Good thread, budget and corresponding staffing ability is a major factor here, that said, a few things that I think really make a course presentation stand out - it all comes down to attention to detail in my opinion, and the best superintendents seem to have a level of ownership and pride that is above and beyond.
- Elimination of weeds
- Edged greens to help prevent foreign grass intrusion (particularly in Bermuda grass regions, where creep from fringe to green is more likely). This also helps maintain green shape and size, so that greens do not shrink or otherwise lose their intended shape over time. Walk-mowing helps dramatically when budgets allow.
- Tee boxes mowed in straight line (when intended to be rectangular, of course)
- Consistency of bunker sand (yes, I know bunkers are hazards, but consistent maintenance is just attention to detail)
- Firm greens so that ballmarks cause just minor dents, rather than unrepairable explosions - no over-watering
- Well-maintained, sharp mower blades, creating high quality cut consistency - good mechanics are extremely important and rarely receive the credit they deserve