AtlantaFineHomes

L U X U R Y

C O L L E C T I O N

Big Canoe awarded “ 2011 Community of the Year” by the Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association.

THE SECOND HOME: NEVER A BETTER TIME

North Georgia’s Big Canoe® is the ideal choice.

By Eric Snider

T

HE SECOND HOME, once just a dream for so many, is now within the realistic grasp of an ever-increasing number of Americans. Are you a dreamer … or a doer?

Due to a convergence of factors, the timing has never been better to make that second home a reality. Simply put, housing prices remain affordable, housing selection is plentiful and interests rates are at historic lows. It’s been more than 30 years since there was such a perfect storm of buying opportunity. Now is the time to lock in that future retirement home at today’s prices … and enjoy it right away.

BIG CANOE, located in the undulating foothills of the North Georgia Appalachians just an hour from Atlanta, is a gorgeous gated community filled with lush homes that meld into a forested canopy. With its abundance of amenities and active lifestyle, Big Canoe is a vibrant, yearround community, with roughly 60 percent fulltime residents. But Big Canoe has long been a popular destination for second homes because it fulfills one of the most important issues: Location.

Experts agree that buying a second home within an accessible distance of your primary residence is crucial. A Polynesian paradise might strike a romantic chord, but having a place you’ll actually use is far more valuable.

Big Canoe is within easy driving distance of Atlanta International Airport, one of the biggest hubs in the world. And while the community is close to a major city, one whiff of the fresh mountain air, a stroll on its 22 miles of hiking trails

or a gaze over one of the lakes makes it feel like you’re a million miles away.

BABY BOOMERS are far and away the biggest market of second-home owners. Studies have shown that their top priorities for buying are: • Establishing a family retreat.

• Eventually turning it into their primary residence for retirement and family fun.

The baby boom generation — its senior members now reaching retirement age — is certainly not bound for the rocking chair. Among boomers’ predominant goals is maintaining a vigorous, healthy lifestyle. You can hardly do better on that count than Big Canoe. The community features a 27-hole championship golf course with mountain peaks as a backdrop. The 16,000-square-foot fitness center is state of the art. Add in the swim club, hiking trails, tennis center, fishing and boating, and Big Canoe presents enough recreational options to satisfy anyone. And that goes for kids and grandkids too. Enhancing the flexibility of the secondhome lifestyle, Big Canoe residents can use amenities on either an a la carte basis or pay on an annual fee basis.

Adding to the fun, Big Canoe offers a myriad of social opportunities, including dinners at the Clubhouse at Lake Sconti overlooking the 9th fairway of the Creek Course, as well as several other fine restaurants nearby. The community also features 50-plus vibrant, established clubs — from mah jongg to men’s pool shooters — as well as charitable organizations. In all, it’s easy to make new friends and associates at Big Canoe.

And easy to find quality medical care. The community is 15 minutes away from Piedmont Mountainside Hospital and 30 minutes from Northside Hospital.

WHETHER YOU USE a second home as a regular weekend retreat or as a vacation spot/rental property, one thing is for sure: you do not want to worry about it when you’re away. To that end, Big Canoe features a round-the-clock security force. The Big Canoe Property Owners Association and the still-active developer, Big Canoe Company, have worked jointly for over 23 years. Big Canoe Company, which has zero debt, is a robust developer, making certain that the community stays current, fresh and viable.

Big Canoe Company is actively building new neighborhoods within the community’s expansive 8,000-plus acres. Combined with existing neighborhoods, Big Canoe offers homes in a wide range of price points, from $300,000 to more than $3-million.

People throughout the country are increasingly aware of the benefits of owning a second home. As more and more become doers and not just dreamers, this perfect convergence of buying opportunity is certain to ebb. Housing stock will tighten, prices will go up, interests rates will rise — it’s inevitable.

Now’s the time to make that second home a reality.

For more information: www.bigcanoe.com; 866-579-3336; 770-893-2733.

•

Classic properties International

•

Architectural Perfection

Breathtaking Estate

Atlanta, Georgia This picture perfect home is collaboration between architects Spitzmiller & Norris and Interior Designer Suzanne Kasler. Exuding impeccable detail throughout the open floor plan, each room is exceptional. This home boasts six full masonry fireplaces, elevator and 12 foot ceilings.

The daylight terrace level has a family room and teen suite with full kitchen, exercise room, covered loggia, swimming pool and sport court.

Surrounded by rich landscapes and extensive exterior lighting, this home is totally private and gated. Six bedrooms, eight full and two half baths. $3,399,000. Wes Vawter 404-974-4300 wes@atlantafinehomes.com

Atlanta, Georgia Ideally tucked away in North Atlanta’s premier gated golf community, this estate is like no other. No expense was spared in creating this dream home. From the exquisite finishes throughout the main house to the impeccably landscaped grounds and outdoor living spaces, this home is truly extraordinary. This home boasts a fitness center, spa, wine cellar, home theatre, saltwater pool, four outdoor fireplaces, baseball diamond, batting cages, putting green, basketball court, outdoor kitchen and pizza oven. A spectacular home. Five bedrooms, six full and two half baths. $4,500,000. Rhonda Haran 404-566-5600 rhonda@atlantafinehomes.com / Andrea Cueny 404-695-7040 andreac@atlantafinehomes.com

50 Acre Equestrian Estate

Historic Buckhead Estate

Atlanta, Georgia Bethany’s Rest is remarkable property situated privately on 50 acres in North Atlanta. Minutes to shopping and dining, but truly a world apart. This amazing property will delight even the most discriminating buyer. Designed

by Bill Baker, the main residence affords charm galore, a quintessential wraparound porch and views to take your breath away. The property also features a fitness center, pool, spa, pool house, six stall stables with office and upstairs apartment, six car garage, pastures, spring-fed stocked lake and babbling brook. Seven bedrooms, seven full and one half bath. $5,500,000. Rhonda Haran 404-566-5600 rhonda@atlantafinehomes.com / Lu Kulik 678-938-2946 lu@atlantafinehomes.com

Atlanta, Georgia Private and serene historic estate home situated on 8.75 gated acres.

Wonderful for entertaining, the floor plan flows seamlessly from each lovely room to the next. The brand new Viking kitchen sparkles and overlooks the lush grounds and bird sanctuary. The newly renovated master suite boasts a warm fireplace and stunning dual baths. In addition, this fantastic home offers a timeless library with fireplace, naturally lightfilled sunroom, charming bar, elegant dining room, incredible play/pool room with fireplace and guest home. The parterre and stunning year round foliage envelope this property for the ultimate in privacy. Seven bedrooms, seven full and two half baths. $5,500,000. Carol Dean Davis 404-824-4100 caroldean@atlantafinehomes.com

3290 Northside Parkway, Suite 200 • Atlanta, GA 30327 • 404-237-5000 • www.atlantafinehomes.com

•

Classic properties International

•

French Country Equestrian Estate

Chic, Stunning Custom Built Home

Atlanta, Georgia Incredible French country inspired home located on over 26 acres.

Complete with elegant finishes and antique architectural details, this main residence also boasts a stunning chef’s kitchen, huge master suite, 42' atrium and gorgeous Indian slate and hardwood floors. This special property also offers a charming guest house with full kitchen and bath. Seven stall barn with apartment, two fenced areas, three paddocks and lighted arena top off this already exquisite equestrian estate home. Four bedrooms, three full and two half baths. $3,495,000.

Jim Glover 770-630-6477 jimglover@atlantafinehomes.com

Atlanta, Georgia This pristine and fabulous custom built home is stunning. Located in North Atlanta in the prestigious community of Crabapple Estates, this home features top of the line finishes, deep trim and exquisite attention to detail throughout. The chef’s kitchen, paneled library and oversized master are just a few of the special rooms in this wonderful home.

The most discriminating buyer will love the Martha’s Vineyard chic ambience that is exuded from the front door to the lush backyard.

Seven bedrooms, seven full and two half baths. $1,700,000. Jay Bailey 678-557-6971 jay@atlantafinehomes.com

Gorgeous Renovation

Modern Marvel

Atlanta, Georgia Situated in the prestigious Buckhead community, this Tuxedo Park home was completely renovated in 2010. The open and seamless floor plan affords each room to flow into the next and boasts ideal spaces for entertaining both indoors and out. The home also features an exquisite master suite on the main level complete with walk out patio to the pool, elevator, security and complete automation. The exterior grounds feature a covered loggia, wonderful outdoor kitchen, pristine pool and waterfalls. www.3594TuxedoCourt.com. Six bedrooms and seven full baths. $4,900,000. Debra Johnston 404-312-1959 debra@atlantafinehomes.com

Atlanta, Georgia Built in 1954 by architect George Heery, this stunning modern home was completely renovated in 1996. At that time, a fabulous new living room with 12 foot ceilings was added in addition to a top of the line stainless steel Siematic kitchen, double Gagganeau ovens, black concrete floors, completely new master suite, double steam shower and California closets.

The home also features stunning contemporary hardware, shinning track lighting and so much more. Four bedrooms, three full and one half bath. $2,100,000. Jill Siegel 404-374-3333 jillsiegel@atlantafinehomes.com

3290 Northside Parkway, Suite 200 • Atlanta, GA 30327 • 404-237-5000 • www.atlantafinehomes.com

•

Classic properties International

•

Impressive Waterfront Estate

Paradise on Lanier

Atlanta, Georgia Indulge yourself with Lake Lanier’s most wonderful estate! Located on deep water on Lanier’s south end, this home is quality at its finest.

Spectacular views from every room. Complete with three kitchens, wine cellar, gym, pool and cabana this home is ideal for entertaining.

The master retreat is fit for a king and boasts breathtaking views.

Only a short drive from Downtown Atlanta, this is the perfect escape for anyone searching for views of a lifetime. Four bedrooms, four full and three half baths. $3,750,000. James Lyons 678-414-8791 jameslyons@atlantafinehomes.com

Atlanta, Georgia Private, gated and situated on 4+ acres on the south end of Lake Lanier, this home is ideal for the discriminating buyer. Breezeways connect the main residence, guest house and pool house with fitness center, steam room and sauna. The main residence boasts an incredible layout for gatherings or entertaining. The essence of this home is casual elegance, complemented by expansive decks, a green house, sprawling grassy area, double slip dock, sundeck and 7-car garage. Located on deep water and engulfed in privacy, this home offers the best of the best. Six bedrooms, six full and two half baths. $3,998,000. James Lyons 678-4148791 jameslyons@atlantafinehomes.com

European Estate in the Heart of Buckhead

Gorgeous English Manor

Atlanta, Georgia Spectacular European Estate on a quiet street in a cozy neighborhood offers fantastic features and attention to detail. Almost new, this home boasts a chef’s kitchen which overlooks the keeping room and walks out to the covered outdoor living area, perfect for entertaining. The master suite is on the main level with sitting area, fireplace and walkout patio. The terrace level has a double-sided fireplace, game room and craft room. The backyard features a waterfall installation. Nearby shopping at Peachtree Battle, walk to Bobby Jones Golf and Tennis center. Six bedrooms, five full and one half baths. $3,750,000. Charles Gerrick and Debbie Pille 404-218-8993 or 404668-3465 charles@atlantafinehomes.com or debbiepille@atlantafinehomes.com

Atlanta, Georgia Immaculately manicured and in impeccable condition, this newly built Brookhaven Traditional English style manor is stunning and is situated on professionally designed grounds. The basement boasts an exercise room with sauna, 1,500 bottle wine cellar, arts and crafts room, and media room. While warming yourself by the fireplace on the covered back porch, you can step out into the private backyard to relish the professional landscaping and hardscape. A small pool/spa is the central focus bordered by gas tiki torches. A heated, cooled pool house with full bath allows for a nice retreat on a summer day. Six bedrooms, five full and two half baths. $2,095,000. Sam Bayne 404-375-8628 sam@atlantafinehomes.com

3290 Northside Parkway, Suite 200 • Atlanta, GA 30327 • 404-237-5000 • www.atlantafinehomes.com

•

Classic properties International

•

B & B Farm

Buckhead Perfection

Atlanta, Georgia B & B Farm is a fully operational, high-fence, trophy white-tail reserve with 150-200 deer on the premises. The land is 800 acres of timber, meadow and green rolling wonder. There are 5 ½ miles of 8-foot fencing around the property with 25 miles of roads inside the fence. The main house is lavish, constructed of brick and stone, with high-end detailing throughout.

B & B Farm also has a three-bedroom guest house, two one-bedroom hunter’s cabins, a 50,000 PEBBLE TEC pool, and four heavily stocked lakes. www.5852mitchell.com. $5,950,000. Susan Fron and Clay Henderson.

678-464-7899 or 770-652-1890. susan.fron@atlantafinehomes.com or clayhenderson@atlantafinehomes.com

Atlanta, Georgia Quality, design and detail resonate from this stunning home in Atlanta’s premier neighborhood, Tuxedo Park. Custom designed by Boxwood Partners and William Stewart Designs, this home sits on a gently sloping lot and opens in the back to a private oasis complete with pool house, infinity-edge pool, custom koi pond that surrounds screen porch with stone fireplace and outdoor Viking kitchen. The home affords heated stone floors, Crestron Smart System, wine cellar, well and media room.

Six bedrooms, six full and two half baths. $6,500,000. Debra Johnston 404312-1959 debrajohnston@atlantafinehomes.com

Stone Manor Estate

Ansley Park Victorian

Atlanta, Georgia This stately custom brick and stone manor estate with modern amenities is on 2+ acres. This home boasts a circular brick drive, 9-car garage, custom kitchen with high-end Sub-Zero, Wolf and Miele appliances, six stone fireplaces, three full and two half kitchens, four finished levels and a guest house. The huge master suite with circular master bath features eight shower heads and rounded jetted tub. Completing the home is the finished terrace level with guest suite, theater, billiards, bar, casino, gym, sauna, steam shower and arcade. The resort-like loggia with pool and waterfall is ideal for gatherings. Nine bedrooms, 11 full and one half baths. $3,800,000. Jim Getzinger 404-307-4020 jim@ getzingergroup.com

Atlanta, Georgia Built in 1906 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this meticulously maintained, well-preserved home is a true gem located in sought-after Ansley Park. Following the guidelines of a true restoration, the home features nine fireplaces, a slate roof, top nailed hardwood floors, impressive woodwork and original light fixtures. Modern conveniences include a large, bright kitchen and five bedroom suites with walkin closets and private baths. The New Orleans inspired courtyard and additional period elements complete this impressive home. Five bedrooms, five full and one half baths. $1,695,000. Jim Getzinger 404307-4020 jim@getzingergroup.com

3290 Northside Parkway, Suite 200 • Atlanta, GA 30327 • 404-237-5000 • www.atlantafinehomes.com

•

Classic properties International

•

Atlanta Landmark

Perfect Gem in Ansley Park

Atlanta, Georgia A rare opportunity to purchase an Atlanta landmark in Tuxedo Park on five beautiful acres. Windcrofte was built in the 1930’s in the Regency style. Previously the home of Robert Woodruff, former Chairman of The Coca-Cola Co. The pool and pool house installed by the current owners were designed by architect Henri Jova. The property also includes a putting green and caretaker’s cottage. Secured and gated. Five bedrooms, six full and three half baths. $10,900,000. Wes Vawter and Betsy Akers 404-974-4300 or 404-372-8144. wes@atlantafinehomes.com or betsy@atlantafinehomes.com

Atlanta, Georgia Absolute perfection! Attention to detail abounds throughout this superb renovation with high-grade materials, seamless integration and flawless execution. An efficient, sophisticated floor plan begins with the front entry and stair hall and pours throughout the living spaces including the dining room, chef’s kitchen and master suite. The walk-out terrace level features two guest suites, living area and home office. Ideal for entertaining, the outdoor living space has lovely landscaping and lighting. Three bedrooms, three full and one half baths. $1,195,000. Heather Steiner 404-754-8000 heather@atlantafinehomes.com

Villa del Lago

Sophisticated and Refined

Atlanta, Georgia Fabulous 22 acre lakefront estate only 35 minutes north of downtown Atlanta. An entertainer’s delight, this home boasts a marvelous gourmet kitchen, sweeping two-story study, game room, media room, wine cellar, indoor pool, spa, sauna, full gym, basketball court, pool, hot tub, gazebo and summer kitchen! Completing this over-the-top home is the master suite with private living area, morning kitchen, office and balcony overlooking the peaceful lake. Five bedrooms, six full and two half baths.

Betty Gargis 770-354-0670 bettygargis@atlantafinehomes.com

Atlanta, Georgia One of the finest homes built in recent times, it features great workmanship, fine materials, large rooms and high ceilings. The moment you enter the front-to-back center hallway your breath is taken away. Elegant moldings and Brazilian cherry floors guide you through the living room with natural light, masonry fireplace and recessed lighting. The dining room is adorned with a masonry fireplace. The gorgeous paneled study, breakfast area with casement windows overlooking the garden, family kitchen, downstairs theater, exercise room, steam shower, hot tub and manicured gardens complete the home. Five bedrooms, five full and five half baths. $2,995,000 Chuck Wood 404-822-8828 chuck@atlantafinehomes.com

3290 Northside Parkway, Suite 200 • Atlanta, GA 30327 • 404-237-5000 • www.atlantafinehomes.com

•

Classic properties International

•

Architecturally Significant

Impressive Waterfront Estate

Atlanta, Georgia Divine estate by Philip Shutze situated on 2.69 acres of mature hardwood.

Exclusive and private, this home is ideal for the discerning buyer. The gorgeous details include gleaming hardwood floors, rich moldings and elegant lighting. Natural light pours into the picture perfect sunroom which overlooks the exquisite pool and outdoor entertaining area.

With a kitchen renovated by Norman Askins, this home is of the finest quality. Eight bedrooms, eight full and three half baths. $3,995,000 Wes Vawter and Barbara Morgan 404-974-4300 or 404-213-5417 wes@atlantafinehomes.com or barbaramorgan@atlantafinehomes.com

Atlanta, Georgia Indulge yourself with Lake Lanier’s most wonderful estate! Located on Lanier’s south end with private road to deep water double slip dock, this home is quality at its finest. Spectacular views from every room.

Complete with three kitchens, wine cellar, gym, pool and cabana, this home is ideal for entertaining. The master retreat is fit for a king and boasts breathtaking views. Only a short drive from downtown Atlanta, this is the perfect escape for anyone searching for views of a lifetime.

Four bedrooms, four full and three half baths. $3,950,000 James Lyons 678-414-8791 jameslyons@atlantafinehomes.com

Palatial Masterpiece

Classic Beauty

Atlanta, Georgia Gated and secure, located in the heart of Buckhead and situated with a premier address, this home has it all. Perfect for lavish entertaining, this private resort boats seven full kitchens, two gyms, a grand ballroom, recording studio, hair and nail salon, wellness center, cigar room and theatre. The breathtaking courtyard pool is complete with fountains and spas. Each room is better than the next and the quality is top notch. A true show stopper and a must see. Nine bedrooms, eleven full and four half baths. $19,900,000 Mark Bhaggan 678-938-7297 mark@atlantafinehomes.com

Atlanta, Georgia Tucked away in the sought after Bakers Farm neighborhood in Vinings, this property serves as a great example of classic architecture.

Boasting meticulous attention to detail, this home is ideal not only for entertaining, but family living as well. The stunning kitchen reflects every modern convenience coupled with timeless design. Featuring four en suite bedrooms, luscious gardens, sparkling pool, exercise room with sauna, and even a putting green, you won’t want to miss out on this one. First time on the market. Four bedrooms, four full and two half baths. $2,150,000 Bill Rawlings 404-210-8396 billrawlings@atlantafinehomes.com

3290 Northside Parkway, Suite 200 • Atlanta, GA 30327 • 404-237-5000 • www.atlantafinehomes.com

V i si t u s onl ine at w w w. C l a s s i c P r o p e r t i e s I n t e r n at i o n a l . c o m