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The Value of Leisure-Led Investment: Why Golf Resorts Attract High-Net-Worth Buyers & Long-Term Renters

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The Value of Leisure-Led Investment: Why Golf Resorts Attract High-Net-Worth Buyers & Long-Term Renters
Updated:
February 7, 2025
Market Intelligence Division
Golf resorts stand as a unique asset class—one that blends exclusivity, lifestyle appeal, and strong financial returns. While these properties naturally attract golf enthusiasts, they also serve as a strategic investment for high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) looking for long-term value, stability, and passive income. Here’s a closer look at why golf resorts remain a prime choice for buyers and long-term renters alike.
Why Golf Resorts Attract High-Net-Worth Buyers & Long-Term Renters

60% Higher Property Value

Homes in golf communities appreciate up to 60% faster than similar non-golf properties.

Source: Knight Frank

Premium Rental Yields

Luxury golf resorts deliver rental yields of up to 10% annually, outperforming traditional real estate.

Source: Savills

Baby Boomers & Golf

With 30% of global wealth controlled by Baby Boomers, golf resorts are prime retirement investments.

Source: Forbes

Golf Membership Growth

Since 2020, global golf club memberships have risen by 25%, reflecting increasing demand for premium golfing experiences.

Source: R&A Golf Report

Luxury & Lifestyle Appeal

For HNWIs, purchasing real estate isn’t just about acquiring assets—it’s about securing a lifestyle. Golf resorts provide an elevated living experience with access to world-class amenities, privacy, and stunning natural surroundings.

World-Class Amenities

Golf resorts are synonymous with high-end living. Many offer:

  • Championship golf courses designed by icons such as Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods.
  • Five-star hospitality including Michelin-starred dining, luxury spas, and private beach clubs.
  • Exclusive member benefits, granting access to elite social circles and networking opportunities.
  • Wellness and fitness facilities, ensuring a holistic luxury lifestyle beyond the sport itself.

Privacy & Exclusivity

Many golf resorts are situated within gated communities, offering unparalleled security and discretion. For ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs), privacy is often a top priority, making these properties even more attractive.

Scenic & Natural Beauty

Set against breathtaking landscapes, from the rolling hills of Portugal’s Algarve to the tropical greens of the Caribbean, golf resort properties serve as both homes and tranquil retreats.

Why Golf Resorts Attract High-Net-Worth Buyers & Long-Term Renters

Investment Appeal: Stability & Growth

The Value of Leisure-Led Investment

The Value of Leisure-Led Investment: Golf Resorts

Explore why golf resorts are a prime investment for high-net-worth individuals:

Investment Growth: This chart illustrates the average annual increase in property values at golf resorts, showing significant potential for capital appreciation.

Occupancy Rates: Here's a look at average occupancy rates by season, which directly correlates to rental income potential and the return on investment for golf resort properties.

Source: Based on industry reports, including insights from "Golf Resorts investment value for high-net-worth buyers and long-term renters 2025".

Real Estate Appreciation

Golf resorts consistently rank among the most stable and appreciating luxury real estate assets. In the U.S., properties within golf communities have historically outperformed the wider real estate market, appreciating up to 15% faster in prime locations.

In markets like Spain, Portugal, and Dubai, premium golf properties have seen appreciation rates of 7-12% annually, reflecting sustained demand among international buyers.

Resilience to Market Fluctuations

Unlike purely residential properties, golf resort homes tend to be less volatile during economic downturns. This is because they cater to a niche, financially insulated demographic, and often have built-in revenue streams through rentals and resort operations.

Why Golf Resorts Attract High-Net-Worth Buyers & Long-Term Renters

Income Generation: High Rental Yields & Tournament Demand

Rental Potential

For investors, golf properties provide strong rental income.

  • Luxury golf resorts in Dubai and Portugal offer rental yields of 6-10% per annum, outperforming many traditional real estate sectors.
  • In Florida’s golf resort communities, short-term rentals during peak golf season can command 30-50% higher nightly rates than standard vacation rentals.

Golf Tourism & Tournament HostingThe global golf tourism market is valued at over $44 billion and continues to expand. Properties near championship courses benefit from:

  • Increased short-term rental demand during professional tournaments.
  • Premium pricing power due to year-round appeal for affluent traveler's.
Why Golf Resorts Attract High-Net-Worth Buyers & Long-Term Renters

Demographic & Economic Trends Fuelling Demand

An Aging but Active Population

With 750 million people over 65 globally by 2030, demand for lifestyle-driven real estate is surging. Golf resorts provide the perfect balance of leisure, wellness, and community, making them an ideal choice for affluent retirees.

Growth of Global Wealth

The number of millionaires worldwide surpassed 62.5 million in 2023, and rising wealth is fuelling demand for premium leisure real estate. HNWIs from the Middle East, China, and Europe are increasingly seeking second homes in prestigious golf destinations.

Why Golf Resorts Attract High-Net-Worth Buyers & Long-Term Renters

Tax & Financial Incentives

Tax Benefits

Many countries offer favorable tax structures for golf resort investments:

  • Omans Visa Program grants residency through property investment.
  • The UAE’s zero property tax policy makes Dubai a magnet for international buyers.
  • Saudi Arabia offer citizenship-by-investment programs with real estate options in golf resorts.

Currency Diversification

For international investors, acquiring property in markets with stable or appreciating currencies (e.g., USD, GBP, AED) provides a hedge against economic uncertainty in their home countries.

Why Golf Resorts Attract High-Net-Worth Buyers & Long-Term Renters

Sustainability & Innovation in Golf Resorts

Eco-Conscious Development

Modern golf resorts are embracing sustainability to appeal to environmentally conscious investors:

  • Water conservation & eco-friendly landscaping reduce environmental impact.
  • Solar-powered golf carts & energy-efficient clubhouses align with green living trends.
  • Biodiversity-focused course design ensures harmony with nature.

Smart Technology IntegrationInnovations in smart home automation, AI-driven golf analytics, and high-tech security systems enhance both living and playing experiences, making these properties more desirable for tech-savvy HNWIs.

A Strategic Lifestyle Investment

Golf resorts offer an unparalleled mix of luxury, stability, and financial upside. Whether as a primary residence, second home, or rental asset, these properties cater to HNWIs seeking prestige, passive income, and long-term capital appreciation.

With global wealth expansion, increased demand for lifestyle investments, and a growing emphasis on sustainable luxury, golf resort properties will continue to command strong investor interest. For those seeking a blend of leisure and financial acumen, investing in a golf resort isn’t just about owning a home—it’s about owning an elite lifestyle with built-in value and growth potential.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes golf resorts a valuable leisure-led investment?
Golf resorts uniquely blend an exclusive lifestyle with strong financial returns. They typically offer higher rental yields, accelerated property value appreciation, and premium amenities—making them a compelling choice for high-net-worth investors seeking both personal luxury and robust long-term income.
How do golf resorts deliver premium rental yields?
Luxury golf resorts attract affluent tenants through exclusive experiences, world-class amenities, and proximity to prestigious tournaments. This concentrated demand, combined with seasonal spikes and event-driven bookings, often results in rental yields that can reach up to 10% annually.
What tax and financial incentives support golf resort investments?
Many markets offering golf resort investments provide attractive tax incentives such as tax-free rental income and no capital gains tax. In addition, competitive mortgage options and low-interest rates make financing these leisure-led properties even more appealing to savvy investors.
How do demographic and economic trends influence golf resort investments?
Rising global wealth, an aging yet active population, and increasing demand among Baby Boomers are key factors driving the growth of leisure-led investments. Golf resorts offer an ideal combination of luxury, lifestyle, and income potential—meeting the needs of both retirees and high-net-worth investors.
How is technology enhancing the value of golf resort investments?
Innovative technologies such as PropTech, smart home automation, and advanced security systems are integrated into modern golf resorts. These enhancements improve operational efficiency, elevate the resident experience, and ultimately boost property values and investor returns.
Why do high-net-worth buyers prefer golf resort investments?
High-net-worth investors are attracted to golf resorts because they combine an elite lifestyle with strong financial performance. The exclusivity, world-class amenities, privacy, and potential for high rental yields make these properties a strategic long-term investment.

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