The best course is not nessesarily the best option for membership. If money is no object then go for the best exclusively private course, but to me "best" means bang for the buck. A membership at a reasonably priced semi-private 27 hole course such as Manderley, Pakenham or Emerald Links are great options offering a variety of holes, reasonable dues and no initiation fees.

I also think your home course should be as close as possible to where you live. Driving time is huge when you play a lot, and a close course means it's a lot easier to get 9 in on a whim. Location, location, location.