Living here means being surrounded by nature and having a whole spread of amenities right at your fingertips. We’re talking everything from golf courses to walking trails, plus the lake itself, which just adds to the charm. Whether you’re into boating, fishing, or just kicking back on a porch and watching the sunset over the water, Keowee Key has a little bit of everything that makes life feel easy and laid-back. It’s a slice of South Carolina that’s perfect for prospective homeowners who enjoy their space but still want to live in a community that is well-known for luxury.
What are Keowee Key’s HOA Fees?
Before we get into specifics, let’s clear one thing up: Keowee Key is run by a POA (Property Owners’ Association), not an HOA. While the difference might seem like splitting hairs, it’s a little more significant than that.
A POA typically takes on a broader range of responsibilities than a regular HOA. So, instead of just managing things like landscaping and some shared spaces, a POA, especially at Keowee Key, handles everything from the upkeep of the golf course and marina to utilities. They’ve got their hands in a little bit of everything, which helps keep the community running smoothly—kind of like a small, self-contained town.
POA Fees: What to Expect
One of the first things to consider when moving to Keowee Key is the New Owner Capital Assessment, which is a one-time fee for new property owners. The purpose of this fee is to help fund the repair and replacement of the community’s capital assets.
- Improved Property Owners (those with homes already built) pay $6,855.
- Unimproved Property Owners (those with vacant lots) pay $2,742.
In addition to the one-time capital assessment, there are ongoing annual POA fees that are billed monthly. These fees cover the maintenance of amenities, common areas, and various services provided to the community.
- Improved Property Owners: $5,076 annually
- Unimproved Property Owners: $2,899 annually
It’s worth noting that Amenity Lot Owners (those who own land but haven’t built a home yet) are charged the same fees as improved property owners.
Additionally, condominium and townhome owners may face additional assessments depending on the association that governs their specific property within the community.
Keowee Key operates differently than many other private communities. Nearly 1,900 property owners share the expenses and revenues, allowing for high-quality amenities and services at relatively affordable prices. Property owners vote annually on the budget, ensuring the financial planning remains community-driven.
The community also emphasizes strategic planning, which allows for predictable assessments and funded reserves that cover new and replacement capital needs. This setup provides long-term financial stability and ensures that the community remains an attractive place to live without sudden or excessive fee increases.
Utility Rates for Keowee Key Residents
Keowee Key also operates its own utility system, and fees differ depending on whether your property is improved or unimproved:
- Improved Property Owners pay a monthly utility fee of $88.
- Unimproved Property Owners are charged a quarterly rate of $116.
These rates contribute to the maintenance and operation of essential services within the community.
Other Fees
Golf Course Fees and Membership Options at Keowee Key
Keowee Key is home to a well-maintained, highly regarded golf course. Golf enthusiasts can become members and take advantage of favorable rates for playing rounds.
- Full Members pay $27 for 18 holes or $17 for 9 holes.
- Driving Range Fees are available as well, with an individual annual membership costing $255 and a family membership priced at $315.
One advantage of Keowee Key is that property owners enjoy the use of amenities—such as the golf course—without any additional joining fees. This helps keep the cost of living reasonable compared to other luxury communities that might charge more for similar services.
Dining Minimum at The Club at Keowee Key
If you plan to dine at The Club at Keowee Key, keep in mind the annual dining minimum:
- Multi-person households are required to spend at least $780 per year.
- Single-person households must meet a minimum of $390 per year.
This helps to ensure the restaurant remains viable while providing an additional layer of convenience and community engagement.
Cost of Living in the Keowee Key Area
Beyond POA fees and golf memberships, it’s essential to consider the broader cost of living in the Keowee Key area. The community is part of Oconee County, and while Keowee Key itself is a private, gated community, the cost of living in the surrounding areas around the shores of Lake Keowee is actually relatively affordable compared to other parts of South Carolina.
- Real estate costs – Home prices within Keowee Key vary based on location, size, and proximity to the lake. Single-family homes can range from $300,000 to $1.5 million depending on these factors. Unimproved lots can also be more affordable if you plan to build later, with lot prices ranging from $20,000 to $300,000.
- Property taxes – Property tax rates in Oconee County are moderate compared to the national average. For a home valued at $500,000, property taxes could range between $3,500 and $4,000 annually.
- Healthcare and services – Residents of Keowee Key have access to nearby healthcare facilities in Seneca and Clemson, along with grocery stores, shopping, and restaurants. The overall cost of healthcare in this region is generally lower than in more urban areas.
- Utilities – Outside of the Keowee Key utility system fees mentioned earlier, standard utilities such as electricity, internet, and cable are priced competitively in the Lake Keowee region. (Thanks, Duke Energy!) On average, you can expect to spend around $150 to $300 per month on these services, depending on usage.
Why These Costs Are Worth It
At first glance, the fees at Keowee Key might seem like a lot to take in, but let’s put things into perspective. For what you’re paying, you’re getting a high level of value—especially compared to other communities that offer similar amenities. Here’s why it’s worth every penny to the right home buyers:
1. All-Inclusive Access to Amenities
Unlike many gated communities that nickel and dime you for everything, Keowee Key includes full access to its incredible lineup of amenities with no additional joining fees.
That means you get to enjoy a beautiful, well-maintained 18-hole golf course, a heated outdoor pool, tennis courts, a fitness center, walking trails, and a marina—without paying a premium on top of your regular dues. For people who love to stay active or simply enjoy beautiful surroundings, this setup is an absolute win.
2. Predictable, Community-Controlled Finances
One of the best aspects of Keowee Key’s fee structure is that it’s controlled by the property owners themselves. You get a say in the annual budget, so there are no surprise assessments or sudden fee hikes. That’s a huge plus compared to other places that might hit you with unexpected costs down the road. Plus, the community has a well-funded reserve for repairs and updates, meaning the facilities are always in great shape without the need for emergency funds.
3. First-Class Living at Below Market Prices
You’re not just paying for basic maintenance here—you’re contributing to a system that provides first-class amenities at below-market rates.
When you break it down, the annual POA fees cover so much more than you’d typically get elsewhere.
Most luxury communities charge you for each amenity separately, and even then, the quality might not be up to par with what Keowee Key offers. You’re getting resort-level perks in a beautiful lakeside community, and the costs stay well within reason thanks to the community-driven financial planning.
4. Lifestyle Benefits
Buying property in Keowee Key isn’t just about having access to a golf course or dining at The Club. It’s about the lifestyle you’re buying into—a luxury waterfront community, a slower pace, and an environment that promotes health and overall well-being.
It’s easy to forget the day-to-day stresses when you’re surrounded by natural beauty, taking a morning walk by the lake, or enjoying a meal with neighbors at The Club. The POA fees support a way of life that’s hard to put a price on, but once you experience it, you’ll understand why the costs are more than worth it.
5. Strong Property Value
Investing in a property at Keowee Key also means you’re putting your money into a stable and well-maintained community. The shared upkeep and ongoing improvements help retain and even boost property values over time. In an area where demand for lakeside living is only increasing, you’re setting yourself up for long-term appreciation on your investment.
When you look at it this way, the costs associated with living at Keowee Key become a smart investment, not just in a home, but in a lifestyle that offers luxury and financial stability. All these elements combine to create a living experience that’s truly worth every dollar.
Bottom Line
Keowee Key has a good balance of living costs and amenities. The POA fees might seem a bit higher than average, but you’re getting access to a lot—golf, dining, and a lakeside setting that’s hard to beat. Plus, with the community pitching in on shared costs, it stays affordable compared to similar places. If you’re looking for a place where the fees make sense and the lifestyle is relaxed but full of options, the homes for sale in Keowee Key might be worth a closer look.
