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If you live in Lake Country, you’ve probably heard of the Lake Oconee Challenge. It’s a popular golf tournament where the ladies golf associations from three neighboring communities (Harbor Club, Cuscowilla, and Reynolds) graciously compete against one another for an annual bit of prestige.

The tournament, also known as the “3-Club Challenge,” is a fantastic way for ladies from all three communities to gather together for a fabulous day of golf, camaraderie, and fun.

Each of the communities takes turns hosting the tournament on an annual basis. This year, 2021, Harbor Club hosted the game at its award-winning championship golf course. Played on October 27, the format was a net Stableford point team average, where points are awarded based on the score for each hole. With that, a team or player scores one Stableford point for a bogey, two for par, three for a birdie, four for an eagle, and five for an albatross. Double-bogies and worse simply get a zero. That type of scoring prevents teams from abandoning hope and makes the tournament more engaging and exciting for everyone. 

As usual, all of the Lake Country ladies were in it to win it. As you can see from the scores, each team’s points totals were very close. But, we’re proud to announce that the Harbor Club ladies were victorious! 

1st – Harbor Club 26.33 points

2nd – Cuscowilla 24.69 points

3rd – Reynolds 24.34 points

While everyone on the team contributed to the win, Harbor Club’s LGA couldn’t have achieved it without the help of Terri Shaul. With 38 points, she obtained the most points out of all the other competitors in the event. In addition, we’d like to give kudos to a few other women who made outstanding achievements in this year’s tournament. Donna Greenwell from Cuscowilla got closest to the pin on the sixth hole with eight feet seven and a half inches. It’s impressive, considering the green is crowned, which makes for difficult ups and downs. In addition, Terri Feild from Reynolds achieved the longest drive on the tenth hole. 

Will the Harbor Club LGA obtain another win in 2022? With all the victories they’ve had in the past, it certainly seems likely. We’ll have to wait until next year to find out.

In the meantime, why not experience our Harbor Club golf course for yourself? Book a tee time or consider one of our golf memberships, which are available to all Lake Country residents. You’ll enjoy the course and a wide variety of club amenities. It’s also a great way to meet new people, enjoy events and activities, and spend quality time with family and friends. Learn more about Harbor Club memberships today.

 

We’re pleased to introduce you to Don Forchilli, our new Harbor Club Membership Director. If you haven’t already met Don, you’re in for a treat. He’s an incredibly outgoing and friendly individual. We recently sat down with him to learn more about his professional background, his new job here, what he loves most about Harbor Club and some fun facts about him, too. 

Tell us about your position at Harbor Club, and how long have you worked here?

My official start date as Membership Director was October 18, 2021, so I’ve only been here for a few weeks. Even though I’ve been here a short time, it’s been a great experience so far. 

Tell us about your professional background and what about it has prepared you for your work at Harbor Club?

My background is in hospitality — more specifically, the food and beverage industry. I had been involved in that for 40 years. It’s a profession that requires you to be a really good people person. You’ve got to be able to read them and get to know them. You’ve got to anticipate and understand needs…and deliver on them. Most importantly, you’ve to be a good listener. All of these acquired skills translate well into the work I do for Harbor Club today. 

Have you discovered a favorite part of your job?

So far, I’ve enjoyed interacting with many people from diverse backgrounds. I get to talk to folks from all over the country. In fact, I just had a great conversation with a woman who currently resides in Albany, New York. She called to inquire about membership as she was contemplating moving to Harbor Club. My hometown is Albany, New York! So, we had a great conversation. Talking to people and cultivating warm relationships is undoubtedly a favorite part of the job for me. 

What do you find most rewarding about your work at Harbor Club so far?

The work atmosphere has been most rewarding. The food and beverage industry that I came from is not exactly known for its warmth. So when I came to work here, it was a bit of a culture shock — in a good way. Everyone gave me such a warm reception, and the team already feels like family. It’s refreshing, wonderful, and certainly unique to Harbor Club. 

Considering your new position at Harbor Club, what do you feel is the main benefit of being a member here?

Much like my work atmosphere, that sense of warmth and kindness extends out into the Harbor Club community. Considering my interactions with members, there is a fondness among neighbors. It’s a tight-knit group of people who genuinely care about one another. All of our members feel like they belong. I’ve heard from many that the feeling of friendliness is what inspired them to move to Harbor Club. It’s a rarity in other communities. 

Out of all the events, sports, and fitness activities available at Harbor Club, which one is your favorite and why?

I actually have two favorite amenities. The first is the golf course. I love playing a great track, and Harbor Club is one of the best. The course is gorgeous and very well maintained. The layout is a ton of fun to play — challenging yet rewarding. My second favorite amenity is the dog park at The Grove. I must admit that my dogs are my babies. I have a three-year-old purebred miniature schnauzer, and she’s a total diva. We also have a Schnauzer-Yorkie mix. He’s a rescue, and he’s just nuts. They’re both very charismatic and bring my family lots of joy. 

Are there any new member events lined up for this year?

We haven’t strategized around new events yet, but I’m working hard on some of our major events, like Breakfast with Santa and even the Golden Egg Hunt for Easter. In the meantime, my priority has been getting out in the community to meet as many people as possible. In fact, my first weekend here, I volunteered to work a hole at the Men’s Member-Guest golf tournament. It was a great way to introduce myself to folks and get a good feel for the neighborhood. 

Considering what you’ve experienced so far, what is your favorite part about the overall lifestyle at Harbor Club?

I probably sound like a broken record at this point, but honestly, it’s the gracious, welcoming, and friendly atmosphere — it’s something unique to Harbor Club. Everyone here enjoys each other’s company. They’re happy to lend a hand to whoever needs it. There is respect for one another. It’s refreshing to see and experience. 

When not working, what do you like to do for fun? Are there any hobbies you enjoy?

I’m a runner. Both my wife and I are avid in the sport. In fact, we just finished a 10k at The Covington Cheerios Challenge. Believe it or not, I got second place in my age division (60 and above!) My wife and I try to do at least one race a month, and we’re training toward doing half and full marathons again in the future.

Care to share any other interesting, fun facts about yourself?

At the age of 26, I joined The National Guard. I went to basic training at Fort Knox, Kentucky, as a tanker. I did pretty well. I’m proud to say that I was named Outstanding Soldier of the Year and received the General George S. Patton Outstanding Tanker Award.

Not only are we incredibly thankful to Don for his service, but we’re also very grateful to have him as part of the Harbor Club team. Whether you’d like to learn more about Harbor Club memberships or not, Don would love to chat and get to know you. So feel free to stop by the Harbor Club offices to say hello or send a note. Either way, you’ll make an incredible friend in the process.

 

Last year we shared that it’s never too late to learn how to play golf. This year we’re expanding on that notion. There’s no better time than the present. And more often than not, those who wait wish they had started playing sooner. It’s understandable considering all the great benefits. Here are some reasons to consider:

Golf is a social sport

Playing golf is an excellent opportunity to grow your social networks. Playing stimulates cooperation, communication, and conflict resolution, allowing all players to appreciate each other’s strengths and weaknesses. Think about it — the more social you are, the more access you have to information, ideas, business opportunities, emotional support, cooperation, goodwill, and trust. What’s more, the Clubhouse is an ideal place to interact before and after a round (aka the “19th hole.”) 

Golf boosts brain health

Golf makes your brain sharper than ever. Sure, the physical activity from play improves blood flow to your brain, but it must process a lot of information too. Creative problem-solving is key–especially if your ball ends up in a challenging location. As you think strategically about your next move, you’ll enhance your focus and attention, better understand physics, and improve your hand-eye coordination. Of course, you’ll learn from your mistakes, too, helping you to conquer new challenges better and boost your score in the future. 

Golf can be rewarding

…and that’s especially true with our Weiskopf/Morrish-designed golf course. It’s configured to encourage rather than intimidate players — emboldening them to genuinely enjoy the game. A popular element of a Weiskopf/Morrish-designed course is a driveable par-four hole. These offer a real possibility to score a hole-in-one. While it’s certainly feasible, it’s also not likely. However, on the rare occasion that it does happen, the achievement feels incredibly exhilarating and rewarding. Either way, the entire course is enjoyable to play, no matter the player’s experience level.

Golf offers multiple health benefits

Sure, you already know that golf offers a great way to stay fit, tone up, lose weight, and increase your endurance, but there are some additional interesting health benefits too. For example, playing golf is known to decrease your stress level and improve your sleep. In addition, it helps improve your posture — something that can instantly make you look younger, slimmer, and more confident. And if you carry your clubs, you’ll be doing weight-bearing exercise, which is an activity that helps strengthen bones. Since you’re playing outside, you’ll also get a nice dose of vitamin D (aka the “sunshine vitamin.”) Vitamin D helps your bones absorb calcium, which further strengthens them. Best of all, you’ll live longer. A Swedish study found golfers cut their death rate by an astonishing 40 percent. That equates to a five-year increase in life expectancy.

Whether you’re approaching your “autumn years” or not, autumn is one of the best times to enjoy a round of golf at Harbor Club. Our A1/A4 bentgrass greens (just like the ones at Augusta National) are impeccable in the fall. So, why wait? Indulge yourself. With so many great benefits, now is the time to schedule some fun lessons with our friendly golf pros. Contact us today.

You’ve likely heard the expression, “You never get a second chance to make a good first impression.” It’s true in more ways than one — especially when it comes to the curb appeal of your home. What would someone think of your place upon seeing it for the first time? If you feel like it needs some sprucing up, we can help. Whether you’re looking to sell or simply want a few ways to boost its beauty, here are five tips to increase the curb appeal of your home. 

Look at your home with fresh eyes

Go out to the street and make an effort to look at your home like you’re seeing it for the very first time. Scrutinize all the details. What do you notice? Is anything crooked, broken, or in need of cleaning? Are there weeds or dead plants that need to be pulled? Do you see forgotten toys that need to be put away? It’s easy to ignore these little things when you grow accustomed to seeing them so often. Make a list of what needs work and tend to those items first. You’ll quickly see that remedying each makes a big difference — all for a minimal amount of expense and effort.

Reclaim the roof

A uniform, well-kept roof goes a long way in making your home look great. If yours seems a bit dingy, has streaks, or is missing shingles, you’ll want to give those things attention. It doesn’t mean you have to replace your entire roof. If it isn’t that old and in good shape, a simple cleaning and a few repairs are all it takes to make it look like new again.

Pressure wash your woes away

A pressure washer is your friend for cleaning up several things around the house. It does a fantastic job of cleaning your siding, deck, driveway, and walkways. If you don’t own a pressure washer, you can easily rent one from the hardware store. Better yet, hire a pro to do the work for you. 

Make your entry elegant

A fresh, new coat of paint on your front door is an easy way to enhance the curb appeal of your home. Choose a color that makes a statement. Then, add a new welcome mat and containers of colorful flowers that contrast nicely with the door and the rest of the house. If you want to go the extra mile, replace your old, front-entry light fixtures with attractive new ones. 

Liven-up the landscape

People notice homes with neat, tidy yards, so keep your lawn and shrubs regularly maintained. Enhance your yard further with colorful, seasonal flowers along the walkways. Add attractive landscape lighting that showcases your home’s best architectural features. All will make your house look even more appealing, warm, and welcoming. 

As an award-winning Southern Living-Inspired Community, we pride ourselves on offering homes and neighborhoods that are wonderfully warm and welcoming. Our current listings offer various new and resale homes that cater to multiple needs — from those with growing families to those who wish to age in place. We’d be happy to provide more details and give you a tour of our lake and golf community. Lake Oconee is a great place to visit any time of year. Contact us so we can start planning your visit today. We look forward to meeting you soon. 

Here’s a fun fact: Labor Day is always the first Monday in September. This year, that day is September 6. It’s a time to pay homage to all who work in America — including you. Everyone’s efforts, big or small, enhance our country’s strength, well-being, and prosperity, making the U.S. one of the best in the world.

But Labor Day was also created to celebrate workers’ rights, like safer working conditions, standardized work hours, and the ability to take time off. So if Labor Day is a vacation day for you, enjoy it. 

And even though Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer and the beginning of fall, don’t be dismayed. The weather is still fantastic, and the long holiday weekend is the perfect time to relax and enjoy time with family and friends. If you live in Lake Country, here are some ideas for making your Labor Day a fun and memorable one. 

Appreciate the lake

Whether you want to go boating, jet skiing, swimming, fishing, paddle boarding, kayaking, or simply hanging your feet off the dock—you’ll have the best time doing it at Lake Oconee. Even though Lake Oconee is Georgia’s second-largest lake, it doesn’t have the same boat traffic and congestion issues as the largest lake in the state. So whether you head out on the water on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, or Monday, you’ll have a fantastic time. Wondering where to go on the lake? We recommend taking a leap off of Jumping Rock and chilling out at The Sandbar. 

Enjoy “Last Call” for The Boathouse Restaurant

The Boathouse Restaurant has been a huge success this summer. Everyone loved the delicious food, the live music, and the overall awesome vibe…not to mention the gorgeous views of Lake Oconee. But the restaurant is only open seasonally, so if you want to enjoy it one last time before we close up for 2021, please make your way over via boat or car. You’ll find The Boathouse Restaurant and Marina at 3991 Walker Church Rd in Greensboro. If you’re coming by boat, the GPS coordinates are 33.4775466599688, -83.18179137414566. The restaurant hours are Friday, Saturday, Sunday from 11 AM – 9 PM. Sunday, September 5, is the last day that The Boathouse Restaurant will be open in 2021.

Dine on Sunday Brunch at The Clubhouse Restaurant

Don’t feel like cooking on Sunday? Sleep in, then head over to the Clubhouse Restaurant for a delicious Sunday brunch. Nosh on yummy items from our brunch menu like our popular Bubble & Squeak, Croque Madame, or Stuffed Brioche French Toast. The Clubhouse Restaurant is open for brunch on Sunday from 10 AM – 3 PM. If you plan to have a party of six or more, we kindly ask that you please make a reservation by emailing or calling us at 706-453-7111.

Play award-winning golf

Our championship golf course is typically closed on Mondays but not on the Labor Day holiday. It’s open on September 6 from 8 AM – 12 PM. If you already got the day off, why not play? It’s a lot of fun, especially if you’ve got family and friends in town. As of this writing, tee times are available starting at 8 AM, with open slots available until noon. Please don’t delay in booking your favorite tee time, as they often go quickly on holidays.

No matter what you decide to do this upcoming Labor Day weekend, we hope you enjoy it as much as we enjoy life at Harbor Club. Want to experience it for yourself? Contact us today. We can’t wait to plan your visit to our fun-loving, Southern Living-Inspired Community.

Every year we enjoy fun Independence Day events and activities to ring in the holiday. Of course, we all love to celebrate the day with fireworks, parades, concerts, and cookouts. But do you know the story behind the Fourth of July? What we’re actually commemorating is the birth of the USA as an independent nation. Not on July 4, but on July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence. Two days later, delegates from the 13 colonies formally adopted the Declaration of Independence, thus the Fourth of July holiday. 

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The first organized celebration of Independence Day occurred in Philadelphia on July 4, 1777. It also marks the tradition of setting off ceremonial fireworks. Massachusetts became the first state to make July 4th an official state holiday, but it has only been a federal holiday in the United States since 1941. In 2021, Independence Day is on Sunday, July 4, but the federal holiday will be observed on Monday, July 5.

…and here’s one more fun fact for you. The new One World Trade Center building was designed to pay homage to the year that America obtained its independence from Great Britain. The iconic building is 1776-feet tall. 

There are several Independence Day events to enjoy in and around Lake Country this year, including:

Madison Fireworks Display – To celebrate Independence Day, the Morgan County Parks & Recreation Service is putting on a fireworks display at Bill Wood Park on Saturday, July 3. The fireworks begin at dark, but the pre-show festivities start at 7 P.M., including fun activities for kids along with several yummy food options. 

Margaritaville Fourth of July Weekend – Oconee Brewing Company is hosting a “Margaritaville Weekend” on Saturday, July 3, from 7-10 P.M. Sons of Sailors, the Jimmy Buffett tribute band is performing live. Also, Chef Ken from The Ripe Thing Market is preparing a delicious low-country boil featuring fresh, local Georgia coast shrimp, sweet corn, potatoes, and sausage.

Honoring Local Heroes – From 11 A.M. to 1 P.M. on Saturday, July 3, Farmview Market is hosting an Independence Day event that celebrates local law enforcement, firefighters, EMS, as well as active and veteran military personnel. All local heroes receive a free BBQ lunch with a sandwich, chips, slaw, and drink (while supplies last.) But everyone in the family can enjoy the farmers market, BBQ, live music, and more. 

Independence Day Concert & Picnic – At 7 P.M. on July 3, head to the front lawn of the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center with your picnic baskets, coolers, tables, and chairs for an old-fashioned, free event. While picnicking you’ll enjoy live, patriotic music by the Classic City Band of Athens. Tunes include festive marches, jazz, pop, excerpts from operas and musicals, traditional and classical selections.

At Harbor Club, we plan on celebrating Independence Day with a pool party for our members from 11 A.M. to 2 P.M. on Saturday, July 3. There’ll be live music from Joshua Hilley and more fun happenings, so please stay tuned to our email newsletter for party details. That evening, the festivities continue at The Boathouse on Lake Oconee. The Joshua Hilley Band will perform a free concert lakeside from 6-9 P.M., so be sure to stop by (via boat or car) to keep the celebration going with great music, food, friends, and family.

After this past year, we certainly have much to celebrate this Independence Day. But, no matter which events you enjoy, we wish you a wonderful Fourth of July holiday. Cheers to fun gatherings together, and of course, our independence. 

To learn more about living the Harbor Club Life, contact us today.

Have you (or someone you know) ever thought about working at Harbor Club? It’s worth considering because we care deeply about our team. We know that people are one of our most valuable assets, so we like to provide them with more than just a steady paycheck. As we continue to fill open positions, we thought we’d share some unique perks that our Harbor Club colleagues receive just for being part of our workforce…ones you should know.

Consider these:

Free access to our award-winning golf course

Harbor Club employees get to enjoy playing our highly-acclaimed Weiskopf/Morrish-designed golf course during non-peak hours at no charge. Even better? They are allowed to bring guests too. 

Free access to our practice facilities

Need to practice putting or your drive? As an employee of Harbor Club, you’ll have free access to both our putting green and driving range. Practicing at both is not only a lot of fun but also helps improve your golf game. 

Employee discounts at the Pro Shop

For any product sold at our well-stocked Pro Shop, Harbor Club employees receive a handsome discount. Members of our team can purchase any item in the Pro Shop for cost plus 10%. 

Employee discounts at our restaurants

Hungry? We’ve got you covered. At either our Clubhouse Restaurant or our Boathouse Restaurant, Harbor Club employees receive 40%-off all meals while working. That’s a pretty nice perk for chef-inspired dishes. (Note: Depending on the position, some meals are given free of charge during a new employee’s work training.)

Access to health insurance

Considering the rising costs of healthcare today, health insurance can be a significant benefit. For those who take on full-time employment at Harbor Club, a high-quality, affordable health insurance plan kicks in after only 90 days.

Free access to other Harbor Club amenities

All employees of Harbor Club enjoy complimentary access to our hiking trails, quarter-mile track, sports field, and Sanctuary Pond — all of which are located at The Grove. Depending on your position, you may also have access to our Fitness Center, Junior Olympic-sized pool, tennis, and pickleball courts. All employees also have access to beautiful Lake Oconee via The Boathouse Marina. 

Expand your network of friends and colleagues

Working at Harbor Club offers lots of opportunities to grow your network. Don’t be surprised when co-workers suddenly start to feel like family. Plus, there are many friendly, highly influential people that you may bump into here. All of those interactions, whether it be with co-workers, residents, or visitors, are opportunities. They are chances to help make Harbor Club shine and avenues for making an outstanding personal impression. You never know who you’ll meet here or how they may positively impact your life in the future. 

Harbor Club is a gorgeous place to work

Whether your job has you indoors or out, our Southern-Living Inspired Community is a stunning place to work. Watch our highlight video, and you’ll see what we mean. There’s a lot of beauty here to enjoy every single day, and it helps make “work” something to look forward to. 

If you’d like to learn more about our open positions, feel free to get in touch. We’d love to add more great people to our hard-working, fun-loving team. We look forward to hearing from you soon.

Hungry? If you’re looking for a great meal in the Lake Oconee area, Harbor Club proudly offers a couple of outstanding options — The Clubhouse and The Boathouse Restaurants. The Clubhouse is open year-round, and The Boathouse is open seasonally during the summer months.

Get details about each, including directions, sample menus, reviews, and more below:

The Clubhouse Restaurant

Considered the “19th hole” by many, The Clubhouse Restaurant is a popular spot for delectable, chef-inspired meals and thirst-quenching beverages. It’s also a favorite meeting place for fun events like our weekly Trivia and Music Game Show Nights. The restaurant offers an inviting bar, lounge, and a beautiful dining area that overlooks the idyllic setting of our 18th green. The much loved Chef Gregory Thigpen heads the culinary team, and the equally adored Jason Warner manages the bar. We invite you to come see and experience why they’re both so popular. All of their creations are an epicurean delight.

Location: 1041 Harbor Hill Dr, Greensboro, GA 30642 (Directions)

Restaurant hours:

Sunday – 10 AM – 3 PM

Monday – Closed (Except on certain holidays)

Tuesday – 11 AM – 3 PM

Wednesday – 11 AM – 3 PM

Thursday – 11 AM – 9 PM

Friday – 11 AM – 9 PM

Saturday – 11 AM – 9 PM

Bar hours: 

Sunday – 10 AM – 4 PM

Monday – Closed (Except on certain holidays)

Tuesday – 11 AM – 4 PM

Wednesday – 11 AM – 4 PM

Thursday – 11 AM – 9 PM

Friday – 11 AM – 9 PM

Saturday – 11 AM – 9 PM

Phone number: 706–453–7111

Reservations: Reservations are requested but not required (unless there are special events.) Please contact us to ensure your seating. 

Seating: Indoor and outdoor 

Dress requirements: Business/resort casual

Open for: Lunch, dinner, Sunday brunch, and cocktails

Meal availability: Dine-in, to-go, and pool-side (seasonally)

Cuisine: Upscale American, Southern Living-Inspired fare

Sample menus:

Lunch menu

Dinner menu

Brunch menu

(Note: We often post newer and seasonal menus on our Facebook page, so please follow us for the latest.)

Top reviews:

“After your round, be sure to stop by the Clubhouse for your favorite post-round libations or a bite to eat. The clubhouse restaurant serves lunch, dinner, and a Sunday brunch. The lunch menu features some amazing appetizers, sandwiches, and burgers.” – David Theoret (Google review)

“Wonderful food. Could not have asked for more.” – MenuPix user

“Great atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. We attended Trivia on a Thursday night which was a lot of fun!! The food was delicious, the drinks were great, the staff on the ball.” – Ashley Flowers Bridgman (Facebook review)

“Amazing food, service and the staff were friendly as could be.” – Daniel Hobbs (Facebook review)

The Boathouse Restaurant

Part of our Boathouse Marina (which is open all year long) is The Boathouse Restaurant, which is open seasonally during the summer months. It’s one of Lake Oconee’s only “boat-up” eateries where you can not only fuel up your watercraft but yourself too with cold drinks, tasty snacks, and mouthwatering meals. The Boathouse is also where we have our popular Summer Concert Series events. Typically on Saturday nights, these gatherings are a fantastic way to enjoy free, live music while dining on yummy food and beverages. Follow us on Facebook to see upcoming events. Whether you come for a concert, or just a great meal, get ready to enjoy a wonderful, lakeside experience with family and friends. 

Location: 3991 Walkers Church Rd, Greensboro, GA, 30642 (Directions)

GPS coordinates: If you’re coming by boat, the GPS coordinates are 33.4770442, -83.1816683

Hours:

Open seasonally from Memorial Day through Labor Day

Friday – 11 AM – 9 PM

Saturday – 11 AM – 9 PM

Sunday – 11 AM – 9 PM

Phone number: 706–999–9717

Reservations: None required. Seating availability is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Seating: Indoor and multiple outdoor options are available, including a deck and event lawn that both overlook Lake Oconee.

Dress requirements: Resort casual to casual. Shirt and shoes are required, please.

Open for: Lunch and dinner

Meal availability: Dine-in and to-go

Cuisine: Casual American, Southern Living-Inspired fare

Sample menu:

The Boathouse menu

(We often post newer and seasonal menus on our Facebook page, so please follow us for the latest updates.)

Top reviews: 

“The Boathouse is one of our favorite places for a great relaxed meal with Lakeside music and bar for a fun atmosphere with good food. We’ve been eating here every year since it opened and the food gets better every year. Looking forward to next year when live music can return. Whether by boat or car it’s a great place with friends and family.” – Karen Avidano (Google review)

“Met a college friend for lunch. The afternoon temps were surprisingly mild for August. The staff greeted us immediately and took great care of us thru the meal. Atmosphere is casual, the food was excellent, and the view from the deck very relaxing. I travel back & to Atlanta often and will drop by again.” – Jim W. (Yelp review)

“My family and I came all the way from Norway to enjoy the great food at the Boathouse. We were taken such good care of. Food was great, staff and other guest welcomed us with open arms and Fuzzy entertained us throughout the evening. We will definitely be back the next time we come to visit.” – Kaja Dahl (Facebook review)

“We just had such a great dinner at The Boathouse last night. Sweet, happy service with SUCH GOOD FOOD…And what a view!” – Kristen Green (Facebook review)

Both The Clubhouse and The Boathouse Restaurants are both available for private events throughout the year. Whether you’re planning a gathering that’s refined or rustic, we’ve got you covered with the perfect venue and excellent food to make it memorable. Contact us to learn more.

Part of what makes life at Harbor Club so grand is the fact that there’s always something fun to do. After all, our outstanding amenities, programs, activities, and services are some of the things that make being a Harbor Club member so valuable. But outside of those things, did you know that we have several groups and clubs within the Harbor Club community? Take a look at what we have to offer.

For golfers:

Men’s Golf Association (MGA) 

Ladies Golf Association (LGA)

Couples Golf – meets from April through September, and they also enjoy a fun social hour and food specials after the tee time ends. 

For court sports enthusiasts:

Women’s Tennis 

Men’s Tennis 

Tennis Clinics

Pickleball – Special days and times are dedicated to ladies, men, couples, and co-ed play. (Learn more about the fast-growing sport of pickleball.)

For social clubs:

Men’s Coffee and Conversations – typically meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays

Harbor Club Ladies League – These ladies enjoy monthly educational luncheons, day trips, charity fundraisers, parties, and more.

For card players:

Bridge

Men’s Poker Group

Game Group – group members play Texas Tango

Bunco – An off-shoot of the Ladies League, the bunco group typically meets once a month.

For book lovers:

There are three book clubs at Harbor Club — one that meets on the third Tuesday of each month in the evenings, and it explores a new genre each month. There’s another that meets on the third Friday evening of each month and explores all genres. Another group meets on the fourth Friday of each month from September through May, and it also explores all genres. 

For gardeners:

Victory Garden Club – available to all Harbor Club residents. If you love to garden or want to start, this community garden club is for you.

For dog lovers:

Dog Training 

For those who enjoy all types of exercise:

Barre and Toning

Core 

Jazzercise

Yoga

Croquet

In addition to access to all the club and groups, there’s access to these premium amenities as well:

• 18-Hole, Weiskopf/Morrish-designed championship golf course
• The Boathouse Marina and Boat Storage
• The Clubhouse Restaurant and Bar
• The Boathouse Restaurant (seasonal)
• Golf Shop
• Golf Practice Facility
• Jr. Olympic swimming pool
• Tennis courts 
• Pickleball courts (requires access card)
• Fitness Center with Exercise Room (requires access card)
• Yoga, Core, Jazzercise, and other fitness classes
• Hiking Trail with a Fit-Trail loop
• A quarter-mile walking/running track
• Community Victory Garden
• Two Dog Parks
• The Stables event facility
• Big Timber Lodge Playground
• Croquet and event Lawn
• 24-Hour staffed gate
• Lighthouse Point Pavilion
• Pine Lake Pergola and Fire Pit
• Sports field with stadium seating
• Sanctuary pond

Harbor Club members also receive discounts at the Pro Shop, Clubhouse, and Boathouse, including a 10% discount on fuel at the marina. LGA members receive 20% off at the Pro Shop on Thursdays. 

So, you see, membership certainly has its benefits. Even better, Harbor Club memberships are open to all Lake Country residents. To learn more, including the different options and fees, send us a note or give us a call right now. We would be happy to answer your questions and warmly introduce you to the Harbor Club Life. We look forward to meeting you soon.

 

Does the name Kristin Grebel sound familiar? It might if you lived at Harbor Club back in 2017. Back then (and for almost a year), Kristin successfully handled many creative and administrative tasks for us. Today we’re pleased to welcome her back to the Harbor Club team. She’s now in charge of membership sales, and we think you’ll find she’s a perfect fit for the position. We recently sat down with Kristin to get to know a little more about her, what she loves most about Harbor Club, and more.

Tell us about your professional background

I first came to Harbor Club back in 2017 as an administrative assistant. I helped with several projects, including those around the new Southern Living-Inspired Homes, promoting Patriot Builders, helping with events, and more. It was a lot of fun, and I enjoyed the people and the work, but my position wasn’t permanent at the time. I moved to Jacksonville, Florida later in 2017 because I landed a great, full-time job as an events coordinator. Then in 2020, I switched gears and moved to Savannah for a position in property management. In early 2021, Harbor Club contacted me about the open membership sales position, and I jumped at the opportunity. It honestly felt like I was coming home. (I actually currently live in Harbor Club right now.) My first official day was February 8, and it’s been fantastic. I’m so grateful to the management team for thinking of me and for the warm welcome I received. 

What have you found to be most rewarding about working at Harbor Club?

I love the people here. Several of them remember me from when I worked here in 2017! It’s a heartwarming feeling. I’m a people-person. I love serving people and making a positive impact on their lives. I admire that our work team has that same mindset. 

Have you discovered a favorite part of your job?

My favorite part so far is celebrating life’s significant milestones with people. Some have moved across the country to live here, some are welcoming new babies or grandbabies into their lives, some are moving into their first home, and some are finally enjoying retirement and living life to the fullest. Whatever the achievement or event, it’s wonderful to bear witness to it and celebrate together. 

Considering your new position at Harbor Club, what do you feel is the main benefit of being a club member here?

It’s hard to describe, but being the ‘plant person’ that I am, I would say the most significant benefit is the ability to cultivate and grow relationships. A Harbor Club membership helps people meet their neighbors and build strong networks of friends. With all the activities and events, it’s a great way to enjoy experiences and create wonderful memories together. To give you a good example, we recently had a rehearsal dinner for a wedding here, and the mother of the groom said that her neighbors on her street graciously opened up their homes to house the wedding party guests. Having members of the wedding party so close made everything easier, safer, more convenient, and comfortable for all. It was all because of the close-knit relationships built from being members of the club.

Out of all the activities available at Harbor Club, which one is your favorite and why?

Right now, my favorite is the Dog Park at The Grove. I’m lucky — I get to look out my office window and see people and pups having a ton of fun together, and I don’t even have a dog! For myself, though, I enjoy the Fit-Trail®, which is also located at The Grove. Sometimes I walk the trail because it’s so relaxing.

What is your favorite Harbor Club event?

When I worked here back in 2017, I started The Great Golden Egg Hunt. It was a big success, and I’m happy to bring it back this year. It’ll be in the same format as before, where I’ll email clues and people search for the golden egg based on solving the riddles in the email. We’ll hide the golden eggs on Harbor Club property, and there will be prizes and drawings for the winners. It’s an exciting, safe activity that gets people outside. Some might even discover parts of Harbor Club that they’ve not been to before. 

You’ve mentioned that you currently live at Harbor Club. What’s your favorite part about living here?

I love how peaceful it is. I never feel stressed. I also love that everyone is so friendly — that they always smile and wave to you when passing by. I’ve not experienced that when I lived anywhere else. At Harbor Club, you get real, genuine Southern hospitality. 

When not working, what do you like to do for fun? Are there any hobbies you enjoy?

Believe it or not, I have my great-grandmother’s aloe and Christmas cactus plants. I take great pride in keeping these beloved antique plants alive, healthy, and well. It’s amazing to think that they’ve survived for three generations. Other hobbies I enjoy are reading, attending live music events, and crafting. 

Care to share an exciting, fun fact about yourself?

[Kristin laughs] Yes, back in 2017, my friend Justin Peacock and I participated in “Dancing With the Lake Oconee Stars.” It was a competition that helped raise money for the First Call Pregnancy Center. The winners received real mirror ball trophies similar to the ones awarded on Dancing With the Stars! Justin and I had come up with a great dance routine. We wore matching pleather pants and (crafty me) sewed sequins on my shirt, ombré-style. The event was so much fun, and even better, Justin and I won the Judge’s Choice award! It was a fantastic experience — one I’ll never forget.

For us, it was a fantastic experience to learn more about Kristin. She’s a friendly, caring person who goes above and beyond to lend a hand to anyone that needs it. She’s thrilled and excited to help people learn more about the Harbor Club Life. If you’ve ever had questions or wondered what it would be like to have a membership, send her a note. You’ll likely be enjoying golf and our other fantastic amenities in no time. And if nothing else, you’ll have made a great friend. She looks forward to hearing from you soon.

Top o’ the mornin’ to ya! Here at Harbor Club, we’re gearing up for a safe, fun St. Patrick’s Day. The green-themed holiday is on March 17, and it’s loaded with fun lore and traditions. Here are some of the more interesting ones, along with answers to frequently asked questions and fun facts around the holiday.

Why should I wear green on St. Patrick’s Day?

As the tradition goes, if you wear green on St. Patrick’s Day, then you’ll be invisible to leprechauns. If you don’t wear green on the holiday, legend has it that those pesky leprechauns will pinch you. Avoid the pain, and prepare to wear your green garb. Fun fact: St. Patrick’s Day, the religious holiday, used to be celebrated with all things blue. As it transitioned to being more of a celebration of Ireland’s history, so did the color, from blue to green.

What’s up with the shamrock?

Believe it or not, shamrocks don’t exist. They are clovers. The three-leaf clover is considered the “unofficial” national flower of Ireland. Legend tells us that Saint Patrick used the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity (the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) as he attempted to convert the Irish to Christianity. Fun fact: The world record for the most leaves on a clover is 21.

What makes a four-leaf clover lucky?

It’s rare to find a four-leaf clover, so you’re considered lucky if you discover one. Also, a four-leaf clover represents faith, hope, love, and, of course, luck. It’s widely known that Ireland is home to more four-leaf clovers than any other place, thus the phrase “the luck of the Irish.” Fun fact: Experts say that the odds of finding a four-leaf clover are about 1 in 10,000. 

Is corned beef and cabbage an Irish dish?

Cabbage is traditionally Irish, but corned beef is not. During Ireland’s potato famine, many Irish immigrated to the U.S. and resided in New York City. Money was tight, so Irish immigrants replaced their traditional boiled Irish bacon (similar to pork loin) with corned beef. They have their Jewish neighbors to thank for the tasty yet frugal alternative. Fun fact: Abraham Lincoln’s inaugural dinner was corned beef and cabbage.

Why is Guinness famous on St. Patrick’s Day?

Guinness is a dark Irish stout that originates from Arthur Guinness’s brewery at St. James’s Gate in Dublin, Ireland. Drinking Guinness on St. Patrick’s Day dates back to 1759 and is considered the traditional beverage to celebrate the holiday. Globally, about 13 million pints of Guinness are consumed on St. Patrick’s Day alone. Fun Fact: Most people see Guinness as black or dark brown in color, but it’s actually dark ruby-red.

Ready to get in the Irish spirit? All Harbor Club members are invited to enjoy our festive St. Patrick’s Day celebration at the Clubhouse on Wednesday, March 17. Come enjoy a delicious holiday-themed dinner and drink specials starting at 6 pm. And please don’t forget to wear your green! 

P.S. Here’s another fun fact — we welcomed 89 new members to Harbor Club last year. All Lake Country residents are invited to experience the fun of Harbor Club Life. Will you be next? To learn more about our membership levels, contact us today. 

Living at Harbor Club, have you ever wondered what would be the best plants to grow at our location? The Southern Living Plant Collection is a great place to start. Southern Living introduced it in 2008 to inspire and help Southerners better solve landscape challenges.

Every plant in the collection is tested to ensure it survives and thrives in our warm climate (Note: Our Southern Living-Inspired Community is located in zone 7b.) The carefully chosen plants are well-known for more prominent blooms and stunning foliage. Fortunately, our local Home Depot carries many of the plants in the Southern Living Collection. Ready to make your landscape look as good as the ones in the magazine? Here are some ideas for plant combinations that look terrific here in February, March, and April.

February

Even in February, there are pretty plants that bloom in Georgia. You’ve probably already been enjoying your colorful pansies, but there are few others you can try. The key to winter interest is color, structure, and texture. Consider these four Southern Living Plants:

Mahonia – try Soft Caress, which features soft bamboo-like foliage and showy yellow flowers that bloom atop the foliage in early winter.

Boxwood – try Baby Gem, which is an evergreen with glossy green foliage. Its rounded shape contrasts beautifully with the other plants listed here. 

Loropetalum – try Red Diamond. It offers bright red blooms and dark burgundy foliage that retains its color year-round. 

Festuca – try Beyond Blue (Blue Fescue.) This is an excellent ornamental grass for adding texture. Its powder blue foliage is eye-catching. 

March

This is the month we begin to see the first signs of spring. It’s a great time to start brightening your landscape with colorful flowers and foliage.

Nandina – try Obsession. This evergreen shrub offers brilliant red foliage in the spring. The leaves then turn deep green as they mature.

Tulips– Try Lady Jane. The outside petals of this tulip are red and edged in white. The flowers open to a white interior. The look is reminiscent of candy canes.

Pieris – try Mountain Snow. More heat tolerant than other Pieris, this one offers beautiful ivory flowers and bronze foliage that matures to dark green.

Narcissus – try Golden Dawn. This cheerful daffodil variety has up to three flowers forming on each stem. Blooms have greenish-yellow petals that surround a deep orange cup.

April

This is the month to enjoy even more vibrant hues and lush textures. Here’s how to welcome spring:

Ligustrum – Try Sunshine. This striking privet offers an eye-catching pop of brilliant gold foliage all year long.

Nandina – Try the citrusy shades of Lemon Lime or soften things up with Blush Pink, which has pink-hued new growth that eventually turns light green.

Loropetalum – Try Purple Daydream. Unlike the variety we recommended for February, this one has luxurious dark purple foliage that contrasts beautifully with the other plants mentioned here.

Need some additional ideas or advice? Harbor Club residents can find fellow gardening enthusiasts at our Victory Garden in The Grove. Or take a look at the Southern Living Plant Collection online for inspiration and additional details about all the plants we suggested here. And if you need a better place to build out your garden or landscape, take a look at our latest real estate listings. We wish you prolific blooms and happy planting.

According to the National Golf Foundation, over 24 million people played golf in 2019. Were you one of them? …or have you fallen out of love with the sport? Since it’s February (the month of love), we’re here to help you fall back in love with golf again. Here are 10 reasons to get back into the swing of things (pun intended.)

1 – Every round improves your game

The more you play, the better you’ll feel. Aside from being happier, you’ll also gain a sense of achievement as you improve your game. Each round enhances your strength, stability, balance, and patience — all of which are admirable values on or off the course. 

2 – Golf boosts careers

Need to foster some new client relationships? Seek out new leads from a potential customer? Entertain some of your best reps? Playing golf is the perfect way to network, develop, and personalize important business relationships.

3 – A round is excellent, outdoor exercise

Playing golf is a great way to get some fresh air, sunshine, and exercise…without feeling like you’re exercising. It gets the blood pumping because you’re walking, bending, reaching, stretching, and swinging a club. The bonus? You’ll smile (and laugh) a lot too. How many other sports offer those benefits?

4 – Boosts your brain power

There’s a ton of information that your brain processes when playing golf. You’re engaging in creative problem-solving, especially if your ball lies in a challenging location. You’ll improve your hand-eye coordination and even gain a better understanding of physics. Golf makes your brain sharper than ever.

5 – It’s a fun challenge

No matter where you play, how you play, or who you play with, shots and conditions are always changing. To overcome those challenges, there’s always a different strategy to try and new things to learn. Your knowledge base builds over time, helping you to improve your overall game. 

6 – Appealing sights and sounds 

Golf is a peaceful sport. Courses and beautifully maintained, most with gorgeous vistas and views. A sunset round is an awe-inspiring experience. Plus, the quiet solitude and sounds of nature offer a sense of tranquility.

7 – The perfect shot

…is always within reach. You never know when you’re going to be the newest member of the “hole-in-one club.” The only way to find out is to get out there and play. The pride that comes with a perfect shot is like none other. Those who know, know. And you can be one of them as long as you try. 

8 – You’re never too old to play

As you age, you may have to quit other sports that are tough on your body. That’s not so with golf. You’re never too old to play. It’s true even if you’ve never played before. At Harbor Club, we offer a wide variety of lessons for people of all ages and skill levels. Our golf pro, Keith Kelly, says that teaching is his absolute favorite part of his job. “I love being able to help people understand the game better so that they can play it better.“

9 – Creates wonderful memories

Looking for new ways to bond with family and friends? Playing golf is an excellent (safe) way to achieve that. Playing together offers a unique way to connect that’s both meaningful and memorable for years to come. 

10 – It’s motivating

It’s intriguing to watch talented professionals play, right? (The Masters, especially.) Whether you’re watching in person or on TV, there’s no better time than the present to channel that interest into playing golf yourself. If you’ve never tried it, there’s no better time than the present. Give it a go, and you may discover a new, rewarding hobby that’ll last a lifetime. 

Ready to fall in love with golf again? Our award-winning, semi-private, Weiskopf/Morrish-design course offers easy access, a better pace of play, and a fantastic value. Our fairways, greens, and tees are maintained to the same standards as higher-end, private courses. You’ll also find top-notch facilities for dining, practicing, and more here at Harbor Club. If you’re a golfer (or a would-be golfer) who craves a private golf club experience at a better price point, book your tee time with us today. You’ll be glad you did.

PS – Harbor Club members gain even more value the more they use their exclusive club benefits. If you’re a Lake Country resident, contact us to learn about our variety of membership options.

Location, location, location. It’s the main requirement for almost all homebuyers. But there’s one unique selling point that we discovered from our record-setting real estate sales last year. Many of the people who bought homes in our community did so to be closer to family. Of course, we have plenty of young families moving into our neighborhood, but we’re also seeing an increase in the number of “empty nesters” putting down roots here at Harbor Club. Here’s why:

Harbor Club is close to Atlanta, Athens, and Augusta

Our Southern Living-Inspired Community is conveniently located in Greensboro, Georgia. It’s only about an hour east of Atlanta, just off Interstate 20. We’re essentially midway between Atlanta and Augusta and about 40 minutes south of Athens. Our proximity to those cities puts us within arms-reach of all the best that Georgia has to offer (top employers, educational institutions, professional sports, etc.) But, it’s also an excellent location for parents who wish to be closer to their kids — especially those “kids” who’ve already “flown the coop.” Consider these facts:

• Excellent education – While we have excellent schools nearby for younger kids, Atlanta is also home to the Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Emory University. Athens is where you’ll find our state’s flagship public university, UGA (the University of Georgia.) With plenty of top-notch schools so close to home, it’s no surprise that parents of undergraduate and graduate students find Harbor Club to be the perfect place to live. It’s close enough to be close to their kids yet far enough away to be, well, far enough away. You know what we mean.

• Elite employers – Once college is complete, many graduates easily find excellent jobs nearby. Atlanta has the third-largest number of Fortune 500 companies in the nation. It’s also home to the global headquarters of corporations like The Coca-Cola Company, Home Depot, Delta Air Lines, AT&T, Chick-fil-A, and UPS. In fact, more than 75% of Fortune 1000 companies conduct business operations in Atlanta, and Delta is the largest employer. Of course, it’s no surprise that UGA is the top employer in Athens, but there are other prominent employers such as Athens Regional Medical Center, St Mary’s Health Care System, and Caterpillar. Multiple pharmaceutical, manufacturing, and biotechnology companies such as Merial and Janssen Pharmaceuticals are located in Athens, as is the independent publisher Hill Street Press. And in Augusta, we have the U.S. Army Cyber Center of Excellence and Fort Gordon as top employers, as well as Augusta University and EZ GO. (Note: You’ll probably see a lot of EZ GOs around our neighborhood.)

• Family philosophy – Parents work hard to raise their kids to be mature, capable, independent young adults. Once they’re well-educated, employed, and independently established, many “kids” go on to have families of their own. When that happens, close proximity to grandchildren is a huge factor for determining where “Nan and Pops” decide to live. After all, family gatherings and holidays are infinitely better (and more fun) with multiple generations and grandkids all together. (Worth reading: 5 Reasons Families Love Living at Lake Oconee)

If you’re in the market to put down roots near Atlanta, Athens, or Augusta, especially to be closer to family, consider Harbor Club. With all the amenities we offer, your family may be hanging out at your house more often than anticipated. What’s more, a resort-style community like ours is the perfect place to live during a pandemic. And, no matter what you’re looking for, our award-winning Southern Living-Inspired Community has the ideal house for you. Take a look at our current real estate listings, or get in touch to learn about options for building your dream home today. You’ll be glad you did.

2020 was undoubtedly an insightful year as far as house plans are concerned. The pandemic prompted all of us to stay home more than we could’ve ever imagined. And even though it’s now 2021, many of us continue to hunker down at home. Much like our Southern Living-Inspired Community, our houses have also become integral places where we live, work, and play.

We discovered and continue to embrace several new house plan trends that emerged from the pandemic — and wholeheartedly agree with Southern Living’s take on the biggest ones in 2021. Here’s our $.02 on each:

Southern Living house plan trend 1: The home office

As a result of social-distancing safety measures, working from home is now an accepted practice. According to a Gallup poll, half of Americans who currently work remotely said they plan to continue to do so (even after business restrictions are lifted.) Harbor Club has fully embraced the home office trend. Several house plans at our Southern Living-Inspired Community offer bonus spaces that have the flexibility to convert to a home office during construction. We also found that “Zoom Rooms” have been particularly helpful for both adults and kids.

Southern Living house plan trend 2: Recreational space

Big recreation rooms that easily accommodate the whole family are back in favor. Even though there are plenty of fun (safe) things to do at Harbor Club during the pandemic, people sometimes prefer to stay home to enjoy hobbies, work out, watch movies, or simply relax. Having the space to accommodate those needs for various family members is a key to harmonious living.

Southern Living house plan trend 3: Outdoor living

While Harbor Club residents can easily enjoy a variety of outdoor activities (golfing, boating, swimming, fitness classes, and more), they are making better use of their outdoor spaces at home. We see an increased need for welcoming porches and patios that can be used for both functional and entertainment areas. Outdoor wood-burning fireplaces, fire pits, as well as outdoor kitchens and bars, are gaining in popularity too, making for lovely al fresco dining.

Southern Living house plan trend 4: Multifunctional, efficient living

We’re seeing a “right-sizing” trend now more than ever. It’s especially true for those whose kids have “flown the coupe.” Parents are left with enormous homes that no longer fit their needs. “Right-sizing” is not about downsizing or living in tiny houses. It’s about living well in a smaller yet luxurious home with thoughtful design details and better utilization of space. Our Cottage Series Homes are a perfect example. Even better, they come with landscape maintenance included.

Southern Living house plan trend 5: Multigenerational living

On the opposite side of the spectrum, we’re also seeing instances where people need more space to better accommodate additional family members. Whether it’s kids who come back home to live or senior parents who require extra care, these are the needs of today’s modern families. In-law suites, garages with living space above, finished daylight basements with full kitchens and baths — we’re finding that homes with these types of features are in high demand. 

Southern Living house plan trend 6: Hardworking kitchens

Last, but certainly not least, are hardworking kitchens. There’s no doubt — kitchens are the heart of the home. People always seem to congregate there. And due to the pandemic, families are cooking at home more than ever before. It’s now a room that must be both highly functional yet aesthetically pleasing. The current ‘top wants’ we’re seeing are large amounts of counter space, enormous islands, bigger pantries, and open plans that connect to other rooms or outdoor areas. 

If you’re in the market for a home that includes any or all of these Southern Living home trends, give us a shout. Whether it’s new construction or a resale, we’d love to help make your dream home a reality. Take a look at the current listings at our Southern Living-Inspired Community, and let us know if you’d like a tour of a home, homesite, or our community (virtual or in-person). We can’t wait to show you how wonderful life can be at Harbor Club. Get in touch today.

You’ve heard the old saying by Isaac Newton, “What goes up must come down.” Well, the opposite is also true, especially for home mortgage rates…what goes down must come up. We’ve been enjoying rates at record lows for years, but now we’re starting to see an uptick. What’s prompting them to rise? Here are some key indicators to watch:

Treasury yields

Better than a crystal ball, 10-year treasury yields are an excellent indicator of how mortgage rates may increase and decrease. Why? Because both are highly influenced by investor activity in the bond market. Bond yields have risen steadily since August and then jumped higher in the new year. That swift uptick was due to a renewed optimism in a rebounding economy. It stemmed from two things 1) the government’s stimulus payments 2) the COVID-19 vaccines finally being distributed throughout the U.S.

Mortgage lender’s profits

It’s no surprise that with the record low rates, mortgage lenders are flush with profits. Keep your eyes peeled for news about lenders. Even if mortgage rates rise further, lenders will likely absorb some of that increase to keep a steady flow of business coming in…at least for a little while. For them, it’s worth it, even if they have to dip into some of their profits to keep that momentum going. However, that approach is not sustainable, so be prepared to move quickly if you plan to refinance or purchase a home soon.

Federal Reserve purchases

Keep an eye out for when the Federal Reserve purchases mortgage-backed securities. This past year it bought millions worth of them. Granted, doing so helped stabilize our pandemic-rattled economy. The Fed purchasing those home loans helped maintain liquidity in the market during a time of crisis. 

Labor markets and COVID-19

Future mortgage rates have much to do with how well we handle the COVID-19 pandemic moving forward. Success on that initiative will also help improve labor markets. Without progress on both, there may be a limit to how much higher the mortgage rates could rise. Up, down, good, bad, these are facts that push rates higher and lower. 

Here’s the good news…

While the evidence shows that mortgage rates will continue to rise, it’ll be a long while before they hit record highs. Curious as to what that record high was? According to Freddie Mac, it was a whopping 18.63% in October of 1981. Conversely, the record low occurred this past December. It was an astounding 2.66%. As of this article’s writing, they’ve risen to 2.9%, which is still an incredibly low rate. 

The bottom line is that it’s not too late. If you’re in the market to buy a home, you may want to lock in your mortgage rate now. Why wait? The rates continue to be historically low, so take advantage now before they continue to steadily rise over the coming months. We’re happy to help you find both your perfect home and the perfect loan. Take a look at the current listings in our award-winning Southern Living-Inspired Community and contact us today to learn more. 

As this unusual year draws to a close, we’re reflecting on all our blessings and accomplishments in 2020. Yes, despite the pandemic, we’ve had a good year. We’re thankful for so much here at Harbor Club — especially for our fantastic residents and members. Our Southern Living-Inspired Community continues to be an incredible place to live, work, and play.

Considering our highlights from 2020, we’ve got many reasons to enjoy happy holidays this year. Here are just a few…

Golf was a big (safe) hit in 2020

Believe it or not, our golf course has been quite busy in 2020. It’s not a shocker, considering golf is an outdoor sport that’s safe to play, even during a pandemic. What’s more, our course (once again) ranked #4 on Golfweek’s Best 2020: Best Courses You Can Play. Also, there was much interest in our Masters Week golf specials, despite having to pivot those offerings from April to November (when the Masters actually occurred.) Plus, our very own golf pro, Doug Price, was featured on a Birdies & Bourbon podcast that highlighted Harbor Club. He shared helpful tips for playing our course, and the guys exchanged interesting Masters banter. Give that podcast a listen, and you’ll discover where to get the best Brunswick Stew in town.

Boathouse success

We opened The Boathouse Restaurant on Lake Oconee this past May but under COVID-19 virus guidelines. We conducted business in new ways to ensure that all of our patrons were safe. Despite the challenges, we’re proud to say that, because of you, The Boathouse had an excellent (seventh!) summer season. We’re incredibly appreciative to all those who indulged in delicious meals, bought items from the store, purchased fuel, or stored their boat. Thank you again for your patronage. 

Jason Warner joins the Harbor Club team

This past fall, we had the pleasure of adding Jason Warner to our team at The Clubhouse Restaurant. As our new Bar Manager, he brought several years of experience from top-notch restaurants such as Tavern at Phipps in Buckhead, McKendrick’s Steakhouse in Dunwoody, Kaiser’s Chophouse in Sandy Springs, and The Lodge at Lake Lanier Islands. Anyone who’s been lucky enough to indulge in his delicious, beautifully crafted cocktails knows what an incredible asset he is. 

Harbor Club memberships expand offerings

Whether going for a swim, playing golf, or enjoying a boat ride on the lake, outdoor fun was the name of the (safe) game this year. We had tons of fun doing cornhole tournaments from a safe, social distance. The petting zoo was a big hit too, especially for the kids. And even though we had to close The Clubhouse Restaurant for a few months, we came up with creative alternatives for our residents and members to enjoy great food and other useful items. We arranged for them to obtain several groceries, supplies, and delicious take-out food through the Clubhouse. We even offered highly coveted toilet paper and hand sanitizer! Who would have thought that being a member of Harbor Club would bring such worthwhile additional benefits?

Harbor Club home sales soared

As you’re aware, many people now work from home due to coronavirus. “Resort life” became a bigger asset than ever since most folks now lived and worked in their houses 24/7. As a result, many wanted to escape the confines of urban areas and live in places with more breathing room. That, plus the super-low interest rates on mortgages, started a home-buying frenzy. What’s more, Harbor Club began offering a free golf membership to anyone who purchased a new home built by our in-house builder, Patriot Builders. It’s a huge perk that’s tough to match by other golf/lake communities in Lake Country. (As of this writing, this special offer is still available. See our real estate listings for current opportunities.)

Despite the COVID challenges, we’re thankful to have had a great year. We hope yours has been just as good, if not better. We appreciate you more than you know! From our family to yours, best wishes for a healthy and happy holiday season.

PS – Feel free to stop by or call to learn more about all the great things we have going on at our Southern Living-Inspired Community this year into next. We look forward to showing you around, virtually from your comfy couch or in person from a safe social distance.

Can you feel it? Fall is in the air. The days or shorter, the weather is cooler, and the leaves are starting to change into their pretty autumn hues. It’s a beautiful time of year to experience golf at Harbor Club. Here’s a list of the top 10 reasons you don’t want to miss out on playing this season: 

1 – Wonderful Weather

The fall season offers gorgeous weather with tons of beautiful, mild days to play in the southeast. In fact, our Lake Country location’s temperate climate allows us to enjoy golf throughout the entire year.

2 – Make epic memories during The Masters

Typically held in April, The Masters was postponed to November 9-15 due to the coronavirus. That unprecedented move means you can enjoy our Masters Week golf specials during the beauty of fall rather than the stickiness of spring.

3 – Our greens are grand

Our greens are bentgrass, and they are at their absolute best in the fall. If you like a firm, smooth, and quick playing surfaces, fall is the perfect time to play at Harbor Club.

4 – Kick COVID-19 to the curb

Fortunately, golf is an outdoor sport that most everyone can enjoy, even with the coronavirus pandemic. Of course, distancing protocols apply. Plus, we’ve put extra measures in place to help ensure each player’s safety in and around the course.

5 – The scenery is splendid

The changing fall foliage and amazing views of Lake Oconee make the scenery stunning this time of year. There’s nothing like golfing through a forest of fall colors and bright blue skies with Georgia’s second-largest lake in the background. 

6 – Kiss the crowds goodbye

While the summer is a popular time to play, fall is not as busy. You’ll have better chances of getting your favorite tee time, and there’ll be fewer players behind you. It makes for an even more pleasant and relaxing golf experience.

7 – The rules are relaxed

Golf rules are typically more relaxed during autumn. The “leaf rule” is a good example. When the rules are relaxed, there’s less stress and a quicker pace of play, making the golf experience more fun for everyone. 

8 – Learn more with lessons 

Since it’s a bit quieter and cooler, fall is the perfect time to enjoy golf lessons. No matter your age or skill level, lessons are always helpful. Our friendly golf pros are happy to conduct private and group classes for adults, juniors, men, and ladies. 

9 – Up your game

If you’ve played all season long, it probably feels like your swing and putting game are at their absolute best. Investing in new equipment when you’re at peak form can provide a better pay-off in the long run. Even better, purchasing new equipment in the fall is typically less expensive than buying it in the spring (when everyone else is doing it.)

10 – Cheers to the chill

There’s nothing quite like that satisfying post-round beverage at the 19th hole. Instead of a beer, why not change it up? If it’s cold outside, an Irish coffee or bourbon-spiked hot chocolate may be just the ticket. Now that we have the renown Jason Warner at the helm at our Clubhouse Restaurant’s bar, he can create (almost) any delicious beverage you wish.

Did we miss any? What would you add to this list? And if you haven’t experienced playing golf at Harbor Club in the fall, don’t wait. Book your tee time now. We look forward to seeing you soon.

Recently we shared a list of the high quality, new construction home standards of our in-house builder, Patriot Builders. It’s no secret that many Patriot Builders’ standards are considered pricey upgrades by other homebuilders. Having high standards means our new homeowners enjoy a beautiful house that is comfortable, healthy, and energy-efficient. In fact, we’re finding that energy performance is increasingly a top requirement for today’s homebuyer.

With the cost of energy rising, so are utility bills. Knowing the demand for energy efficiency, Patriot Builders is, once again, beating its competitor’s typical standards. 

Why? Because we care. Patriot Builders understands that a well-constructed, thoughtfully-built home offers consistent temperatures, is less drafty, and has better indoor air quality. Our houses provide plenty of efficient comfort without compromising on quality or style. Residents of our Southern Living-Inspired Community deserve nothing but the best. That’s why Patriot Builders’ homes include the most advanced technology in HVAC, roofing, insulation, and more. Here are some examples:

Energy-efficient exterior standards

Every Patriot Builder home comes with Pella™ windows and doors with Sunshade. Even on the hottest and coldest days of the year, you can feel a difference with these high-performance windows. Plus, they meet and often beat ENERGY STAR® guidelines. What’s more, every home comes with insulated garage doors. These keep the heat from escaping the garage in the winter and prevent hot air from entering in the summer. It makes for both a more comfortable garage and home. 

Energy-efficient mechanical standards

Heating and cooling a home can get very expensive, especially during peak summer and winter months. That’s why we install top-tier Lennox 14 SEER HVAC systems. SEER measures the ratio of cooling capacity to power input, and the higher the rating, the more efficient the air conditioner. At 14, we meet the efficiency standard, and we even include a separately zoned master suite. That way, you can sleep comfortably at whatever temperature you wish without overcooling or overheating the rest of your home. 

Energy-efficient structural standards

Patriot Builder homes use innovative Zip Wall Sheathing. You may have seen this green product in a “This Old House” episode. It’s a product that forms a tight barrier against air and water leakage. The Zip System creates a building envelope that increases both interior comfort and energy efficiency. For the roof, we use Radiant Barrier Sheathing. It’s superior because it has a thin layer of aluminum that is pre-laminated to an OSB panel, creating a more effective radiant barrier. In fact, it blocks up to 97% of radiant heat transfer through the roof, which reduces attic temperatures by as much as 30º F. And speaking of attics, we can’t forget about insulation. We use closed-cell spray polyurethane foam (SPF), one of the most efficient insulating materials commercially available to date. SPF offers the highest R-value per inch, which means better energy savings. SPF does such a great job of minimizing air leaks in walls and roofs it can save homeowners up to 15 percent on heating and cooling costs.

Energy-efficient interior standards

Appliances can often be big energy hogs. That’s not the case with Patriot Builders’ home. Our standard appliance package is the stylish yet efficient GE Café series. These fixtures are not only beautiful to look at, each is ENERGY STAR® certified. Our new homeowners get to maximize their energy savings without sacrificing the distinctive appliance features they want.

If you’re curious to learn more about Patriot Builders’ homes, give us a shout. We’re happy to answer your questions and would love to show you some gorgeous homes in our Southern Living-Inspired Community. For a personalized tour (either virtual or safely, socially-distant), contact us today.

Are you one of the many people pining for a rural escape during the COVID-19 crisis? You’re not alone. There’s been plenty of headlines and news reports about people fleeing big cities in search of more peaceful environments. It’s no surprise, considering the rural suburbs are places where social distancing is a built-in part of life. Especially during the pandemic, people want to be away from crowds, traffic, and mass transit.

As a result of social-distancing safety measures, working from home is a common and accepted practice. According to a Gallup poll, half of Americans who are currently working remotely said they plan to continue to do so even after business restrictions are lifted.

Working remotely offers several unique opportunities — including better choices as to where to live. Those who work from home no longer have to worry about how long their commute will be. Their commute is now a short stroll from the breakfast table to their home office. As a result of both the work-from-home and trend and the increased interest in suburban living, we’ve seen an uptick in home sales at Harbor Club. Recently, our Sales Director, Kathy Phillips, was quoted in an ideal-LIVING magazine article saying, “Just last week we welcomed new homeowners from Atlanta because the wife’s boss told her she could work from home.” Kathy went on to say, “The couple is in their 50s and was looking for a place that had national-class recreational amenities plus the shopping and medical infrastructure that could help turn their work home into a retirement home when the time comes.”

Understanding the increased need, Harbor Club has fully embraced the home office trend. This is particularly true with its new Summerhill house plan. It boasts a dedicated office nook near the master bedroom, complete with a beautiful, built-in, wrap-around desk. Several other house plans at our Southern Living-Inspired Community offer bonus spaces that have the flexibility to be converted to a home office during construction. Having that special space to work not only optimizes professionalism, but it also energizes productivity.

Of course, there are other benefits for ditching the city, including stress relief and boosts in concentration. But as the only Southern Living-Inspired Community in Georgia, Harbor Club offers additional benefits, such as a neighborhood with a strong sense of community, enhanced pride in place, and (of course) the gorgeous, custom-built, Southern Living-Inspired homes. 

And when it comes time to step away from your home office, there are a ton of options to enjoy resort-style living at Harbor Club. It’s a gorgeous place where fresh air, woods, and greenspace abound. Factor in the accessibility and beauty of Lake Oconee, and you’ve got plenty of ways to enjoy the safety and the serenity of the outdoors. Go for a walk, hike, swim, or a boat ride. Play championship golf, tennis, or pickleball. Take the dog to the dog park or grab a delicious meal at The Clubhouse or The Boathouse Restaurant. It’s all within easy reach. With so much to enjoy at Harbor Club, why not experience it for yourself? We’d love to show you around, virtually or otherwise. Let’s schedule your private tour today.

Are you a homebuyer in the market for a mortgage? If so, then consider yourself lucky. The rates recently dropped to historic lows — as low as 2.75% for top-tier borrowers on a 30-year fixed mortgage. It’s the first time that rates have ever fallen below 3%. Since borrowing is a bargain, savvy house hunters are locking in now.

The incredibly low mortgage rates have prompted a rebound in the housing market. In fact, mortgage applications recently climbed 5% and were up 13% compared to last year. That spike shows that homebuyers are confident about jumping back into the market, especially now that coronavirus lockdowns are coming to an end.

Besides low mortgage rates, increased demand for homes has also prompted a rise in applications. Many buyers are attempting to close deals by this summer, mostly as a result of the pandemic. Why? They want detached living — more of a standalone, single-family home — versus a townhome, condominium, or apartment. They want room to breathe, certainly not a shared wall. Supporting that is a recent LendingTree survey that reports 53% of homebuyers are more likely to buy a home within the next year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. As remarkable as that is, a more significant issue is the current shortage of homes available for sale. 

Since there is a lack of listings, many homes are selling fast. If you’re in the market to buy, speed is critical. These tips can put you in a better position to win the home of your dreams:

• If you see a property that you like, arrange to look at it as quickly as you can (virtually or otherwise.) If it’s a great house, you may need to compete with other offers, so act fast if it’s the one. 
• Get a home inspector before you start looking at houses. Having a pre-inspection done before you make an offer will speed up the closing process. Some inspectors include their clients in their inspections via Zoom or FaceTime. Seeing what they see gives you a better idea of the home’s value — and the offer you want to make (safely, from a distance.)
• Get your home loan fully pre-approved, where an underwriter has looked at your file and given it the OK to move forward. That way, your financing is only subject to an appraisal, clear title, and no other hindrances.
• Sell your house first. You’ll be in a better position to win in a multiple offer situation since yours won’t be contingent on the sale of your current home.

Here at Harbor Club, homes are selling fast — both new construction and resales. There’s a lot of demand since ours is one of the few Southern Living-Inspired Communities in the Southeast. It also doesn’t hurt that we’re located on Lake Oconee, have an award-winning, Weiskopf/Morrish-designed golf course, and that our kids have access to some of the best education in the country. 

If you’re one of the many people taking advantage of the low mortgage rates right now and are interested in buying a home in Lake Country, consider Harbor Club. Take a look at our current listings and contact us to schedule a tour or ask questions. But don’t wait too long! Inventory is going fast! It’s the perfect time to buy a home at Harbor Club on Lake Oconee.

Who would have thought that having a golf membership in Georgia could be such an asset during a pandemic? While most everything else is closed, the golfing is one of the few activities allowed to continue in our state. Those that have golf memberships here at Harbor Club on Lake Oconee are even more fortunate. Our members not only continue to play, but they also get to enjoy delicious food and drinks from our Clubhouse Restaurant.

What’s more, they get priority access to hard-to-find groceries and non-perishables (even toilet paper.) Members also get to swim in our Junior-Olympic pool, use the gym at our Fitness Center, take their pup to the Dog Park, and more. Of course, there are caveats to all of these — new rules that help ensure all of our members remain healthy, safe, and sound during this COVID-19 crisis. While several clubs have had to diminish or even stop services altogether, Harbor Club continues to provide plenty of value to its members. Here’s how:

Golf

Fortunately, golf is an outdoor sport that is easy to enjoy, even with social distancing protocols in place. Our highly-acclaimed 18-hole Weiskopf-Morrish-designed golf course offers fairways and greens that make the course aesthetically pleasing and fun to play for all skill levels. What’s more, our course is located alongside Lake Oconee, making a round of golf as gratifying as it is engaging. Members not only get to play our award-winning course but also have access to our driving range, short-game facility, and putting green. To keep everyone safe, some of the new rules are:

• All players must maintain social distancing before, during, and after play.
• One rider is allowed per golf cart. Families may ride together.
• All coolers, ball washers, and bunker rakes have been removed from the course.
• There’s no need for golfers to touch the flags. We’re now using either an inverted cup or one slightly above the turf on each hole.
• The cart staff is taking extra measures to clean and sanitize every cart after use.

Clubhouse Restaurant

While the restaurant remains closed to sit-down eating, members of Harbor Club continue to enjoy delicious meals and beverages, as well as groceries from The Clubhouse. They are happily taking full advantage of our new curbside pickup and take-out options. Chef Gregory and his team are working hard to provide weekly specials of top-notch lunches, dinners, brunches, and family-style meals. A wide variety of excellent wines are available as well, along with several groceries (such as flour, eggs, chicken, ground beef, etc.) and non-perishables (such as toilet paper, tissues, paper towels, and disposable gloves.) Feedback from our members has been very positive. Everyone loves the new offerings because they are so convenient and have made life easier and better than ever — especially during the coronavirus pandemic.

Pool, Fitness Center, and Dog Park

Members love taking a dip in our crystal clear, Junior-Olympic-sized pool, as it’s a welcome outdoor activity during warm days. Extra-cleaning measures have been put in place, and pool chairs are now in small groups at least six feet apart to maintain proper social distancing. At The Grove, both our Fitness Center and Dog Park are open. Of course, we ask that everyone follow the six-foot distancing protocols at each. We also require that Fitness Center users clean each piece of equipment used with the provided sanitizing wipes. Also, fitness classes continue to be held either online or outside. Maureen Brower, who teaches Barre and Tone, Core, and Zumba, happily conducts easy-to-access, virtual classes for our members. Upon thanking her for her efforts, she recently divulged, “I love our members and am so happy I can do this for them!”

There are tons of other benefits and amenities available to Harbor Club members in addition to those mentioned in this article. Remember — if you live in Lake Country, you’re qualified to join the fun. Curious to learn more? It can’t hurt to ask. Contact us today with any questions — we’re happy to help.

We are fortunate to live at a place where we can enjoy multiple outdoor activities that comply with current social distancing requirements. Not only can we play golf on our award-winning golf course, but we can also go boating on beautiful Lake Oconee. There are a few things to keep in mind if you’re preparing to head out on the water.

Here’s how to keep yourself and the others around you safe when going on a boating adventure:

Limit the people aboard your boat

When boating, it’s important to adhere to the same kind of social distancing protocols that you would on land. Only go boating with the same family members that live in your household. That means no other relatives, friends, or guests allowed on board. It’s better to be safe than sorry. 

Keep your distance

Maintain a safe distance from occupants of other boats. Being that Lake Oconee is Georgia’s second-largest lake, it’s not that hard to do. But you’ll want to avoid pulling up onto a beach close to another boat. Also, refrain from rafting up or connecting with other boats. The farther away you are from others, the better off everyone will be. 

Have face masks handy

Just like you ensure that every soul on board has a life jacket available, also see to it that each has a face mask handy. Much the same as a personal flotation device, you never know if or when you might need it. For example, you hopefully won’t need a tow, but it’ll be beneficial to have a face mask ready to wear if you do. 

Be aware at the marina

Our Boathouse Marina is busier than usual with so many people out boating on Lake Oconee. That’s great as long as everyone is careful about keeping at least six to ten feet from one another. Wear your face mask if others are nearby. Watch for others and try to maintain safe social distances when using the boat ramps, tieing up, or fueling your watercraft. 

Wash your hands

If you’ve touched anything that others have touched, like a fuel pump, for example, wash your hands immediately afterward. Be sure to have plenty of hand sanitizer on board your boat in case you don’t have quick access to a sink, antibacterial soap, and water. 

Pack up your boat

Speaking of keeping hand sanitizer on board, you’ll also want to pack up other supplies and gear. Bring your own food, snacks, and drinks from home. If you’re going to go fishing, gear up with your fishing tackle and lures in advance. Avoid stopping at a store on the way to the marina, so bring anything from home you think you might need or want while out on the water. 

Understandably, it will be a while before things return to normal, but we’re looking forward to opening the Boathouse Restaurant and offering boat rentals this summer. In the meantime, if you have questions about using the marina or boat storage options, feel free to call the Boathouse Marina at 706-817-7330. We wish you well, hope you have fun, and stay safe on beautiful Lake Oconee.

Unprecedented times call for unprecedented measures for keeping ourselves healthy, well, and fed. As you know, all of Georgia’s restaurants were required to close due to state-wide shelter-in-place orders. Since we could no longer cater to our restaurant patrons “in-house,” we’ve come up with creative alternatives to help our residents, members, and even our golfers enjoy great food.

Even though the Clubhouse Restaurant is closed (for now), you can still obtain several groceries, supplies, as well as delicious take-out food from our highly trained culinary team at Harbor Club.

Groceries, paper goods, and other supplies

If anyone has ventured to the grocery store lately, you’ve probably witnessed some bare shelves throughout the store. Items such as flour and toilet paper continue to be hot commodities. To help our residents and members replenish their dwindling supplies, we’re offering several items for pickup at the Clubhouse. Residents and members can check their weekly Harbor Club email for the latest offerings. As of this writing, the latest available items include things like eggs, flour, ground beef, and sugar. There are other critical things available too, such as bleach, disposable gloves, and yes, even toilet paper. All grocery orders are to be called in to the Clubhouse Restaurant and are usually available for same-day pickup. 

Take-Out and Curbside Menus

Harbor Club is also offering curbside pickup for both take-out food and alcohol to all residents, members, and golfers. Call in your order, then drive up in your car and call to let us know you’ve arrived for your curbside pickup. As of this writing, the currently available food menus are:

Lunch Menu – Available Tuesday and Wednesday until 3 pm; Thursday through Saturday until 5 pm. 

Some specials we’ve had include:

Taco Tuesday – 3 Shrimp Tacos; no sides

Wednesday – Loaded Nachos with choice of beef or chicken

Thursday – Chicken Parmesan Sandwich with one side item

Friday – Buffalo Shrimp Wrap with one side item

Saturday – BBQ Pork Sandwich with one side item

Dinner Menu – Available Thursday through Saturday from 5-9 pm. 

This week’s dinner special is Seafood Carbonara. It’s a delicious combination of seared sea scallops, Red Argentine shrimp, and jumbo blue crab tossed with linguine and English peas in a cream sauce.

Family-Style These meals are available as carry-out only. They are larger portions of delicious food created to feed the whole family. Please call ahead to order these homemade dishes, as they require additional prep time.

Brunch Menu – Available on Sunday only from 10 am-3 pm. Brunch is always a popular option at Harbor Club. Sleep in on Sunday and leave the cooking to us. You no longer have to do without this delectable Sunday fare. 

Wine List – We’ve got several excellent options to choose from. Order your favorite(s) and conveniently pick them up curbside at the Clubhouse.

The Clubhouse Restaurant is happily busy and glad to be helping to feed and supply groceries for our residents and members. It’s a joy for our team to help brighten your day with delicious foods…and maybe even save the day with a roll of toilet paper or two. Who would have thought that being a member of Harbor Club would bring such worthwhile additional benefits? If you’d like to learn more about becoming a member or have questions about our Southern Living-Inspired Community, please feel free to contact us. We’re happy to help.

When purchasing a new construction home, you would think that it would be perfect, right? Depending on the builder, that’s not always the case. To ensure your home is built to the highest standards, you’ll need to do some research before making the purchase. Before signing any contracts, research the homebuilder.

Ask them questions and talk to their previous clients to determine their satisfaction. Get a list of the builder’s standards for home construction. That list should outline the structural, mechanical, interior, exterior, and owner convenience standards, as well as available upgrade options. Patriot Builders, our in-house construction company, offers a list like this to its customers (shown below.) As a Southern Living-Inspired custom homebuilder, we’re highlighting some of the high-quality standards that Patriot Builders offers. All photos shown are from Patriot Builder homes constructed here at Harbor Club on Lake Oconee. 

Structural Standards

A quality-built home is one that is built with top-notch structural standards. For example, a poured concrete foundation is much better than a cinderblock foundation. It’s stronger, more substantial, and more waterproof. The below home shows a Patriot Builders home with a poured concrete foundation as well as spray-on foundation waterproofing. 

Mechanical Standards

Having high-grade mechanicals for your home helps to ensure the comfort of those living there. Plumbing, heating, and air conditioning are just a few of the mechanical standards to keep in mind. The below Patriot Builders home shows a Lennox 14 seer zoned HVAC system.

Below, a high-grade, dual heating and air system is shown at this Patriot Builders home as well as WiFi-capable garage doors.

Interior Standards

The interior standards for a quality-built home are just as important as the structural. Flooring, lighting, cabinetry, countertops, trim, tile, and appliances are all notable aspects. Patriot Builders understands that public areas of the home work best with first-rate engineered wood flooring. You can see that they also offer a generous lighting allowance. 

Patriot Builders also offers fine custom kitchen cabinetry and vanities, each with beautiful granite countertops.

Our home builder also provides upgraded trim packages in each of their homes. Some of their standards are four-inch crown molding in most public areas of the home, one-piece crown molding on the master bedroom ceiling, and six-inch baseboards on the main level of the house.

Frameless master shower doors, shampoo niches in the showers, and attractive tile are all standard with Patriot Builders homes.

Exterior Standards

Outside the home, you’ll find James Hardie plank siding, soffits, and trim.

Another Patriot Builders standard is Pella windows and doors with Sunshade.

Lifetime architectural shingles are an important yet aesthetically-pleasing standard of Patriot Builders’ homes.

Owner conveniences

Helpful conveniences for future homeowners include Schluter-Systems tiled shower and comfort-height commodes.

Upgrade options

Of course, upgrade options are available on every Patriot Builders home. All you have to do is ask. Below, a screened porch makes for a tranquil place to enjoy your morning coffee.

Grilling decks, outdoor pavilions, and fire pit are other outdoor spaces that help homeowners comfortably enjoy being outside.

Inside, homeowners can choose other upgrades, such as marble, high-level granite, or quartz countertops.

No matter what our new homeowners decide, whether it’s standard or an upgrade, each detail is easily chosen from the options available at our Design Center.

If you’re curious to learn more about Patriot Builders or our Southern Living-Inspired Community, give us a shout. We’re happy to answer your questions and would love to show you our Patriot Builder homes. Contact us today. 

Our location in Greensboro, Georgia, has a lot going for it, including a historic and charming downtown. The city center is a quaint place that’s perfect for family and friends to stroll, see the sites, and enjoy several fun shops, stores, and boutiques. Here are the ones not-to-miss:

Genuine Georgia – 102 S Main St.

https://genuinegeorgia.com/

Hours: Monday-Saturday, 10 am-5 pm

Enjoy warm lighting, the scent of gooseberries, soft piano music, and friendly smiles as you enter this artisan marketplace. In each of the three large historic rooms that make up this shop, you’ll discover a wide variety of original gifts and unique home accents, each handcrafted exclusively by Georgia artists. Every piece has a story, so be sure to ask the ones you find intriguing. 

Pinch of the Past – 1271 North East St

http://www.pinchofthepast.com/

Hours: Thursday-Saturday, 10 am – 4 pm

Pinch of the Past is a full-service architectural hardware supplier. Their shop in Greensboro is part antique store, part furniture store, and part historical landmark. Inside you’ll find lots of unique accents and salvaged goods for your home. The staff is highly knowledgable about architectural history, preservation techniques, interior design, as well as restoration. They claim they can fix just about anything, so feel free to ask. 

The Pink Stitch Boutique – 112 North Main Street

http://www.thepinkstitch.com

Hours: Monday-Thursday 11am-5pm, Friday 11am – 5:30pm, Saturday 11am – 5pm

The Pink Stitch is a family-owned and operated boutique. The shop offers a variety of stylish gifts, jewelry, and fashion-forward clothing. Inside, you’ll discover beautiful ladies tops, rompers, dresses, accessories, shoes, jewelry, and more. The shop owners pride themselves in providing excellent customer service, top-quality merchandise, and a pleasant retail environment for their customers. 

Murphy’s Gifts and More – 103 S Main St

https://www.facebook.com/murphysgiftsandmore/

Hours: Monday-Friday 9 am-5 pm, Saturday 9 am – 2 pm

This store offers unique gifts, jewelry, apparel, candles, baby items, and an assortment of other intriguing objects. They carry both traditional and hard-to-find merchandise, from handbags to home decor, jewelry to Georgia pride apparel, and other fun things you won’t find anywhere else. For more personalized gifts, this shop offers custom vinyl monogramming on several of its wares.

Maggie Lane – 102 N. Main Street

https://www.facebook.com/maggielane/

Hours: Monday-Saturday, 10 am – 5 pm

Maggie Lane features fashions that are standout features in any women’s wardrobe. The owners often travel to New York, Las Vegas, Atlanta, and Dallas to research and gather the top styles to bring back to the store. In addition to stylish clothing, you’ll find beautiful jewelry, handbags, and other unique accessories. There’s always something new to see as they receive shipments at least weekly. No matter what you’re looking for, the friendly staff loves to help you find and create your perfect outfit. 

Greensboro Antique Mall – 101 S. Main Street

Greensboroantiquemall.com

Hours: Monday-Friday 10 am – 5:30 pm, Saturday 10 am – 6 pm, Sunday 12 pm – 5 pm

If you love antique stores, this is the place to go. This one claims to be the largest in the entire Lake Oconee region. It boasts over 11,000 square feet of retail space as well as over 50 dealers, each selling quality antiques and vintage treasures. Greensboro Antique Mall is located in a historic building that was constructed in 1860 by Mr. Charles Davis, a merchant, Civil War soldier, and private banker. Back then, it was known as the largest emporium for goods between Atlanta and Augusta. Still being utilized today, the Greensboro Antique Mall has enjoyed welcoming shoppers and visitors at this historic site since 1994. 

Don’t forget — while you’re in town, stop by and visit us at Harbor Club on Lake Oconee. Contact us today to schedule an exclusive tour of our Southern Living-Inspired Community. You’ll be glad you did.

You may have seen our past article titled, “The 10 Best Reasons to Live At Harbor Club on Lake Oconee.” It offers several great reasons to take up residence in our award-winning community. It’s been a little while since we published that list, and we realized we have some additional, noteworthy features to add to it. Here are five more compelling reasons to live at Harbor Club:

The Grove

The Grove is our newest fitness, recreation, and special event campus. It is a 12-acre complex that includes a state-of-the-art fitness center, hiking and Fit-Trails®, a quarter-mile running track, and an event and sports field. The recreational amenities include a dog park, Victory Garden, and a tranquil Sanctuary Pond. Concerts and other large events are easily accommodated there with stadium seating on the sports field. The Stables venue is also located in The Grove. It offers a beautiful, pastoral facility for indoor and outdoor gatherings such as weddings, receptions, parties, and other fun events.

Pickleball

Recently added to The Grove are six new pickleball courts. These are in addition to the three pickleball courts already located at our Swim and Tennis Center. The trendy sport of pickleball is growing rapidly, and Harbor Club residents have wholeheartedly embraced it. With so much interest in the game, we built the new courts to better accommodate all who wanted to play. They’ve been a big hit for all who enjoy pickleball as a pastime. 

The Masters

Our award-winning, Weiskopf/Morrish-designed golf course is conveniently located halfway between Augusta and Atlanta, just a few miles off of Interstate 20. Many know that Augusta is swamped with people during Masters Week, as are the golf courses located there. Unfortunately, many of the courses take advantage of the situation and carry a premium price tag. That’s not the case at Harbor Club. Here you can escape the majority of the crowds and enjoy beautiful Lake Oconee too, which is Georgia’s second-largest lake. Every year our patrons tell us that our course is one of the best places to play during Masters Week. So if you’re looking for something fun and memorable to do after watching the practice rounds at The Masters, take advantage of our Masters Week specials and book your tee time today. 

Boaters love us

Not only do we have a full-service marina at The Boathouse, we recently added a new second building to the on-site dry boat storage facility located there. With up to 300 covered dry storage spaces, the facility is now the largest on Lake Oconee. What’s more, the new building has multiple rack heights to accommodate higher-profile watercraft. It’s perfect for offshore fishing boats, center console boats with T-tops, wakeboard boats, and ski boats with tow-towers. Even better, we offer shrink wrapping services to keep your watercraft even better protected during the winter months of non-use. Don’t own a boat? That’s ok. We offer a variety of boat rentals for those who wish to enjoy a beautiful day on Lake Oconee. 

We are a Southern Living-Inspired Community

Not too long ago, we were one of the few chosen by Southern Living Magazine’s editors as an exclusive Southern Living-Inspired Community. To be included on this prestigious list, our neighborhood had to embrace the natural beauty of the Southern landscape, display the best of Southern Living-inspired architecture, and offer warm environments that foster friendly gatherings, interactions, and celebrations. It helps that we offer plenty of good old southern hospitality too. We pride ourselves on having a charming, resort-like neighborhood with over 80% full-time, friendly residents. Will you be next? Contact us today to schedule a personal tour. 

Since the spring of 1934, people from all over the country have made their way to Augusta, Georgia to enjoy the infamous golf tournament, The Masters. And for over 25 years, Harbor Club on Lake Oconee has welcomed avid golfers traveling to and from the Augusta area for the epic event. Being conveniently located in Greensboro, which is halfway between Augusta and Atlanta, our championship course is the ideal stopping-off point for a round of golf during Masters Week. 

Our course is the inspired vision of Tom Weiskopf (a four-time Masters runner-up himself) and his design partner, Jay Morrish. The two men used their combined expertise to strategically route the course so that it touches Lake Oconee six times while winding through picturesque, wooded hillsides. The course is known for its stimulating design diversity, two drivable par 4s, superb conditioning, and a satisfying pace of play…and represent just a few of the reasons why it has won so many accolades. 

Of note, and in keeping with The Masters theme, our 17th hole was specifically designed to emulate the infamous 12th hole at Augusta National. It has very similar bunker placements, water hazard, and bean-shaped green. Golf Georgia magazine says it “plays like a bigger, juiced-up version of Augusta National’s par three 12th.” Those who have experienced it know that it requires a phenomenal tee shot over Lake Oconee.

Hole 17 isn’t the only thing that bears a resemblance to Augusta National. When you visit our Southern Living-Inspired Community, you may get a glimpse of a unique (privately owned) lake home that was designed by architect Calvin Cline. It’s widely known as the “Augusta National House” because it looks almost exactly like the clubhouse at its namesake. 

Unlike most other courses in Greene county, Harbor Club is a semi-private course that is open for all to play during Masters week. Playing here is memorable, especially if you’re looking for something fun to do after watching the practice rounds at The Masters. This year our special rates are: 

$199 + tax – 7:30am-2:58pm

$169 + tax – 3:00pm-Close

$80 Replay special

$149 + tax – Hotel specials (For guests of the Lodge on Lake Oconee, Tru by Hilton, Hampton Inn Madison, and Holiday Inn Express, Madison)

$169 + tax – Groups of 8

$149 + tax – Groups of 12 or more

$70 + tax – Rental set of clubs

Pricing for Harbor Club member’s guests:

$80 + tax – Accompanied guest

$129 + tax – Unaccompanied guest

These prices are effective April 3-12, 2020, and golf includes cart rental, range balls, and an iconic Harbor Club golf cap.

If you want to have an incredible golf experience during Masters week, Harbor Club on Lake Oconee is the place for you. Tee times will be in high demand during Masters week, so please don’t delay reserving your spot. Bookings may be made now through April 12th. For more information or to reserve a tee-time call 706-453-4414 or e-mail Head Golf Professional, Keith Kelly, at kkelly@harborclub.com. Tee times may also be booked online at Harbor Club, GolfNow, or Play18.

We look forward to making your Masters Week golf experience exceptional.

Can you believe it’s December already? As this year draws to a close, we’re reflecting on all of our blessings and accomplishments in 2019. What a year it’s been! We have so much to be grateful for here at Harbor Club — most notably for our wonderful residents and members. We’re proud that our Southern Living-Inspired Community continues to be an excellent place to live, work, and play. Here are a couple of proud achievements from this past year that makes for happy holidays:

Created new boat storage at The Boathouse Marina

This past year our on-site dry boat storage facility at The Boathouse Marina opened a brand new second building. That, combined with our existing boat storage building, now offers up to 300 covered dry storage spaces for Lake Oconee boaters. It also makes our dry-stack boat storage facilities the largest on the lake. The new building even has multiple rack heights to accommodate higher-profile watercraft. We ensure that watercraft are safely stored, high and dry. And if you haven’t already stored your boat for winter, it’s not too late. Contact us at The Boathouse Marina to make arrangements. 

Introduced a new Southern Living-Inspired model home

One of the pinnacles of the year was the unveiling of our latest Southern Living-Inspired model home. Just as stunning as our first model, this 3,418-square-foot, three-bedroom, three-bath showpiece is exemplary of all the great things that go into being a Southern Living-Inspired Community. It’s a place that exudes Southern charm, style, and taste, both indoors and out. Even better, it’s now decorated for the holidays! If you’ve already toured this home in the past, we welcome you to come back. The new decor makes for a great reason to return and see it again — this time in all its festive glory. 

Harbor Club continues to maintain 80% full-time residents

Not exactly a highlight, but more of a celebrated point of note. During the holidays, you certainly don’t see many homes that are dark and quiet here at Harbor Club. What’s unique about our Lake Country community is that ours is a true neighborhood, full of fun-loving, caring, and warm-hearted residents that help make this place thrive. Beyond all the twinkling lights and decorations that you see glittering throughout the neighborhood, we know that it’s the people that live here that really make it shine. We’re thankful for all of our residents who make Harbor Club a phenomenal place to live.

From our Harbor Club family to yours, we wish you glad tidings for a joyous holiday season.

PS – Stop by soon to see and learn about all the great things we have going on in our Southern Living-Inspired Community this year into next. You’ll be glad you did.

 

One of the biggest Harbor Club events of the year is right around the corner — and that’s having breakfast with the legendary, patron saint of children, Santa Claus. This traditional Harbor Club gathering is one that the whole family looks forward to each December. Why? There’s a lot more to enjoy besides a delicious breakfast at the Clubhouse Restaurant.

Here’s what we’ve got lined up:

Festive photos

Looking for the perfect family photo for the holidays? We can help. There will be a professional photographer on hand at the Clubhouse during both the 8 A.M. and 10 A.M. breakfast seatings. The photographer will be happy to take both individual and family photos. Feel free to post your photos online and check-in at Harbor Club so that we can see them too!

Fun for all, especially the children

All the kids and grandkids are encouraged to wear their favorite pajamas to this morning event. The cozy outfits help keep the little ones comfy and make for even cuter photos with Old Saint Nick. Let the children know that they will have a bit of time to share their biggest Christmas wish with Santa. And don’t forget to have each child bring their favorite holiday book. Santa will gladly sign them, making each a cherished memento.

Tasty food

To delight the palates of both young and not-so-young, the Clubhouse Restaurant will be offering a delicious buffet of hot breakfast items. The menu items include freshly made eggs, bacon, pancakes, biscuits, and gravy. Morning beverages include coffee, orange juice, and more.

Here are the details: Breakfast with Santa is on Saturday, December 14, and is open to all Harbor Club members. There are two seatings available, 8 A.M. and 10 A.M. As of this writing, the 10 A.M. seating is sold out, but there are a few spots left for 8 A.M. We encourage members to email Jody at The Clubhouse Restaurant to RSVP, as both seatings are typically sold out by the first week of December. The pricing (not including tax and gratuity) is $16.95 per adult and $7.95 per child, ages five and up. Kids who are ages four and under are free. For those that have already made reservations but need to cancel, we ask that you kindly do so by December 5. 

We look forward to seeing everyone, including our beloved Santa, at this warm-hearted Southern Living-Inspired holiday gathering soon. It’s going to be a joyous way to start the Christmas season.

One of the events that Harbor Club members look forward to most each year is Christmas Dinner at The Clubhouse. Warm and festive gatherings such as these are what make our Southern Living-Inspired Community so distinctive. Friends and neighbors come together at the Clubhouse to celebrate the holiday with fine, chef-prepared food and drinks. And while the dress is formal (black-tie optional), the mood is one that is fun, relaxed, and cheerful. 

This year, our Harbor Club members get to indulge in a delicious, four-course dinner, specially prepared by our very own Chef Gregory Thigpen. Each dish comes with a recommended wine pairing that perfectly complements the cuisine. The menu includes a starter, a salad, a choice of two different entrees, and two different desserts. The 2019 menu (shown below) is one that has inspired a lot of enthusiasm amongst Harbor Club members.

Starter: 

Spanakopita, complemented with a Spiced Bechamel Sauce

Paired with: a Mumm Champagne

Salad:

Candied Georgia Pecan Micro Green Salad with an Apple Vinaigrette

Paired with: a Ruffino Il Ducale Pinot Grigio

Entree options:

Pan-Seared Filet Mignon with a Bordelaise Sauce, Dauphinoise Potatoes and Asparagus 

Paired with: Freakshow Red Zinfandel

-Or-

Pecan Crusted Australian Seabass in a Maple Beurre Blanc Sauce with

Roasted Butternut Squash and Haricot Vert

Paired with: a Meiomi Chardonnay

Dessert options:

Classic Creme Brulee 

Paired with: a Late Harvest Riesling

-Or-

Chocolate Spoon Cake 

Paired with Josh Cabernet

This year, the Harbor Club Member Christmas Dinner will be held on Friday, December 6. The cocktail hour begins at 5:30 pm, and dinner commences at 6:30 pm. The cost is $65 per person, and it includes four courses and four wine pairings. Tables of four or eight were available, but as of this writing, we just discovered that this event is now completely sold out. If you are a Harbor Club member and were not able to RSVP in time, please don’t despair. It’s rare but sometimes cancelations do occur. Contact us at The Clubhouse Restaurant and ask Jody to see if any last-minute spots have become available. 

If you’re not a Harbor Club member yet, then how come? There’s so much more that comes with a Harbor Club membership beyond fantastic golf. With easy access to Lake Oconee, tennis, pickleball, a refreshing pool, all the amenities at The Grove, and fun social events (such as our annual Christmas Dinner), it can’t hurt to inquire about options. Learn about our memberships, and feel free to reach out to Mika Mills with any questions. She’s happy to help.

We wish everyone much goodwill, happiness, and a joyous holiday season.