There are numerous examples of how clubs renovate, but what is most important is why. Sometimes a club needs to compete in order to survive and thrive. Sometimes the club’s facilities have been neglected. Often, the club members simply demand higher quality. The decision to renovate is a complex one and often takes years to make, but once the decision is made, renovations can pay off in terms of both member satisfaction and increased revenue.
Following are a few of the reasons clubs might undertake renovation programs:
Golf Course
- Shrinking, underperforming greens
- Tree overgrowth
- Turf problems
- Drainage problems
- Update course to modern game
- Seek rating recognition
- Antiquated and troublesome irrigation system
- Limited or no practice facilities
- Poorly constructed and performing bunkers
Clubhouse
- Roof issues
- HVAC operations
- Redecorate from older style
- Increase dining/banquet capacity
- Update or upgrade kitchen facilities
- Increase parking
- Enhance outdoor areas
- Establish or upgrade fitness or childcare facilities
- Upgrade locker areas
Other Buildings
- Upgrade or expand maintenance facility
- Develop or upgrade on-course restrooms
- Establish indoor learning centers
- Indoor sports facilities/”bubbles”
Swimming/Tennis, Other Sports
- Redo/resurface old tennis courts
- Update and improve antiquated swimming facilities (filters, heaters, diving, etc.)
- Add sports facilities (paddle, fitness, other sports)
- Enhance buildings
- Enhance pool/tennis area
Laurence A. Hirsh, CRE, MAI, SGA, FRICS is the president of Golf Property Analysts, a leading golf property appraisal consulting and brokerage firm based in Philadelphia. He can be reached at [email protected] or 610-397-1818.