At Lake Keowee, two things often get confused: the property owners’ association (POA/HOA) that governs the neighborhood, and the club membership that unlocks golf, wellness, and dining. They’re separate structures with separate costs — and both belong in your underwriting.
This guide explains how they work and what transfers at closing.
Two structures buyers routinely conflate.
The POA/HOA maintains common areas, enforces covenants, and collects annual assessments. Membership is tied to ownership and is mandatory where it applies.
In communities like the Cliffs and Old Edwards Reserve, the club is a separate entity offering golf, wellness, racquet, and dining via tiered memberships — distinct from the POA and often optional in structure but central to the lifestyle. Questions before buying in the Cliffs →
Your all-in carrying cost is POA assessments plus club dues plus any capital contributions — not one number. Underwrite both. Due-diligence checklist →
What you’ll actually pay, and when.
Expect recurring POA assessments and, if you join the club, annual dues by tier. Get the current schedules in writing for the specific community.
Club membership typically involves an initiation deposit at purchase, and communities periodically levy capital contributions tied to amenity reinvestment. Refundability terms vary and change over time.
Closings often involve POA transfer fees and an estoppel letter confirming the account is current. Order these early — they’re a common closing-day bottleneck. Closing timeline →
What the documents control — even for existing homes.
CC&Rs govern renovations, additions, docks, rentals, and use. Read them even if you’re not building — they define what you can do with the property.
Most communities require ARB approval for exterior changes and new construction. The rules affect timelines and what’s buildable. ARB guide →
If you intend to rent, confirm the rules before you buy — some communities restrict or prohibit short-term rentals. Short-term rental diligence →
The questions buyers and sellers ask David first.
The POA/HOA governs the neighborhood and common areas via mandatory assessments; the club is a separate entity offering golf, wellness, and dining through tiered memberships. They have separate costs.
Typically an initiation deposit at purchase plus annual dues by tier, with periodic capital contributions. Schedules and refundability vary by community and change over time — review current figures in writing.
POA membership transfers with ownership, and club membership is handled per the community’s transfer process. Expect transfer fees and an estoppel letter confirming the account is current.
Yes — covenants govern renovations, docks, rentals, and use regardless of whether you build, so read them before you buy.
A 30-minute conversation is the fastest way to get a confident next step.
