: The outfitter center by Wood + Partners.
The firm’s work covers a wide range of project types throughout the Southeastern United States and Caribbean. Projects include large scale mixed-use residential communities, new commercial town centers, downtown revitalization master plans, resorts and hotels, colleges and universities and large regional parks. Mark’s projects have received numerous awards throughout the years.
North & Central Florida Homes for Sale, FL Getaways, Hot Trends Shaping Today’s Communities
in Golf Homes, Newsletter, Real Estate News, Retirement Living, Retirement PlannerGood Morning! Today’s issue features a special focus on North and Central Florida homes and an advisory about the hottest trends in today’s communities.
Written by GCH Retirement Planning Advisory Board Member and President of Wood+Partners Mark Baker, you’ll learn how developers and planners are adjusting to the changing tastes of Baby Boomers and other generational buyers. See below for details, news, a Florida Stay’nPlay and more!–David Lott, Founder/Publisher
GCH Network Newsletter
Communities On the Water & the Golf Course
Vol. 16, No. 1,079 January 29, 2016 Circ. 15,000
RETIREMENT PLANNER
* Retirement Planner: The Hottest Trends Shaping Today’s Communities
NORTH & CENTRAL FLORIDA HOMES for Sale
* Solivita, Poinciana
* World Golf Village, St. Augustine
* Bellalago, Kissimmee
* GlenLakes, Weeki Wachee
* Golden Ocala, Ocala
* Getaways & Stay ‘n’ Plays – Solivita, FL
* What’s Going On At… World Golf Village, FL
Now Trending on GCH Network:
> Southern Travel: SC Lowcountry Discovery Visit Packages
> Special South Florida Homes Issue
> Water View Homes Special Edition, Part I
> Casa del Lago, Dominican Republic, Joins GCHN
* Watch for our next issue – Tuesday, February 2nd!
Back to top
FLORIDA HOMES FOR SALE
SOLIVITA, Poinciana
> More listing information: Solivita, FL
Asking Price: $269,990
Address: Classic Collection neighborhood, Poinciana, FL 34759
Bedrooms: 2
Bathrooms: 2
This move-in-ready home is designed on the Castello floor plan. It provide 2,259 sf of living space in the over-55 community of Solivita.
KEY FEATURES
Back to top
WORLD GOLF VILLAGE, St. Augustine
> More listing information: World Golf Village, FL
Asking Price: $349,000
Property Address: 3853 Paddington Place, St. Augustine, FL 32092
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 2
Tucked in the back of The King and Bear gated community, on a private cul-de-sac, this pool home has been thoughtfully maintained inside and out.
KEY FEATURES
Back to top
BELLALAGO, Kissimmee
> More listing information: Bellalago, FL
Asking Price: $389,990
Property Address: Tuscany neighborhood, Kissimmee, FL 34746
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 3
This 3,274-sf move-in ready home with its desirable lakefront setting, provides stylish, two-level living in a highly regarded over-55 community with a wide array of clubs and social activities to enjoy.
KEY FEATURES
Back to top
GLENLAKES, Weeki Wachee
> More listing information: GlenLakes, FL
Asking Price: $279,996
Property Address: Addison Preserve Model, Weeki Wachee, FL 34613
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 3
With a direct view of No. 15 tee from its spacious lanai, this well-proportioned 2,533-sf golf home, built on the popular Addison Preserve floor plan, is advantageously sited in the community.
KEY FEATURES
Back to top
GOLDEN OCALA, Ocala
> More listing information: Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club, FL
Asking Price: $725,000
Property Address: 2730 80 Avenue, Ocala, FL 34482
Bedrooms: 2
Bathrooms: 2
This 3,292-sf custom home provides rare and spectacular water views with sunsets, plus exquisite finishes inside.
KEY FEATURES
Back to top
GETAWAYS & STAY ‘n’ PLAYS
Solivita, FL: Enjoy amenities during stay.
> Solivita, Poinciana FL continues its popular Discovery Days welcome program, offering three days/two nights with lodging in a furnished guest home.
It’s a chance to enjoy complimentary lunch and dinner, cruise one of the country’s premier 55-plus communities in your personal golf cart, use all recreational facilities, meet residents and speak with sales staff. Price is $129 plus tax for two people–$179 with golf. Send me more information about Solivita!
Back to top
WHAT’S GOING ON AT…
World Golf Village, FL: Presidents Day event.
> World Golf Village, St. Augustine FL and its on-site World Golf Hall of Fame is celebrating Presidents Day Weekend, Feb. 13-16, with special events like presentations on Hall of Fame-inducted Presidents George H.W. Bush and Dwight D. Eisenhower.
Visitors are invited to join in a special scavenger hunt that enters them to win a Hall of Fame package. Send me more information about World Golf Village!
Back to top
RETIREMENT PLANNER
The Hottest Trends Shaping Today’s Communities
By Mark L. Baker, ASLA, President, Wood+Partners Inc.
Founding Member, GCH Retirement Planning Advisory Board
The real estate market for golf and residential amenity communities has changed dramatically over the recent decade. Hundreds of courses have closed, many within residential communities.
This downturn has forced developers, property owners, associations and managers to come up with new answers on how to best attract and serve today’s buyer. And they have responded—with new ideas, new planning concepts and evolving new development trends. Read on to see what these trends are and how they are shaping today’s–and tomorrow’s–communities.
Back to top
FOR SALE: Golden Ocala FL Custom 2BR, Rare Views
in Golf Homes, Real Estate for Sale, Real Estate News> More community information: Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club
Asking Price: $725,000
Property Address: 2730 80 Avenue, Ocala FL 34482
Bedrooms: 2
Bathrooms: 2
This 3,292-sf custom home provides rare and spectacular water views with sunsets, plus exquisite finishes inside.
KEY FEATURES
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 information about Golden Ocala!
Clubhouse & More
The centerpiece of Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club is the 77,000-square-foot clubhouse, which offers full-service restaurants, banquet facilities, a golf shop and concierge services.
Horse owners will also love Golden Ocala’s on-site equestrian center and riding trails, as well as its close proximity to HITS on Highway 27. A 17,000-square-foot world-class spa, fitness club, tennis shop and resort-style pool round out the plentiful amenities. Send me more information about 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 information about Golden Ocala!
Eagles Landing
Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club offers homesites and an array of new home options, from maintenance-free golf homes to expansive custom estates. Homes at the community range in size from around 2,000 square feet to estates starting at 6,000 square feet and larger.
The community is still expanding, with the latest addition, Eagles Landing, offering six floor plans from 1,560 to 2,120 sf, including townhomes and single-family casitas from the $250,000s. Send me more information about Golden Ocala!
FOR SALE: GlenLakes FL 4BR w/ Pool, Lanai
in Golf Homes, Real Estate for Sale, Real Estate News> More community information:GlenLakes, FL
Asking Price: $279,996
Property Address: Addison Preserve model, Weeki Wachee, FL 34613
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 3
With a direct view of No. 15 tee from its spacious lanai, this well-proportioned 2,533-sf golf home, built on the popular Addison Preserve floor plan, is advantageously sited in the community.
KEY FEATURES
About GlenLakes
GlenLakes is a private, gated golf club community that covers 1,400 acres on Florida’s pristine Nature Coast. Woven into its wide landscape of native terrain are lush fairways, spring-fed lakes and shady stands of oaks and pines. Broad, palm-lined boulevards and quiet, well-lit streets lead to inviting neighborhoods of distinctive villas and custom homes.
In the heart of the community lies an outstanding array of amenities, including a championship, 18-hole golf course designed by Ron Garl and a lavishly appointed clubhouse surrounded by tennis courts, pool, unique aqua driving range, lush landscaping and much more. Send me more information about GlenLakes!
Substance & Style
The GlenLakes golf course was designed with substance to go along with its style. For the avid golfer, membership is available in the private golf club which features a Ron Garl layout.
As meticulously maintained course, it meanders through well-landscaped neighborhoods and features mature pines and oaks that frame the fairways and tee boxes.
A mixture of pot bunkers, target fairways, contoured grass, layered greens give the course its signature. The course plays to many skill levels and is a challenge for all golfers. Send me more information about GlenLakes!
Real Estate
GlenLakes features maintenance-free homes which start in the low-$200,000s. These spacious yet economical homes can be built on homesites bordering state-owned nature preserves, lakes or the golf course. There is a full exterior maintenance package that ensures care-free living.
Also available are single-family custom estate homes constructed by one of Florida’s finest builders, Addison Homes Ltd. Custom estate homes start at the $300,000s, including homesite. Send me more information about GlenLakes!
FOR SALE: Bellalago FL 4BR, Move-in Ready
in Golf Homes, Real Estate for Sale, Real Estate News> More community information: Bellalago FL
Asking Price: $389,990
Property Address: Tuscany neighborhood at Bellalago, Kissimmee FL 34746
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 3
This 3,274-sf move-in ready home with its desirable lakefront setting, provides stylish, two-level living in a highly regarded over-55 community with a wide array of clubs and social activities to enjoy.
KEY FEATURES
About Bellalago
Bellalago is an upscale gated community in central Florida marked by a Mediterranean architectural theme. It enjoys over one mile of shoreline on renowned Lake Tohopekaliga, a gateway to over 300 inland lakes and waterways for fishing and boating.
Residents choose Bellalago—and its twin community Isles of Bellalago—for family- and water-oriented enjoyments. These include a 1,300-foot boardwalk with gazebo on Lake Toho—local shorthand for 22,700-acre Lake Tohopekaliga.
The lake, one of nine in the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, affords access to the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. The boat marina at Bellalago has 10 boat slips, a boat ramp and lift, a fishing pier and covered areas for relaxing.
The community has an old-Florida atmosphere of elegance but ultra-modern amenities, including not one but two multi-million-dollar clubhouses. The two recreation complexes make a rare combination for Bellalago and its twin community, Isles of Bellalago. Send me more about Bellalago!
Long Days on the Lake or on Land
Club Vialago features a massive lifestyle center, state-of-the-art fitness center, multi-pool aquatic center, children’s water park and tot lot, tennis and basketball courts, band shell, the lake boardwalk with gazebo and the Sunset Terrace grille.
Also available to residents is Club Isola which features a clubhouse with fitness center, free-form zero-entry pool, heated spa, an elaborate children’s interactive water park, and tot lot.
The two 7,000-square-foot fitness centers are loaded with the latest equipment, from Nautilus equipment, treadmills and Stairmasters to free weights and multiple workout rooms. Relax after a workout with a sauna, shower and refreshments.
Outdoor recreation at Bellalago includes tennis, basketball courts, nature trails, picnic areas, fishing from the pier, frequent live lakeside entertainment and a children’s playground. Nature trails and bike paths are laced throughout the neighborhoods.
Neighborhoods of new homes in Mediterranean and Tuscan styles catch the eye with their curving tile roofs and graceful details. Priced from the $200,000s to the $600,000s, they fit snugly among neighborhood parks and wooded preserves with century-old oak hammocks. Send me more about Bellalago!
Superior Schooling and Shopping
You’ll also enjoy the convenience of sending your children to school at Bellalago Academy, a unique neighborhood charter school (K-8) that offers a state-of-the-art learning environment, and neighboring Liberty High School (9-12) with its new, $49 million campus.
All this plus the Village Shops at Bellalago, an upscale retail center with shops, restaurants and banking facilities, which opened in August 2008. The center is anchored by a Publix supermarket with drive-thru pharmacy, plus several banks and restaurants. Send me more about Bellalago!
New Development Trends: Golf Now Has to Share Amenity Time & Space at Communities
in Buyer Resources, Editorial Features, Retirement Living, Retirement PlannerBy Mark L. Baker, ASLA, President
Wood+Partners Inc.
Founding Member,
GCH Retirement Planning Advisory Board
The real estate market for golf and residential amenity communities has changed dramatically over the recent decade. The National Golf Foundation reports that more than 600 courses were closed between 2006 and 2013. Many of the Great Recession’s golf course closures occurred within residential communities.
This downturn has forced developers, property owners, associations and managers to come up with new answers on how to best attract and serve today’s buyer. And they have responded—with new ideas, new planning concepts and evolving new development trends. Further good news is that today’s economy is much improved and home sales are recovering.
Haig Point, SC: Waterfront & equestrian are important amenities.
The U.S. Census Bureau also reports that demographics are changing. For the first time in U.S. history, the Boomer generation is no longer the largest one. Today’s Boomer population of 75 million has been surpassed by Millennials which now totals 83 million. These two groups represent the largest segments of today’s real estate market.
What Boomers Want
Boomers are living and working longer, looking for opportunities to connect with others and stay engaged with kids and grandkids. More than the generation before them, they are seeking healthy and active lifestyles with multi-generational activities.
Reynolds Lake Oconee, GA: Outdoor, multi-generational gathering spaces reinforce ties to family and nature.
They feel the need and desire to have authenticity and want to be part of something important, to be good stewards of the environment and to continue learning.
What Millennials Want
Millennials are also looking for authenticity and active lifestyles. In addition, they are high tech and plugged in and want opportunities to stay connected to their peers and family. They are skeptical regarding real estate value and want to live, work and play with others in their cohort.
The generations grow closer with mutual interests & shared fun.
Many desire urban living in cities or village-like settings surrounding the urban core such as NoDa, the popular arts district in Charlotte, NC, or the Virginia Highland in Atlanta.
Lifestyle Trends
Today, people have less leisure time and want to engage in meaningful activities with others. Communities are focusing on these and other lifestyle trends as they plan and develop amenities to better attract buyers.
Today’s buyer is looking for meaningful shared interests.
Access to nature, walking and biking, canoeing and kayaking, multi-generational swimming pools and recreation facilities have become must-have amenities.
In addition, you’ll find more small, quaint retail villages organized around civic open spaces for community events and festivals. These are the key amenities you’ll see in today’s most successful communities.
Transformed Communities
WindRiver, a lakefront and golf community in the East Tennessee and Knoxville area is a good example of a community that is being transformed to appeal to today’s buyers.
WindRiver, TN: Wide open spaces, nature & a lakefront lifestyle.
WindRiver, formerly known as Rarity Pointe, was part of the Rarity Communities group which included multiple large scale communities developed and marketed primarily as golf course communities.
This community, now under new ownership, is being transformed into an active lifestyle, lakefront community with trails, open spaces and parks. It also offers a recreation amenity with a multi-generational swimming pool and recreation center, an inn and a marina with a club lifestyle on Tellico Lake.
Open Space & Gathering Places
New development activity at WindRiver is organized around multiple gathering places and centers of activity. These areas are complemented by diverse real estate offerings and amenities that appeal to a broad range of buyers and demographics.
WindRiver, TN: Renovated golf course plays shorter.
Golf is still very much in the mix, though. The golf course has been renovated, new tees were added to shorten holes and make play made more enjoyable. The beautiful golf course also serves as an amenity and a welcoming open space that enhances the rolling English countryside feel of the community.
Oldfield Embraces the Outdoors
Oldfield in Okatie, SC is another example of a successful amenity community with golf. An active lifestyle community, Oldfield offers a full range of choices and amenities embracing the outdoors. The stunning Greg Norman-designed golf course is now just one aspect of a full and rich experience.
Oldfield, SC: The Country Store, a reminder of old times.
Wellness, nature-based activities, historic assets and learning are all important aspects of life at Oldfield. This community was designed to reflect and enhance its rich cultural history and farm-like equestrian setting overlooking the Okatie River’s marshes and creeks, and it does.
Good News for Golf
The good news is that golf today can remain as an important recreation component, adding to a communities’ open space qualities, sense of place and recreation offerings. There are, after all, some 25 million golfers out there.
So in today’s changing market, look for forward-thinking communities with golf that are diversifying community life by providing recreation and learning opportunities that build on their unique qualities and sense of place.
The Field Club, Martha’s Vineyard, MA: Easy in, easy out for all.
Communities that have golf as an amenity will continue to offer it, but golf will no longer be the central defining amenity and social hub.
Look for communities that provide opportunities to gather and socialize in village greens, multi-generation recreation centers and swimming pools. See if they have access to nature, biking and walking by water. These are the communities that will be the most attractive to the current and next generation of buyers.
About the Author
Mark L. Baker, ASLA, President,
Wood+Partners Inc.
Mark Baker is President of Wood+Partners Inc., a regional land planning and landscape architecture firm with offices in Hilton Head Island, SC and Tallahassee, FL. In addition to being the firm’s President, Mark serves as the firms Director of Marketing and Partner-in-Charge of numerous public and private sector projects. He is also a Founding Member of the GCH Retirement Planning Advisory Board.
Oldfield, SC: The outfitter center by Wood + Partners.
The firm’s work covers a wide range of project types throughout the Southeastern United States and Caribbean. Projects include large scale mixed-use residential communities, new commercial town centers, downtown revitalization master plans, resorts and hotels, colleges and universities and large regional parks. Mark’s projects have received numerous awards throughout the years.
Distinguished Emerald Club of the World Award Won by The Club at Ibis from BoardRoom Magazine
in Awards & HonorsThe Club at Ibis (formerly Ibis Golf & Country Club) has been awarded the Distinguished Emerald Club of the World award, as determined by the annual Distinguished Clubs of the World award program conducted by BoardRoom magazine, one of the most respected trade publications serving private clubs.
“Special recognition goes out to The Club at Ibis’s General Manager, Stephen J. LoGiudice, as well as the club’s board of directors, its department heads, and entire staff for their efforts in providing an excellent member experience,” said John Fornaro, Publisher of BoardRoom magazine. Send me more information about The Club at Ibis!
BoardRoom magazine’s Distinguished Clubs award program uses a unique club-specific rating system that recognizes the club, its management, and its staff based on a proprietary criteria and evaluation process that distills and measures a club’s member experience.
BoardRoom also named Board President Peter Miller, Peter A. Miller, President of the Ibis Board of Directors, as one of the top 22 Private Club Presidents of the Year.
“Our goal is to enhance the active lifestyle of our existing and future members,” noted Miller, “and our new Clubhouse and Sports Village will provide a multifaceted resort experience.” Send me more information about The Club at Ibis!
About The Club at Ibis
Ibis is a secure, gated collection of 33 distinctly different neighborhoods, located on the quiet edge of northern West Palm Beach and just minutes from the heart of the city. It is adjacent to the Grassy Waters Nature Preserve, a 12,000-acre, state-protected preserve, with wildlife, birds, and tropical vegetation.
Updated Clubhouse & New Sports Village
The Clubhouse recently completed a major enhancement and expansion to include three new dining venues and banquet accommodations up to 450 members.
A new Sports Village opened in 2014 to include fitness facilities, pools, a 4,100-square-foot spa, and a yoga wall. The Tennis Center holds friendly tournaments and weekly group play. Send me more information about The Club at Ibis!
Golf is center stage and offers 54 holes of golf on three renowned Nicklaus golf courses. Top golf instruction is headed by Martin Hall, ranked by Golf Digest as one of the game’s Top 50 instructors. Visit the community’s own website.
Homes/Lots in FL, SC, NC & UT, WindRiver TN Wine Event, Florida Getaway & More
in Newsletter, Real Estate for Sale, Retirement LivingGood Morning! The January celebrating is far from over reports WindRiver, TN, which is holding a special wine event later this week.
We’re pleased to report that the real estate market is active as well with new-to-market homes and lots for sale in Florida, the Carolinas and Utah. See below for details, plus a special travel package to World Golf Village, FL.–David Lott, Founder/Publisher
GCH Network Newsletter
Communities On the Water & the Golf Course
Vol. 16, No. 1,076 January 19, 2016 Circ. 15,000
Today’s Real Estate Deals & News
* Florida Homes for Sale
* North Carolina Homes for Sale
* South Carolina WaterView Communities
* Utah Homes for Sale
* Getaways & Stay ‘n’ Plays – World Golf Village, FL
* Community News and Updates – Kiawah Island, SC
* What’s Going On At… WindRiver, TN
Now Trending on GCH Network:
> Water View Homes Special Edition, Part I
> Woodside Plantation, SC Celebrates Banner Year
> Casa del Lago, Dominican Republic, Joins GCHN
> Special South Florida Homes Issue
* Watch for our next issue – Friday, January 22nd!
Back to top
FLORIDA HOMES FOR SALE
> More listing information: Harbour Ridge Yacht & CC presented by HR Properties, Palm City FL
Asking Price: $459,000
Property Address: 2017 Laurel Oak Lane, Palm City, FL
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 3
This home in the in Laurel Oak Village section of Golf Course Home’s 2015 ‘Community of the Year’ has been totally updated, renovated and expanded. It is well located, close to the Harbour Ridge clubhouse and all club amenities.
KEY FEATURES
> More listing information: Bellalago, Kissimmee FL
Asking Price: $489,990
Property Address: Rimini neighborhood
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 4.5
This 4,575-sf move-in ready home with many custom features is on Lake Toho and is built on the contemporary Rimini floor plan.
KEY FEATURES
Back to top
NORTH CAROLINA HOMES FOR SALE
> More listing information: Champion Hills, Hendersonville NC
Asking Price: $995,000
Property Address: 303 Piney Knoll Lane, Hendersonville, NC
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 3.5
This 3,766 custom home provides year-round views of beautiful ridges and peaks, from a private setting with professional landscaping.
KEY FEATURES
Back to top
SOUTH CAROLINA COMMUNITIES
> More listing information: The Reserve at Lake Keowee, Sunset SC
Asking Price: $699,900
Property Address: 111 Oakmont Court, Sunset, SC
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 3 Full, 2 Half
This well-appointed home is perched on a private knoll offering panoramic conservancy views. Custom-built with 3,800 sf of living space, it is located just a short golf-cart ride from the Orchard House and all Village amenities.
KEY FEATURES
Back to top
UTAH HOMESITES FOR SALE
> More listing information: Red Ledges, Heber City UT
Asking Price: $370,000
Address: Homesite 216, Heber City, UT
Acreage: .44
Located adjacent to golf and the famed Red Ledges, this very private cul-de-sac homesite affords unsurpassed views of Ledges and of No. 9 green.
KEY FEATURES
Back to top
GETAWAYS & STAY ‘N’ PLAYS
World Golf Village, FL: 3 days of golf & more in the FL sun.
> World Golf Village, St. Augustine FL presents a new discovery package providing three days and nights of great golf and great extras, priced as low as $705 per golfer, based on double occupancy.
Experience “A Hole New Year” and get three nights at the Renaissance Resort World Golf Village, a round of golf on Slammer & Squire, a round of Golf on King & Bear, a Hall of Fame ticket, and IMAX ticket and an 18-Hole Putting Course round. Per night, per golfer price for package starts at $235. Send me more information about World Golf Village!
Back to top
COMMUNITY NEWS AND UPDATES
Kiawah Island, SC: Golf course renovations under way.
> Kiawah Island, SC recently commenced its scheduled nine-month renovation of the Jack Nicklaus-designed Turtle Point Golf Course. The Nicklaus Design team has been hired to consult on the renovations.
Tees, fairways and greens will be converted to salt-tolerant Paspalum grass as part of the project. Renovations will include rebuilding all 18 greens including moving five greens, plus expanding fairway sizes from 20 acres to 34 acres. Tomasso, Turtle Point’s Italian restaurant, and the pro shop will remain open throughout the renovation. Send me more information about Kiawah Island!
Back to top
WHAT’S GOING ON AT…
WindRiver, TN: Chef Robert at work at Citico’s.
> WindRiver, Lenoir City TN and its on-property Citico’s restaurant is partnering with Cork’s Wine & Spirits to welcome the principal winemaker of Schug Winery from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wed., Jan. 21. This special wine event is planned as an evening of lively conservation, light hors d’oeuvres and world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines.
Guests are invited to make dinner reservation at Citico’s afterward to continue enjoying these excellent California vintages, perfectly paired with the evening’s menu. Price is just $29 per person for the meet-and-greet event. Send me more information about WindRiver!
Back to top
FOR SALE: Red Ledges UT Homesite on Cul-de-Sac
in Golf Homes, Real Estate for Sale, Real Estate News> More community information: Red Ledges, Heber City UT
Asking Price: $370,000
Address: Homesite 216, Heber City, UT
Acreage: .44
Located adjacent to golf and the famed Red Ledges, this very private cul-de-sac homesite affords unsurpassed views of Ledges and of No. 9 green.
KEY FEATURES
About Red Ledges
Red Ledges is a private four-season mountain golf community near Park City, Utah, that combines a Western luxury lifestyle with a full suite of recreational amenities. Within the sprawling 2,000 acre community is an award-winning Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, his equally high caliber 9-hole short course and on-site equestrian center.
With a Jim McLean Golf School, and a new Cliff Drysdale Tennis School in full swing, Red Ledges members and guests stay on top of their games with instruction from the world’s best. Send me more information about Red Ledges!
Mountain Golf & Homes
The stunning natural terrain at Red Ledges provided the ideal palette for Jack Nicklaus to craft 18 holes of mountain golf that wind through cedar-lined canyons, along dramatic red rock cliffs and atop plateaus with breathtaking vistas at every turn.
These mountain views are also available via affordable home ownership through Red Ledges’ collection of mountain villas, cottage homes and The Heights.
Homes at Red Ledges are designed to complement the rugged beauty of the surrounding high country terrain, along with estate-sized homesites that provide inspiring mountain, valley or golf course views. Lots begin at $195,000 and homes range from $650,000 to $2 million and up. Send me more information about Red Ledges!
Red Ledges Golf Clubhouse & Amenities
The planned Golf Clubhouse, with its rugged-yet-refined mountain luxury and stately craftsman architecture, will epitomize the Red Ledges experience.
Now open during the golf season, the Golf Shop is home to three resident PGA Professionals and offers a full selection of fine apparel and golf equipment. For the novice or avid golfer alike, the Red Ledges professional staff offers full video swing analysis as well.
The Juniper Grill, with its open-air patios and comfortable indoor dining, is a lovely gathering place for residents and golfers alike. An excellent spot to go for a choice meal prepared by our Executive Chef, you can also relax and unwind here with an ice-cold beverage after a round of golf while enjoying magnificent views of Mt. Timpanogos. Send me more information about Red Ledges!
FOR SALE: Reserve at Lake Keowee SC Private Mtn. Home
in Golf Homes, Real Estate for Sale, Real Estate News> More community information: The Reserve at Lake Keowee, Sunset SC
Asking Price: $699,900
Property Address: 111 Oakmont Court
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 3 Full, 2 Half
This well-appointed home is perched on a private knoll offering panoramic conservancy views. Custom-built with 3,800 sf of living space, it is located just a short golf-cart ride from the Orchard house and all Village amenities.
KEY FEATURES
About The Reserve at Lake Keowee
The Reserve at Lake Keowee is a private, 3,900-acre golf and recreational community set on the shores of Lake Keowee in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Lake Keowee’s crystal clear water is considered one of the purest South Carolina lakes.
The lake’s 18,500 acres of Blue Ridge Mountain-fed water and 300 miles of shoreline provide The Reserve at Lake Keowee with an ideal place for boating, fishing, water-skiing, swimming, camping and picnicking.
There are also miles of hiking and biking trails, which provide residents with endless pathways to the water’s edge, preserves, parks, green spaces and club areas. Send me more information about The Reserve at Lake Keowee!
Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf
The golf course at The Reserve at Lake Keowee was designed by Jack Nicklaus and opened in 2002. Nicklaus utilized the topography of the land and allowed the course to follow the natural contours of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. A par-72, 18-hole course that stretches 7,112 yards, it provides challenging play for all skill levels.
“The course creates a natural gathering spot in the heart of The Village,” says Nicklaus, “and offers dramatic lake and mountain views that players will remember long after the last putt.” Send me more information about The Reserve at Lake Keowee!
Village Point Phase II Property Release
Real estate opportunities at The Reserve at Lake Keowee range from cottage and village homes to custom and estate homes, on the lakefront or on mountain, golf course, or nature home sites.
Village Point, with spectacular lake views, is within walking distance of the Village amenities. By joining the Village Point Interest List, you can stay updated on this exciting release and receive list-only previews. Fill out the inquiry form to get on the list. Or visit the community website.
FOR SALE: Totally Updated, Expanded 3BR at Harbour Ridge FL
in Golf Homes, Real Estate for Sale, Real Estate News> More community information: Harbour Ridge Yacht & Country Club presented by HR Properties, Stuart FL
Asking Price: $459,000
Property Address: 2017 Laurel Oak Lane
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 3
This home in the in Laurel Oak Village section has been totally updated, renovated and expanded. It is well located, close to the Harbour Ridge clubhouse and all club amenities.
KEY FEATURES
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. Located in Palm City (adjacent to Stuart), the community is set on Florida’s renowned Treasure Coast.
Featuring major facilities for golf, boating and tennis, this member-owned, equity club maintains more than 40 percent of the community in its natural state and enjoys a two-mile-long stretch along the mile-wide St. Lucie River. Harbour Ridge Yacht & Country Club was named ‘Community of the Year’ for 2015 by the Golf Course Home Network for being the most visited golf and waterfront community over the course of the year. Send me more information about Harbour Ridge!
36 Holes of Golf
Harbour Ridge Yacht & Country Club features two championship golf courses, created by two of America’s top architects Joe Lee and Pete Dye, which provide two completely different challenges in style and design. The professional staff is available for expert instruction on a two-ended, state-of-the-art golf practice facility.
With approximately 100 single-digit, male handicappers and many excellent women players, members of Harbour Ridge Yacht & Country Club enjoy a caliber of golfing excellence that few communities can match. Send me more information about Harbour Ridge!
Harbour Ridge Yacht & CC 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. In all but the custom home villages, all lawn maintenance and exterior painting of the home is taken care of through the village. Other services include a maintenance and housekeeping department.
When combined with golf courses and other open space, Harbour Ridge’s green space totals more than 75 percent. With 695 residences on its 885 acres, the community has just one resident per 1.25 acre. Send me more information about Harbour Ridge!