Nothing beats the feeling that comes with having a front-row seat to well-maintained, evergreen fairways, especially for the avid golfer. But even if you’re not a golfer, the beautiful landscape associated with golf courses could just be enough to persuade you into purchasing or renting a property in a golf course community. But what factors should you consider before moving into a sought-after neighborhood?

HOA Requirements

The first thing you need to do is find out if the community has any homeowner association (HOA) requirements. If there are HOA requirements, make sure they align with your lifestyle and needs. Some communities require homeowners to plant trees, maintain the landscaping, and keep the golf course in pristine condition. Others may require you to participate in community events, such as gardening and golf outings. You need to know whether or not there are any restrictions on how many cars you can have in your home or what kind of pets you can keep there. The HOA should not be an obstacle to your lifestyle but rather make it easier to live there.

Community Events and Activities

The second thing you need to do is find out what events and activities the community has planned for its residents each year. Some communities may organize parties or other social events once a month, while others may hold special events every three months or even once a year. These activities make it possible to meet new people in the golfing world and strengthen friendships with other residents. For instance, the Tournament Players Club (TPC) hosts PGA Tour events on its courses. You just don’t want to miss such events.

Available Amenities

Ask anyone and they will tell you that amenities are a top perk of life, and they vary from one golf community to another but could include a spa, playground, biking trails, pools, tennis courts, green spaces, tennis courts, and gyms. Make sure that the amenities that the community offers are what you need. Also, find out whether or not the amenities are located in close proximity to your new home. If the amenities are located far from your home, it may be difficult for you to use them.

Cost of Living in the Golf Community

Find out how much things like housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, and entertainment cost in your new community. If it’s too high for your budget or too low for your lifestyle needs, then the community might not be a good fit for you. You also need to check whether or not buying a home will be affordable- keep an eye on the real estate market. The last thing you need is an expensive home where meeting your monthly expenses will become an uphill task. Golf course communities are usually expensive because they are located in prime locations where housing is costly and maintenance fees are high.

Golf Cart or Other Slow-Moving Vehicle Insurance

Accidents involving golf carts or other slow-moving vehicles can occur at any time and location. If you’re living in a controlled community, such as a golf community, you run the risk of damaging someone’s property or getting into an accident. That’s why such a community will require you to insure your cart or vehicle. The insurance requirements may vary among communities, so be sure to check with your golf community. Your coverage choice will depend on factors such as how you use your golf cart or vehicle and the type of cart. For instance, if you’re using a modified golf cart, you may need both umbrella and ATV insurance covers since you may want to use the vehicle on both the course and offroad.

Age Restrictions

Golf course communities typically have age limits, which can vary depending on the community policy. Typically, these active adult communities cater to the needs of seniors (aged 55 and above) who are looking to unwind with like-minded people. Other communities may have a lower minimum age requirement.