Economics of a Disc Golf Course

Hello friends,

It's been a while since I shared, but the dream hasn't changed. I will buy land and build a disc golf course, in this life or the next.

Right now, I've been tracking a property about 30 minutes south of Duluth, MN. For anyone reading this who has their own aspirations of creating a course, I thought I'd share some specifics about the finances and how I'm thinking about it.

My plan for a first course has changed to be a 9-hole pitch and putt style course instead of taking on a full pro 18 right away. My top property right now is ~4.5 acres and listed at $33K, but it's been on the market for a while.

After I get a chance to walk through it, I'd expect to start my offer at $25K and likely settle for $30K at most.

Reasons why I like this property:

- On a paved road

- Near the Twin Ports metro area

- Flat but with some existing trees to work with

- Former private airfield, a fun background for a wheels up course

After putting down 20%, as most land loans require, I anticipate a monthly payment of around $200.

Likely another $100-200 per month in insurance and property taxes.

The biggest recurring cost that I need more clarity on is mowing.

This particular property has a church across the street. I plan to see if they would be interested in aligning with me on the usage of the course for their youth programs in exchange for help with mowing and keeping an eye on the place.

Alternatively, local scout chapters will be another place I reach out to.

Other fixed costs to launch the course:

~$4,000 for Baskets and Signs (planning for Doomsday Discs baskets and metal signs)

Tee pads could cost around $250 each if self-built. I plan to involve volunteers and start with mats, then consider switching to cement after playing the course for a year or two.

In other news, we have an Instagram account now! I'm not good at it, but my better half is helping out, so expect more to come there, especially if we are successful in getting this property.

Wheels up!