Quail West on the Auction Block

Quail West, a Mediterranean-style luxury golf community in Naples FL is one of the latest high-end properties facing bankruptcy and offered up for auction. Previously owned by Ginn-LA, the winning bid of $13.5 million came from QW 2009, a Southwest Florida development company.

The Quail West vision was indeed grand. The Ginn-LA developers promised an exclusive private club lifestyle with luxurious surroundings. The minute attention to detail was reflected in the landscaping that included European-style cobblestone streets, courtyards, exquisite fountains, Spanish tile roofs and detailed ironwork. The exceptional amenities catered to members every whim and included use of a private wine cellar, private concierge and in-home catering.

Unfortunately, when these grandiose plans collided with a failing economy, they resulted in a multi- million dollar loss. The recent sale included 262 undeveloped homesites, two golf courses, a clubhouse and sales center. Thankfully, John McGarvey, developer and one of the principal owners, believes there is a future in luxury golf real estate. "The auction was a rare opportunity to purchase quality lots in the Naples area, which are getting harder to find", McGarvey said.

For the most part, the two courses, clubhouse and restaurants have remained open throughout the Chapter 7 filing, but it has taken a toll on the number of new members. None of the services have been cut back and there are about 180 active employees still remain. Hopefully, now with the sale out of the way, public confidence will improve in Quail West. In addition, there is talk of a promotion that will temporarily waive the $175,000 membership fee and offers a trial membership for the cost of "dues only".

Quail West Amenities include:

- State-of-the-art tennis complex with red-clay hydro-grid courts.

- World-class spa, men's and women's whirlpool baths and steam room, fitness center with an extensive list of classes and members programs.

- Outdoor pool

- Recently updated 70,000 square foot clubhouse that includes:

- Wine Room - that even includes a reserved area to store members private collections.

- Dining: indoor-outdoor bar overlooking the 18th hole of the Preserve course and formal restaurant.

- Gathering areas for playing cards.

- Golf and tennis pro shops

- Locker rooms

- Future plans were in the works for a club expansion and creation of a Riviera-style beach club.

36-hole Arthur Hills designed courses include:

The Preserve: 150 acres of forest and natural beauty provide natural hazards and challenges for the most skilled golfer in this 18-hole course.

Lakes: An 18-hole course in a natural setting provides gorgeous views with winding fairways through acres of lakes, marshes and waterways.

Members also benefit from a premier practice facility and professional instruction.

Quail West Homes:

Finished home prices range from $2.2 million to over $10 million. These are exceptional custom homes, reflecting the style and exclusivity of this golf community. A current model home available for viewing measures 8,347 square feet, has four bedrooms, oversized lanai, and every extra you can imagine including a temperature-controlled wine room. It comes fully furnished and is listed at $4,885,000..

Six beach lots off of Hickory Boulevard in Bonita Springs were also up for sale. These were initially destined to be part of the Quail West Beach Club slated for future development.

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