RECORD LUXURY SALES ACROSS THE HIGHLANDS-CASHIERS PLATEAU
Welcome to the Summer 2025 edition of the Highlands-Cashiers Portfolio of Fine Properties, where we showcase the beauty, momentum, and sophistication of luxury real estate across the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau.
As the season warms, our region continues to show remarkable resilience amid a complex economic backdrop. Elevated interest rates and lingering inflation concerns remain part of the national conversation, yet the rebound in equity markets has fueled renewed buyer confidence—particularly in the luxury and ultraluxury sectors. Many high-end transactions continue to close without financing, a testament to the strength and intention of well-capitalized buyers who view real estate as both a sound investment and a lifestyle commitment.
Over the past 90 days, the ultra-luxury segment has been especially active, with 17 closed transactions across Highlands, Cashiers, and Lake Toxaway. Christie’s Highlands-Cashiers office proudly represented two of the region’s top three sales, including the landmark sale of 1451 Flat Mountain Road for $9,000,000, representing both buyer and seller, and 97 Old Edwards Circle, representing the buyer in a $4,200,000 closing.
Regards,
Jonathan Hunter Managing Partner 828-606-4160
1877 Bowery Road | $9.975 M
Bonneau Ansley | 404-906-3161
Pat Gleeson | 828-782-0472
In addition, we’ve introduced eight new listings over $2,000,000, reflecting deep market insight, robust networks, and strategic collaboration. Among them is an exceptional manor estate “Foxhill” newly listed at 1877 Bowery Road, offered at $9,9750,000.
Our continued growth is no accident. Through our partnership with Christie’s International Real Estate, we’ve expanded our reach across key feeder markets such as Atlanta, Greenville, Charlotte, and Asheville. The Highlands-Cashiers office in particular has benefited from this alliance, providing sellers with unmatched exposure and buyers with curated access to some of the finest properties in the Southeast.
Whether it’s a storied legacy estate in Highlands, a serene lakefront retreat in Lake Toxaway, or a private golf course haven in Cashiers, Western North Carolina offers a rare blend of elegance, seclusion, and opportunity. As summer unfolds, we remain grounded in market fundamentals, energized by continued demand, and honored to guide our clients through some of life’s most meaningful transitions.
Clif Gottwals
OCTOBER 1-31
OCTOBER 2-16
OCTOBER 16
OCTOBER 23
NOVEMBER 10
1877 BOWERY ROAD | $9.975 M | MLS 1000845
Bonneau Ansley | 404-906-3161 & Pat Gleeson | 828-782-0472
Foxhill is a refined mountain estate offering sweeping Whiteside Mountain views and luxury at every turn. Recently reimagined and just minutes from downtown Highlands., this 2004-built manor features grand living spaces, a soaring library, gourmet kitchen with Kingdom Woodworks cabinetry, and five fireplaces for cozy elegance.
42 WEST BLACK ROCK CIRCLE | $3.495 M | MLS 1000848
Clif Gottwals | 303-887-7479
Experience rare, up-close views of Whiteside Mountain from this masterfully reimagined log home in the coveted Bowery Road neighborhood. Designed by renowned architects Pritchett and Dixon, this 1.35-acre retreat blends timeless timber framing with elevated rustic-modern interiors. Just minutes from Highlands’ world-class dining and shopping, this is mountain living at its most refined.
11 FELDSPAR LANE | $1.385 M | MLS 1001266
Pam Nellis | 828-787-1895 & Cole Fuhrman | 843-576-9653
Discover effortless mountain living in this beautifully furnished three-bedroom, two-and-a-halfbathroom home on 2.45 lush acres in the sought-after Bald Rock community of Sapphire, NC. With an open, single-level layout and 10’ ceilings, the home is filled with natural light and charm, from the white wood lap walls to the impressive stone fireplaces inside and on the screened porch. All Bald Rock, the Divide and Sapphire Valley Master Association amenities included.
90 FODDERSTACK ROAD | $6.495 M | MLS 1000515
Dinah Davis | 828-200-2486 & Steve Castellaw | 404-281-3474
Perched high above Highlands, this custom-built luxury home offers panoramic views of Whiteside, Fodderstack, and Chimneytop Mountains from nearly every room. Designed for gracious entertaining, the home features a sunlit living room with floor-to-ceiling windows, a stone fireplace, and a chef’s kitchen with Thermador appliances and a spacious island.
131 BIG CREEK LANE | $2.995 M | MLS 1000884
Carl Romberg | 678-936-9309
Stunning creekside retreat nestled along the rushing waters of Big Creek. Thoughtfully designed, this home features a spacious great room with soaring ceilings, a stone fireplace, and abundant natural light. Designer touches include shiplap walls, hardwood floors, built-ins, and custom furnishings. Enjoy serene views from the screened porch with fireplace, open deck, and riverside terraces. Highlights include wooded trails, garden areas, and a stone path to the river and waterfall.
46 ZERMATT CIRCLE | $2.249 M | MLS 1000951
Pat & Bee Gleeson | 828-782-0472 & Jessica Haberkern | 254-718-7494
Perched atop Holt Knob in the coveted “Top of the Knob”, this stunning home offers sweeping views from the vaulted Great Room, kitchen, and dining area. The open floor plan is perfect for relaxing or entertaining, gather by the fireplace or enjoy the chef’s dream kitchen featuring a Wolf induction range and steam oven, SubZero fridge, large island, walk-in pantry, grilling deck, and cozy sitting area with gas fireplace.
747 MCCONNELL ROAD | $7.462 M | MLS 102666
Steve Castellaw | 404-281-3474
Designed by Tim Greene, this home gracefully nestles among 37 acres of old hardwoods at an elevation of 3,750’. This rural setting offers pastoral and long-range mountain views for seclusion and privacy within minutes of shopping and gourmet dining. Enjoy the rising sun on the breakfast porch and cocktails on the patio while capturing exquisite afternoon sunsets. Each setting allows enjoyment of the beautiful gardens thoughtfully designed by Alex Smith Garden Design.
1451 FLAT MOUNTAIN ROAD | $9 M | MLS 1000515
Pat Gleeson | 828-782-0472 & Bee Gleeson | 404-307-1415 | Representing Buyers and Sellers
Flat Mountain Farm offers a beautifully handcrafted log home, charming guest cottages, versatile event spaces, woodworking studios, and more. Nestled on over 28 acres with a pond, stream, waterfall, and sweeping mountain views, this property is ideal for family getaways, retreats, or even as a wedding venue.
North Carolina and Beyond
VILLA DOMA | $16.5 M
Robert Greenwood | 649-432-7653 | Christie's International | Turks And Caicos
A breathtaking fusion of cutting-edge design and Caribbean beauty, Villa Doma is a ten bedroom beachfront masterpiece set on 120 feet of pristine shoreline along Babalua Beach. Spanning 10,000 sq. ft., this ultra-modern estate is designed for seamless indoor-outdoor living, where floor-to-ceiling glass, sleek designer finishes, and panoramic ocean views create a private sanctuary of sophistication and serenity. Designed for discerning homeowners and investors, Villa Doma is both a secluded retreat and a highperforming rental property. Curated designer furnishings, bespoke artwork, and high-end finishes enhance its understated elegance.
Investing in Paradise: Why Turks and Caicos Continues to Attract Global Real Estate Investors - The Undiscovered
Tax Haven
Written by Robert Greenwood, Director & Senior Broker - Christie's International Real Estate | Turks and Caicos
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The Turks and Caicos Islands have established themselves as a premier destination for discerning real estate investors, offering a rare combination of natural beauty, tax efficiency, and secure ownership.
Just 70 minutes southeast of Miami, this British Overseas Territory enjoys year-round sunshine, cooling trade winds, and some of the world's most stunning beaches, bordered by the planet's thirdlargest coral reef. From eco-tours and world class spas to world-renowned diving and water sports, the lifestyle on offer is as compelling as it is luxurious, all supported by modern infrastructure and stateof-the-art telecommunications.
What truly sets Turks and Caicos apart, however, is the exceptional quality and diversity of its luxury real estate offerings. From branded beachfront residences and private estates to architect-designed villas and penthouse condominiums with panoramic views, the islands present a curated portfolio of world-class properties. Developments such as The Loren at Turtle Cove, The St. Regis in Grace Bay, and The Kempinski, Grace Bay, exemplify the standard of craftsmanship, design, and service that investors have come to expect. These properties not only deliver unmatched access to the Caribbean's finest beaches but also represent long-term value supported by global brands and professional property management.
For high-net-worth individuals and institutional investors, the financial incentives are equally compelling. There are no capital gains taxes, no income taxes, no inheritance taxes, and no property taxes, making Turks and Caicos one of the most advantageous jurisdictions for wealth preservation through real estate. Any nationality may purchase and hold a freehold title, which the Crown guarantees; therefor, title insurance is not required. The islands operate under a user-free, consumption-based economy and have a vibrant, stable economic outlook with an excellent history of weather resilience. With one of the lowest crime rates in the region and the flexibility to structure ownership through local companies or trusts, the Turks and Caicos Islands continue to be a top choice for those seeking both a tropical lifestyle and a secure, tax-efficient investment.
WATERFRONT SANCTUARY ON LAKE NORMAN
173 Rehoboth Lane | $12 M | MLS 4269606
Sherry Hickman | 704-728-1905
UNRIVALED LUXURY IN THE HEART OF DAVIDSON
15037 June Washam Road | $8.195 M | MLS 4268834
Jonathan Koshy | 980-422-3337
Experience the pinnacle of lakefront luxury on a private gated peninsula with 938 feet of pristine shoreline. This elegant estate offers panoramic water views with light-filled interiors, and designer finishes. Outdoor living is unmatched with a pool, spa, rooftop terrace, and private dock.
This newly built 9,570 sq. ft. estate redefines modern elegance on over 10 gated, private acres. A showstopping residence with an open floor plan, gourmet kitchen, custom wine room, full bar, hidden safe room, nanny quarters, and resortstyle amenities including a pool, spa, and sauna.
DAVIDSON
THE ICON
2116 Woodhaven Road | $11.95 M | MLS 4186147
Liza Caminiti | 704-526-6695
Crafted by Chiott Custom Homes and set on 1.4 acres with sweeping views of Myers Park Golf Course, this 13,919 sq. ft. masterpiece blends timeless elegance with modern luxury. Featuring dual kitchen islands, an infinity pool, guest apartment, indoor pickleball court, gym, sauna, and more.
PENDING
TIMELESS LUXURY IN LONGVIEW COUNTRY CLUB
8500 Longview Club Drive | $4.5 M | MLS 4268585
Lisa McCrossan | 704-620-0328
Elegantly renovated and privately tucked away, this exceptional estate offers refined living at every turn. Featuring a gourmet kitchen, main-level owner’s suite with spa bath, theater, gym with sauna, saltwater pool, putting green, and guest quarters, every detail exudes luxury.
WAXHAW
EXQUISITE DETAILING, ENDLESS VIEWS
234 Skycliff Drive #3 | $12.5 M | MLS 4280892
Debra Kasey | 704-651-5885
STUNNING NORTH ASHEVILLE CUSTOM HOME
51 Robinhood Road | $3.75 M | MLS 4203746
Laura Livaudais | 828-712-5445
This European-inspired luxury home showcases Italian limestone fireplaces, custom ironwork, and a stunning Verdi Fire granite kitchen island. The primary suite offers a private balcony with sweeping mountain views, while a grotto with hot tub and waterfall, create the ultimate retreat.
Impeccable attention to detail is evident everywhere in this sustainable haven that integrates with its mountain backdrop through Canadian red cedar shingles and regional stone. panels. Enjoy green tech like radiant floor slabs and solar panels.
ASHEVILLE
SOUGHT-AFTER SOUTH HARBOR ISLAND
202 Live Oak Drive | $3.499 M | MLS 100505341
Jane Fleury | 910-264-2912
Timeless craftsmanship and effortless coastal charm in this Wrightsville Beach retreat. Highlights include reclaimed heart pine floors, a private elevator, mahogany siding, and a copper roof. Enjoy outdoor spaces for relaxing and entertaining.
THOUGHTFULLY CURATED COASTAL LIVING
5232 Masonboro Harbour Drive | $3.495 M | MLS 100504469
Happy Clark | 917-533-5411
This coastal haven blends refined craftsmanship with top-tier amenities. Inside, you’ll find a designer kitchen, spa-inspired baths, billiards room, and more. Entertain with a heated saltwater pool, hot tub, outdoor bar, and fireplace, all surrounded by lush, private landscaping.
WILMINGTON
LUXURY LIVING IN ICONIC VIRGINIA HIGHLAND
1101 Rosedale Drive NE | $2.095 M | MLS 7606810
Molly Carter Gaines | 404-480-4663
PAWLEYS ISLAND
OVER 5 PRIVATE ACRES IN EXCLUSIVE PRINCE GEORGE
511 Rice Bluff Road | $3.99 M | MLS 2508670
Tyson Jones | 910-991-5528
Fully renovated in 2021, this home offers soaring ceilings, a chef’s kitchen, and a spa-like bath in the expansive primary suite. Outdoor living shines with a daybed swing, sauna, and turf courtyard, plus a finished carriage house for guests or rental, all just steps from the BeltLine and top dining.
This completely renovated riverfront estate features sweeping Waccamaw River views, wraparound porches, a gourmet chef’s kitchen, elevator, wine cellar, and guest cottage. Enjoy private marina access with a deeded boat slip, plus ocean-to-river community amenities.
Highlands saw consistent performance in the mid-market segment $600K–$999K, with 12 closed sales matching the second quarter of 2024’s total. However, both the luxury $1M–$1.99M and ultraluxury $2M+ tiers experienced significant year-over-year declines. Luxury sales dropped from 24 to 12 closings, while ultra-luxury fell from 10 to just 4. Inventory across all segments has grown, particularly at the high end, suggesting the need for adjusted pricing strategies as we head into the second half of the year. This data underscores a softening in the top tier of the Highlands market, where increased supply and shifting buyer expectations may lead to recalibrated pricing strategies as we move into the second half of the year.
Cashiers posted gains across nearly every segment, reaffirming its position as one of the region’s most dynamic markets. The luxury market posted a healthy increase, closing 11 sales this quarter compared to nine a year ago. Although pending contracts currently
sit at three, inventory remains manageable at 21 listings, which may keep this segment balanced heading into the summer months.
The ultra-luxury segment held steady year-over-year, with 12 closed sales in both the second quarter of 2024 and 2025. However, with seven properties currently under contract and a total of 39 listings available, demand appears strong and wellmatched to existing inventory. This continued stability, paired with meaningful pending activity, suggests that Cashiers is wellpositioned for sustained strength in the months ahead, particularly as seasonal travel peaks and high-end buyers return to the market.
DOWNTOWN HIGHLANDS COTTAGE | 472 LAUREL STREET
$2.225 M | MLS 106477
Experience
STYLISH, SERENE, AND CENTRAL | 96 VILLAGE WALK
$2.695 M | MLS 1000483
Enjoy the perfect blend of in-town convenience and creekside tranquility in this fully renovated Village Walk cottage. Thoughtfully upgraded throughout, it features Miele appliances, wide-plank white oak floors, custom closets, a stunning kitchen and baths, and a three-season porch with fireplace and bed swing. Village Walk association fees cover extensive services which include maintenance of building exteriors, grounds, and the private drive. Clif Gottwals | 303-887-7479
PEACEFUL MOUNTAIN LIVING | 236 HEMLOCK WOODS DRIVE
$1.22 M | MLS 1001181
Features include a spacious great room with stone fireplace, updated kitchen with quartz countertops, and multiple deck access points. The primary suite opens to the back deck, while a guest suite with sitting room offers privacy. Includes a two-car garage with workshop/office space. Conveniently located between Highlands and Cashiers in Wildwood Mountain with community lake and tennis.
Pam Nellis | 828-787-1895
CHIC
LOG CABIN ON 4.65 ACRES | 187 PAPAW LANE
$695,000 | MLS 1000391
This stylishly updated log cabin offers charm, privacy, and modern comfort. Featuring new lighting, flooring, and paint throughout, the home retains character with rare wormy chestnut cabinetry, and soapstone countertops. Relax on the spacious porches or explore the generous yard. Just minutes to Cashiers Crossroads, with easy access to Lake Glenville, hiking trails, and waterfalls.
Dinah Davis | 828-200-2486 & Steve Castellaw | 404-281-3474
ICONIC JIM FOX MODERNIST | 220 WORLEY ROAD
$2.875 M | MLS 1000281
Perched at 4,100 ft on Satulah Mountain, this striking 1985 Jim Fox-designed modernist masterpiece offers panoramic views of Whiteside, Chimneytop, and Terrapin Mountains. Featured in Fine Homebuilding, the home’s dramatic design is built on four intersecting planes, with expansive glass and unique angles maximizing light and vistas throughout. Fresh from a meticulous renovation, this rare in-town gem sits on 1.5 acres with low-maintenance native landscaping. Carl Romberg | 678-936-9309
MIRROR LAKE GETAWAY | 733 WYANOAK ROAD
$999,000 | MLS 1000684
This two bedroom, two bathroom cottage with a guest cabin is full of character, featuring wormy chestnut details, hardwood floors, a stone fireplace, and a vintage-style kitchen with a Big Chill fridge. Relax on the large screened porch with stunning views. The furnished guest cabin has rental potential with a spacious layout and custom kitchenette. Updated throughout and connected to town fiber, the home is move-in ready and minutes from town!
Pam Nellis | 828-787-1895
CHALET-STYLE COTTAGE IN HIGHLANDS FALLS COUNTRY CLUB | 1100 CLAIRE LANE
$999,500 | MLS 1000359
This rare three bedroom, two-and-a-half bathroom mountain retreat in one of Highlands’s most desirable communities. With an open layout, main-level primary suite, wood-burning stove, and expansive wrap-around deck, this home offers true “live-ability.” Guest suites upstairs include a light-filled office with Romeo and Juliet balcony. Bonus workshop/storage space and ample parking below, this home is turn-key and short-term rental friendly. Pat & Bee Gleeson | 828-782-0472 & Colleen Kerrigan | 615-400-5498