Finding the perfect fit is key to joining a private club. There are many things to think about before you commit to joining a private club. These include location, cost of membership and club culture. These are some tips to help you find the right club.
Moving from municipal courses to private clubs
Although a municipal course has a low or free playing fee for up-front expenses, it may be cheaper to join a private golf club, particularly in the current market. A large number of private, high-end daily-fee courses emerged in the 1990s and took business away from privately-owned clubs. Clubs have responded in a variety of ways, including incredible course offerings or shocking prices, making memberships worthwhile.
The Initiation Fee
Prices for private golf memberships vary greatly between clubs. Many of these differences are due to the club’s initiation fees, some of which have been eliminated. Some clubs have reduced their initiation fees by a few thousand bucks. But clubs at the top end might charge twice as much or even triple. Some clubs allow members to finance their memberships for several years. It is always best to inquire about the price of a club in person when searching for one. Many times clubs will provide special pricing for members who are interested.
Pricing beyond the Initiation Fee
The annual cost of membership varies from one club to the next, much like the initiation fee. A lot of clubs charge several hundred dollars per month. A private club membership can be cheaper than a daily-fee golf course membership, which may mean that golfers pay upwards to $100 per nine or 18 holes. Private clubs often charge additional fees to use amenities such as bag storage, locker room, range and tournaments. These amenities may be affordable for some clubs. But, before signing up for a membership, be sure to check out any additional charges.
How to start the search
Are you looking to become a member of a private club, but aren’t sure where to begin? Ask around. You can ask your friends, family, or business contacts for their opinions on the club’s positives and negatives. If you don’t have a personal connection with a club member, it is worth calling the club to ask for information on the club, the club, or the prices of membership. Managers love to meet with potential members and may offer special deals to anyone who shows enough interest.