My wife and I often talk about a retirement that would have us in two homes - one in a city with entertainment, culture and restaurant options within walking distance, and the other in a golf course community where the course and clubhouse could also be reached by a walk or short drive.
LandMar, the development company headquartered in Jacksonville, FL, must be mind readers. The company just announced a golfing incentive for residents of their Shipyards complex along the river in downtown Jacksonville. For those who purchase at Shipyards' first tower, which is currently under construction, the company is offering free membership at its North Hampton course, an Arnold Palmer design that is the best of the King's courses that I have played (Note: We review it and other golf course communities north of Jacksonville in the current June issue of the HomeOnTheCourse Community Guide).
By joining Shipyards' "InnerCircle," residents of the high-rise condominium will receive membership without the customary $6,000 initiation fee. And because the course is just outside the 30-mile limit that defines non-resident dues status, Shipyards residents will pay reduced monthly dues. In addition, members will enjoy reciprocal golfing privileges at Landmar's seven other courses within 45 minutes of Jacksonville, an attractive feature of all LandMar course memberships.
Shipyards offers homes that range from 800 square feet to 3,900 square feet in one, two and three-bedroom configurations at prices from the $300s into the millions. Hotels and retail establishments are also planned for the complex.