Florida LINKSLiving Winter 2012

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a supplement to LINKS Magazine

FLORIDA LINKSliving

A UNIQUE COLLECTION OF PRIVATE GOLF COMMUNITIES AND MEMBERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

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FLORIDALINKSliving

A HOME RUN IS THERE ANY GOLFER who hasn’t dreamed of living in Florida someday? Not too many, I’m sure.

Florida and golf are as synonymous as the Yankees and the World Series. Not only is there an abundance of great clubs and communities from which to choose, but the weather, palm trees, and water features combine to make it a golfer’s paradise—not to mention a boater’s. Why do you think so many PGA Tour pros choose to make their home in the Sunshine State?

In fact, some of them even play out of one of the clubs, Old Palm Golf Club, included in this edition of “FLORIDA LINKS Living.” The driving range, complete with three practice holes and a high-tech golf instruction studio, is one of the most impressive I’ve ever seen.

The other clubs have amenities that hit it out of the park, too. The Polo Club of Boca Raton has Titleist Performance Institute-certified trainers on staff to make sure members get the most out of their games, while the Villages of Citrus Hills has a 45,000-square-foot spa and fitness center complete with racquetball courts, full-service spa, and indoor pool. And John’s Island offers three championship courses by the likes of Dye, Fazio, and Nicklaus.

But you don’t need to be a millionaire golf pro (or baseball player, for that matter) to live like one in Florida right now. Some of the deals are almost too good to be true, but you can’t wait forever because sales have definitely picked up. John’s Island had record sales of $38 million in November alone.

This is perhaps a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to purchase a home in the state that touches all the bases when it comes to enjoying the golf lifestyle we all love so much. I hope this latest issue of “FLORIDA LINKS Living” inspires you to take action and make a visit to a community with a pitch that appeals to you.

Sincerely,

Jack Purcell President and Publisher jpurcell@linksmagazine.com

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contents 2 Publisher’s Letter 4 John’s Island A Home Run

With three miles of undisturbed oceanfront, unparalleled privacy, and Old Florida charm, this member-owned community sets the standard for a casual, yet sophisticated, lifestyle

4

8 Old Palm Golf Club

Exclusive, inviting and intimate, this prestigious golf enclave blends the Palm Beach lifestyle with beautiful, luxurious living on a more personal scale

8

14

Polo Club of Boca Raton Well-established and financially strong, this premier, private golf club is meeting the needs of the next generation of club members without sacrificing its signature lifestyle

18 The Villages of Citrus Hills

This amenities-rich, private golf community on the Nature Coast lives up to its exceptional surroundings, while making the dream of club living accessible to nearly everyone

14 On the cover: John’s Island Beach Club

18

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FLORIDA LINKSliving

John’s Island

With three miles of undisturbed oceanfront, unparalleled privacy, and Old Florida charm, this member-owned community sets the standard for a casual, yet sophisticated, lifestyle

R

ecord sales of $38 million in

a favorite of members, debuted about the same time.

November alone. Seventy-eight

This summer the West clubhouse underwent a $3 mil-

properties sold or under contract

lion total renovation.

for 2011. These eye-popping numbers give credence to a resurgent

They say that privacy is the greatest luxury at this 1,650-acre exclusive community, but the luxurious,

Florida real estate market. But even more, they speak

world-class amenities certainly give that highly prized

volumes about this remarkable, family-oriented

asset a run for its money. No less than Pete Dye, Jack

private community surrounded by water.

John’s Island is located just north of the quaint seaside town of Vero Beach, an unspoiled, quiet gem rated by Money magazine as one of America’s Best Small Towns. You won’t find jai alai, horse races, or crowds of tourists on the beaches or the roadways. Instead you will find the charm of Old Florida still intact.

It’s not surprising that sales soared here. Real estate values at this fully member-owned community stayed steady during the worst years of the housing market.

At a time when many clubs continue to tighten their reins, John’s Island keeps making improvements to what is an already spectacular community. Just a few years back, a brand new oceanfront Beach Club opened to great acclaim. The high-tech Fitness Center, WINTER 2012

ABOVE: Every residence takes advantage of its natural surroundings.

OPPOSITE: 381-yard 18th, West Course BELOW: 411-yard 17th, North Course

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club’s original and brings many of the island’s lakes into play. Dye’s North Course, surrounded by water, offers spectacular views of the sound. Both are outstanding courses wonderfully set in the midst of the island’s natural beauty.

But it is the West Course, six miles or about a 10-minute drive from John’s Island, that really grabs your attention. Set on 300 acres with its own clubhouse, but without a home to intrude on the serenity, it is a singular, pure golf experience. Fazio’s design is also the more difficult test of golf among the club’s three courses. Perennially ranked among the country’s most challenging courses, the 6,828-yard layout gives members a place to get away for an unfettered day of golf.

John’s Island is as family oriented as it is golf orientTOP: 161-yard 16th, North Course ABOVE: Privacy is one of the greatest luxuries on this 1,650-acre barrier island.

Nicklaus, and Tom Fazio created the three champi-

ed. A unique vertical membership program allows

onship golf courses. This is the only gated community

members’ children and parents to play golf (or make

in South Florida with both North American doubles

use of any of the amenities or social benefits) under

and singles squash courts (air conditioned, of course).

their membership without paying an additional fee.

The Tennis Facility has 18 Har-Tru courts with the

During school vacation times, the club organizes every

nice tradition of all-white attire. Members enjoy three

manner of kid-friendly entertainment, from family

great clubhouses with superb dining. From the jacket-

trivia nights to Minute to Win It competitions, cupcake

and-tie elegance of the Oak Room to the festive pub

decorating, and kayaking trips to observe sea turtles.

vibe at Rafters and the casual atmosphere at the Beach

to spend lots of time is at the Beach Club. There’s not

and organic.

a bad seat in the house, as the ocean seems visible

The golf at John’s Island is just as remarkable. Two

6 LINKSliving

One of the places everyone in the family will want

Club, Chef John Farnsworth’s emphasis is on fresh

from nearly every single one of its 50,500 square feet.

of the courses are in the heart of the island and run

Swaying palms and an abundance of comfortable

north and south from their shared clubhouse at the

seating surround the illusion pool, which incorporates

Golf Club. The Nicklaus/Dye South Course is the

a lap pool overlooking the Atlantic. This is the place WINTER 2012

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FLORIDA LINKSliving

families are attracted to the dynamic lifestyle, too. The current average buyer is in their 50s.

For members, the lifestyle extends well beyond their barrier island. They love to get involved in the Vero Beach community, which for a little seaside town has quite a bit to offer. The Riverside Theater, Vero Beach Museum of Art, and the excellent medical care are just a few of the things members love about it.

Befitting the setting, the homes on John’s Island

ABOVE: The Beach Club offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

LEFT: Members enjoy three miles of private coastline.

BELOW: The casual Rafters bar is a favorite gathering spot for members and their guests.

are exquisite, luxurious, and in perfect harmony with members come to relax, to celebrate, and to play.

their surroundings. Available homes

No matter how dazzling the amenities, it quickly

range from luxury estates to oceanfront

becomes obvious that it is the people who make John’s

condominiums to golf course cottages,

Island the eclectic, unpretentious, close-knit community it

priced from $1 to $15 million. Select

is. Many of the sales here are by word-of-mouth. Younger

homesites are also available.

John’s Island One John’s Island Drive Vero Beach, Fla. 32963 800.327.3153 JohnsIslandRealEstate.com

SOUTH PAR: 72 YARDAGE: 6,567 YEAR FOUNDED: 1969 ARCHITECTS:

Jack Nicklaus/Pete Dye

NORTH PAR: 71 YARDAGE: 6,782 YEAR FOUNDED: 1973 ARCHITECT: Pete Dye

WEST PAR: 72 YARDAGE: 6,828 YEAR FOUNDED: 1998 ARCHITECT: Tom Fazio

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FLORIDA LINKSliving

Old Palm Golf Club Exclusive, inviting and intimate, this prestigious golf enclave blends the Palm Beach lifestyle with beautiful, ultra-luxurious living on a more personal scale

I

mpeccably located off PGA Boulevard in

home than the world-class facility it is. The intimate

Palm Beach Gardens, Old Palm Golf Club

character of the community begins with its low-

is a masterpiece of a private golf club

density masterplan. No more than 320 residences will

community. Truly among the world’s most

be built on its 651 acres.

beautiful and luxurious places to live,

While the feeling of space in a community is its own

it perfectly combines all the modern amenities of

reward, there are other benefits. First, it allows for a

today’s state-of-the-art clubs with the very best

“no tee time” policy, one of the great pleasures of

traditions of the country’s most historic and revered.

The clubhouse sets the tone. Authentic details reverberate throughout, from the pecky cypress ceilings to the Portuguese tile murals, striking an elegant, welcoming chord. The interior is infused with beautiful bright colors, overstuffed furniture, and fireplaces. Instead of a grand ballroom, there are intimate gathering spaces everywhere. The inspiration comes from Addison Mizner, the celebrated 1920s architect, whose Mediterranean Revival designs helped define the Palm Beach lifestyle.

Scale is the keyword here. Nearly every amenity, from the clubhouse to the golf practice studio, is designed to look and live more like a comfortable WINTER 2012

ABOVE: 4th hole, 598 yards OPPOSITE: 9th hole, 535 yards BELOW: Clubhouse

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ABOVE: The 97-yard 19th, or hero, hole RIGHT: Six new model homes just opened at Old Palm.

OPPOSITE: 5th hole, 423 yards (foreground); 6th hole, 172 yards (background))

membership in a smaller, private club. The scale also

Atlantic Ocean and minutes from the upscale shops

allows for an incredibly high, attentive level of service.

of Worth Avenue in Palm Beach, the club offers easy

Perhaps that is best exemplified by their full time

access to the best of everything.

concierge, Rolf Schuster, who speaks seven different languages and whose motto is “Just Ask.” Its Palm Beach Gardens address puts Old Palm in

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Like all great clubs, it is the thoughtful details that speak volumes about quality and luxury. The clubhouse is home to not just a spectacular men’s lounge,

the midst of one of the country’s most exclusive and

but also an equally magnificent women’s lounge,

sophisticated communities. Just six miles from the

complete with an intimate living room, full spa, and WINTER 2012

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FLORIDA LINKSliving private locker rooms. The lakes are all lined so the

The Golf Studio features three practice holes that

water levels don’t move and don’t require recharging.

recreate every shot and condition of the course.

All the grass in the community is Paspalum, which

There is also a double-ended, double-tiered driving

stays green year round. And instead of achieving

range and a technology-filled Studio building with

Audubon Gold Signature Sanctuary certification

an air conditioned hitting bay that opens to the

for just the golf course, the entire community is

practice range. No wonder that members, from

Gold certified.

families to touring pros, love to practice here.

One of the greatest benefits of limiting the number

There are three distinct neighborhoods to select

of homes here is that everyone gets to know each other.

from, each with its own special characteristics. Golf

Camaraderie and friendship come naturally, helped

Estates homes run from 3,400–5,000 square feet and

along by a full schedule of social activities and unique

are priced from $1–$2 million. Grand Estates homes,

club events like Yappy Hour where dogs join their owners at the club.

This place is alive with activity and people; dinner companions and golf partners are found effortlessly.

With wide fairways and no forced carries, the Raymond Floyd Signature course is a superb golf experience, enjoyed as much by the higher handi-

Old Palm Golf Club 11089 Old Palm Drive Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. 33418 866.499.6742 OldPalmGolfClub.com/links PAR: 72 YARDAGE: 7,401 YEAR FOUNDED: 2004 ARCHITECT: Raymond Floyd

cappers as it is by the PGA touring

on half-acre homesites, are 5,000– 7,000 square feet and in the $2–$3 million range. The Custom Estates neighborhood, with prices from $3.8–$15 million, features homes up to 15,000 square feet on one-acre homesites. Homes here, of course, are designed and built to the most exacting standards.

The fresh, modern design of the

pros that frequent it. Beyond the wonderful convenience

six new builder models that are currently open make

of never having to make a tee time at this members-

this an especially exciting time to consider Old Palm.

only course, one of its great delights is the 97-yard,

A new ownership group, Clarion, purchased Old

par-3 19th, or hero, hole. The postage stamp-sized

Palm and brought added financial stability to a Club

island green offers the perfect post-round stage for

that was already doing very well. The membership

settling friendly wagers.

could not be more pleased with the acquisition. For

But as pleasurable as Floyd’s course is to play, the 33-acre manicured practice facility is the real stunner.

prospective members, the financial strength of Clarion adds yet another layer of attractiveness.

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ADVERTISEMENT

from

FREE INFORMATION LINKS 001. JOHN’S ISLAND One John’s Island Drive Vero Beach, Fla. 32963 800.327.3153 JohnsIslandRealEstate.com

FLORIDA LINKS

ecord sales of $38 million in

a favorite of members, debuted about the same time.

November alone. Seventy-eight

This summer the West clubhouse underwent a $3 mil-

properties sold or under contract

lion total renovation.

for 2011. These eye-popping numbers give credence to a resurgent

They say that privacy is the greatest luxury at this 1,650-acre exclusive community, but the luxurious,

Florida real estate market. But even more, they speak

world-class amenities certainly give that highly prized

volumes about this remarkable, family-oriented

asset a run for its money. No less than Pete Dye, Jack

ABOVE: Every residence takes advantage of its natural surroundings.

OPPOSITE: 381-yard 18th, West Course BELOW: 411-yard 17th, North Course

private community surrounded by water.

John’s Island is located just north of the quaint seaside town of Vero Beach, an unspoiled, quiet gem rated by Money magazine as one of America’s Best Small Towns. You won’t find jai alai, horse races, or crowds of tourists on the beaches or the roadways. Instead you will find the charm of Old Florida still intact.

It’s not surprising that sales soared here. Real estate values at this fully member-owned community stayed steady during the worst years of the housing market.

At a time when many clubs continue to tighten their reins, John’s Island keeps making improvements to what is an already spectacular community. Just a few years back, a brand new oceanfront Beach Club opened to great acclaim. The high-tech Fitness Center, WINTER 2012

002. OLD PALM GOLF CLUB 11089 Old Palm Drive Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. 33418 866.499.6742 OldPalmGolfClub.com/links

FLORIDA LINKS

mpeccably located off PGA Boulevard in

home than the world-class facility it is. The intimate

Palm Beach Gardens, Old Palm Golf Club

character of the community begins with its low-

is a masterpiece of a private golf club

density masterplan. No more than 320 residences will

community. Truly among the world’s most

be built on its 651 acres.

beautiful and luxurious places to live,

While the feeling of space in a community is its own

it perfectly combines all the modern amenities of

reward, there are other benefits. First, it allows for a

today’s state-of-the-art clubs with the very best

“no tee time� policy, one of the great pleasures of

ABOVE: 4th hole, 598 yards OPPOSITE: 9th hole, 535 yards BELOW: Clubhouse

traditions of the country’s most historic and revered.

The clubhouse sets the tone. Authentic details reverberate throughout, from the pecky cypress ceilings to the Portuguese tile murals, striking an elegant, welcoming chord. The interior is infused with beautiful bright colors, overstuffed furniture, and fireplaces. Instead of a grand ballroom, there are intimate gathering spaces everywhere. The inspiration comes from Addison Mizner, the celebrated 1920s architect, whose Mediterranean Revival designs helped define the Palm Beach lifestyle.

Scale is the keyword here. Nearly every amenity, from the clubhouse to the golf practice studio, is designed to look and live more like a comfortable WINTER 2012

12

LINKSliving

WINTER 2012

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ADVERTISEMENT

FILL OUT & MAIL THE ATTACHED CARD, OR FAX THE CARD TO 888-847-6035 For faster service go online...

LINKSMagazine.com/FreeInfo

FLORIDA LINKS

003. THE POLO CLUB OF BOCA RATON 5400 Champions Boulevard Boca Raton, Florida 33496 561.995.1200 PoloClub.net

!

or many of us, by the time we can

to enjoy that golf by being in great shape is part of

dedicate a good portion of our days

the equation.

to golf, our agility and power are

One of the ways the Polo Club accomplishes that

nowhere near where they were in

and distinguishes itself is through its spa. There, the

our prime. Like Ponce de LeĂłn, we

club’s fitness trainers work hand in hand with the golf

ABOVE: Water abounds on the courses but there are few forced carries.

OPPOSITE: The entrance to the 145,000-squarefoot clubhouse BELOW: The new Barefoot Cafe offers members a casual setting to mingle with friends.

would gladly search the far ends of the globe to recapture our youthful swing and ensure years of enjoyable rounds with our playing partners.

They just may have discovered that secret at The Polo Club of Boca Raton.

Over the past five years, the Polo Club’s golf program has gone in a modern direction. Using their considerable infrastructure, large staff of golf pros, and the precepts of TPI (Titleist Performance Institute), this has become a destination that helps golfers recapture their youth through training. Today, it’s no longer enough to have great golf available. The ability

WINTER 2012

FLORIDA LINKS

004. THE VILLAGES OF CITRUS HILLS 2400 North Terra Vista Blvd.

Hernando, Fla. 34442 800.511.0814 CitrusHills.com

ush, rolling hills. Incredible, long-

Even a short visit here quickly shows how much

range views. 100-foot elevation

the members love the place. Scenic, relaxed, and fun,

changes. Sound like one of your

the community is full of life. Fully 80–85 percent of

favorite Carolina courses? Now add

families choose to live here year round, a percentage

in coastal breezes that make for

that is the flip side of many other seasonal Florida

comfortable year-round golf, and a prized location just north of Tampa and minutes from the Gulf of Mexico.

communities. But there’s good reason.

The good life is more accessible here than at almost

Incredibly, The Villages of Citrus Hills enjoys this

any other private golf community. Not only is there a

spectacular topography in central Florida. Rolling hills

wide range of home prices and plans, the club’s amaz-

are a rarity in the Sunshine State, and until you stand

ingly low monthly membership fee enables all of its

over a putt on the 7th green of their Skyview course

members to enjoy all of the amenities.

ABOVE: 433 yard-17th, Skyview at Terra Vista OPPOSITE: Skyview’s 10th is a long downhill par five.

BELOW: The ninth fairway at Skyview

(260 feet above sea level) it is impossible to fully comprehend the magnificence of this setting.

Though you won’t find it advertised, this is where baseball legend and avid angler Ted Williams chose to live when his playing days were over. That’s hardly surprising considering all this enviable location offers: beautiful views, temperate weather in every season, low humidity, and a wonderful small-town feel that still provides convenient access to Tampa, Orlando, and Ocala—not to mention the excellent fishing that Ted Williams moved here to enjoy.

WINTER 2012

Go to LINKSMagazine.com for more information WINTER 2012

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FLORIDA LINKSliving

The Polo Club of Boca Raton

Well-established and financially strong, this premier, private golf club is meeting the needs of the next generation of club members without sacrificing its signature lifestyle

F

or many of us, by the time we can

to enjoy that golf by being in great shape is part of

dedicate a good portion of our days

the equation.

to golf, our agility and power are

One of the ways the Polo Club accomplishes that

nowhere near where they were in

and distinguishes itself is through its spa. There, the

our prime. Like Ponce de León, we

club’s fitness trainers work hand in hand with the golf

would gladly search the far ends of the globe to recapture our youthful swing and ensure years of enjoyable rounds with our playing partners.

They just may have discovered that secret at The Polo Club of Boca Raton.

Over the past five years, the Polo Club’s golf program has gone in a modern direction. Using their considerable infrastructure, large staff of golf pros, and the precepts of TPI (Titleist Performance Institute), this has become a destination that helps golfers recapture their youth through training. Today, it’s no longer enough to have great golf available. The ability

WINTER 2012

ABOVE: Water abounds on the courses but there are few forced carries.

OPPOSITE: The entrance to the 145,000-squarefoot clubhouse BELOW: The new Barefoot Café offers members a casual setting to mingle with friends.

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and a clubhouse expansion are also in the club’s current master plan. They have accomplished all this without an assessment. In fact, members here have never been hit with one.

On the golf course, the club is already promoting the game to the next generation by taking one of their courses and integrating it for kids. In the afternoon, kids (and their parents and grandparents) can play six holes for $6. The program has been so successful they have had to extend the concept to both courses.

The golf here, by the way, is excellent. The Equestrian and the Club are two very good courses. The Equestrian ABOVE and RIGHT: The new pool complex offers a striking, yet romantic, setting where members can relax.

BELOW: Sculpted bunkers and lakes typify the layouts of both courses.

pros to produce maximum results for members.

“I was in the case study with one of Polo Club’s certified professionals and found it to be absolutely fantastic,” says member Gerry Zusel. “The key to improving my swing was through strength and flexibility.

TPI helped me reduce my handicap by four strokes.”

The Polo Club, the second largest country club in the nation in terms of membership (more than 1,700), is definitely not your grandfather’s country club. While respecting tradition and the luxurious lifestyle that its members enjoy so much, the club has embraced forward-looking growth. Amenities, like the new resort complex with family-friendly, resort-style pools that opened this past November, are being built for the next generation. New family dining options

presents more challenging green complexes, while the Club is more forgiving, yet both are very playable Tim

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FLORIDA LINKSliving

Freeland designs. This being Florida, there is plenty of

members and the service, provided by 550 employees

water to navigate, but few forced carries.

in season, is impeccable.

Despite its name, the Polo Club was originally built

For such a large community, one of The Polo Club’s

around tennis in 1986. The developer of the new

biggest strengths is how close the membership is—

community hired Chris Evert as touring pro, and the

the incredible array of activities and opportunities to

club hosted the Virginia Slims of Florida for years.

gather help bring everyone together.

With 28 courts, more than 600 tennis memberships,

That largeness, though, allows the club to offer

and a well-rounded competitive program, they were

something for everyone, from condos for the members

voted the number one private tennis club in the world

flying in from Europe or Boston to

in 2010 by the Professional Tennis Registry.

multi-million dollar custom estate

Once described as like “a cruise ship on land,”

homes. No matter what size house or in

the club offers a very active social program. In

which of the 24 communities you live,

addition to health and wellness programs, cultural

every home features high ceilings,

offerings both on and off the property, and their

garages, and a golf course or lake view.

popular cabaret series, members are entertained by

With so many options, you have the

some of the biggest acts in the business: the Beach

ability to upsize or downsize your home

Boys, Air Supply, and the Pointer Sisters to name

without moving to another community.

just a few.

Located on 1,100 meticulously manicured acres five

Yes, this is a terrific lifestyle, but not inexpensive. You have to live at the club

miles from downtown Boca Raton and seven miles

to be a golf member (real estate runs

from the beach, the community boasts one of the

from $300,000 condos to $3 million

most comprehensive and spectacular clubhouses any-

homes), but if you can take years off

where. (Not to mention, at 145,000 square feet, one of

your golf game, there really is no way to

the biggest.) There are plenty of dining venues for

put a price on that.

WINTER 2012

ABOVE: The tropical, zero edge resort-style pool

The Polo Club of Boca Raton 5400 Champions Boulevard Boca Raton, Fla. 33496 561.995.1200 PoloClub.net

CLUB PAR: 72 YARDAGE: 6,671 YEAR FOUNDED: 2002 ARCHITECT: Tim Freeland

EQUESTRIAN PAR: 72 YARDAGE: 6,766 YEAR FOUNDED: 1985 ARCHITECT: Tim Freeland

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FLORIDA LINKSliving

TheVillages of Citrus Hills Rich with amenities, this private golf community on the Nature Coast lives up to its exceptional surroundings, while making the dream of club living accessible to nearly everyone

L

ush, rolling hills. Incredible, long-

Even a short visit here quickly shows how much

range views. 100-foot elevation

the members love the place. Scenic, relaxed, and fun,

changes. Sound like one of your

the community is full of life. Fully 80–85 percent of

favorite Carolina courses? Now add

families choose to live here year round, a percentage

in coastal breezes that make for

that is the flip side of many other seasonal Florida

comfortable year-round golf, and a prized location just north of Tampa and minutes from the Gulf of Mexico.

communities. But there’s good reason.

The good life is more accessible here than at almost

Incredibly, The Villages of Citrus Hills enjoys this

any other private golf community. Not only is there a

spectacular topography in central Florida. Rolling hills

wide range of home prices and plans, the club’s amaz-

are a rarity in the Sunshine State, and until you stand

ingly low monthly membership fee enables all of its

over a putt on the 7th green of their Skyview course

members to enjoy all of the amenities.

(260 feet above sea level) it is impossible to fully comprehend the magnificence of this setting.

Though you won’t find it advertised, this is where baseball legend and avid angler Ted Williams chose to live when his playing days were over. That’s hardly surprising considering all this enviable location offers: beautiful views, temperate weather in every season, low humidity, and a wonderful small-town feel that still provides convenient access to Tampa, Orlando, and Ocala—not to mention the excellent fishing that Ted Williams moved here to enjoy.

WINTER 2012

ABOVE: 433 yard-17th, Skyview at Terra Vista OPPOSITE: Skyview’s 10th is a long downhill par five.

BELOW: The ninth fairway at Skyview

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also a world of outdoor activities beyond them. Along with great air quality and little traffic, you will find every form of water in this county—from the Gulf of Mexico to fresh-water lakes and pristine rivers. Citrus Hills is also bookended by two great towns: Inverness and Crystal River. Crystal River, recognized by Yahoo Travel and Coastal Living as one of the world’s most unique snorkeling sites, is also one of the few places where you can swim with manatees. Downtown Tampa, Orlando, and Gainesville are just about an hour’s drive; Ocala only 25 minutes.

ABOVE: BellaVita Spa & Fitness Center RIGHT: One of two tennis centers at Citrus Hills BELOW: 436-yard 11th, Skyview at Terra Vista

Here’s how it works: Every property owner auto-

For year-round golf, Citrus Hills is hard to top.

matically has a social membership and for the incred-

There are four separate golf experiences to enjoy. The

ible price of just $100 a month in social dues, mem-

Meadows is where members play free, the Oaks offers

bers receive free golf (with cart rental) at The

challenge in a beautiful setting, and 9-hole Brentwood

Meadows course until 2015, free tennis on all the asphalt courts, access to three restaurants, four pools, three gyms, 50 recreational clubs, and more than 200 planned clubs and activities a month.

All of this is thanks to a substantial membership.

The collective buying power of these members helps keep quality high and costs low. In fact, members enjoy more than $100 million in amenities and infrastructure—already in place and all debt free. The financial soundness of the community is yet another positive for prospective buyers.

With everything imaginable inside the gates, there is

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FLORIDA LINKSliving

Skyview seem to go on forever, and if it were not for the warm winter weather it would be difficult to believe this is Florida golf.

Golf isn’t the only game in these hills. Two tennis centers, one with eight Har-Tru courts and the other with hard courts, serve an avid tennis group.

ABOVE: Rolling hills are a rarity at most Florida courses.

LEFT: The BellaVita Spa & Fitness Center’s lap pool and fully equipped gym

Then, of course, there is the magnificent BellaVita Spa & Fitness Center. While other clubs were trying to find ways to cut back a few years ago, Citrus Hills built this exquisite, 45,000-square-foot members-only facility.

With racquetball courts, steam rooms, a full-service spa, and an incredible indoor lap and swimming pool, this luxurious clubhouse measures up against the best anywhere. And, yes, it is included in the $100 monthly social membership.

From five-acre equestrian parcels to maintenance-free golf villas, there are plenty of living choices, all of them fully customizable. In the Terra Vista neighborhood, homes run from the $300,000s to is the fun place everyone can enjoy. Free golf clinics

the $700,000s. In the Brentwood neigh-

(from beginner to advanced) are included with social

borhood, homes begin under $200,000.

membership, and more than 1,200 members have tak-

Currently there are 71 homes under con-

en advantage of these clinics.

struction throughout Citrus Hills.

But the flagship course is Skyview. With its dra-

If the rare Floridian rolling hills,

matic elevation changes, the highest green in Florida

affordable lifestyle, and free golf all sound

(members used this vantage point to watch space

too good to be true, we understand.

shuttle launches), and 400-foot corridors, the course

That is why Citrus Hills should be on

exceeds every expectation. A classic risk-reward

your list of must-see private golf commu-

design, it contains very few flat lies and greens that

nities. At Citrus Hills, seeing is most

average 5,500 square feet. The views from atop

definitely believing.

WINTER 2012

The Villages of Citrus Hills 2400 North Terra Vista Boulevard Hernando, Fla. 34442 800.511.0814 CitrusHills.com

THE MEADOWS PAR: 70 YARDAGE: 5,885 YEAR FOUNDED: 1985 ARCHITECT: Phil Friel

THE OAKS PAR: 70 YARDAGE: 6,323 YEAR FOUNDED: 1985 ARCHITECT: Mike Andrijiszyn

SKYVIEW AT TERRA VISTA PAR: 72 YARDAGE: 7,142 YEAR FOUNDED: 1999 ARCHITECT: Terry LaGree

BRENTWOOD PAR: 36 YARDAGE: 2,731 YEAR FOUNDED: 1994 ARCHITECT: Ken Creech

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The all new…

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LINKSMagazine.com

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JOHN’S ISLAND R E A L E S TAT E O P P O R T U N I T I E S

201 SANDPIPER POINT – $4,975,000 Showcasing breathtaking views of a palm-tree lined pool and protected cove in a private lagoon-like setting is this sensational recently built 5BR retreat designed and built to perfection. Custom millwork, hardwood floors, coffer ceilings, and luxurious finishes grace the exceptional 5,643± SF interiors. Features include a gourmet island kitchen with beamed ceiling, dining room, great room with fireplace, study, lush landscaping, summer kitchen, and dock.

NORTH VILLAGE TOWNHOUSES – $345,000–$595,000 Tucked away along John’s Island’s North Course is North Village, offering comfortable townhouse living in tranquil surroundings. It is a self-contained community, harboring private tennis courts, heated pool, one-car garages, and commanding views of the golf course and lake. Townhouses range from 1,500–1,900± square feet, with two or three bedrooms, and may be updated or fully furnished. It is perfect for the active family or for those needing a second residence for guests and family members.

658 OCEAN ROAD – $5,475,000 This magnificent 6BR seaside retreat is a rare find.

Classic Georgian architecture, high ceilings, plantation shutters and custom millwork are found throughout.

Sensitive planning to maximize the private ocean views from all principal rooms is evident throughout. Features include a gourmet island kitchen adjoining the family room, generous living room with fireplace, office, 6-bed bunkroom, large lower-level family room, and a private boardwalk over the dune to the beach.

600 BEACH ROAD – $650,000–$1,095,000 John’s Island’s elegant oceanfront condominiumns are nestled along three miles of the Atlantic’s most pristine and private beaches. Units offered for sale in the 600 Building range in size from 1,520 to 1,800 square feet, and are two-bedroom, two-bath or three-bedroom, twobath units. Some are exquisitely renovated, furnished, and move-in ready. Oceanfront lanais, large living spaces, spacious kitchens, as well as elevators and direct beach access make these oceanfront condominiums an ideal tropical retreat.

225 COCONUT PALM ROAD – $1,425,000 Beautifully sited overlooking peaceful Lake Reams is this .61± acre homesite. Nestled among magnificent oak trees and palm trees, exotic birds and wildlife complement the tranquil atmosphere found here. It is the ideal setting to build your custom lakefront home. This desirable homesite enjoys both southwestern and eastern exposures.

190 OLEANDER WAY – $2,200,000 This architecturally distinguished residence anchors a quiet corner of a cul-de-sac located just off a picturesque tree-lined street with no thru traffic. Overlooking expansive golf and water views of the South Course, this recently renovated 3BR/3.5BA home offers an attached guest cabana, hardwood floors, pool, garden courtyard, beadboard ceilings, custom built-ins, center-island gourmet kitchen, generous living room with fireplace, sunlit lanai, and desirable southern exposure.

263 SILVER MOSS DRIVE – $495,000 Nestled along multiple fairways of the South Course is this charming 2BR/2BA golf cottage. Boasting 1,500± square feet, it is offered fully furnished and features a beamed ceiling lanai showcasing stunning golf and distant water views. Additional features include a generous trayed-ceiling living room, dining area, and private views.

Golf cottages are an excellent stepping stone into the community.

620 COCONUT PALM ROAD – $5,850,000 Unobstructed water views, quality craftsmanship and exceptional renovations make this 6BR/7.5BA soundfront retreat a rare find. Boasting 8,142± SF, floor-toceiling windows open onto the spacious veranda with summer kitchen overlooking the pool and spa. Features include a gourmet island kitchen with Butler’s pantry and wine cellar, master suite with luxurious baths, handsome library with fireplace, serving bar, office, large guest ensuites, and boat dock.

391 SABAL PALM LANE – $3,875,000 New Construction! Sited on a .64-acre corner lot, this magnificent 5BR retreat was masterfully designed to maximize privacy, natural light and captivating lake and golf views. Architectural detailing, 4-car garage and intimate indoor/outdoor spaces make this 7,459± SF home one-of-a-kind. Enviable features include a gourmet island kitchen, loggia with fireplace, private guest wing with separate garage and entrance, and courtyard with reflecting pool.

john’s island real estate company 772.231.0900 • 800.327.3153 www.johnsislandrealestate.com

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HOW TO HANDLE RUSH HOUR. For getting around the neighborhood, there’s no better vehicle than a Yamaha PTV. Whether you’re running up to the Clubhouse or down to the neighbors, our quiet engine and nimble handling will get you to your destination effortlessly. Find out why Yamaha is taking golf course communities by surprise at yamahagolfcar.com

yamahagolfcar.com ©2012 Yamaha Golf-Car Company

Toll Free: 1.866.747.4027

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CHOOSE THE PATH OF LEAST RESISTANCE. Yamaha’s fuel injected PTV is an aerodynamic wonder. Featuring a quiet 11.4 horsepower engine and gas mileage that’s up to 38% better than the competition.

See for yourself. Go to yamahagolfcar.com to find the dealer nearest you and to schedule a test drive. One drive and you’ll know why we’re up to the challenge.

yamahagolfcar.com ©2012 Yamaha Golf-Car Company

Toll Free: 1.866.747.4027