When purchasing a golf course, most buyers focus on the obvious things: revenue, operating expenses, membership, maintenance equipment, irrigation systems, and the condition of the greens and fairways.
But one of the most expensive surprises I encountered as a golf course owner involved something many buyers overlook: golf cart bridges.
During my ownership of Jennings Mill Country Club in Georgia, I discovered firsthand just how expensive replacing these structures can become.
Three Bridges and a Six-Figure Expense
What might appear to be a relatively simple wooden bridge crossing a creek or drainage area can turn into a major capital improvement project.
At Jennings Mill, we had to replace three bridges, resulting in a six-figure expense, including engineering costs.
Replacing a golf course bridge is not necessarily as simple as hiring a contractor to install new lumber. Depending on the location and structural requirements, the work can involve engineering, site preparation, structural supports, specialized construction, and compliance with applicable regulations.
These expenses can add up quickly.
Why Golf Course Buyers Overlook Cart Bridges
When touring a golf course, buyers naturally concentrate on the clubhouse, golf course conditions, equipment, and revenue potential.
Bridges often receive little attention unless there is obvious damage.
But appearances can be misleading. A bridge may look acceptable from the cart path while concealing deterioration underneath.
Structural supports, decking, railings, drainage, and foundations deserve closer examination.
And when a bridge becomes unsafe or unusable, it can affect golf cart access and the overall playing experience.
What I Learned About Golf Course Due Diligence
After owning five golf courses, I learned that a successful acquisition requires much more than understanding the golf business.
It requires understanding the real estate, infrastructure, and potential capital expenditures that come with it.
Before purchasing a golf course, I recommend identifying every bridge on the property and having qualified professionals evaluate its condition when warranted.
Buyers should also investigate previous repairs, maintenance records, and any known structural issues.
A bridge that receives little attention during due diligence can become a six-figure problem after closing.
Golf Course Bridge Inspection Checklist
- Identify every bridge on the property.
- Look underneath, not just from the cart path: structural supports, decking, railings, drainage, and foundations.
- Have qualified professionals evaluate each bridge’s condition when warranted.
- Review previous repairs, maintenance records, and any known structural issues.
- Account for possible engineering and replacement costs in your capital budget before closing.
Experience Matters
One of the reasons I share these experiences is to help prospective golf course owners recognize expenses that may not appear on a profit-and-loss statement.
The purchase price is only one part of the investment. Understanding what you may need to repair, replace, or improve after closing is equally important.
At A&J Gulf Blvd Capital, we bring firsthand golf course ownership experience to our golf course acquisition advisory and commercial financing activities.
The lesson is simple: Before you buy the golf course, inspect what connects it.
A&J Gulf Blvd Capital
Commercial Real Estate Financing | Golf Course Acquisition & Advisory
ajgulfblvdcapital.com