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GOLF: FLORIDA VS SPAIN


Between them, Spain and Florida have many of our favourite golf course developments — but in a head-to-head contest, which one comes out on top? Golf International’s property expert, Peter Swain, investigates


SPAIN vs FLORIDA T


Golf resort homes


here are clear reasons for the enduring popularity of homes on golf courses: well-


manicured fairways look great, they’re relatively quiet, clubs invariably have good security, and, at their heart, a social hub of like-minded individuals. In these days of fi nancial uncertainty, safety and predictability are big pluses. T e less obvious advantages are that golf villas and apartments tend to have good all-year-round rental potential, and, once complete, there’s less chance of a cowboy builder spoiling the view. Golfers tend to be


more conservative types as well, so a good night’s sleep is unlikely to be interrupted by the party crowd. Most developers also know that, as up to 60 per cent of buyers at golf resorts don’t even play the game, they need to provide a good variety of appealing, family-friendly amenities such as pools, tennis courts and spas. Many of the larger ones also stretch to bars and restaurants.


All in all, the formula of resort


hotel with golf club and real estate is a winning ticket worldwide. T e same golfers tend to like both southern Spain and Florida. Both destinations have beautifully maintained courses, sunny winter


weather, outstanding beaches, and inexpensive English/American food and beer. Take fl ights out of the equation, prices are similar, and, right now on the property front, very competitive.


Spain is closer, but Florida has many more courses. T e truth is that Brits on a budget feel equally at home in both, which isn’t always the case in other golfi ng destinations like Turkey, France or Italy. But there are diff erences, so what are they? For buyers looking for a golfi ng home in the sun, we want to look at how Spain and Florida compare on price, accessibility, amenities and so on.


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