@Stanfield - it looks like you are in DFW which likely means you are looking at a club corp course. I think there are 8 or so of those in the metroplex. There are some advantages to joining a club within that system; no recurring assessments, reciprocal privileges, etc. But down side too; none transferable memberships, and al-a-cart pricing.
I am a member of at a course in southern Denton Co which has north of 400 members. I can tell you I play a lot; this past week 5 times, most weeks twice. At least one round a weekend and I have no issues with over crowding. So, for me, 100 rounds a year, no issues with tee times or bar/grill seating, etc. We have al-a-cart pricing too; $350 a month for dues, no restaurant minimum, fee for bag storage, fee for lockers, fee for the cart usage, etc. You can choose to buy those or not. This pricing works well for me but keep in mind things add up. You will need to be mindful of these costs because of this. My monthly bill has never been under $1k; cart fees, lunch/dinner's, storage, beverage cart, etc. Keep in mind my family of 4 uses the facility too so there is more than just me charging items.
I would not worry about 360-450 members. Like boating or other recreational usage, there is likely 25% of the members that are hard core golfers and play multiple times a week, 50% that get out 1 or 2 times per month, and the balance that just are members for the "exclusivity" of being a member (picture boat with boards in the racks that never get used). Therefore I would not worry about the membership count but would ask if membership dropped would they open up to public play to recoup revenue. I would encourage you to walk so you don't incur cart fees. Also remember it is all supply and demand, many local private courses are offering discounts on initiation fees so you can get some good deals and even negotiate free month(s) of dues, etc.
Like mentioned above, membership can be a great time. Enjoy.
PM if you have questions.
T
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