Money
What is the initiation fee, and is any of it refundable or transferable? What are monthly dues for each category, and how have they changed over the last few years? Is there a food-and-beverage minimum? Have there been capital assessments, and are any planned? Some clubs advertise no assessments or minimums (Golf Club of Houston says it has neither 2); others publish only categories and ask you to inquire 1. A club’s own financial presentations can be revealing: Walden’s April 2026 presentation said cash flow was not projected to cover operating expenses without future assessments 5.
Access
How far ahead can members book tee times? Are there restricted hours for some categories (Invited’s Kingwood Discover tier, for example, limits golf to certain times 1)? How many outside events close the course each year? What reciprocal clubs are included?
Guests and family
What are guest fees and limits? Can guests play without the member? Which family members are covered, and until what age?
Leaving
How do you resign, and do dues continue until your spot is resold? Is there a waiting list to resign? If you sell your home, does anything transfer?
Ownership
Who owns the club, and has it changed hands recently? Houston clubs change owners often: Arcis Golf bought The Woodlands Country Club from Invited in 2025 3, and Concert Golf Partners bought Northgate and Walden on Lake Conroe in 2023 4. Ask what a new owner may change.
Common questions
Do Houston private clubs publish their dues?
Most do not. They publish membership categories and ask prospective members to contact the club. Ask for the full fee schedule in writing.