Joe Kaminsky is a real estate agent who covers golf communities in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and the West Valley. Prior to entering the real estate market, Joe was executive vice president of marketing for several divisions of the Sara Lee Corporation. When he isn't working, Joe enjoys spending time with his family, especially his two young granddaughters.

In short, it's never a bad time to buy a home in a golf community, because the model is different from the larger real estate landscape. The prices of golf communities have come down less than the general market, and will rebound more quickly.

Most golf homes are second or third homes; these buyers have the ability to obtain financing, which is one of the critical factors continuing to plague all potential buyers.

As investments, golf properties will always be in in demand because buyers are purchasing into the community and its lifestyle, not necessarily a specific home. Potential buyers are choosing the golf community first and then zeroing in on the home. Also, having several communities in any given area has put pressure on communities to update facilities and relax design guidelines so there’s a greater choice for homebuyers.

In addition, more golf communities are offering mixed housing within their gates as they try to capture all segments of the market. That means buyers can purchase a smaller property, like a condo or townhouse, receiving the same benefits as a larger home for a smaller price.

If you've been sitting on the fence, now is a good time to purchase that golf property, whether it’s for a first or second home. Values are there and the well-financed, well-run communities will continue to see price appreciation, although not in an always up trending line.