Governors Club

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As a longtime leader in Triangle real estate and founder of Tim M. Clarke Team, one of the premier boutique firms in the area, I've had the privilege of helping many families find their dream home across the region.

However, there is one community that stands above the rest - The Governors Club.

Since its inception over 20 years ago, I've watched Governors Club become the pinnacle of luxury living in the Chapel Hill area.

Built around a stunning Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course and member-owned club, Governors Club is truly a class of its own as the Triangle's sole gated golf community.

Walking these grounds, you can sense the care taken to integrate magnificent custom homesites with the natural beauty of our streams, forests and fairways.

It's my pleasure as a resident to introduce new families to this special setting and the unparalleled amenities enjoyed by over 900 households within our private gates.

Whether you're starting a family or looking for resort-style living, I invite you to experience all that Governors Club has to offer as the premier address in North Carolina.

Governors Club Overview

The Governors Club is conveniently located just minutes from downtown Chapel Hill and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

It is also a short drive from Research Triangle Park and Raleigh-Durham International Airport, which is approximately 15 miles away.

Governors Club isn't just another neighborhood – it's a dream come true!

History and Development

Back in the late 1980s, John Kane had a vision for a top-notch golf community in the rolling hills of Chapel Hill.

He teamed up with golf legend Jack Nicklaus to design a world-class course, and boy, did they deliver!

The community was designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus. Kane envisioned a private residential community centered around a championship golf course.

Governors Club was incorporated on February 9, 1989. The first homes were built in 1988 and the club opened its doors in 1989.

The first 18 holes of the championship course were opened on September 5, 1990. Holes 19-27, nicknamed “The Mountain” were opened four years later, on September 22, 1994.

The Grand Opening of the Clubhouse took place in May 1995, and the Fitness Center was completed in March 1997.

Since its inception over 30 years ago, Governors Club has become renowned as the premier luxury golf community in the Triangle area.

Specific Neighborhoods and Distinguished Features

Governors Club offers many distinctive neighborhoods for buyers to choose from.

Home styles range from country French to Georgian, Mediterranean, and more. Luxury single family homes in Governors Club range from 2,500 to over 10,000 square feet.

Governors Club is like a beautiful patchwork quilt, with each section having its own special flair:

Estates

The premier home sites of Governors Club are situated to maximize natural beauty and community access.

Perched on the peaks of Edwards Mountain, these estates command spectacular vistas across hills, fairways, waterways and more, with sights stretching for miles.

From Chapel Hill to Durham and beyond, the sweeping panoramas capture the region's splendor.

Nestled within yet near to trails, these stately properties embrace seclusion yet remain connected to conveniences.

Personalized landscapes showcase scenic golf course backdrops, lakefront majesty, or both.

With extraordinary outlooks and strategic placement gracing the highest elevations, Governors Club's estate parcels truly represent luxury living at its finest.

‍Governors Square

Located near the Mt. Carmel Church entranceway, the Governors Square neighborhood is tucked within the northeastern section of Governors Club.

Parcel sizes here span from 0.2 to 0.34 acres, the majority enveloped by scenic golf course vistas appreciable from nearly every window thanks to the surrounding fairways.

The community-wide pathway network conveniently enables activities like biking and walking while taking in gorgeous views of the greens.

As property owners, residents contribute both to subdivision maintenance fees overseen by the homeowners association as well as yearly assessments administered by the umbrella Governors Club Property Owners Association, maintaining the high standards across all areas.

Highland Pond ‍

Strategically positioned atop one of Edwards Mountain's two elevated crests, the Edwards Mountain neighborhood encompasses some of Governors Club's most expansive and heavily wooded parcels, ranging from 2.5 to 4 acres.

These stately estate properties showcase a diversity of architectural styles and are defined by varied topography, affording breathtaking views from 15 to 25 miles away thanks to their lofty settings.

In addition to scenic panoramas, area residents share the community with the Salamander Preserve, a pond managed by the North Carolina Botanical Foundation Conservation Department to research and breed spotted and marbled salamander species.

Sheltered within a private enclave of rolling forested lots, these sizable custom homes nestle harmoniously into the serene natural surroundings.

Morehead Forest

Situated in Governors Club's southern region, Morehead Forest represents the community's most expansive neighborhood.

Featuring a wide array of architectural styles, homes here take advantage of striking panoramas encompassing the waterfront and golf course, including glorious sunrise and sunset views.

Parcel sizes range from 0.20 to 0.55 acres within the diverse land plots. The sidewalk network originates along Lake Morehead's northern shore, granting residents easy access to scenic walks.

Future plans include linking Morehead Forest to Wilkinson Park as part of long-term pathway development. Wooded preserves lend natural beauty amidst the homesites.

With proximity to the lake and vistas of the greens, Morehead Forest offers an idyllic setting for its assortment of designs nestled among preserved woodlands.

Saddle Ridge

Nestled along Governors Club's northern boundary, the Saddle Ridge neighborhood sits prominently atop a ridge overlooking the valley between Edwards Mountain and Edwards Ridge.

Its moniker stems from the undulating terrain of rolling foothills that diversify the landscape.

Boasting expansive vistas from its elevated position, some home sites within Saddle Ridge also offer glimpses of the golf course and distant vistas.

Encompassing parcels ranging from 0.30 to 0.48 acres, a unique atmosphere emerges from the blending of varied architectural styles situated on the interesting topography of hills.

The neighborhood's placement takes full advantage of scenic panoramas across the surrounding countryside from its majestic ridge-top setting.

Stone Brook

Situated along Governors Club's western border near the Lystra or southern entrance, Stone Brook is defined by its Country French architectural style featuring stacked stone and cedar exteriors adorned with window boxes and shutters.

Encompassing lots ranging from 0.24 to 0.51 acres, the neighborhood derives its name from two ponds nestled at the base of rolling hillside parcels.

What truly distinguishes Stone Brook is its exclusive amenity center, funded through an additional community assessment.

Reserved solely for resident and guest use, the amenity center includes a pool, tennis courts, fire pit, waterfall, playground and pavilion area—unique features not found elsewhere in Governors Club.

With its secluded setting and distinctive Country French design influences, Stone Brook offers an idyllic retreat for those seeking a touch of European flair.

Tryon Courte

Strategically located near the Swimming and Tennis Center, Tryon Courte forms a horseshoe shape nestled between fairways, also positioned alongside the community-wide pathway for convenient walking and biking access.

Comprising lots from 0.16 to 0.33 acres, the neighborhood presents a cohesive architectural aesthetic centered around six customizable floor plans distinguished by red-brick facades.

Bounded on two sides by the golf course, Tryon Courte additionally benefits from easy access to Governors Club's golf, wellness, and dining amenities.

Property owners contribute extra fees here to maintain yard work and gutter cleaning services as part of the neighborhood's harmonious design and high standards.

With its scenic borders and centralized location, Tryon Courte strikes the ideal balance of beauty, community, and lifestyle comforts.

Vance Villas

Situated in close proximity to Governors Club's extensive sidewalk network and premier amenities, this neighborhood provides a variety of housing options ranging from smaller condominium parcels to larger single-family home lots.

Comprised of 16 two-to-three bedroom condominium units as well as building sites for 30 single-family residences, the neighborhood capitalizes on scenic golf course and lake views.

Spanning from 0.05 to 0.44 acres, the compact lots in this area are well-suited for low-maintenance living while enjoying immediate access to all that Governors Club has to offer, including walking/biking paths and the renowned golf, tennis, dining and wellness facilities.

The diverse selection of condominiums and buildable home lots offers flexible options for residents seeking lock-and-leave or single-family comforts within the amenity-rich community.

Walker Falls‍

Situated near golf holes 3 and 4 in the central region of Governors Club, the Walker Falls neighborhood stretches alongside the fairways.

Lots fronting the course enjoy scenic golf views, while others backing onto community walking trails allow glimpses of the links and water features.

Ranging from 0.30 to 0.83 acres, the parcels provide ample space for custom homes distinguished by their brick courtyards—a unique design element.

In addition to proximity to the trails, residents of Walker Falls benefit from maintenance of common areas through sub-association fees, upholding the high standards across all neighborhoods.

Nestled amidst the golf course scenery, Walker Falls strikes an ideal balance of natural beauty, architectural personality and community lifestyle supported through neighborhood assessments.

Wilkinson Park‍

Located on the central southern edge of Governors Club, with lots featuring varied architecture and topography.

Great area for walking and biking with proximity to Morehead Lake for catch-and-release fishing or water-fowl watching. Lots from .36 to .72 acres.

Club Cottages

This enclave within Governors Club features homes of humble elegance situated upon the landscape's rolling fairways.

Compact plots from 0.18 to 0.30 acres host cottages embracing nature's simplicity yet strategic placement. Nearby trails wind through verdant grounds, inviting exploration of the pastoral setting on foot.

When fatigue strikes, refreshment awaits - the community's renowned golf links, nourishing fare, fitness offerings and more lie within easy reach.

For residents seeking low-maintenance living intertwined with high-end amenities, this pocket provides a peaceful respite with luxury living merely steps away.

Golf views frame doorways both front and rear, paying homage to the pastoral roots of these stately abodes situated at the fields'

Governors Club Landscape

The homes and properties at Governor's Club are carefully integrated with the natural landscape features, following the rolling terrain and contours of the golf course.

This strategic design maximizes the natural beauty surrounding each homesite while also providing a strong sense of seclusion and tranquility.

Residents can enjoy the privacy of spacious lots with views of the greens and fairways, yet remain close to the renowned amenities.

This harmony with the environment is a hallmark of Governor's Club, distinguishing it as one of the premier residential communities globally for those seeking luxury living in concert with nature.

Notable Builders and Developers

Some of the notable builders and developers involved in Governors Club over the years include:

• John Kane - Original founder and developer
• Jack Nicklaus - Designed the signature golf course
• Holland Homes - One of the original custom home builders
• John R. McAdams Company - Developer of later phases
• Keck Company (George Keck) - Custom home builder
• Brightleaf Construction - Custom home builder
• K Alan Company - Custom home builder

New Construction Builders

• Bold Construction - By guiding clients through a streamlined process using an expert internal team plus top industry partners, BOLD Construction ensures each custom home uniquely reflects the owners' distinctive style while attaining superior quality and delivering an outstanding white glove experience.
• New Dimension Construction - New Dimensions Construction Company, established in 1995 in Carrboro by builder Larry Fowler and his wife Susan with Larry bringing decades of experience in construction management, has become a respected name for custom residential building across the region over the past 25+ years.
• Phil Stone Homes - Current home builder‍
• Skela Homes LLC - Current home builder‍
• Schreiber Construction - Current home builder

Governors Club's Amenities

Community Lifestyle

Living in Governors Club is like being on vacation every day! The community is all about luxury, relaxation, and enjoying the finer things in life.

But don't worry, we're not stuffy – there's a real sense of neighborliness here that'll make you feel right at home.

Clubhouse, Parks, Outdoor Spaces and Recreational Amenities

• Golf Course: The crown jewel of Governors Club is our 27-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature course. It's challenging, beautiful, and always in top-notch condition.

• Tennis Courts: We've got 4 clay courts and 2 hard courts for you to perfect your serve.

• Swimming Pools: Take your pick between the Olympic-sized pool or the more laid-back family pool.

• Fitness Center: State-of-the-art equipment to keep you in shape.

• Walking Trails: Miles of scenic paths winding through the community.

Community Events, Points of Interest

Governors Club isn't just a place to live – it's a place to live it up! We've got:

• Annual Golf Tournaments
• Wine Tasting Events
• Holiday Parties
• Summer Concerts on the Lawn
• Kids' Camps and Activities

There's always something going on, and it's a great way to meet your neighbors and make lifelong friends.

Public, Private, Charter Schools and Daycares

Chapel Hill is known for its top-notch schools, and Governors Club residents get to take full advantage:

• N Chatham: A fantastic public school just a stone's throw away.
• Margaret B Pollard Middle School: Known for its strong academics and diverse programs.
• Northwood High School: Consistently ranked as one of the best in the state.

For private options, we've got:

• Durham Academy: A prestigious K-12 school about 15 minutes away.
• Carolina Friends School: Offering a unique Quaker education.

And for the little ones, Chapel Hill Daycare Center and University Child Care Center are both highly rated and nearby.

Local Restaurants by Cuisine with Brief Reviews

Chapel Hill has a vibrant dining scene. Here are some top local restaurants in Chapel Hill for Governors Club residents:

Casual

• Al's Burger Shack - Best burgers and milkshakes in town
• Mediterranean Deli - Fresh, fast Mediterranean food
• Spicy 9 - Chinese comfort food with lots of spice

Upscale Casual

• Crook's Corner - Iconic Southern food in a historic building
• The Crunkleton - Creative cocktails and upscale pub fare
• Elaine's on Franklin - Seasonal New American cuisine

Fine Dining

• Panciuto - Authentic handmade pastas and Italian cuisine
• The Carolina Inn - Elegant southern-inspired fine dining
• Weathervane - Local farm-to-table restaurant with tasting menus
  With options from burgers to fine dining, Chapel Hill's restaurant scene has something for every taste and budget.
  The downtown area with Franklin Street is just a 10-15 minute drive from Governors Club.

Shopping, Entertainment

You're never far from retail therapy in Governors Club! Here are some nearby hotspots:

• University Place: Just 15 minutes away, with a mix of national chains and local boutiques.
• The Streets at Southpoint: A bit further in Durham, but worth the drive for its upscale shops and restaurants.
• Meadowmont Village: Charming shopping center with a small-town feel.

For entertainment, check out:

• Cat's Cradle: Iconic music venue hosting both up-and-coming and established acts.
• Ackland Art Museum: On the UNC campus, featuring a diverse collection of art.
• Morehead Planetarium: Perfect for stargazers and science lovers.

Healthcare Facilities, Emergency Services

Your health is in good hands here:

• UNC Hospitals: World-class medical care just minutes away.
• Duke University Hospital: Another top-rated option in nearby Durham.
• Chapel Hill Fire Department: Quick response times and top-notch service.
• Chapel Hill Police Department: Keeping our community safe and sound.

Governors Club's Location Overview

As your Governors Club expert, I've outlined the quick commute times from the guarded gates - 10-15 minutes covers downtown Chapel Hill and Franklin Street hotspots.

With its central location just off 54, the community balances charm and access. Keep an eye out for those random 23 MPH signs - legend has it they pay homage to Michael Jordan's iconic number seen cruising Chapel Hill streets!

Highway Access

Governors Club is perfectly situated for easy access to the entire Triangle area:

• I-40: Just 10 minutes away, connecting you to Raleigh, Durham, and beyond.
• US-15-501: A straight shot to downtown Chapel Hill and Durham.
• NC-54: Another easy route into Chapel Hill and towards Carrboro.

Commute Times and Suggested Routes

Please note that these times can vary depending on the time of day and traffic conditions and congestion at the gate.

Morning and evening rush hours can significantly affect commute times, especially when traveling to and from RTP.

Crime Data and Neighborhood Safety

Safety is a top priority in Governors Club, and I'm happy to report that our crime rates are well below the national average. Our gated community provides an extra layer of security, and we have an active neighborhood watch program.

According to recent data:

• Violent crime rate: 76% lower than the national average
• Property crime rate: 52% lower than the national average

Remember, though, that safety is a community effort. We all look out for each other here in Governors Club!

Conclusion - Expert Advice from Tim Clarke

After 17 years as a licensed real estate agent and over 30 years calling Chapel Hill home, I can confidently say that Governors Club stands out as one of the most exceptional communities I've had the pleasure of working with.

As Chapel Hill's only gated golf community, it offers a unique blend of luxury living, world-class amenities, and easy access to all the charms of our vibrant college town.

What truly sets Governors Club apart isn't just the stunning 27-hole Jack Nicklaus designed golf course, though that's certainly a crown jewel.

It's the complete package: miles of wooded trails for nature lovers, a resort-style pool complex for relaxation and family fun, tennis courts for sports enthusiasts, and a gated entrance for added privacy and security. But perhaps the biggest advantage is location.

Situated just minutes from downtown Chapel Hill, UNC, and Research Triangle Park, residents enjoy a perfect balance of community and convenience.

To truly make the most of life in Governors Club, I always encourage residents to dive deep into both the club and the wider Chapel Hill community.

Within the club, join activities like tennis, book clubs, or dining events, and attend the many social gatherings and holiday celebrations.

In the broader Chapel Hill area, enjoy concerts and cultural events at UNC, volunteer with local nonprofits like Habitat for Humanity and Table, explore nearby attractions like Jordan Lake and Eno River State Park, support local businesses and artists, and consider joining civic organizations like the Rotary Club or Chamber of Commerce.

This engagement allows you to meet new people, find meaningful activities, and truly connect with your home.

For those considering making Governors Club their home, my advice is to act fast when you find a property you love, as the best homes here move quickly.

Don't be afraid to make a strong offer - home values here have consistently appreciated.

And remember to consider the lifestyle, not just the house - the amenities and community are part of what you're buying.

If you're looking to sell your Governors Club home, work with a real estate agent who knows the community inside and out.

Make small upgrades like painting and landscaping to maximize appeal, highlight the Governors Club amenities and Chapel Hill proximity in your listing, price competitively based on recent comparable sales, and keep your home in showing-ready condition.

My team and I have years of experience helping Governors Club homeowners sell quickly and for top dollar, and we're here to guide you through every step of the process.

Governors Club truly represents the pinnacle of private club living in the Triangle.

It offers a unique combination of luxury homes, world-class amenities, and a prime location that's hard to beat.

The homes match the high standards set by the amenities, with custom builds and luxury details throughout.

Whether you're a golf enthusiast, nature lover, or someone who appreciates the finer things in life, this community has something for everyone.

As a knowledgeable local expert, I've had the pleasure of helping many families buy and sell homes in Governors Club, and it remains one of my favorite private communities to showcase.

You have a true balance of community and convenience here, combining country club living with the charms of college town culture.

The gated entrance provides an added sense of privacy and security, while still keeping you close to all that Chapel Hill has to offer.

If you're ready to experience the Governors Club lifestyle for yourself, whether as a buyer or seller, I'm here to help.

Let's work together to find your dream home in this slice of Chapel Hill paradise or to showcase your property to potential buyers who will appreciate all that Governors Club has to offer.

With its natural beauty, top-notch amenities, and unbeatable location, Governors Club isn't just a neighborhood – it's a lifestyle. Give me a call, and let's make your Governors Club dreams a reality!

Frequently Aske Questions about Governors Club

What is included in the monthly HOA fees?

The monthly HOA fees cover maintenance of all common areas including landscaping of medians, entrances and recreational facilities. It also funds 24/7 security patrols and road/sidewalk upkeep.

What amenities are available to residents?  

Amenities include a 27-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis and pickleball courts, clubhouse and restaurant. Nature trails and open green spaces provide areas for hiking and relaxing.

What is the minimum lot size?

The minimum lot size varies by neighborhood but generally ranges from 0.15 to 2 acres, with most homesites falling between 0.3-1 acre. Larger estate lots are also available.

What architectural styles are represented?

Homes feature a variety of high-end architectural styles including Georgian, Mediterranean, Traditional and Contemporary influenced by each neighborhood's unique character.

Is the community fully built out?

While Governors Club is well-established, some neighborhoods still have select homesites available and opportunities for estate home construction. The community continues enhancing amenities over time.

What is the average home price?

Home prices range from high $600Ks to over $3M depending on size, features, and location. Average resale is approximately $1.2M but values have increased significantly in recent years.

What is the process for becoming a member?

Prospective residents must be approved through the membership committee and pay an initiation fee. Annual dues are then required to maintain membership and access community amenities.

What schools serve this area?  

The community is located within the highly rated Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools district including schools like Carrboro High and Phillips Middle. UNC-Chapel Hill is also nearby.

How far is it from downtown Chapel Hill?

Governors Club has a very convenient location just 5 miles from downtown Chapel Hill and Franklin Street, making area attractions easily accessible.

What is the process for buying a home?  

As the leading real estate team in the Triangle, we have years of experience helping families find homes in Governors Club. Our extensive local knowledge and community relationships make the process smooth. We expertly match clients to the perfect property using our robust search tools. Then, negotiations and membership approval are simple thanks to our insider insights. As Governors Club authorities, the Tim M. Clarke Team handles intricacies so clients can focus on enjoying this new opportunity without stress. Our dedicated guidance offers reassurance from start to finish.

Listings in Governors Club

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