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Oil Change in Kiawah Island, SC
Despite what the Jetsons would have you believe, automobiles like cars, trucks, SUVs, and minivans are still a necessity in modern times. Whether you use your vehicle as a daily driver for running errands or as a weekend canyon carver, you rely on your automobile to get things done. But what happens when, out of the blue, your car quits working?
Imagine this: Your spouse is tied up with work, so you've got to pick up your kids and their friends from soccer practice. Suddenly, you hear a loud noise under the hood of your car. A yellow light comes on in your car's dashboard near the speedometer. You step on the gas to accelerate a little but get no response. You're not sure what's going on, but you do know that you've got to find a safe place to pull over. After a few minutes, smoke starts coming out of your engine bay, and you know you've got a serious problem on your hands. What could it be? And then, it dawns on you - it's been years since you had an oil change. Because of that, you've got to have a friend take your children and their friends back home while you wait for a tow truck to haul your vehicle away.
Scenarios like these are quite common in South Carolina. The truth is that it's easy to forget about having your oil changed in our fast-paced society, packed full of work obligations and after-school activities. Fortunately, having an oil change service is easy when A+ Auto Service is right down the road.
The Premier Oil Change Auto Shop in Kiawah Island, SC
As a family-owned, independent oil change provider, we're proud to have served drivers with reliable car service and oil changes for more than 20 years. We are a full-service automotive shop that does everything from routine maintenance to major car repairs to engine and transmission rebuilds. We started off in 2004 as a Major Repair Auto Shop and made it through the 2008 recession, though it hit us very hard. We were able to rebuild and come back stronger in 2010 by adding more services and becoming a true full-service auto shop.
After growing our North Charleston location for the past 16 years, we decided it was time to expand and better serve the Lowcountry. In January 2019, we bought our Summerville location on Old Trolley Rd. With a limited budget and three months of labor-intensive work, we opened our doors with a new slogan: "Your Dealer Alternative."
When we say we're your car dealer alternative, we mean it. Car dealerships are notorious for long waits, shotty repair ability, high prices, and poor customer service. That's why, at A+ Auto, we prioritize hard work, quality repairs, fair pricing, and excellent customer service. Because, at the end of the day, that's the way we'd want to be treated if we needed an oil change in The Palmetto State.
As a family-owned and operated auto mechanic shop in Charleston, we are proud to serve the Lowcountry. After all, you're our neighbors, and neighbors must look out for one another. Swing by our shop to see the A+ Auto difference. We think you'll like what you see!
Here's Why Cars Need Oil to Function
The primary function of engine oil is to lubricate the moving parts in your engine. There are many intricate and high-speed components that make up an engine, many of which need oil. They need oil to operate smoothly and minimize the effects of friction and wear. It might sound hard to believe, but sometimes, the only thing preventing engine parts from grinding together is a small amount of engine lubricant.
Despite having proper oil levels, even a well-lubricated engine generates substantial amounts of heat. Another important function of engine oil is to help draw this heat away from your engine's components. By maintaining the correct temperatures, your vehicle will run smoothly. Without engine oil, the engine would rapidly seize and could potentially overheat.
Understanding why cars need oil to function is important. But you've also got to know how to check your oil levels to see if you need more. Consistent oil changes are essential for maintaining the reliability and optimal performance of your vehicle. Neglecting regular oil changes can result in severe repercussions for your car's health, potentially leading to complete engine failure if operated without sufficient oil. That's why, even if you can't do it on your own, it's smart to work with a professional oil change auto shop like A+ Auto for help.
When Do You Need to Change Your Car's Oil?
It used to be recommended to change your oil every 3,000-5,000 miles, but you might need to do it more or less often, depending on what your car manufacturer suggests. Always check your owner's manual for the recommended oil type, grade, and maintenance schedule. If a red oil light pops up on your dashboard, get your car checked right away because you could be dealing with low or no oil pressure or a serious oil leak.
Other Benefits of Engine Oil
Motor oil has evolved significantly since its initial use in the late 1800s. While its primary purpose remains to lubricate and cool engine parts, modern engine oils offer numerous additional benefits that enhance engine performance. Another role of motor oil is to help maintain engine cleanliness by filtering out dirt and other contaminants. Moreover, engine oil can contain various beneficial chemical compounds, known as additives, that can enhance its performance.
- A few common additives found in engine oil include
- Viscosity index boosters that improve oil performance under extreme temperatures
- Corrosion inhibitors that prevent rust from forming
- Dispersants to help remove sludge from your engine and prevent it from forming
A+ Auto Service Pro Tip
Despite what you may have heard, you can safely mix synthetic and regular (conventional) oil in your engine. That is, as long as they have the correct viscosity and meet the performance and quality specifications set by your vehicle's manufacturer. However, there are rare exceptions, such as some older Mazda rotary engines that do not allow the use of synthetic oils, so it's important to check your owner's manual first.
Regardless of the type of oil your car requires, it plays a crucial role in maintaining efficient engine operation. Plus, regular oil changes can help you save on gas by ensuring that engine parts are well-coated and protected from wear and tear.
Top 5 Reasons to Get an Oil Change in Kiawah Island, SC
A recent survey conducted by the Car Care Council revealed that 22% of vehicles are equipped with either low or contaminated engine oil. Taking proactive steps to change a vehicle's oil and filter can help ensure that the engine continues to operate at peak performance and can prevent drivers from incurring costly repairs in the future. Try comparing the average cost of a year's worth of oil changes (about $200) to the cost of damage caused by neglecting them ($4,000+). It's clear to see that having your car's oil changed regularly is hugely beneficial for your bank account.
Proper lubrication is essential for moving parts to prevent the creation of friction, which leads to the generation of heat. To avoid excessive friction and engine overheating, it is crucial to ensure that the oil is clean and at the right levels.
Imagine all the moving parts of your car's engine: its valves, pistons, and other parts moving at high speeds. If these parts are not properly lubricated with oil, they will generate a lot of heat and cause significant wear and tear on the engine. Consult the owner's manual to find out the exact viscosity and quality of oil that your vehicle needs, and make sure to maintain it at the recommended level.
When your engine isn't properly lubricated, it can consume more fuel than normal, so it's a good idea to ensure that your engine has enough clean oil. When you get an oil change to replace your dirty oil, it can improve your gas mileage by 1-2%. That doesn't sound like much, but for the average driver, it can mean big savings over time.
Dirt can be extremely harmful to engines. With time, dirt can lead to corrosion and reduce an engine's lifespan. Furthermore, as time passes, oil deteriorates and transforms into "sludge." The key is to maintain a clean engine. Regular oil and filter changes aid in eliminating particles and sludge, ensuring that engines remain in optimal condition.
You don't have to be a graduate from Charleston Collegiate School in Kiawah Island, SC to know that routine car maintenance makes your vehicle last longer. Contaminant buildup from old oil reduces a car's fuel efficiency and performance and causes its internal parts to experience increased strain. Plus, an overworked engine is more likely to develop issues and have a shorter lifespan in the long run. Why deal with those problems when you can help prevent them with an oil change from A+ Auto Service?
The Right Oil at a Price You Can Afford
Now that you understand why oil and oil changes are so important, you may be looking for reliable oil change services. Head to your local A+ Auto Service for a quality oil change and learn why so many South Carolina drivers trust our professional technicians to service their vehicles.
Oil Change Myth #1: Thicker Oil is Best for Your Engine
During the 1960s, when classic Camaros and majestic Mustangs dominated the drag strips, there might have been some truth to this. The clearances between engine parts were not as precise as they are today, and a thicker oil might have assisted in reducing certain types of engine wear. However, back then, it was mainly the anti-wear additives in the oil that offered proper protection in other types of engine wear - such as in the valve train - rather than the viscosity itself.
Using motor oil that is too thick nowadays could, at best, lower engine efficiency. At worst, it could impede proper lubrication (especially on cold mornings), affect the performance of certain engine parts that depend on oil pressure as a hydraulic fluid, and result in even greater engine wear. Some vehicles may display an illuminated check engine light if the wrong viscosity oil is used. This means that many newer vehicles necessitate lower viscosity grades to accommodate tighter tolerances and deliver improved fuel economy.
The bottom line is that thicker oil doesn't equal better. If your engine is stock, you should read your owner's manual to find out your oil recommendations.
Oil Change Myth #2: Black Oil = Immediate Oil Change in Kiawah Island, SC
It's a common belief that you should change your oil when it turns black, but it might not always be necessary. The darkening of engine oil occurs naturally due to oxidation from heating cycles. The detergents and dispersants in engine oil work to clean the engine by absorbing soot, carbon, and other combustion byproducts, which also darkens your oil.
Although changing your oil before it's time to do so isn't inherently harmful, it could hurt your wallet. Ultimately, black engine oil can be a natural occurrence and a sign that it's doing its job effectively. The best course of action is to change your engine oil and oil filter according to your vehicle manufacturer's suggested maintenance schedule.
Oil Change Myth #3: You Must Get an Oil Change Before Road Tripping
Whether you're driving to see Kiawah Beachwalker Park near Kiawah Island, SC or you're traveling to see family, road-tripping is one of the most fun and exciting ways to enjoy your vehicle. According to some drivers, though, you've got to change your oil before embarking on a long road trip. While it is important to ensure your vehicle is in good condition before a lengthy drive, changing your oil beforehand isn't always needed.
If your oil change interval indicates that there are still many miles left before needing service, you should be OK. However, it's still a good idea to check and make sure your oil levels are where they should be before road-tripping. If your car is scheduled for an oil change shortly after you return, you can probably wait until you get back from your trip. In any case, there's really no downside to getting your oil changed early - if it gives you peace of mind, go ahead and do it.
Superb Oil Change Service in Kiawah Island, SC, Starts with A+ Auto
You may be on the fence about getting an oil change, but the consequences of not doing so can be horrible. At best, you'll experience diminished performance and gas mileage. At worst, you or a member of your family could end up in Indigo Hall Assisted Living and Memory Care in Kiawah Island, SC because your engine failed and you got in a car wreck.
Why risk your safety when you can swing by A+ Auto every few thousand miles for a quality oil change? You'll benefit from a healthier car, and you won't have to wait for hours on end like you would at a dealership. Plus, you'll be treated with the care, compassion, and professionalism that only a local auto repair shop can provide. Contact A+ Auto to schedule your oil change service and learn more about why we're the Lowcountry's top choice for reliable auto repairs.
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Latest News in Kiawah Island, SC
This South Carolina Beach Has The Most Beautiful Blue Water
Lisa Cericolahttps://www.southernliving.com/south-carolina-clearest-blue-water-8780577
Any time spent at the beach is sure to put you in a vacation state of mind. And while there are many important things to consider when planning a trip, blue waters and white sand beaches always earn bonus points. The good news is that if you're heading to South Carolina with family or friends this summer, the beaches are all truly mag...
Any time spent at the beach is sure to put you in a vacation state of mind. And while there are many important things to consider when planning a trip, blue waters and white sand beaches always earn bonus points. The good news is that if you're heading to South Carolina with family or friends this summer, the beaches are all truly magnificent so there's no wrong decision.
The Best Girlfriend Getaways In South Carolina To Plan Now
The Bluest Water In South Carolina
Coligny Beach on Hilton Head Island is where you should head for the bluest waters. Hilton Head is famous for its beaches, so it’s no surprise that the waters here are extra beautiful. While a good amount of Hilton Head is home to high-end resorts with private beach access, Coligny Beach is open free to the public, which makes it one of the most popular places on the island. Read on to learn more about this spectacular spot.
What Makes Coligny Beach’s Water So Blue?
The sand on Hilton Head Island is bright white, blissfully soft, and very fine, and the water is shallow, especially at low tide. Both of these qualities can make the water appear sparkling blue. When the ocean is relatively calm and shallow, there is also less plankton, sand, particles, and other materials constantly churning in the waves, which gives the water a clearer appearance.
There’s a scientific reason as well, of course. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, this phenomenon occurs when light passes through water and absorbs colors in the red part of the light spectrum, leaving colors on the blue end of the color spectrum.
How To See Coligny Beach’s Water
Coligny Beach, the most popular public beach on Hilton Head Island, is a local favorite for more than its aquamarine waters. It’s easy to access, thanks to a beautifully designed park that includes a pathway and boardwalk that leads you straight onto the sand.
The Coligny Beach Park also has lots of amenities too: gazebos with swings, a fountain with synchronized jets, seating areas (including rocking chairs), beach matting for wheelchair access, outdoor showers, and a free parking area. The Breeze, which is Hilton Head's free public trolley, makes stops as well. (Just be sure to check the seasonal schedule.) It’s truly a beach that everyone can appreciate—for the magical color of the ocean, and more.
This Beach Has The Clearest Water—And Whitest Sand—In North Carolina
Skip Florida: South Carolina's Secret Island Shines With Pristine Beaches & Luxe Resorts
Stephen Hansonhttps://www.thetravel.com/south-carolina-secret-kiawah-island-pristine-beaches-luxe-resorts/
After Hawaii, Florida is probably the U.S. state that comes to mind most often when people think of sunny, beach-side vacation spots. And with more than 8,000 miles of coastline, it's not hard to see why!In addition to its superb mainland beaches, Florida has many exceptional island destinations. The Florida Keys are by far the most famous, but there are also ...
After Hawaii, Florida is probably the U.S. state that comes to mind most often when people think of sunny, beach-side vacation spots. And with more than 8,000 miles of coastline, it's not hard to see why!
In addition to its superb mainland beaches, Florida has many exceptional island destinations. The Florida Keys are by far the most famous, but there are also underrated Florida islands with equally beautiful beaches and resorts.
But for all its well-deserved fame, Florida is hardly the only state in the U.S. with amazing beach and island vacation spots. Across the country, you can find plenty of underrated beach destinations with clear "Florida Keys" vibes.
Georgia, Florida's neighbor to the north, has its own version of Key West that makes an excellent Spring Break stop. However, perhaps the most underrated state in the southeast for sunny island vacations is South Carolina.
In the popular consciousness, Hilton Head is South Carolina's best-known Florida Keys alternative for spring breakers. But arguably the best single South Carolina alternative to Sunny Florida sits on a lesser-known island just south of Charleston.
Though not as well-known as Hilton Head, Kiawah Island is a true "Florida-style" paradise with incredible beaches, resorts, and ample vacation opportunities for all sorts of travelers.
Like The Outer Banks, But For Introverts: This Underrated South Carolina Island Is It For Quiet Spring Breakers
This South Carolina island is the perfect spot for spring breakers who want a peaceful and recharging vacation.
Kiawah Island Is A Florida-like Island Paradise Just South Of Charleston
Kiawah Island is one of the many barrier islands that extend along the Atlantic from North Carolina to Florida. Many of these islands are popular vacation destinations in their own right. However, Kiawah Island stands out (at least within South Carolina's share of the Atlantic barrier islands) for its stupendous mix of sunny weather, beautiful scenery, excellent amenities, and a convenient location.
Though Kiawah looks like a remote island paradise at first glance, it's actually quite close to the city of Charleston. For years, Charleston has consistently been voted as one of the best cities in the U.S. for vacations. And that's not even taking into account its proximity to memorable island destinations like Kiawah!
Within the Charleston metropolitan area, Kiawah Island preserves arguably the best collection of supreme beaches and beach-side scenery. The island has around ten miles of protected shoreline, with plenty of gorgeous private beaches for island visitors to enjoy lazy days amid the surf, sand, and sun.
Kiawah Island's beaches often come attached to some of South Carolina's top luxurious resorts for visitors to indulge in some well-deserved pampering among the beautiful ocean views. And with no shortage of amazing restaurants and bars, you'll be able to experience some of South Carolina's best dining options while you enjoy the warm climate!
The "Mini Hawaii" Of South Carolina Is America's Most Underrated Small Town By The Sea
Thanks to the ambiance of Edisto Beach, South Carolina, you can experience a Hawaiian vibe without ever leaving the continental US.
Kiawah Island Is A Particularly Attractive Destination For Golfers
Kiawah Island's reputation largely centers around its status as one of America's top golf destinations. This reputation comes thanks to the exceptional Kiawah Island Golf Resort, a truly exceptional golfer's paradise located along a scenic, ten-mile stretch of the island's most picturesque coastline.
Kiawah Island Golf Resort doesn't just have one outstanding golf course. It has five of them. In fact, the resort's top-ranked courses were actually designed by some of the sport's biggest names, including Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, and Pete Dye.
With their combination of expert design and an outstanding coastal setting, the resort's courses have frequently been included in rankings of the best golf courses in the United States. The resort's courses have also hosted some of the most prestigious events in the world of golf, including the PGA Championship and the Ryder Cup.
But as impressive as its golf credentials are, the Kiawah Island Golf Resort is much more than just top golf courses. The resort also features superb accommodations, including luxurious beachside villas, rental cottages, and the five-star Sanctuary Hotel. And with excellent spa treatments available at the resort as well, you can indulge in some much-needed pampering between your rounds of golf!
Golf Aside, Kiawah Island Is A Perfect Spot To Enjoy South Carolina's Seaside Beauty
Of course, Kiawah Island is ultimately much more than great golf courses, luxury hotels, and fine dining. The island's location along South Carolina's scenic coastal region provides it with a lovely tableau of warm beaches, coastal marshes, and unique ecosystems.
Even if you're not a huge golf fan, Kiawah Island still provides abundant opportunities for peaceful strolls along the beach amid gorgeous natural scenery that rivals anything found in Florida.
The Kiawah Beachwalker Park is the island's main recreational area that's open to the general public. With photogenic views of both the ocean and the island's charming river system, Kiawah Beachwalker Park is the perfect spot for a stress-free walk along the beach for anyone visiting the Charleston area.
Animal lovers can also take advantage of the Kiawah Island Nature Program to witness some of the region's unique wildlife on an immersive and informative tour. Depending on the time and location, you might get to see animals like sea turtles, bald eagles, dolphins, bobcats, and even alligators!
In short, Kiawah Island has pretty much everything you'd want from a comprehensive trip to the Florida Keys—with some of the country's best golfing thrown in as an added bonus!
While Florida may be the main attraction when it comes to beach resorts and ocean-side golfing getaways, South Carolina's secret Kiawah Island gives the tourist hotspot a run for its money.
Kiawah's 2024 home sales exceed $1B, top out at a record for SC resort island
Teri Errico Griffishttps://www.postandcourier.com/business/kiawah-island-south-carolina-home-sales-buy-million-president/article_58169df2-dd0a-11ef-a4b1-7b5003833572.html
Kiawah Island broke a record with $1.07 billion in home sales in 2024 even as annual transactions normalize after the pandemic spike.In all, 447 properties sold last year on the seaside resort community. The total is much closer to the typical annual volume of 318 closed properties in 2019 that sold for $300 million than the 656 sold for $807 million in 2020.The biggest change is the prices.“What’s interesting is the pace of sales has dropped to normalcy,” said Dan Whalen, president of Kiawah Island Rea...
Kiawah Island broke a record with $1.07 billion in home sales in 2024 even as annual transactions normalize after the pandemic spike.
In all, 447 properties sold last year on the seaside resort community. The total is much closer to the typical annual volume of 318 closed properties in 2019 that sold for $300 million than the 656 sold for $807 million in 2020.
The biggest change is the prices.
“What’s interesting is the pace of sales has dropped to normalcy,” said Dan Whalen, president of Kiawah Island Real Estate. “We’re selling a similar number of properties prior to COVID, but the average price went up exponentially.”
Founded 45 years ago, KIRE is the island’s primary real estate brokerage. Of the $1.07 billion in closed sales for 2024, the agency handled 80 percent of the volume, or roughly $825 million in transactions.
The overall 2024 sales eked out the island's previous 2021 record of $1.04 billion from 733 transactions.
“It’s still that old economic equation of supply and demand,” Whalen said. “We have had very little inventory since we got through COVID in 2020 and 2021.”
As of Jan. 1, the island had 113 homes for sale out of a total of about 4,800 properties. A healthy inventory is about 8 percent to 10 percent, but current resales equate to 1.5 percent, Whalen noted.
Pricing for single-family homes stabilized somewhat in 2024 after years of high growth, with the average sale price recorded at $3.88 million and the median sale price at nearly $2.98 million, versus $3.66 million and almost $3 million, respectively, in 2023.
As single-family prices continue to increase, buyers are looking to the island’s 1,600 other dwellings as points of entry, Whalen said.
“Our villa and cottage market has gone through the roof with sales up 79 percent,” Whalen said. “Before, if a person’s budget to get on Kiawah was $1 million or $1.5 million, there were a fair number of single-family homes in that price point.”
Median prices for villas and cottages have increased by 104 percent year-over-year.
For the second consecutive year, more than 20 homes on Kiawah Island sold for more than $5 million.
Among the priciest transactions of 2024:
Whalen said buyers are still a mix of moving within the island, coming from drive-to markets like Charlotte or making major moves from New York and California.
Chicago resident Alison Beitzel and her husband will close on their first Kiawah property on Valentine's Day after five years of looking to buy a vacation getaway on the island.
Beitzel grew up in Ohio traveling to South Carolina every summer and plans to continue the tradition with her grown sons once she completes renovations.
"We decided Kiawah would be our spot and went there a couple years ago to begin looking," Beitzel said. "I think my husband had us ride our bikes on every single road to view properties."
While Beitzel said other South Carolina spots like Hilton Head are attractive, Kiawah Island offers more for its residents with a golf course membership, restaurants, amenities, a home with a marsh view and easy access to Charleston.
"Kiawah is quintessential Lowcountry and to be near a pretty decent size city is a huge selling point," she said. "We've traveled the world, and Charleston is one of our favorite cities for sure."
Golf Real Estate’s New Golden Age: Surging Demand, Changing Lifestyles
Erik Matuszewskihttps://www.forbes.com/sites/erikmatuszewski/2025/02/07/golf-real-estates-new-golden-age-surging-demand-changing-lifestyles/
Like golf itself, the landscape of golf real estate is experiencing a renaissance, driven by a perfect storm of factors that extend well beyond the traditional appeal of a links lifestyle. While the sight of homes along fairways probably won’t excite most golfers mid-round, the dream of owning property alongside a course or in a residential golf community is in exceedingly high demand.This resurgence is evident in golf communities across the country, from the coastal shores of South Carolina to the Hill Country of Texas and the ...
Like golf itself, the landscape of golf real estate is experiencing a renaissance, driven by a perfect storm of factors that extend well beyond the traditional appeal of a links lifestyle. While the sight of homes along fairways probably won’t excite most golfers mid-round, the dream of owning property alongside a course or in a residential golf community is in exceedingly high demand.
This resurgence is evident in golf communities across the country, from the coastal shores of South Carolina to the Hill Country of Texas and the Hawaiian Islands.
Take Kiawah Island, where 2024 marked the most successful year in the resort island’s history, with over $1 billion in total sales volume across 447 transactions, surpassing even the COVID-era peak of 2021. The average sale price reached $3.8 million, with 20 home sales exceeding $5 million on Kiawah Island, which has five resort courses and two private layouts, with a third on the way.
"The continuing strength of the real estate market on Kiawah Island further solidifies our belief that the desire to be a part of this exceptional community is much more enduring than a cyclical trend," says Chris Randolph, Managing Partner at South Street Partners.
Fundamental Shift
A key element in play is a fundamental shift in how people view these communities.
Rob Duckett, President of Operations at South Street, has observed a significant transformation in residential patterns. "There’s been this migration to these safe-haven communities, and COVID heightened the demand,” Duckett said, pointing to Palmetto Bluff in South Carolina as an example. The Lowcountry community has seen full-time residency climb past 50% – up from 30% to 40% just five years ago and from 20% when the property first opened.
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Palmetto Bluff opened a reversible short course called Crossroads at the start of 2024 and more recently unveiled plans for a new 18-hole course designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw that will anchor the community’s third village. The new offerings could help Palmetto Bluff surpass what was a near record-breaking year in 2024, with over $384 million in sales, just $7 million shy of the community’s 2021 historic total.
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And the trend extends well beyond the Southeast U.S.
While the prestigious South Carolina enclave of Timbers Kiawah has been sold out since 2021 due to increased demand – with buyers from the Northeast in particular seeking year-round golf and other outdoor activities – Timbers Kauai in Hawaii is experiencing record sales because of new offerings. This ranges from shared ownership interests in Hokuala’s private residence club to full ownership residences in Timbers Kauai and vacant lots in a new subdivision for families to build a dream home on the Garden Isle.
The newest Laola Nani luxury townhomes along the signature 15th hole of the Jack Nicklaus-designed Ocean Course, which traces the shoreline of Ninini Point Bay, range from $6.1 million to $7.5 million.
Prices have been “steadily increasing across the board in all offerings,” said Debbie Edgerton, Senior Sales Executive at Hokuala Real Estate, who attributes this success to more than just the golf amenities. "Buyers really love the community and 'ohana' feel of Timbers Kauai. The owners and Timbers Kauai Ohana are a tight-knit community. (But) the golf course definitely plays into the sales presentation as the Ocean Course is our most significant amenity here at the property.”
On the Big Island of Hawaii, the 1,260-acre oceanfront residential community of Hokuli’a on the Kona Coast also had its strongest year to date, with an average sale price of $4 million to $6 million. Not far from community’s recently-renovated Jack Nicklaus Signature course, Hokuli’a has launched new real estate options that include 20 oceanfront parcels than range in price from $4.25 million to $7.5 million and come with agricultural easements for owners to plant crops like fruit or coffee.
Evolution of Golf Communities
The evolution of these communities is exemplified at Reynolds Lake Oconee in Georgia, a 12,000-acre lakefront resort real estate property halfway between Atlanta and Augusta.
Reynolds has seven courses, five of which are open to public play as well as for guests of the on-property Ritz-Carlton. The other two, including the newly opened Richland course, are private options for some of the community’s 4,000 member families.
"We have seen almost a complete inversion of our membership demographically and psychographically over the last 10 years," explains Dave Short, Senior VP of Sales, Marketing, and Strategic Planning. "It's not the 65-year-old guy pensioning off from GM after 30 years who wants to play six days a week. When I put up a billboard, it's a much broader group of people who are attracted and are figuring out how to make this their permanent place."
In Texas Hill Country, the similarly established golf and lakeside real estate development at Horseshoe Bay continues to grow and expand, with $350 million in new and recently updated amenities.
Real estate sale prices in Horseshoe Bay increased 12% in 2024, with the offerings spanning a wide range, from the Waters Unit Condos that have been sold out for over two years to a new luxury development called Atten Hill that’s in a founders campaign. There are 92 homesites in the 24-hour guard-gated community, with each including a membership at the Horseshoe Bay Club’s private Summit Rock course that’s valued at over $200,000. The Jack Nicklaus design is the members-only course within the community that also boasts three resort courses designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr.
Stacey Persinger, the general manager of membership at The Club at Horseshoe Bay, said the surge in interest is predominantly driven by urban professionals and families seeking reprieve from the congestion of city life. They’re instead pursuing a full-amenity lifestyle that blends luxury with recreation and natural beauty.
A Reprieve From City Life
“But it’s more than just amenities – it’s a lifestyle shift,” said Persinger. “More people are trading city stress for the tranquility of the Hill Country, seeking not just a getaway but a community. The Club at Horseshoe Bay is meeting that demand with a robust social scene, exclusive dining, and a vibrant, active membership.”
About a half hour east, Loraloma Private Club and Estates outside Austin recently unveiled 29 homesites along its new David McLay Kidd-designed course, his first in the southern U.S. These fairway-front sites, priced between $1.13 million and $1.83 million, reflect the more measured approach to current golf-related real estate development than the boom years of the 1990s and early 2000s.
According to the National Golf Foundation, while U.S. golf development remains limited compared to previous decades, new course construction is at its highest levels in more than a decade. Among course projects under construction or in planning, 42% have a housing component – notably higher than the 25% of overall U.S. golf supply tied to real estate.
The impact on property values is significant, with NGF's research showing homes on golf courses experience an average 15% bump in property value.
Florida leads the nation in golf communities, with more than 500 residential golf developments, followed by California, Texas, Arizona, North Carolina, and South Carolina.
Among the newest golf real estate offerings in the Sunshine State is Cabot Citrus Farms, a four-course destination that has a limited number of two- and four-bedroom golf cottages along with a forthcoming selection of two-story Fairway Homes. Prices start at $1.8 million for the cottages, which are grouped in a small neighborhood between the courses near the main clubhouse that’s under construction, and $3.7 million for fairway homes that are situated near the 10th hole of the Roost course.
This new era in residential golf interest and new development reflects broader societal shifts: increased workplace flexibility, a renewed appreciation for outdoor recreation, and a desire for community connection in the post-pandemic world.
While these communities span seasonal retreats to year-round havens, they continue to attract older golfers with more time, money and inclination to engage with the game as well as a more diverse and younger demographic. The commonality is that all are seeking not just a place to play golf, but a comprehensive lifestyle that balances recreation, social engagement, and the freedom to work from anywhere.
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