From the Haig Point golf course, you can see Hilton Head Island across the Calibogue Sound.
I received an email yesterday from a real estate agency in South Carolina. It included a listing for a handsome looking lot with a view of the second fairway on the excellent Rees Jones designed 27-hole golf course at Haig Point on Daufuskie Island. The lot included free social membership in the club (you have to pay the monthly dues, though). The price for the property was just $72,000. I thought it was a misprint and sent a note to the agency asking for more details, but they have not responded to my request. I dug a little deeper and found that other agencies in the area have the same property listed at $72,000. They can't all be wrong.
In doing the additional research, I found other listings that were even cheaper and included full golf membership, which the Haig Point club lists as a $65,000 value. Consider this description: "This lot is priced to sell NOW! Located on the 10th fairway of Haig Point Golf Course with a clubhouse and lagoon view. The golf cottage neighborhood features white picket fences and charming cottage style homes. A signature Full Golf Membership...is included in price!" The price? $14,000.
Having visited Haig Point a few years ago, I know there are some expenses that do not meet the eye. These include higher than average construction costs -- $500 per square foot and more -- because all materials and labor must be carried to the island by ferry. Then there are the community and golf club dues, which exceed $13,000 per year (exclusive of any assessments). It is expensive to run the ferry to and from Hilton Head Island every hour.
For the intrepid island lover, however, a life without cars and pollution and shopping malls may be worth the surcharge.