CMS Photography/Chad SpencerIf you are a past reader of my blogs, you will recall I always pay high praise to the golf experience at The Venice Golf & Country Club. Terrific old time layout, always in great playing condition, with a classic clubhouse.

But I could only recommend this course to real estate clients who were prepared to live within this gated community.

This member owned club had a long standing policy of not allowing non residents to join. Not any more.

I spoke this week with Lucy Carlson, membership coordinator, who says the membership committee has decided to open up membership to the general public later this year. The only internal hurdle is coming up with a proper vetting process to ensure that the club will always maintain the highest standards for lifestyle, security and value.

But there is more news from Lucy. For those not quite ready to live in Florida full time, they have a new “Golf Transition Program”. One would still pay the $10,000 one time entry fee, but would pay only 50% of the monthly dues for three full years. This would allow a “snowbird” to play 30 rounds per year at this stage.

They would then be elevated to full membership, and full dues, 36 months later. So if retirement is in the plans, but not quite here, keep The Venice Golf & Country Club in mind. Go to this web site for photos, a video tour and more info.

Contact me for Real Estate information on this community and/or  others.