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Enjoy golf? Why not live on the fairways?

15th August 2007 Print
Golf Bahamas Property expert Carly Barnes, Managing Director of international property company LLB, highlights some of the best golf properties for summer purchasers.

Tiger Woods, the Masters, and the Lure of Golf
Golfers inspired by hours of watching Tiger Wood’s spectacular victory at the last Majors golf tournament are now even more eager than ever to get out on the fairways. Interest in the game is at an all-time high and rising exponentially. Living on or near a golf course has never been more enticing.

Carly Barnes, Managing Director of international property company LLB International Ltd, predicts that “golf courses will be one of the “most exciting draws” for overseas property purchasers during the coming months.

Golf is an increasingly popular pastime particularly with the new emphasis on fitness and healthy living. It is not a sport for the young only. Almost anyone can learn to play and it is easy to put together a group of golfers with the same skill levels and timetables”.

Why you should consider buying on a golf course
“The attractiveness of golf destinations is enhanced by the fact that the newest golf developments come with a broad range of other amenities, including often tennis courts and a vibrant social scene at the clubhouse. The choices are almost unlimited in terms of price, location, and extra amenities.”

“Some of the newer developments, such as those in Eastern Europe, are also very affordable. Living on the fairways is no longer restricted to the rich and privileged. Believe it or not it is possible to live on or near a golf course in Bahamas for less than £50,000! In many places, guaranteed rentals will even help defray mortgage and running costs.”

“Such is the popularity of homes on golf courses that three-quarters of British buyers don’t even play the game, but like the facilities, security and ambience that usually come with golf courses” states Carly. These buyers like the green spaces and all of the amenities usually included in these developments: tennis, golf, beaches, swimming, nearby shopping, great local restaurants, historic districts and so on.

“The potential for investment gains is also a factor in the growing
popularity of golf course developments. Capital appreciation tends to be higher for golf properties than for comparable properties not on a golf course. The potential for rental revenue is also pushing demand higher as investors seek to lower costs and increase gains”.

How do you find out what is available?
Carly Barnes, the owner of worldpropertypages.com and worldpropertymalta.com, finds that “many clients are overwhelmed with the number of options available to them”. “They don’t know where to start their search or how to weigh one attractive choice against another.”

This is where a property firm like LLB International comes into its own. LLB International is a professional and dynamic UK-based firm offering a stylish web site with an extensive choice of property listings in some 15 countries, many of which include golf opportunities. LLB also provide a comprehensive array of professional services either directly themselves in the UK or through carefully-vetted associates in the targeted countries.

How do you choose the golf property that is best for YOU?
As Carly points out, once clients have “looked over the field of
options, “they then have another very difficult choice ahead of them. How do they decide WHICH property is the best for them.”

Carly tells all her clients that “The first issue to consider is the purpose of your purchase. Are you buying for pure enjoyment, investment or a combination of the two?

If you are purchasing simply for your own enjoyment, then the choice really boils down to budget as well as choosing a golf community and course that you enjoy. Bear in mind that you will be playing the same course many times and so the topography of the course is very important.

If you are purchasing for investment purposes, essentially the
same factors apply but you need to place yourself in the position of a prospective golf tourist. There are then three essentials to consider: accessibility, climate and amenities.

“For example,” Carly states, “owning a golf property in Scotland is a good prospect if you are simply considering playing the course yourself, but to achieve maximum rental returns, you need to consider the fact that most “golf tourists” seek mild winter climates and generally are happier to travel to Spain and play in the winter sunshine than in rain and wind of Scottish winters.”

As a first step, LLB International Ltd recommends that potential buyers look at the following destinations which they have picked as some of the “best options” in their view for both players and investors. Some of these inclusions may be surprising.

Cape Verde Islands
One of the world’s leading golfers, Ernie Els, recently commented that the “Cape Verde Islands are a gem – a beautiful area – and I think it will be the next great destination for holidaymakers around the world, especially Europe”.

Carly Barnes, an international property expert, adds that “Cape Verde offers sunshine, pristine beaches and will also soon will be able to offer some of finest golf in the world. Its close proximity to Europe at less than 6 hours flying time from the UK, excellent year-round climate and low prices make it one of the world’s most exciting hot-spots"

LLB International Ltd recommends the Cotton Bay Golf and Resort on the beautiful Island of Sal as the perfect golf prospect. Villas with private pools and spacious apartments are available from a mere £84,000 offering not only a planned 36 hole international standard golf course, but also: a marina and water park, casinos, bars, restaurants, Olympic-size swimming pool, tennis courts, 15 minutes from the international airport and completion in 2010

Morocco
Morocco might not be the first destination to spring to mind when you think of golf, but this is all set to change. As Carly Barnes states; “Morocco is only three hours flying time from the UK. The country is experiencing high capital growth, low taxes and increased tourism. Morocco’s King Mohammed VI has endorsed the foreign holiday home sector and has announced plans to sponsor six mega coastal resorts known as the Plan Azur to encourage both foreign investment and increase tourism. This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of an ambitious and potentially lucrative vision with royal backing.”

The first Plan Azur resort –Mediterrania Saidia-- is due for completion in 2009. LLB International is offering fully managed leaseback properties (such as Jardin de Fleur). These properties will be set within a huge five star resort. Plan Azur offers three championship golf courses, an 840 berth marina, nine luxury hotels, and a shopping centre. This seems to be a great investment, says Carly, since prices start at only £81,000.

A football stadium is also planned within Le Jardin de Fleur. It was
recently reported that Gary Neville, the Manchester United captain purchased here, along with his England teammates John Terry and Rio Ferdinand which provides celebrity credentials to the luxury Le Jardin de Fleur development.

John Terry was quoted as stating; “you can stick money in stocks and shares, but there’s no enjoyment in a piece of paper”. Buying property is “much more enjoyable”, he said.

Egypt
Egypt is another hot-tip for golfers and investors alike. Egypt might not seem the obvious choice for golfers, Carly states, but facilities are second to none and many golfers return year after year, such is the appeal of this country and its courses. Tourism is increasing in Egypt at a rate of knots and we expect the number of golf courses to increase as a result”. As a further incentive, the red sea is warm with great beaches. Tourist resorts are brimmed full of top-class hotels and luxury resorts which do not seem to reflect the low property prices.

LLB are offering the Sunset Pearl in Sahl Hasheesh with prices from £39,184 for beachfront apartments overlooking the Red Sea. Facilities include a swimming pool, poolside bar and restaurant, fitness centre and shops. As an added incentive, apartments are being sold with an optional rental guarantee programme. And, for golfers, the area is also home to the Sheraton hotel with its spectacular links golf course.

Dubai
Golf in Dubai was placed firmly on the map after Tiger Woods hit golf balls from the helicopter pad of the world famous Burj al Arab Hotel, Dubai’s famed 6star landmark hotel.

Is hitting balls from a helipad as close as it gets to golf in the desert?

Certainly not. Carly states. “It might seem incredible, but this desert oasis is home to some of the finest golf courses in the world and not least the Emirates Golf course, which has hosted the Dubai Desert Classic and the world’s top PGA players.”

Carly continues “there are many courses in Dubai and simply buying in Dubai is sufficient. You don’t need to buy directly on the golf course and in many ways being “near” the golf course is preferable to avoid the maintenance fees attributed to supplying the courses with water and keeping the grass green here which can be considerable”.

LLB are offering properties for example in the famous man-made Palm development and the luxurious Lake Terrace. Carly comments
“Lake Terrace has been designed by award winning architects WS Atkins, who are responsible for the famous Burj Al Arab. Every detail has been focused to provide a luxurious state-of-the-art home.”

Lake Terrace is situated in close proximity to some of Dubai’s famous sporting facilities and the blue waters and white beaches of the gulf. What’s more the Emirates Golf Course is in close proximity, as is Dubai Marina and the impressive retail malls, for which Dubai is also famed.

Spain

The variety of courses on Spain’s Costa del Sol has earned it the nickname the Costa del Golf. LLB are tipping the region of Murcia to be the next big thing in Spanish golf with an astonishing number of courses under construction.

One of the best known Spanish golf developments in Murcia is La Manga, which also offers a range of other sports. In fact, the England football team has often used it as a training base before big tournaments. As Carly Barnes, Managing Director of LLB International states, “ La Manga Club is arguably the best club in not only Murcia but in Europe generally, though it does come at a price. It is also located in what is considered to be one of the healthiest spots in Europe.

LLB recommend Trampolin Hills which is a mere 15 minute drive from Murcia City. Apartments and Villas are available right on the golf course and the development will feature a bilingual school, a medical facility, tennis courts and swimming pools. Prices start from only €107,000 euros and include free golf membership! It is no wonder that the Spanish are snapping these properties up.

Portugal
The Algarve is also a golfer’s paradise and has stunning beaches and excellent nightlife as well as the all of the amenities and infrastructure that golfers could wish for. In this sought-after area, LLB International recommends Costa de Cabanas which features splendid beaches, a wide range of leisure facilities, and a golf course only 100 m from the waterfront. All this at prices from £153,094 with a 4% rental guarantee for three years.

The Caribbean
Golf courses are springing up across the Caribbean islands. Two resorts on Barbados – Royal Westmoreland and Sandy Lane – are among the best known. They are also amongst the most expensive. The Bahamas on the other hand, surprisingly offers some golf course bargains that rival Bulgarian prices.

Did you hear correctly-Bahamas is as affordable as Bulgaria?

Carly comments
“Surprisingly yes if you know where to look. We are offering some great resale golf course apartments and villas at incredible prices-only £40,000 but buy now before the secret gets out. These prices are not likely to stay so cheap for long and the depressed US dollar which is pegged to the Bahamian Dollar is helping matters considerably!”

Bulgaria
Bulgaria is often touted as the world’s most affordable golf destination. Bulgaria’s newest 18-hole golf course is being designed by Ian Woosnam.

Carly tips Bansko as the place for golfers to buy as buyers can rent to skiers in the winter and golfers in the summer, not to mention enjoy a little golf and skiing themselves.

LLB are offering the Aston Villas in Bulgaria with prices beginning at £29,914.50. This is an exclusive development with only 48 properties located next to the Ian Woosnam Golf Course between Razlog and Bansko. The complex features a superb choice of
on-site facilities, within easy reach of the town centre, and enjoys
stunning mountain and golf views.

(The Aston Villas Apartments in Bulgaria)

North America
Scotland may be the birthplace of the golf, but American courses are producing many of its superstars-such as Masters winner Tiger Woods. Carly comments:

“Florida is the most popular destination for British homebuyers. The climate is ideal for year-round play, flights are cheap and regular and there are plenty of attractions for non-golfers. Tampa and the surrounding areas are ideal, not only for the quantity and quality of golf resorts, but also for the white sand beaches, affordable flights and attractions.

"Again, like the Bahamas, now is the time for British to buy. The property market and dollar are at a low ebb and so discounts and bargain buys are available as well as a strong pound so your money goes further”

Canadians are also keen golfers and Carly recommends the East Atlantic coastal province of Nova Scotia for golfers. Carly adds “Nova Scotia offers players and property investors alike the perfect combination of accessibility (a mere 5 hour flight from the UK with budget airlines flying directly), a mild coastal climate, extremely affordable property prices and some exceptional golf courses”- Imagine a golf course, such as the one in Annapolis Royal, where you will find great ocean views from every angle and where you don’t even have to book a “tee time” in advance!

LLB are currently opening up a network of associated offices in Nova Scotia and Florida to cater for investors and players wishing to take advantage of these two excellent and very affordable golfing regions in North America.


The Two Property Option –The Best of all Climate Options
Then there is the customized “mix and match” option which many avid golfers have chosen after years of travel and exploration. Many have found that the best and most sunny spots for the winter can be rather humid and hot in the summer. For those who love the outdoors and like to be “out” all day long this can be a challenge.

Conversely, as Carly points out, “those climates that are very comfortable in the summer can be quite cold in the winter”. This is a challenge for those who like to golf in comfort year-round.

For those golfers who like to be on the golf course year round in maximum comfort, there is another choice as Carly Barnes points out. “ That is the Two Property Option”. This may, as she says, “sound extravagant and expensive but in fact, if the properties are carefully selected, the cost may not be that the prohibitive.” “It Is a matter of knowing what you want and how much you can realistically afford and then looking for the best way to achieve your goal.”

Richard Holt (who was born in the UK) feels that he is very fortunate as he puts it to “live in the best of both worlds.” In the Spring, Summer and Autumn, he lives in a 2400 sq. foot totally modernize property fronting on 720 feet of private waterfront beach on the Annapolis Basin in Nova Scotia close to both the Annapolis Royal Golf Course (great ocean views and no tee times required) and the signature Digby Pines Golf Resort. In the winter, he lives with his wife on a golf property just outside Tampa Florida with easy access to the powder sand beaches of the Gulf of Mexico, a lively Community Centre, and a wonderful golf course. In between they travel to the UK and other countries to explore new sites and visit relatives including their four children.

Final Thoughts
Carly concludes with a few tips for prospective purchasers. “As with all property purchases, information is the key to making a successful purchase.

The process ultimately boils down to location but purchasers should also consider accessibility, climate and facilities for non-golfers. Establish maintenance and service charges from the outset as well as green fees and golf membership. At some developments, membership and fees are free. At others, they can be costly.”

“Try before you buy if you can and check the position of the plot carefully if buying off plan. Unless you want errant balls flying into your windows, it is best not to position yourself too close to the fairways. We offer inspection trips to all our locations to offer our buyers the chance to play local courses before they proceed. This is a fun way to make an investment”.

With a little research, golf properties offer both a great lifestyle, leisure and investment opportunity and it can be more affordable than you might have imagined. Visit worldpropertypages.com for further details.

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Golf Bahamas