What are the pros and cons of having a clubhouse in a subdivision?

Question by Josh P: What are the pros and cons of having a clubhouse in a subdivision?
I’m looking for help from real estate agents and residents of sub divisions that have good information regarding this. I am the VP of a HOA and our subdivision has 30+ empty lots. Our neighborhood consists of single-family, ranch-style homes consisting of singles, young families all the way though retirees. Local real estate people say that the inventory of lots ready to build on in our city is astronomical. We were discussing how to make our sub a more desirable choice to build on. The thought turned to building a clubhouse that could be used by the residents for childrens’ birthday parties, and other events where they may not have the room in their own home. Also to plan more community events (ie, HOA meetings, meet your neighbor parties and events for local children).
The rest of the board sees some of the benefits of having a clubhouse, but we are wondering if it’s worth it when you weigh in the drawbacks. There will obviously be extra costs relating to the building, up-keep and maintenance of the property as well as the monthly utilities. With the land already paid for, we are looking at an additional $ 50-$ 70 a year in dues. Residents would be able to enjoy free use of the facility for no charge beyond the addition in dues. Currently our dues are $ 105 a year, and that includes pressurized irrigation system for landscaping as well as the upkeep of the entrance and common areas.

The proposed clubhouse is a 1100-1200 sq ft building with Great Room, full kitchen with bar/countertop and a half-bath, a covered outdoor patio with a barbeque and picnic tables.

My questions for residents and are:
1. Does a clubhouse in a sub-division get a lot of use by the majority of their residents?
2. Is it more of a benefit or hassle to have it available? Is it worth it, or a pain in the butt?
3. Is it better to have an active HOA that want’s to plan events for their residents, even if it costs you a bit more in your annual HOA dues?

My question for real estate agents and home builders:
1. Does having a home lot in a subdivision where there are amenities like a clubhouse more desirable and more likely to sell then others without (considering the subdivision I live in)?
2. Is there an increase in property values for homes that have these amenities available? If so, how much approximately (in %)?
3. Our lots are .2 acres and are currently listed for $ 43,000. (which is on par with other listings throughout the area, and not selling). Would having these amenities make these lots more likely to sell?

Thank you all in advance for your help. Any other insight you may be able to offer would be great.

Thanks.
No gym or pool will be in this facility. It will essentially be a meeting room with a kitchen and bathroom.

Best answer:

Answer by Glenn S
First of all you would want at least 4000-5000 sq. ft. of space, including a kitchen, restrooms, storage area, and maybe a stage. 1100-1200 sq. ft will not be large enough for much.

I would also have a community play ground and swimming pool adjacent. Go look at a few upscale mobile home parks and get some ideas. A community pool area will get a lot more use than a meeting room.

The facilities could be rented out for wedding receptions, meetings, social functions, etc. to others besides the residents of the sub-division. The problem with many of these types of facilities is the noise, extra traffic, and parking. that a hall generates. Also, consider that it might require extra security.

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