The Hidden Costs of Golf Memberships You Should Know
There’s more to a golf membership than the price tag. Here's what to look out for.
So, you’ve found a golf membership that fits your budget — or so you thought. While the advertised price might seem straightforward, many golfers are surprised to discover a variety of hidden costs that add up quickly.
Whether you're joining a country club or a non-estate golf society, understanding the full financial picture can help you make a smarter, stress-free decision.
1. Joining Fees
Some clubs — especially country clubs — charge a one-time joining fee on top of the base membership cost. This fee can range from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands.
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Example: A club might advertise a membership at SGD 20,000, but the joining fee could be an additional SGD 10,000.
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Non-estate clubs usually have no joining fees.
2. Transfer Fees
If you're purchasing a second-hand membership, the club may charge a transfer fee to change the membership name.
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Often payable by either buyer or seller
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Can range from SGD 1,000 to SGD 10,000 depending on the club
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Even “resale” memberships are subject to this fee
Always check who’s responsible for paying this — and factor it into your total budget.
3. Annual or Monthly Dues
In addition to your initial cost, most clubs charge recurring fees to cover:
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Course maintenance
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Facility upgrades
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Member services
These dues are mandatory and can be billed monthly, quarterly, or yearly. Even social memberships sometimes include an admin renewal fee.
4. Food & Beverage Minimums
Some country clubs have a minimum monthly or quarterly spend on dining and drinks.
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Example: SGD 150/month minimum at the clubhouse restaurant
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If you don’t use it, you still pay it
Not planning to eat at the club often? This could be a silent wallet-drainer.
5. Guest & Green Fees
Many memberships don’t cover:
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Green fees for guests
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Buggy fees (especially in Singapore)
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Surcharges on weekends or public holidays
Even full club members may pay a small fee per round — especially at premium clubs or on peak days.
6. Family Add-Ons
Some memberships don’t automatically include your spouse or children.
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You may need to pay an additional fee to add them
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Other clubs require separate memberships entirely
Always ask if the listed price is for individual or family access.
7. Facility Fees
Driving ranges, swimming pools, tennis courts, and lockers may require separate access fees or deposits — especially at larger estate-based clubs.
Don’t assume that “membership” means unlimited access.
Final Thoughts: Ask the Right Questions
Before signing up, ask the club or society:
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Are there any joining or transfer fees?
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What are the recurring dues, and how are they billed?
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Do you have minimum spend requirements?
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Are family members included?
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Are there hidden facility, event, or admin fees?
Pro Tip:
Always read the fine print and get a full cost breakdown in writing before committing — especially for country clubs or resale memberships.
