Technology firms seeking to introduce their products to the golf course industry have a challenge in bringing tech to one of the oldest – and most traditional – sports being played today.  A typical approach to a cash flow-sensitive client would be to sell products and services that deliver cost savings.  But to a golf course superintendent, one needs not only to appeal to the cost side of the equation, but also the impact on their most limited resource – time.

Unmanned Aerial Systems, more commonly known as Drones or UAS’ are being used by nearly every industry from farming to construction, movies, and real estate, with no signs of slowing down.  However, drones in the golf industry are just beginning to gain traction.  A new service called GreenLinkTM, aims to free up the resource that superintendents need most – time!

With all the recent publicity surrounding proposed legislation in New York allowing towns in New York the option of assessing golf and club properties based on their highest and best use, I thought I’d share some observations to alleviate some of the confusion in other states.

There are some who view golf properties in general, and private clubs in particular as properties of such special use that they perceive that they rarely sell and never make money.  Neither statement is true.  However, those who believe this theory (including some tax court judges) advocate the use of the cost approach in these valuations which could not be more flawed.  Golf properties do sell and many are profitable.  Using proper appraisal techniques that are reflective of the market can solve most of these issues.

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