Ever wondered what those mysterious membership types at country clubs actually mean? Equity, non-equity, public – it can get confusing with all the options out there. As you start checking out clubs like Wycliffe country club in your area, you’ll want to understand the differences so you choose the right fit for your needs and budget. Equity clubs mean you literally buy into the club, whereas non-equity clubs charge an initiation fee and monthly dues. Public clubs are open to anyone for a daily fee.
Equity membership means you purchase an ownership stake in the club’s assets. You pay an initial buy-in fee, usually a percentage of the total equity, and then monthly dues. The equity is an investment that can appreciate over time. Non-equity clubs require an initiation fee to join and monthly dues but you have no ownership. The fees tend to be lower than equity clubs. Public clubs are open to anyone, charge daily or annual fees, and require no long-term commitment.
Now you’re equipped to decode those membership models and find your perfect club. Time to dust off your clubs and work on that swing! An exciting new season awaits.
Non-Equity Membership: Paying for Access
Equity membership means you’re buying an ownership stake in the club. You pay an initial membership deposit, usually a large lump sum, that provides you equity shares in the company that owns the club. Then you pay annual dues to cover operating costs. The initial buy-in, typically tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars, means equity membership is exclusive.
As an equity member, you have a say in how the club is run since you’re now a part-owner. You can vote for club leadership and weigh in on policy changes. Equity also usually means access to the club’s amenities and events year-round.
The downside is that equity membership requires a major upfront financial commitment. And if you decide to leave the club, you have to find a buyer for your membership to recoup your costs. However, equity memberships often appreciate over time, so you may sell at a profit.
For many, the prestige and perks of equity membership make the investment worthwhile. If you frequent the club often, plan to be a member long-term, and want voting rights and a sense of ownership, an equity membership could be an attractive option. But for those who only visit occasionally or may not stay members permanently, a non-equity or public membership is probably a better choice.
Public and Daily Fee Golf: More Affordable Options
With a non-equity membership, you’re essentially paying for access to the club’s amenities and events without actually owning a share of the club itself. This typically means lower upfront costs and monthly dues. However, your membership privileges may be more limited, and you usually can’t vote in club elections or serve on the board.
Non-equity memberships are a great option if you want to enjoy the perks of a private club at a lower price point. You’ll still get access to things like:
– An 18-hole golf course, driving range, and practice facilities
– Tennis courts, pools, restaurants, bars, and recreational centers
– Youth programs, tournaments, social events, and club activities
The downside is non-equity members usually can’t influence major club decisions or policies. Your membership may also be subject to availability, meaning the club can put a cap on the number of non-equity members. In some cases, equity members may get scheduling priority or lower rates for club events and amenities.
That said, a non-equity membership lets you experience the private club lifestyle at a fraction of the cost of full equity membership. If you’re looking for an affordable way to enjoy leisure amenities and an active social scene, it’s worth considering a non-equity membership at your local country club. You get most of the benefits without the major financial commitment.
For many, non-equity membership strikes the perfect balance between exclusivity and affordability. Give your local clubs a call to learn more about their non-equity membership options and rates. You may just find your ideal membership match.
