New Golf Communities Focus Less On The Golf, More On The Community

"The new breed of golf community has a strong personality with distinctive architecture; loads of amenities, many catering to families; and a real sense of place."

"The new choices include log homes on a Colorado mountain, sleek modern designs in Florida, and estates managed by Ritz-Carlton in Virginia. Aside from the manicured 18 holes, there is barely anything recognizable from the typical golf club in these developments, which can come with round-trip airport transfers, concierge services (like club and dog washing), spas and stables."

"Vacation home buyers continue to get younger - a median age of 47 in 2006, down from 52 in 2005, according to a survey by the National Association of Realtors - as more families move in next to the retirees at golf communities. Developers have responded by offering more design options, holiday kids' clubs and summer camps, and myriad recreational activities beyond the driving range."