NC Living Magazine - Spring 2023

Spring is in full swing on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, and this issue of NC Living Magazine is sure to get you excited for the season’s upcoming events. From live musical entertainment and artisan fairs to the Joy Garden Tour and Highlands Motoring Festival, this is the time of year when our home in the mountains truly comes alive. Whether you enjoy hiking on the endless trails, golfing on lush fairways, fishing in the crystal blue waters of our mountain lakes and streams, or simply taking in the scenic vistas that dominate our landscape, it is no wonder why so many choose this picturesque community as a seasonal or fulltime retreat.

Each member of our team at Silver Creek Real Estate Group feels lucky to call this beautiful place home, and we are grateful for the opportunity to share our passion for the Plateau with our clients and friends. We take great pride in our role as a trusted resource in this area and in providing our wealth of knowledge, personal experiences, and fascinating local narratives to those interested in this unique place.

The market is ever-evolving, but we remain constantly committed to facilitating an exceptional experience throughout your buying, selling, and discovery process. Our agents are experts at navigating this unique real estate market, and we continue to immerse ourselves in opportunities to grow and expand our capacity to serve our clients. Several of our agents recently returned from the Leading Real Estate Companies of the World ® Luxury SUMMIT in Las Vegas. We spent three days networking and sharing ideas with some of the best and brightest in the business. Now that we are back, we are ready to hit the ground running and make this one of the best seasons yet in real estate on the Plateau.

Here to guide you every step of the way, we are equipped with the latest industry knowledge and trendsetting technology to provide a best-in-class experience. From 3D tours and eye-catching videos to stunning photos and high-quality brochures, we recognize the importance of marketing designed for today's audience and work hard to create material tailored to your property. Give us a call or stop by one of our offices to discuss your real estate goals for this year.

We look forward to seeing you out and about this spring, taking advantage of all the exciting events the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau offers. Join us in soaking up the beauty of the wondrous Blue Ridge Mountains!

JOCHEN LUCKE President, Owner of Silver Creek Real Estate Group, and Publisher of NC Living Magazine®

INSIDE DUTCHMANS ON MAIN STREET, HIGHLANDS, NC. PHOTO BY COURTNEY SNYDER.

EXCLUSIVE OFFERINGS

Page 38

STYLED TO PERFECTION

Page 59

RECENT SALES

Page 65

OUR TEAM

Page 82

DISCOVER THE BEAUTY WITHIN

Page 102

EXCLUSIVE LAND OFFERINGS

Page 111

LIFESTYLE

UPCOMING EVENTS

Page 8

RHYTHM OF THE PLATEAU

Page 14

FRESHLY PLUCKED

Page 24

PEARLS OF WISDOM

Page 28

NAPA VALLEY

Page 32

HIGHLANDS MOTORING FESTIVAL

Page 66

GETTING TO WORK WITH RAY TRINE

Page 70

KENTUCKY DERBY

Page 76

OLÁ, LISBOA

Page 98

CREATE THE PERFECT OFFICE

SPACE

Page 108

RUG RAT

Page 126

THE ONLY GAME IN TOWN

Page 130

TOP: AUBERGE DU SOLEIL, NAPA VALLEY, CA / ©2017 TRINETTE + CHRIS. SEE PAGE 32

CENTER: STIRRUP PHOTO FRAME FROM ANNABEL JAMES; $39.54. ANNABELJAMES.CO.UK

OPPOSITE: STYLED TO PERFECTION, A CEDAR HILL ESTATE. PHOTO BY COURTNEY SNYDER. SEE PAGE 59

nclivingmag

nclivingmagazine

upcoming event S

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

MAY through OCTOBER

VARIOUS LOCATIONS

Get ready for the season of live musical entertainment on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau! Flip to page 14 for NC Living’s comprehensive guide to this year’s events.

LOCALLY GROWN ON THE GREEN

WEDNESDAYS from 2 5 PM

THE VILLAGE GREEN COMMONS LAWN

Featuring local growers and producers offering everything from farm-fresh meats and produce to honey, flowers, jams, fresh eggs, and more. Always fresh and always local, every Wednesday till October. For more information, visit villagegreencashiersnc.com

CASHIERS BURGER WEEK

MAY 1ST through MAY 7TH

VARIOUS LOCATIONS

This week-long celebration of everyone’s favorite sandwich will take place from May 1st to May 7th. Participating restaurants in the Cashiers area will show their creativity, serving up limited-time burgers. Get your passport stamped by each restaurant and turn them in with a vote for Best and Most Creative Burger for your chance to be entered to win prizes. Pick up your passports at the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce or print your own from their website. For more information, a list of participating restaurants, and to print your passport, visit cashiersburgerweek.com

ARTIST TALK WITH JUGTOWN POTTER

TRAVIS OWENS

MAY 4TH from 4 5 PM

THE BASCOM: A CENTER FOR THE VISUAL ARTS

Join The Bascom for an artist talk with Jugtown potter Travis Owens. This event is free and open to the public. “I grew up looking at and making pots, that’s what my family has done for generations. I work with local clays and make pieces that reflect the process. Essentially, a good pot has a definite, simple shape, a continuing line, and a glaze that suits the pot’s character; that’s what I work for with every piece.” - Travis Owens. For more information, visit thebascom.org

MEANDER IN MAY

MAY 20TH from 11 AM — 4 PM

DOWNTOWN HIGHLANDS

This free, self-guided event in downtown Highlands is hosted by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Visit Highlands, NC. Throw on your most comfortable walking shoes and get to meandering through the displays of talent. From jewelry making, painting, and woodworking to photography, plein air painting, and more, there will be artists and musicians all over town. End the day with some live musical entertainment at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park at 6 pm. For more information, visit highlandschamber.org.

CONTINUED

PICNIC WALLPAPER IN RED BY TAPETEN UND UHREN; $129.75. TAPETENUNDUHREN.DE

HIGHLANDS MOUNTAIN GARDEN CLUB’S SPRING PLANT SALE

MAY 27TH from 9 AM — 12 PM

HIGHLANDS BASEBALL FIELD

Come support the Highlands Mountain Garden Club’s annual fundraiser and pick out some beautiful plants for your yard. There will be dahlias, ferns, hostas, native plants, shade plants and sun plants available. This popular event raises money for student scholarships; read more on page 24

HIGHLANDS VOLUNTEER FAIR

JUNE 1ST at 11 AM — 2 PM

HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY BUILDING

Looking to get involved in some great causes?

The Highlands Chamber of Commerce is hosting its first-ever Volunteer Fair. Stop by to browse the tables of information provided by the organizations and speak with their representatives to learn about available volunteer opportunities. This event will take place at the Community Building at 71 Poplar Street. For more information, call 828-526-5841 or email events@highlandschamber.org

HIGHLANDS MOTORING FESTIVAL

JUNE 8TH through JUNE 11TH VARIOUS LOCATIONS

This four-day festival in Highlands is sure to ignite the spirit of any car enthusiast with a weekend of events including curated driving tours, a parade on Main Street, evening social events, and two car shows held in Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park. Flip to page 66 to learn more about the Highlands Motoring Festival and its featured events.

INTO THE WOOD: ED, PHILIP, AND MATT MOULTHROP RECEPTION

JUNE 15TH from 5 — 6:30 PM THE BASCOM: A CENTER FOR THE VISUAL ARTS

Join The Bascom for this free public reception. Into the Wood explores the aesthetic and technical breakthroughs of three generations of artistwoodturners who have created a new language of self-expression through form, material, and process. Curated by Marilyn Laufer and Tom Butler, the exhibition focuses on works made from native wood. For more information, visit thebascom.org

THE BASCOM GALA

JUNE 20TH

THE FARM AT OLD EDWARDS INN

The Bascom’s signature annual fundraiser will be held on Tuesday, June 20th. Join them for Summer Salon at The Farm at Old Edwards Inn for an experiential evening featuring a unique silent auction, live music by the Mark Miller Band, and a seated dinner amidst lush florals designed by Kirk Moore of Oakleaf Flower and Garden. This event has limited seating, and sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, please contact Carla Funk, Director of Development, at cfunk@thebascom.org or call 828-787-2897.

MOUNTAINTOP ART AND CRAFTS SHOW

JUNE 23RD and JUNE 24TH

from 10 AM — 5 PM

KELSEY-HUTCHINSON FOUNDERS PARK

Hosted by the Highlands Mountaintop Rotary, this series of shows brings artisans from across the region together for live music, demonstrations, food, and family fun in the beautiful mountains. Artisans will display their work at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park on Pine Street. These events are free and open to the public. The next show will take place from August 25th to August 26th. For more information, visit mountaintopshow.com

Photos by Emily Followill

RHYTHM OF THE PLATEAU

word S by delaney a S bury

THE 2023 LINEUP

It’s almost time for concert season on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, and soon the hills will be alive with the sound of music. From May through October, the stages will be set for countless performances offering musical styles from traditional bluegrass and classic rock to beach, jazz, and everything in between.

NC Living is pleased to offer this comprehensive guide to this summer’s live, outdoor concert series on the Plateau. Pack your picnic baskets and coolers, and gather for some stellar summertime entertainment with your friends and family.

GROOVIN' ON THE GREEN

Once again, the Village Green in Cashiers, North Carolina, will host the popular summer concert series “Groovin’ on the Green.” Beginning Memorial Day weekend and continuing through Labor Day, concerts will take place on Fridays, beginning at 6:30 pm. Be sure to bring your best dancing shoes!

All concerts in this series are free open to the public and held at The Village Green of Cashiers. Chairs, blankets, snacks, and beverages are welcome, but please refrain from bringing your own tent; 10x10 tents will be available for rent for $100, with revenues benefiting The Village Green. Shows go on rain or shine. Sponsorship and volunteer opportunities are available.

The only exception to the Friday schedule is Independence Day weekend this show will be Saturday, July 1st and will conclude with the 9th annual Fireworks Extravaganza. For more information, visit villagegreencashiersnc.com or email info@cashiersgreen.com

MEMORIAL DAY KICKOFF – NITROGRASS

MAY 26TH

Nitrograss merges traditional Scruggs-style banjo with rhythmic motifs reminiscent of ZZ Top and the Allman Brothers, delivering melodic acoustic sounds and visually appealing performances. Band members include Charles Wood (banjo), Caleb Hanks (mandolin), Micah Hanks (guitar), and Dakota “Smoky” Waddell (bass). For more: nitrograss.com

THE CARIBBEAN COWBOYS

JUNE 9TH

Entertaining audiences for over 30 years, Asheville-based The Caribbean Cowboys Band brings a diverse mix of music. Fronted by Steve

Weams, this band plays everything from beach music to southern rock, reggae, and American classics. For more: thecaribbeancowboys.com

ZORKI & JEFF SIPE

JUNE 23RD

As a young musician, Zorki began his journey by playing in Washington Square Park in New York City. Eventually, he broke into the music scene and met the love of his life, with whom he is now raising two sons in the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau area. He offers complex acoustic guitar grooves and soothing vocals. He will be joined by legendary drummer Jeff Sipe. For more: zorki.com and jeffsipemusic.com

FOURTH OF JULY EXTRAVAGANZA WITH CONTINENTAL DIVIDE

JULY 1ST

Charlotte-based Continental Divide entertains with the silky-smooth voice of frontman Gene Pharr, a Carolina Beach Music Hall of Fame member, and an eight-piece band with a horn section. (A fireworks display will follow this Independence Day celebration concert.) For more: bookece.com/artists/continental-divide

AMERICANA JONES

JULY 7TH

Based in Palm Beach County, Florida, Americana Jones is a five-member, roots country and Americana band. Audiences are likely to hear a harmonica, mandolin, and tambourine. For more: americanajones.com

SETH AND SARA

JULY 21ST

Asheville-based duo Seth and Sara have spent the last four North American tours playing over 700 shows where they delight with modernwestern originals and covers like Tyler Childers, The Beatles, Colter Wall, John Denver, and more. Seth brings mesmerizing vocals and guitar, while Sara comes in with percussion and delicate vocals accompanying their tunes. For more: sethandsaramusic.com

CASHIERS, NC

MCINTOSH AND THE LIONHEARTS

AUGUST 11TH

Founded in 2019 by songwriter and Brevard native Spalding McIntosh, the LionHearts are a versatile ensemble of musicians. John Driskell Hopkins of the Zac Brown Band produced and sang backup on the band’s debut, “Little Things.” For more: mcintoshandthelionhearts.com

EMPORIUM BAND

AUGUST 25TH

Get ready to dance! A six-piece band based in Asheville, Emporium plays music that gets audiences moving, including beach, disco, funk, and current hits. For more: emporiumband.com

HURRICANE CREEK

SEPTEMBER 1ST

Hurricane Creek brings powerful rock and blues entertainment with undertones of new country that evokes an irresistible and exciting roadhouse feel. You won’t be able to resist tapping a lot to the beats or getting up to dance to the tunes. The band has performed for many years and will be reuniting on September 1st for this gig.

FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE AND SATURDAYS ON PINE

Highlands is a destination hard to beat for live music, offering two shows every weekend from May through October.

Organized and provided by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Visit Highlands, the two-concert series – “Friday Night Live” and “Saturdays on Pine” – takes place downtown, and all shows are free and open to the public. Held off of Main Street at the Town Square, flanked by quaint clothing and specialty shops and restaurants, “Friday Night Live” showcases traditional mountain music and exceptional local talent. “Saturdays on Pine” is held at Kelsey-Hutchinson Park on Pine Street (hence the name) and features accomplished regional bands and musicians offering a variety of styles from beach and country to rock and Top 40 covers. Don’t forget to bring your lawn chairs or blankets, food, and drinks!

HIGHLANDS, NC

These summer concerts kick off the weekend of another highly anticipated Highlands event, “Meander in May,” on Saturday, May 20th starting at 11:00 a.m. Visitors are invited to stroll along the downtown sidewalks and enjoy live performances, artisans, craftsmen, and demonstrations.”

Friday Night Live: All shows take place on Friday from 6 pm to 8:30 pm at Highlands Town Square. Aptly named, Saturdays on Pine takes place on Saturdays from 6 pm to 8:30 pm at Highlands’ Kelsey-Hutchinson Park. The one exception to the schedule is the July 4th show, which takes place on a Tuesday. For more information, call 828-526-5841 or visit highlandschamber.org/ immerse/events/all-events

JAY DRUMMONDS

MAY 19TH

Plateau resident Jay Drummonds is a singer/songwriter who weaves lyrics and melodies together into beautiful storytelling ballads. As a young adult, Drummonds moved to Nashville, where he connected and studied songwriting with some of the best in the business, including Zac Brown, Shawn Mullins, and Karyn Rochelle. Drummonds channels country, blues, folk, and rock influences, delivering a unique blend of entertainment.

THE BOOMERS

MAY 20TH

The Boomers have shared the stage with performers like Hootie and the Blowfish, Alison Krauss, Edwin McCain, and Huey Lewis, and they know exactly how to entertain a crowd. Their performances have ranged from the 1997 President Clinton Inaugural Ball to the 2012 NFL Owners Meeting, not to mention hundreds of wedding receptions. From their groovy song selections to the unwavering quality of their stage presence, they are sure to get the crowd excited.

SILLY RIDGE

MAY 26TH

Silly Ridge Trio is a Highlands-based, classic bluegrass band that incorporates an eclectic mix of Americana and folk into their music. This energetic band showcases the talents of Knight Martorell (banjo, harmonica, harmony vocals), Dave Mueller (mandolin, lead vocals), and David Crisp (guitar, lead vocals). For more: sillyridge.com

THE SWINGIN’ RICHARDS

MAY 27TH

The Swingin’ Richards made their debut on February 2nd, 2001, in Charlotte’s Bank of America (formerly NationsBank) Plaza, opening for James Brown. Band members have been part of the Southeast’s most beloved and revered party bands for more than ten years. For more: bookece.com/artists/swingin-richards

EZRA & KATIE

JUNE 2ND

For over ten years, husband and wife duo Ezra and Katie have been playing acoustic music. The Highlands natives spent seven years in Los Angeles pursuing their creative endeavors of writing, acting, and performing small acoustic shows in and around the city. The duo is heavily influenced by folk music, country, and traditional Appalachian hymns. They are inspired by Americana artists like The Avett Brothers, Langhorne Slim, John Prine, and Miranda Lambert.

NU-BLU

JUNE 3RD

Hosts of TV’s Bluegrass Ridge , which is viewed in over 160 million homes across the US each week, Nu-Blu brings a unique sound and exciting performances to all their audiences. Named Country Band of the Year at the Carolina Music Awards in 2010, the band has toured for over 200 days each year along with national TV appearances, five albums on the Top 10 Billboard Charts, and a #1 most played song on Sirius/XM radio.

JOHNNY WEBB BAND

JUNE 9TH

One of Western North Carolina’s premier country bands, the Johnny Webb Band offers laid-back yet seasoned and professional performances, giving their audiences an exceptional musical experience with a down-home flavor. With song selections spanning more than 50 years, this band’s versatility and evolving repertoire make them a favorite.

FIRECRACKER JAZZ BAND

JUNE 10TH

With hundreds of performances since 2003, Asheville’s Firecracker Jazz Band has played everywhere, including street corners, secret speakeasies, jazz festivals, swing-and-swill dance halls, Bonnaroo, and the Kennedy Center. For more: firecrackerjazz.com

STEADY HAND STRING BAND

JUNE 16TH

Based out of Long Creek, South Carolina, Steady Hand String Band is an old-time string band performing tunes that originated pre-1930s with some old country tunes thrown in as well. They strive to preserve the oral tradition of Appalachian folk music through their modern renditions of traditional tunes.

THE TROUPERS

JUNE 17TH

Seasoned professional entertainers, The Troupers have appeared on more than 100 CDs and albums with performances in 12 different countries. Their energy, showstopping vocals, and delivery of jazz, R&B, rock, and contemporary dance classics will

have you up and out of your seat, grooving to the beats. For more: bookece.com/artists/troupers

SOUTHERN HIGHLAND BAND

JUNE 23RD

Life-long friends and business partners Tom Nixon and Dean English are the proprietors of Blue Ridge Music in Clayton, GA, and the heart and soul of Southern Highland Band. The group has performed countless regional festivals and events, private parties, weddings, and receptions, with other rotating band members (depending upon the venue). These accomplished musicians bring the music of various genres to the stage with an emphasis on bluegrass roots.

BYRDS & CROWS

JUNE 30TH

Based in Transylvania County, Byrds & Crows enjoy playing songs that are deeply rooted in the Appalachian Mountains and consist of bluegrass, bluegrass gospel, folk, and early country music. Band members include Kenny Byrd (guitar, harmonica, vocals), Sheila Byrd (mandolin, vocals), Will Byrd (banjo, guitar), Andy Cole (fiddle, harmonica, vocals), and Joe Alexander (bass).

BLAZE THE CITY

JULY 1ST

This band brings incredible vocal harmonies, funky dance rhythms, and scorching guitar to their energetic performances. Blaze the City combines decades of performance ability and passion for delivering entertainment in genres ranging from pop, funk, and Top 40 dance to rock, country, blues, Motown, and more. For more: bookece.com/artists/blaze-the-city

DIAMOND RIVER BAND

JULY 4TH

A young, versatile, hip party band, Diamond River band will keep you dancing all night long. Their music spans the decades with a special emphasis on classic rock, Motown, country, and current hits. For more: bookece.com/artists/diamondriver-band

THE FOXFIRE BOYS

JULY 7TH

Formed in the early 1980s, The Foxfire Boys is a versatile, high-energy band that grew out of its members’ participation in The Foxfire Fund’s Appalachian culture and music program in northeast Georgia. More than 40 years later, the band has performed their mix of traditional and contemporary bluegrass, folk, country, Americana, and bluegrass gospel at renowned venues across the Southeast. For more: sites.google.com/site/foxfireboys

BILL MATTOCKS

JULY 8TH

Bill Mattocks is a true blues legend. Hailing from the Pacific Northwest, Bill packed up his harmonica and headed to Western North Carolina, where he brings his authentic delivery of Chicago-style blues and other styles to mountain stages. For more: reverbnation.com/billmattocks

CURTIS BLACKWELL BAND

JULY 14TH

The Curtis Blackwell Band was formed in 1960 when Curtis, his brother, and a friend won a radio talent contest. When four more members were added, they became Curtis Blackwell and the Dixie Bluegrass Boys, touring across the eastern U.S. Fifty years later, with a home base of Macon County, the band includes two of its founding members. Curtis Blackwell is honored in the Atlanta Country Music Hall of Fame. For more: blueridgeheritage.com/artist/curtisblackwell-and-the-dixie-bluegrass-boys

LAZRLUVR

JULY 15TH

Prepare yourself for an 80s comeback featuring popped collars, teased hair, fingerless gloves, and LazrLuvr. Formed in 2021 in Asheville, this classic 80s tribute band brings a high-energy performance and show-stopping experience from start to finish. Band members include Eric Congdon (guitar, vocals), Walker Astin (bass), Hope Griffin (vocals, acoustic), Brad Curtioff (keys, synth), Sam Frame (drums, vocals), and Raphael Morales (vocals).

CARTER GIEGERICH & FRIENDS

JULY 21ST

Carter Giegerich developed a love for blending musical tradition with innovation while attending East Tennessee State University’s Bluegrass, Old-Time, Country Music Studies program. His passion evolved into a unique musical style, blending contemporary and traditional sounds and drawing in inspiration from bluegrass, old-time and Celtic music, funk, hip-hop, and electronic artists.

BACK PORCH ORCHESTRA

JULY 22ND

While Back Porch Orchestra started as a modern band, there is no doubt that they’re shaped by their homegrown, traditional roots. Performing original material rooted in blues, bluegrass, country, and classic rock, they also cover hits from the 1950s to today. For more: backporchorchestra.com/home

WE THREE SWING

JULY 28TH

A Sylva-based jazz collective, the original trio of Cara Rimmer (vocals), Tyler Kittle (saxophone), and Michael Collings (guitar) cut their teeth at Cake Bar in Highlands. Recently adding the talents of Duncan LeMay (piano, accordion) and Elias Grimsley (drums), these musical chameleons can provide the perfect background ambience as a duo or bring the house down as a quintet. For more: instagram.com/we3swing

SHANE MEADE & THE SOUND

JULY 29TH

Shane Meade & the Sound is a Tampa-based, soul-infused, folk rock project led by gifted singersongwriter Shane Meade. Originally from Elkins, West Virginia, Shane is a self-taught musician who began playing and writing songs on his father’s old guitar in the summer of 2000. His music captivates the imagination, and listeners find a deep connection in his inspirational lyrics and universal subject matter. He delivers a unique and soulful style and engaging live performances that are powerful and uplifting. For more: shanemeade.com

THE WELL DRINKERS

AUGUST 4TH

Based out of Western North Carolina, The Well Drinkers are a progressive, original bluegrass and Americana band who perform in festivals and venues across the Southeast. The group focuses on combining the traditional roots of the Appalachian region with progressive instrumentation, songwriting, and subject matter, never shying away from drawing in experimental jams, jazz, Cajun, classical, and reggae sounds into their performances. Band members include Jake Bachman (lead vocals, mandolin), Adam Bachman (dobro, pedal steel, vocals), Josh Riley (upright bass, vocals), Jeremy Rilko (banjo, vocals), and Andrew Wakefield (guitar, vocals). For more: thewelldrinkers.com

SOULUTION

AUGUST 5TH

From humble beginnings and hard work to Grammy nominations, cross-country tours, and international tours with Grammy winners, Soulution has honed their skills at the highest level. The group will set the vibe right all night with stellar instrumentals and a wide range of genres from Motown to today’s pop that will have you dancing the evening away.

NITROGRASS

AUGUST 11TH

See Friday, May 26th.

FULL CIRCLE

AUGUST 12TH

Formed in 2003, Full Circle brings the songs you know and love to the stage with great vocals, tight harmonies, and jam-packed solos. They deliver performances full of energy, covering everything from the ’60s to modern country with covers of classics by The Beatles, Chicago, Stevie Wonder, Al Green, Heart, Santana, Queen, The Pretenders, Carole King, James Taylor, and many more.

SILLY RIDGE

AUGUST 18TH

See Friday, May 26th.

SOUTHERN HIGHLAND BAND

AUGUST 25TH

See Friday, June 23rd.

BYRDS & CROWS

SEPTEMBER 1ST

See Friday, June 30th.

CONTINENTAL DIVIDE

SEPTEMBER 2ND

See Saturday, July 1st.

THE WELL DRINKERS

SEPTEMBER 8TH

See Friday, August 4th.

STEEL TOE STILETTO

SEPTEMBER 9TH

Formed in Greenville, SC, Steel Toe Stiletto performs all over the southeast at charity galas, corporate parties, wedding receptions, and celebratory events, bringing your favorite tunes to the stage. They are impressive vocalists and musicians known for their modern and professional performances that entertain any crowd all night. For more: partywithsts.com

CURTIS BLACKWELL BAND

SEPTEMBER 15TH

See Friday, July 14th.

MCINTOSH & THE LIONHEARTS

SEPTEMBER 16TH

See Friday, August 11th.

CRISP BROWN AULISIO

SEPTEMBER 22ND

This group brings over 60 years of combined musical experience and various genres to the stage. Guitarist David Crisp is an advanced jazzperformance music major capable of styles ranging from polka to spoken word accompaniment.

Drummer Caleb Brown has his roots in 1990s-style alternative rock

and funk music, while multi-instrumentalist

Brian Aulisio has immersed himself in classic Jamaican ska and reggae rhythms. This group mixes nuisances of all styles to create an energetic and lively performance on any stage.

HOLIDAY

SEPTEMBER 23RD

The Holiday Band from Chapel Hill, NC, was formed in 1991 and inducted into the Carolina Beach Music Awards Hall of Fame in 2015. They bring jam-packed performances of everything from Southern soul and beach music to classic rock. For more: theholidayband.com

JOHNNY WEBB BAND

SEPTEMBER 29TH

See Friday, June 9th.

CLAY PAGE

SEPTEMBER 30TH

Georgia native Clay Page has been playing guitar since he was at least nine years old, and at 15, he won his hometown talent competition, further igniting his passion for playing. With influences ranging from Hank Sr. to The Allman Brothers, Page’s music is a “sound of the deep south.” He delivers soulful performances of traditional country, southern rock, soul, and blues that will captivate any crowd. For more: claypagecountry.com

OL’ DIRTY BATHTUB

OCTOBER 6TH

The five-member bluegrass band Ol’ Dirty Bathtub is a regional favorite. The Sylvabased group mixes in Americana, folk, guitar, Dobro, and lots of good energy at each show. Band members include Brad Boulet (vocals, strings), Jerad Davis (guitar, vocals),

Neil Lippard (guitar, vocals), Carter Giegerich (dobro), and Adam Bigelow (bass, vocals). For more: beehiverecordsmusic.com/oldirty-bathtub

OUTLAW WHISKEY

OCTOBER 7TH

Outlaw Whiskey is an award-winning country, southern rock, classic rock, and originals band influenced by Johnny Cash, the Eagles, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Marshall Tucker, and more, that delivers high-energy performances. Band members include Gerald Scott (guitar, harmonies), Mike Holt (lead vocals, guitar), Rickie Hudson (lead guitar), Nick Gebbia (bass, harmonies), Chad Gates (drums), Joe Seltzer (sound tech) and Susan Scott (band manager).

THE FOXFIRE BOYS

OCTOBER 13TH

See Friday, July 7th.

JAY DRUMMONDS

OCTOBER 14TH

See Friday, May 19th.

CONCERTS ON THE SLOPES

Open to the public, the four shows take place on the back porch of the resort’s community center, adjacent to Ski Sapphire Valley off U.S. Hwy. 64. Concert attendees enjoy the music from chairs provided by the resort (there are approximately 100 offered on a first come, first served basis), from their own seating or picnic blankets, or even from their golf carts. Tickets are available in advance for $22 or the day of each show for $27. Season passes for all four shows can be purchased for $75. Shows begin at 7 pm and are generally over by 9 pm. For more information,

visit sapphirevalleyresort.com/ concert_slopes_sapphire_valley or call 828-743-7663.

TOO MUCH SYLVIA

JUNE 27TH

Don’t miss out on the unforgettable experience of a Too Much Syvia performance! With their captivating stage presence and distinct personalities, this band is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on any audience. For more: toomuchsylvia.com

ACE PARTY BAND

JULY 18TH

Get ready for an unforgettable event with ACE Party Band! With their impressive versatility and wide range of music spanning over the past five decades, including Beach, Motown, Top 40s, Pop, Rock, Hip Hop, R&B, Country, and Jazz Standards, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. For more: acepartyband.com

THE EMBERS

AUGUST 8TH

The Embers have produced countless albums and singles that have stood the test of time. Their remarkable achievements have not gone unnoticed, as they have been inducted into both the South Carolina Rhythm and Blues Hall of Fame and the South Carolina Beach Music Hall of Fame. This has earned them the prestigious title of North Carolina’s Official Ambassadors of Music. For more: theembersband.net

THE CAT5 BAND

SEPTEMBER 3RD

Prepare to be blown away by the phenomenal talent of Cat5 - a band that has taken the music scene by storm since their debut in 2019! With five prestigious awards already under their belt, including Group of the Year, Song of the Year, Smoothie of the Year, Songwriter of the Year, and Instrumentalist of the Year, Cat5 is undoubtedly a powerhouse in the industry. See you on the slopes! For more: cat5band.com

FRESHLY PLUCKED

PLANT SALE WITH HIGHLANDS MOUNTAIN GARDEN

word S by delaney a S bury

CLUB

Celebrate spring renewal by adding a fresh assortment of beautiful blooms and native plants to your garden this Memorial Day weekend.

A highly anticipated event each year, the Highlands Mountain Garden Club’s Plant Sale will take place on May 27th from 9 am to noon at the Highlands Baseball Field. Garden Club members gather to share their knowledge, passion, and carefully cultivated greenery with the people of the Plateau. Whether you are looking for pollinators to draw bees and butterflies to your garden or some vibrant perennials to spruce up the yard, you will find a variety of native plants to suit your needs.

All plants for sale have been grown by one of the Garden Club members or fellow residents of the Plateau who rejoice in sharing the fruit of their green thumbs. In preparation for the sale, members of the Garden Club spend days carefully selecting plants, digging them up, re-potting them, and preparing them to head to their new homes. Silver Creek Real Estate Group broker Debby Hall shared, “I became a Highlands Mountain Garden Club member to learn more about our native plants and discovered a wonderful group of women who have become my friends. I quickly learned how hard our members work year-round preparing for the Plant Sale. They keep up the gardens at the school, historic jailhouse, and hospital as well as provide ongoing education to our members. The energy and enthusiasm of these ladies is amazing - they even find the time to dance each year in the Highlands Christmas Parade!”

Hosted once a year, this event provides an opportunity for those on the Plateau to fill those empty spots in their yards with lovingly grown, beautiful native plants, while also supporting a great cause. Proceeds from this sale benefit scholarships for students in four-year and vocational education programs. It’s also an excellent time to pick the brains of some of the best gardeners in the area, as Highlands Mountain Garden Club members are a wealth of knowledge when it comes to growing on the Plateau.

If you’ve already got an overflow of greenery but would like to contribute to the cause, consider letting the Garden Club come over and do some

of the dirty work for you. They will happily thin out and divide up some of your plants, like those big hostas that have outgrown their current space, and make sure that they find their way home to another yard on the Plateau.

From hostas, bee balm, and astilbe to clematis, dahlias, and ferns of all varieties, you will have no problem finding the perfect plants to perk up your place. This popular event draws a big crowd, so make sure to get there early to get your pick of the bunch!

SILVER CREEK OFFICE LOCATIONS

CULLOWHEE FOREST

PILOT MOUNTAIN

BEAR LAKE RESERVE

WOLF KNOB ACRES

SIMS VALLEY

GLENSHORE

PILOTS KNOB

BIG RIDGE

WOUDES MOUNTAIN

STRAWBERRY HILL

GREY CLIFF

THE LAKE CLUB

SUMMER HILL

STONE BRIDGE

BRIGHT MOUNTAIN

SUMMER COVE

STILLPOINT

BUCK KNOB ISLAND

TATER KNOB

CHINQUAPIN

HIGH HEMLOCK

BRIDGE CREEK

HICKORY KNOLL

CROSS CREEK

TRILLIUM LINKS

MOUNTAINTOP STILLMONT & CONTINENTAL CLIFFS

GLENCOVE BY OLD EDWARDS

HIGHLANDS COVE

WILDCAT CLIFFS

COUNTRY CLUB

CASCADES AT CEDAR CREEK

PINNACLE RIDGE

LITTLE SHEEPCLIFF

CEDAR CREEK WOODS/ESTATES

BIG SHEEPCLIFF

PINCHOT

HIGHLANDS FALLS COUNTRY CLUB

SHERWOOD FOREST

MIRROR LAKE

HIGHLANDS COUNTRY CLUB

BRUSHY FACE

ZACHARY’S

PINE FOREST & SPRING FOREST

LONESOME

CHATTOOGA RIDGE

VALLEY

CEDAR HILL

GOLF CLUB ESTATES

STONEFLY

CHATTOOGA CLIFFS

PEREGRINE

HOLLY BERRY ESTATES

HIGH MEADOWS

TIMBER RIDGE

HIGH HAMPTON

CHATTOOGA CLUB

WHITESIDE FOREST

CULLASAJA CLUB

FOUND FOREST

WHITESIDE CLIFFS

SAGEE WOODS

SATULAH VISTA

LAUREL FALLS

GLENRIDGE

ZACHARY’S GAP ROUND HILL

HILL

BALD ROCK/THE DIVIDE

FALCON RIDGE HOLLY FOREST

CCSV DEER RUN

SASSAFRAS RIDGE

ARROWHEAD

FIVE STONE

PRESERVE AT ROCK CREEK

LAKE TOXAWAY COUNTRY CLUB

INDIAN LAKE ESTATES

BURLINGAME

WHISPER LAKE

TWIN FALLS

BEAR WALLOW SPRINGS

OVERLOOK AT SAPPHIRE

WADE HAMPTON

PEARLS

THERE IS

RENEWED INTEREST IN PEARLS, WITH THE GEMSTONES EVEN TRENDING IN WEDDING JEWELRY

OPPOSITE

WISDOM

Does the pearl need a more full-throated endorsement?

From the first cultured pearl being created in 1893 to current celebrities going beyond strands to use the gemstones in engagement rings, they remain timeless, graceful objects that symbolize elegance and glamour.

Pearls, both natural and cultured, have been used in jewelry for hundreds of years. Several luxury jewelry brands, including Japan’s Mikimoto, place pearls at the heart of each of their pieces, as they continue maintaining popularity among affluent consumers and celebrities.

“Historically, pearls have always been associated with luxury and elegance,” says Kentaro Nishimura, chief operating officer of Mikimoto America, New York.

“At Mikimoto, we believe a classic pearl strand is timeless,” he says. “However, new, more modern jewelry designs have increasingly become popular among younger generations.

“The popularity of pearls in the last few years stems from pop culture, celebrities and nostalgiafashion influences. Pearls are a mainstay of fashion, and we look forward to being at the forefront of evolving pearl trends.”

THIS PAGE: GOUTTES DE PERLES QUESTION MARK NECKLACE BY BOUCHERON. NECKLACE SET WITH 11 ROUND CULTURED PEARLS, PAVED WITH DIAMONDS, IN WHITE GOLD. BOUCHERON.COM

PAGE: SERPENT BOHÈME STUD EARRINGS AND XS MOTIFS BY BOUCHERON; $3,800. BOUCHERON.COM

FLEXING MUSCLE

There are two kinds of pearls: natural and cultured. Their variety of colors come from the type of oyster or mollusk that creates them along with other factors such as nutrient supply.

A natural pearl is formed organically when an irritant — such as seawater, sand or dust — enters an oyster’s soft muscle tissue, causing it to produce layers of calcium carbonate secretions that slowly develop into a pearl.

Cultured pearls are produced in the same way, but with human assistance in the irritant department. There are two main types of cultured pearls: freshwater and saltwater.

In Egypt, decorative mother-of-pearl, the shimmery calcium carbonate layer inside of shells, was used as far back as 4200 B.C.

Before the creation of cultured pearls, natural pearls themselves were immensely rare and expensive, and were mainly available to the very wealthy.

Pearls were so revered and expensive, reaching a peak of popularity at the height of the Roman Empire, that Roman general Vitellius reportedly funded an entire military campaign by selling just one of his mother’s pearl earrings.

MOTHERS OF PEARL

Mikimoto’s founder, Kokichi Mikimoto, created the world’s first cultured pearls in 1893.

When Mr. Mikomoto began his business, he tapped Ama divers to foster his cultured pearls on Mikimoto Pearl Island in Toba Bay. Ama, which translates to “women of the sea,” are female Japanese divers known for collecting pearls. Records indicate that this practice could be more than 2,000 years old.

These women specialized in diving more than 30 feet deep into cold water, using special techniques

to hold their breath for up to two minutes at a time. They often worked for four hours a day gathering abalone, seaweed and other shellfish — but the most lucrative find was always pearls.

Mr. Mikimoto gave the Ama the task of collecting the oysters from the seabed so that pearlproducing nuclei could be inserted. Then the divers would carefully return the oysters to the ocean floor.

The Ama were crucial drivers in Mr. Mikimoto’s work, and for more than 100 years, the company has fostered a line of offerings that are centered on pearls.

NEW CULTURE

There is renewed interest in pearls, and the gemstones are trending in wedding jewelry.

According to the Pearl Jewelry Market: Global Outlook and Forecast 2020–2025, the global pearl jewelry market is likely to grow at the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of more than 13 percent by 2025.

Several celebrities have recently showcased pearl-centered jewelry, specifically in their engagement rings.

“Pearls have been a treasured gem for many years, but only recently has interest in them been reawakened for bridal and fashion jewelry,” says Lorraine Brantner, gemologist at JamesAllen.com, Washington, D.C.

“Celebrity engagements like Emma Stone and Ariana Grande really brought pearls back into the spotlight,” she says.

U.S. jeweler Tiffany & Co., now part of France’s LVMH luxury conglomerate, boasts more than 100 pearl pieces, ranging from necklaces to bracelets and earrings. For those consumers who want a classic, the jeweler sells an 18-inch necklace of South Sea cultured pearls for $29,000.

Mikimoto has several collections, including the Jeux de Rubans assembly, which features pearl jewelry with a motif of ribbons and a whimsical feel.

There is also the Mikimoto Feather Collection that aims to represent beauty and grace while eliciting courage from wearers of its pendants and ear cuffs.

A Mikimoto premium pearl necklace costs $34,000 at current prices.

For those looking for an even more exclusive find, online design marketplace listed several pearl pieces from French jeweler Cartier earlier this year, including a Cartier South Sea cultured pearl necklace for $75,000; a Cartier pearl, diamond and chrysoprase sautoir 18-karat yellow gold necklace for almost $20,000; and a Cartier pearl pink quartz diamond necklace for $35,000.

For watch lovers, auction house Sotheby’s has listed several timepieces that subtly include pearl, including a Patek Philippe

yellow gold and diamond calendar watch featuring a mother-of-pearl dial, and an Audemars Piguet white gold and diamond-set wristwatch, also with a mother-of-pearl dial.

WHETHER WEARING a pearl as a symbol of love on one’s ring finger, fostering a collection or looking for the ultimate antique piece, it remains clear that these jewels are timeless and remain soughtafter symbols of graceful glamour.

“Pearls are delicate, organic gems and really should be your ‘last on, first off’ piece of jewelry,” Ms. Brantner says.

“Classic strands will never go out of style and are not just for formal events, but can pair just as nicely with jeans and a tee,” she says. “If a strand is too much, there are modern designs that showcase a single pearl in a fresh new take.”

Text reproduced with permission from Luxury Portfolio International and Luxury Portfolio magazine. © Luxury Portfolio International. All rights reserved.

NAPA VALLEY

word S by delaney a S bury

A region renowned around the globe, Napa Valley is home to world-class wineries, abundant sunshine, scenic vistas, and luxurious dining and accommodations. With diverse topography ranging from sea-level valley floors to mountain vineyards resting over 2,000 feet in elevation, the valley’s varied soils have lent to its prestige among wine-producing regions. So too has the climate. While Napa Valley is famous for warm-weather grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc, the region also hosts a healthy production of cool-weather varieties like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

With its location about 50 miles north of San Francisco, Napa Valley is an accessible retreat for those looking to escape the ordinary and immerse themselves in the high life. There are over 400 wineries in Napa, with over 90% of them family-owned operations. Many of these wineries offer opportunities to take tours, enjoy tastings of their new releases and vintages, and relish in the beauty of their vineyards in the pristine valley. From their rich history to their world-renowned wines and rolling hills of vineyards, there is no escape quite like a visit to one of Napa Valley’s exquisite wineries. While there are plenty of options to choose from, you can find a few of NC Living’s favorites in this article that will elevate any time spent sipping and staying in California’s Napa Valley.

One of the valley’s oldest wineries, Far Niente was founded in 1885 and is famed for producing estate-bottled Napa Valley Chardonnay, Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, and Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon. Beloved by critics, the trade, and collectors, Far Niente’s Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon are consistently considered among the most excellent wines produced in every vintage. In fact, California’s oldest bottle of wine is believed to be a bottle of 1886 Far Niente Sweet Muscat, discovered in a collection in a private cellar in Marin County. The bottle, found in 1998, still has its original label, cork, and capsule.

With over 125 years of winemaking experience, this enchanting and historic winery sits atop a crest in Oakville, surrounded by 13 acres of meticulously landscaped gardens blanketed in the brilliant red and pink hues of southern azaleas. When in full bloom, these beautiful flowers can be spotted up to a mile away.

Your arrival at the Far Niente winery is nothing short of spectacular as you cruise along Acacia Drive, surrounded on both sides by more than 100 Autumn Gold ginkgo trees that give way to the Woodland Garden and winery gates, shrouded by groves of towering redwoods, acacias, dogwoods, and century-old cork oak trees. Past the gates, the drive to the winery is lined with olive

FAR NIENTE

trees and vibrant Virginia Creeper. The winery’s pristine surrounding gardens host a variety of specimen trees such as Japanese maple, Japanese snowbell, lions head maple, Chinese fringe, and saucer magnolia.

The charming stone building of Far Niente’s estate was designed by architect Hamden McIntyre as a gravity-flow winery, gently moving the grapes along each production stage. The estate flourished in its original form until 1919 when Prohibition began, and production ultimately came to a grinding halt, leaving Far Niente abandoned for sixty years. The property was purchased in 1979 by Gil and Beth Nickel, who restored it to its former glory.

The estate returned to winemaking in 1982 with its first harvest of Cabernet Sauvignon. Today, Far Niente focuses on two varietal wines, Napa Valley Chardonnay and Napa Valley and Oakville Estate Cabernets. Far Niente has five sister wineries with the same quality and vision. Dolce, introduced in 1989, focuses on late-harvest wine.

Nickel & Nickel, introduced in 1997, produces smalllot, 100 percent varietal, singlevineyard wines. EnRoute, founded in 2009, focuses its production on Russian River Valley Pinot Noir. And Bella Union emerged in 2015 with a devotion to Napa Valley Cabernet.

Post & Beam, the family’s newest

winery founded in 2020, produces both Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. Each winery has its own winemaker and vineyards, but all of the wineries under the Far Niente family, with their limited production, remain devoted to producing the highest quality wines possible.

Visits to Far Niente are offered daily to the public from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. by appointment. They offer insightful tours and expertly paired tastings. Explore the historic building, its stunning gardens, and a portion of its 40,000 square-foot wine aging caves – the first modern wine caves constructed in North America in 1980.

Their Estate Tasting offers a 60-minute tastingonly experience that includes their newest vintages and hand-selected wines from their family of wineries. The Cave Collection Library Wine Tasting is another 60-minute tasting-only experience that focuses on Far Niente’s Library Wines, offering the opportunity to taste their current release Napa Valley Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as some of their aged and limited Cave Collection wines. For the chance to explore their estate grounds, the Extended Estate Tasting is a 90-minute experience that offers a glimpse of the winery, gardens, and wines where you will learn about the wine caves and history of the tri-level winery while sampling their current releases, and at the end, a sumptuous late harvest wine produced by Dolce.

To learn more about Far Niente and its family of wineries, and to make a reservation, visit FarNiente.com

ALPHA OMEGA

Alpha Omega, a family-owned boutique winery, was opened in mid-2006 by vintners Robin and Michelle Baggett. The winery focuses on crafting world-class wines using grapes from almost every appellation throughout the valley, including those from its own vineyards. Alpha Omega’s winemakers are known for their blending of Old World traditions with New World state-of-theart techniques that result in uniquely expressive Bordeaux-style wines.

In addition to its expertly crafted wines, Alpha Omega is known for its picturesque setting and comforting hospitality. Located in the heart of Napa Valley on the Rutherford Bench, visitors can savor their exquisite flavors while taking in the breathtaking scenery of its manicured vineyards,

ALPHA OMEGA’S FLAGSHIP WINE, ERA REPRESENTS THE HIGHEST LEVEL OF

TO HANDCRAFTING A WINE WHICH SERVES AS THE CONFLUENCE

WORLD TRADITIONS AND NEW WORLD TECHNIQUES. AOWINERY.COM

landmark fountains, and vistas of the distant Mayacamas Mountains. Alpha Omega offers a convivial setting with its farm-style building that is reflective of the essence of the Napa Valley farming community.

Alpha Omega is open daily for wine-tasting experiences on their terrace and inside at their tasting room bar from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Reservations are required, and you can even bring your dog, but they must be on a leash. They offer a variety of experiences, from private tastings to tastings fit for a large group. The Signature Selections experience, led by a Wine Educator, allows you to taste their four current-release wines, including their revered Cabernet Sauvignon. The Curated Selections experience, guided by a Wine Educator, will take your taste buds on a tour of Napa Valley, allowing you to savor an expertly curated combination of their current and library wines. The Single Vineyard Tasting offers a deep dive into some of Napa’s renowned vineyards while giving you the opportunity to sample several of their most critically acclaimed, limited-production wines and possibly their flagship wine, Era . Alpha Omega’s Private Tasting experience offers an interactive and personalized tasting guided by one of their Wine Educators in one of their exclusive private tasting rooms. Sip on their award-winning, handcrafted wines with a delicious cheese accompaniment for an elevated experience.

To learn more about Alpha Omega and to make a reservation for one of their tasting experiences, visit AOWinery.com

CHATEAU MONTELENA

Located in Calistoga, Chateau Montelena is another renowned winery - notable for winning the 1976 white wine portion of the historic “Judgement of Paris” wine competition, where its Chardonnay competed in a blind tasting against nine other wines from France and California. A fictional memorialization of this victory was featured in the 2008 film Bottle Shock. Throughout its history, the diverse ownership of Chateau Montelena is forever marked on the property through the various installments and improvements made.

In 1882 entrepreneur Alfred L. Tubbs, who amassed a fortune selling rope during the Gold Rush, purchased the land at the foot of Mount Saint Helena, built the French-style stone winery, and planted vines. Just four years later, in 1896, Chateau Montelena was the seventh-largest winery in Napa Valley. However, it, too, went dormant at the onset of prohibition. During this period, Tubbs sold grapes, but the Chateau was not producing wine, and in 1958 the family sold the property to retired Chinese electrical engineer Yort Wing Frank and his wife, Jeanie. The Franks set about creating their perfect retirement home and adorned the castle-like property with a

beautiful Chinese garden fit with bright red pagodas and excavated the 11-acre Jade Lake. A decade later, the property was sold to the Paschichs, who later sold majority ownership to lawyer and part-time winemaker Jim Barrett, who saw that the Chateau returned to its former winemaking origins in 1972. Four years later, the 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay won first place at the “Judgement of Paris.” The Barrett family still owns the Chateau to this day, and a bottle of that vintage is in the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.

Chateau Montelena stays true to its origins, producing exceptional wines that are revered by the trade. The winery focuses on Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling. This multi-cultural location draws in hundreds of visitors to savor their current releases and flagship wines and explore their beautiful grounds.

The winery is open to visitors daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. by advance reservation. For those who are unable to obtain a reservation, there are limited walk-in opportunities for their Taste of Montelena experience between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

The Montelena Estate Collection is a 90-minute tasting experience featuring a library Chardonnay followed by a

sampling of four of their Estate Cabernet Sauvignon vintages. In Chateau Montelena’s Explore Ageability 75-minute tasting experience, you can sample exclusive wines not commonly available on the market and library vintages of classic Montelena wines. For a sampling of their current release wines, the 45-minute Taste of Montelena offers just that at a stand-up bar in their historic Chateau.

To learn more about Chateau Montelena, make reservations, and plan your visit to their winery, visit Montelena.com

ELEVATED ACCOMMODATIONS IN NAPA VALLEY

MEADOWOOD NAPA VALLEY

This Forbes Travel Guide 2023 Five-Star hotel and spa is renowned for its sophistication, discreet luxury, and unparalleled service. Located in the heart of Napa Valley near chic boutiques, marvelous restaurants, and plenty of outdoor activities, Meadowood has long been synonymous with understated elegance. There are 36 suites

and rooms, each with its own appeal and unique offerings. They feature a distinctive blend of rustic and refined finishes and elegant furnishings that celebrate their natural surroundings and provide sumptuous retreats for their guests.

From the wine-country-style lodges to the quaint cottages, Meadowood impresses with its cozy and pampered feel, adding to some of their accommodations luxurious additions like huge soaking tubs, wood-burning fireplaces, and private porches and decks that allow you to get out and soak in the views of scenic woodland vistas or the vineyard-dotted valley. This ultraposh hotel boasts a variety of premium amenities, from its Five-Star Spa and inspired dining options to its fitness center, three pools, tennis courts, and exclusive Wine Center, offering an immersive experience that leads you on a discovery of wine

stunning wine country. This 33-acre estate perched on an olive grove in Rutherford offers a wealth of ways to explore and experience Napa Valley’s finest. With 50 contemporary guestrooms and suites, you will find a sophisticated and luxurious stay accompanied by a restaurant, MichelinStarred for 15 consecutive years, a picturesque spa, and a stunning outdoor sculpture garden.

Each of their accommodations offers fantastic views with your choice of gardens, hillside or valley vistas with private terraces, fireplaces, and sumptuous California king beds fit with Italian linens to give you your most comfortable night’s sleep yet. With its location mid-valley, Auberge du Soleil offers numerous experiences, from personalized wine tours and tastings to nearby boutique and gallery shopping. This hotel has long been an iconic Napa Valley destination and offers the quintessential wine country experience with its serene surroundings, acclaimed culinary offerings, and personalized service. For more information, visit, AubergeResorts. com/AubergeduSoleil

MILLIKEN CREEK INN

Redesigned in 2021, the boutique Milliken Creek Inn offers an exclusive hideaway tucked alongside the idyllic Napa River. This stylish, intimate, and romantic setting allows guests to enjoy Napa Valley luxury with privacy and comfort within its 11 guestrooms. Attention to detail is evident with luxurious linens, river views, private outdoor firepits, rain showerheads, and freestanding soaking tubs. Enjoy breakfast in bed every morning, and wine and cheese each afternoon on your private balcony or patio.

and winemaking. This 250-acre countryside estate will have you relaxing in its nature-filled surroundings and chic accommodations while you enjoy the best of what Napa Valley wine country has to offer. For more information, visit Meadowood.com

AUBERGE DU SOLEIL

Another Forbes Five-Star hotel, Auberge du Soleil, showcases breathtaking views, blending the charm of the south of France with Napa Valleys’

You can book on-site massage treatments customized to your needs from the comfort of your room or in the spa cabana. Relax by the river with a glass of wine, bask in the sun on one of their plush lounge chairs, or cozy up by one of the outdoor fireplaces at night to savor some s’mores or a nightcap. Their expert team will create a customized and elevated experience for you to enjoy all of Napa Valley’s most indulgent experiences. For more information, visit MillikenCreekInn.com

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE COMPANIES AND BRANDS

BY SILVER CREEK REAL ESTATE GROUP

STONEFLY CASHIERS

Just minutes from the shopping and fine dining of downtown Cashiers, Blue Bear Camp is the ultimate Adirondack-style mountain lodge. This prime property borders the Nantahala National Forest, ensuring privacy and abundant wildlife. Another world awaits in the dream-like setting amid the wild Chattooga River, flowering landscaping, sparkling waterfall, and lush forest, all against the stunning backdrop of Whiteside Mountain and Devil’s Courthouse.

Exclusive mountain retreat in the esteemed Mountaintop Golf & Lake Club. Luxurious 5-bed, 6.5-bath home with entertainment at its heart. Open plan living, kitchen and dining areas, walk-in pantry and wet bar. Stone fireplace, stunning views, upper level office, spa-like primary bedroom ensuite, family room, kitchenette, 2 bedrooms with ensuites and golf course deck. Private walking path to the Tom Fazio-designed golf course, encapsulated crawl space, golf cart storage, and attached 2-car garage. Enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and world-class spa. Live in comfort and entertain in style.

MOUNTAINTOP GOLF & LAKE CLUB

CASHIERS

LONESOME VALLEY SAPPHIRE

Elegance and sophistication prevail in this custom mountain home in Lonesome Valley. An outstanding example of Loudermilk Homes’ work, this exquisite home presents a rare opportunity for an exceptional, elevated mountain lifestyle. With 5-bedrooms, 5-baths, and 2-half-baths, privacy and comfort are assured for family and guests. Residents enjoy amenities such as extensive hiking trails, fly fishing streams and ponds, a recreational lake and boathouse, tennis courts, Fitness Barn, a pool, a disc golf course, and rock climbing.

Tucked away in the understated luxury community of Cedar Hill, this home is perfectly positioned to showcase striking views of the neighboring mountains, granite rock face, and lush forests. Enjoy elevated living with custom and thoughtful design that evokes feelings of opulence, comfort, and conviviality. True to Loudermilk Homes’ style, this property exhibits the builder’s renowned craftsmanship and signature integration of smart technology.

CEDAR HILL CASHIERS

CEDAR HILL CASHIERS

Captivating views and exquisite craftsmanship are just a few elements of this custom Loudermilk Homes creation that will elevate your Plateau lifestyle. Situated on over 22 acres, you will have nature at your fingertips as you gaze out of the floor-to-ceiling windows at long- and short-range views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and their exposed rock face. Cedar and stone accents give this modern rustic home a warm and inviting facade, while dormers and angled rooflines create a distinctive architectural style.

This is an excellent opportunity to own brand-new construction in the premier gated community of Spring Forest! Located just minutes from Cashiers and Sapphire, peaceful mountain living is within reach. Rise each day to warm natural light as you gaze at the pristine mountain views in this custom home designed with comfort in mind. A spacious and open floor plan, top-tier appliances, and a private circular drive are just a few aspects that will invite you to sit back, relax, and enjoy life on the Plateau.

SPRING FOREST SAPPHIRE

TRILLIUM LINKS CASHIERS

Discover the "Dreamcatcher" estate, a fully furnished luxury retreat within the prestigious Trillium Links & Lake Club community. This architectural marvel boasts seamless indoor-outdoor living, a state-of-the-art chef's kitchen, and an opulent owner's suite. Enjoy exclusive amenities, including golf, water sports, and private boat docking. With a stunning floating staircase, soundproofed second floor, and third-floor observatory showcasing panoramic mountain views, the "Dreamcatcher" estate embodies sophisticated living for the discerning luxury real estate buyer.

Rustic elegance takes center stage in this 6+ acre Sapphire Valley mountain retreat. Immediately upon entering the fully furnished three-bedroom, threeand-one-half-bath log home, you will be warmly welcomed by the exquisite details and outstanding craftsmanship displayed at each turn. Unwind from the afternoon in the sunroom, or camp out by the outdoor fire pit and take in the lush surrounding forest. A meticulously maintained barn and pristine pastures make this a fantastic property for animal lovers.

BALD ROCK SAPPHIRE

BIG RIDGE GLENVILLE

Experience the ultimate mountain retreat on 90+ pristine acres of breathtaking, unrestricted land just 8 miles from Cashiers Crossroads. At a high elevation of 3,700 feet, immerse yourself in stunning long-range views and an abundance of wildlife. The land is perfect for outdoor adventurers, with hiking, UTV/ATV trails, a pond, and a small log cabin with electricity and spring-fed water. The charming cabin could be used as a guest house while you build your dream mountain home. Take advantage of this rare opportunity to create a private family estate on this magnificent property.

Perched in the hills on 3.75 acres in Cedar Creek Woods, this stunning mountain home is waiting to be your new haven from the city. Offering long-range scenic views of Bald Rock Mountain and its lush forests, you will be charmed each morning by the soft light and low-lying clouds of sunrise in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The home’s spacious and open floor plan allows for uninterrupted enjoyment and accessibility of the main-level living spaces. A large stone fireplace takes center stage in the great room, which also features cathedral ceilings and access to the expansive back deck.

CEDAR CREEK WOODS CASHIERS

SNOWBIRD

OFFERED FOR $1,995,000

Truly elevated living awaits on this exclusive 74-acre Snowbird estate. Boasting a nearly 4,700-foot elevation for breathtaking 360-degree views and total privacy. A charming Tim Greene-designed lodge is furnished for immediate enjoyment, while walking trails and a flat mountaintop make for an ideal off-thegrid escape. Embrace the opportunity to relax and live the ultimate mountain dream!

MLS# 98551

STONEFLY

OFFERED FOR $1,750,000

This 4,000-square-foot home is located only minutes from the dining and shopping of Cashiers and boasts four bedrooms and four full baths, and one half-bath. Located in a very private gated community, the large and level lot offers a stream and pond which can be admired from the large deck and covered porch. Enjoy sitting by the pond and radiating fire pit as you listen to the sounds of nature.

MLS# 98941

74 ACRES

CEDAR CREST

OFFERED FOR $1,700,000

Impeccable taste and thoughtful design are on display with this new construction property in the notable community of Cedar Crest. Make the final design selections prior to breaking ground. This is the perfect solution for those seeking a new, luxurious mountain home without being enveloped in a tedious construction and design process. The developer has created a truly elegant home, accentuating the newly combined double lot that spans 1.15 acres.

MLS# 101455

CHATTOOGA CLUB

OFFERED FOR $1,595,000

Escape to an exclusive mountain retreat in the gated Chattooga Club. This luxurious log home boasts 3 bedrooms and 3 baths, a cozy fireplace, and a spacious loft perfect for an office or playroom. Enjoy natural beauty from the back deck and walk to amenities. Negotiable furnishings allow for a personalized touch. Experience peaceful living on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, with club membership by invitation only. Don’t miss your chance to live the dreamschedule a viewing today.

MLS# 101820

ARROWHEAD

OFFERED FOR $1,500,000

Discover peaceful mountain living in this charming Arrowhead cottage. Cathedral ceilings and stacked stone fireplace in the living room, primary suite on main level, and 2 bedrooms with en suites upstairs. Large screened porch and open deck for grilling. Arrowhead provides maintenance-free landscaping and a neighborhood chimney garden. Only 5 minutes from Cashiers, NC amenities.

MLS# 100693

BALD ROCK

OFFERED FOR $1,500,000

Exuding unparalleled seclusion and breathtaking vistas, this mountain retreat sits on 5+ acres and boasts a grand open floor plan with soaring cathedral ceilings, a luxurious master suite, and an outdoor fireplace. The lower level offers a cozy family room, sleeping porch, and two en-suite bedrooms. Complete with a private drive, two-car garage, and provisions for an elevator, this home is the ultimate oasis of luxury and style.

MLS# 98714

FOUND FOREST

OFFERED FOR $1,495,000

Experience serene mountain living in this 2-bed, 2-bath home boasting stunning Whiteside Mountain views. The main-level living home features a spacious living area with wood-burning fireplace and a screened back deck for private outdoor relaxation. The sizable basement provides an opportunity to create additional living space and bathroom. The property sits on a 6.24-acre lot with the potential to subdivide. Just 10 minutes from Cashiers, this is a rare chance to own a slice of paradise.

MLS# 101814

OLD EDWARDS CLUB

OFFERED FOR $1,350,000

Refined mountain living at this exquisite Old Edwards Club penthouse awaits. Enjoy golf course and mountain vistas from the enchanting covered deck with cozy fireplace. This fully furnished, threebedroom residence blends contemporary elegance with timeless charm. Each bedroom features an ensuite bath. Indulge in unparalleled sophistication for your distinguished mountain retreat.

MLS# 101873

CHINQUAPIN

OFFERED FOR $1,199,000

Experience luxury living in Chinquapin! This stunning, nearly new 3-bed, 3-bath home features exceptional quality and breathtaking views from the deck. Enjoy hiking trails, fishing, pickleball courts, disc golf, and seasonal outdoor parties. Nearby Panthertown Valley offers more outdoor activities. Move into this neverlived-in home without the wait of building. Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity!

MLS# 101629

SAPPHIRE HIGH

OFFERED FOR $999,000

Experience luxurious mountain living in this renovated log cabin with southern mountain views in Sapphire Valley. Features include a great room with fireplace, dining area, kitchen, primary bedroom, and guest room, with a screened porch for outdoor dining. Upgrades include renovated kitchen and primary bath, new HVAC system, new roof, and rebuilt deck with Trex decking. Access to resort amenities and a short walk to the Hogback Lake common area. Seize the opportunity for tranquil mountain living!

MLS# 101862

HOLLY FOREST

OFFERED FOR $995,000

Warm wood throughout this Holly Forest home creates an ambiance of comfort and relaxation in which you can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the forest that surrounds you. The home’s southern exposure allows ample natural light and three back decks provide the perfect place for afternoons of savoring the sunshine. Just a short drive from Cashiers and the amenities of Sapphire Valley, memories in the mountains are waiting to be made.

MLS# 101763

LAUREL FALLSCASHIERS

OFFERED FOR $945,000

Luxurious three-bedroom mountain retreat on over 12 acres of rolling land in Laurel Falls community. Meticulously designed with knotty pine post and beam cathedral ceilings, woodburning fireplace, and private guest quarters. Manicured grounds feature private walking trails, manmade pond, and garden spaces.

Adjacent to Panthertown Valley for outdoor adventure. Make this stunning estate your own and experience ultimate mountain living.

MLS# 101710

CHINQUAPIN

OFFERED FOR $900,000

HOLLY FOREST

OFFERED FOR $849,900

BURLINGAME

OFFERED FOR $849,000

Located in Chinquapin’s Natures Walk, this three-bedroom mountain home offers both easy living and entertaining space. The airy floor plan includes a living room with a stone fireplace, separate dining, and a kitchen with stainless steel appliances. The upper level includes the living area, primary bedroom, and a large covered porch, while the lower level features a family room, wet bar, and two bedrooms. Enjoy access to clubhouse amenities and miles of trails. Offered furnished, move-in ready.

MLS# 101352

Enjoy luxury mountain living in this move-in ready Holly Forest cabin featuring a post and beam design with natural wood accents, stone fireplace, vaulted ceilings, and abundant windows. The open-living concept is ideal for entertaining, and the primary suite features a spacious bathroom. Two additional bedrooms, loft, and generous-sized kitchen make this cabin perfect for social gatherings. Create lasting mountain memories in this serene and peaceful retreat.

MLS# 100901

Build your dream home in Burlingame Golf and Country Club. This ready-to-be-built custom home has a large, private primary suite with an office or craft room and small porch off of it to sit and relax. Two en suite guest rooms on main level, split floor plan, large open family room with stone fireplace. Chef’s dream kitchen, large outdoor covered porch, great for entertaining. 2.5 car garage with ample storage. Finished living space over garage for overflow guests. Plans available to view.

MLS# 96489

Charming cottage in the heart of Sapphire Valley, just a short walk or golf cart ride from the Country Club. Recently renovated interior includes vaulted ceilings, stone fireplace, new flooring, and updated kitchen and primary bath. Primary bedroom with fireplace on main level and two bedrooms upstairs. Back porch overlooks stream. Enjoy shopping, restaurants, and outdoor activities minutes away. Membership to Country Club by invitation only.

MLS# 101220

COUNTRY CLUB ESTATES

OFFERED FOR $840,000

Enjoy panoramic views and 18.12 acres of land with no restrictions in this two-bedroom, two-bath home. With a four-bedroom septic permit, expand the existing structure or create another primary suite/studio in the crawl space. Features include a huge living room, new deck, updated bathrooms, and a finished bonus room/workshop. Ideal for investors or families seeking a family compound.

MLS# 101733

BIG

OFFERED FOR $699,000

Savor long-range views of Hogback Mountain from this charming lock-and-leave home in the Holly Forest neighborhood of Sapphire Valley. Situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains this comfortable retreat is ideal for those longing to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Conveniently located to the quaint towns of Highlands and Cashiers, and a short drive to the scenic Fairfield Lake, you can indulge in a plethora of outdoor adventures or culinary options.

MLS# 101775

OFFERED FOR $610,000

GLEN LAUREL

OFFERED FOR $570,000

Brand new three-bedroom home with deeded Lake Glenville access and community dock. Quiet neighborhood with paved roads and underground utilities. Walk to the community dock and enjoy the beauty of Lake Glenville. Convenient to Cashiers, Franklin, and Cullowhee. Be the first to enjoy cooking in your new kitchen and having a fire in the fireplace. The property has been virtually staged to assist with imagining your new mountain home. The public boat ramp is only a couple minutes away.

MLS# 100621

FULLY

HOLLY

FOREST

OFFERED FOR $525,000

Fully renovated, turn-key home in Sapphire Valley. Completely furnished with high-end furniture, custom cast iron fireplace, and three luxury beds. Updated plumbing and fixtures, custom kitchen cabinetry, and LED lighting. End-of-road privacy, back deck for entertaining, and fiber optic internet. Ownership includes access to golf, tennis, swimming, fitness center, and more via the Sapphire Valley Master Association. Ideal investment property with proven success for River+Tree Inn owners.

MLS# 101442

NEWLY PRICED

HOLLY

FOREST

OFFERED FOR $489,000

This charming, one-level home boasts a big Hogback Mountain view! The large sliding glass doors and windows provide lots of light. Soaring vaulted ceiling with wood beams and a stone floor-to-ceiling fireplace give a spacious feel. Freshly painted inside and out, with new flooring, remodeled kitchen, and commercial-grade dehumidifier in the fully encapsulated crawl space. Enjoy the spectacular panoramic view from the back deck. Fiber optic internet available soon. Virtually staged to assist with imagining your new home.

MLS# 100508

Enjoy endless mountain views and privacy in this lovely 2-bed, 2-bath home on 4.22 acres, featuring 3 decks and plenty of natural light. With stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, and 2 gas fireplaces, this one-level living home has it all. Includes both the lot with the property and adjoining lot, each with their own septic tank and shared drain lines. Located just 20 minutes from the Village of Cashiers and 15 minutes from Lake Glenville, offering boating, kayaking, and hiking. Come experience peaceful mountain living!

MLS# 101659

LEIGH’S LANDING

OFFERED FOR $435,000

Charming creek-front property in Trout Creek Valley community. 3BR, 2BA on 1.65 acres with cozy living area, wood stove, and expansive windows. Property features a shed, workshop, oversized garage, and footbridge over the creek. Only 7 miles from Lake Glenville and 11 miles from Village of Cashiers. Don’t miss out on this slice of paradise!

MLS# 101852

TROUT CREEK VALLEY

OFFERED FOR $345,000

Escape the city and find your own mountain paradise! This unit in Sapphire Valley is priced right and ready for some TLC. Enjoy privacy on the top floor end unit with a private screened patio. Spacious rooms with balconies and community amenities like Fairfield Lake make this perfect for vacation or personal retreat.

NEWLY

HILLTOP OFFERED FOR $230,000

STYLED TO PERFECTION

INSIDE AN IMPRESSIVE NEWLY CONSTRUCTED HOME IN CEDAR HILL

Step into refined mountain elegance with this stunning custom home, newly completed and ready for immediate occupancy. Located in the gated community of Cedar Hill, it offers breathtaking long-range mountain views. The main living areas are furnished and these are included in the price. Enter through the attractive mahogany doorway to discover the home’s great room, showcasing vaulted ceilings with wood beam accents, and large windows, allowing ample natural light. A large stone fireplace emphasized by a reclaimed wood mantle and cedar shake backdrop, along with European Oak floors throughout, add warmth and rustic charm to the space.

From the great room, enjoy easy access to the uncovered stone patio, where you will spend hours gazing at the surrounding mountains and forest. Perfect for entertaining, the spacious and open kitchen features a large central island, a Galley sink with dual faucets, a Thermador stove, a Sub-Zero refrigerator, a built-in desk, large pantry cabinets, and an adjacent dining area accented by a beautiful stacked stone wall. Located off the dining room is a covered patio with another stone fireplace.

The opposite side of the home boasts a sumptuous primary suite concealed behind double entryway doors. The primary suite features a morning kitchen with a refrigerator, a stone fireplace, two substantial walk-in closets, and a luxurious spa-like bathroom with double vanities, a soaking tub, a separate makeup vanity, a private commode, and a sizeable double-headed walk-in shower with views of the mountains.

REFINED MOUNTAIN ELEGANCE

On the main level, you will also find the laundry room, a powder room with a custom vanity, and access to the two-and-a-half-car garage. Following the curved floating staircase up to the second floor, guests will enjoy total privacy with three bedrooms, each with an ensuite bathroom, a lofted sitting area overlooking the great room, and a morning kitchen. Just minutes from nearby Cashiers and Sapphire, the finest Blue Ridge Mountain living awaits.

THE NUMBERS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES

$249,905,571

Silver Creek Real Estate Group

$238,291,600

Sotheby’s Intl Realty

$197,124,751

Landmark Realty Group

$174,027,579

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Meadows Mountain Realty

$154,804,135

McKee Properties

2022 UNBEATABLE SALES VOLUME WITH OUR EXPERT MARKETING!

HOW SILVER CREEK REAL ESTATE GROUP COMPARED TO THE TOP 10 COMPETITORS IN THE HIGHLANDSCASHIERS BOARD OF REALTORS [1]

$142,596,041

Allen Tate $93,826,204

High Hampton Realty, LLC

$74,060,000

Lake Toxaway Company

$70,313,646

Country Club Properties

$61,691,174

Keller Williams Great Smokies

1037 TOXAWAY DRIVE SELLER'S AGENT

41 RACQUET CLUB DRIVE SELLER'S AGENT $1,850,000

895 WEST ROCHESTER DRIVE BUYER'S + SELLER'S AGENT $1,795,000

285 GRISTMILL RIDGE SELLER'S AGENT $2,495,000

350 BEAVER DAM ROAD BUYER'S + SELLER'S AGENT $2,450,000

356 HAVEN RIDGE TRAIL SELLER'S AGENT $1,595,000

Each year, thousands — yes, thousands — flock to Highlands, North Carolina, for the annual gathering of classic car enthusiasts that is the Highlands Motoring Festival. This year, the 16th annual event will take place from June 8th to June 11th, bringing curated driving tours, a classic car parade on Main Street, evening social events, and two different car shows to the Plateau.

Voted Best Concours by Classic Motorsports Magazine in 2019, this festival has become one of the most popular events in the South. Though it began as a one-day car show, today it is a four-day series of automotive events culminating in a fundraiser gala. The team of unpaid volunteers who work tirelessly on bringing this annual event together have raised over $450,000 in recent years, including $105,000 in 2022. These funds go to three charity partners: Literacy and Learning Center of Highlands, REACH of Macon County, and the Community Care Clinic of Highlands and Cashiers.

The festival’s most popular events are the curated driving tours, “One Lap of the Mountains,” which depart and return to Highlands and include interesting roads with excellent views. The package includes lunch and a route instruction book.

On Thursday evening, there will be a reception with world-renowned race car driver Brian Redman. The event will be held at the Invocative Fine Art Gallery in Highlands.

On Friday evening, the festival committee, with assistance from the Highlands Police Department, will stage an exciting parade featuring a wide variety of classic cars. In 2022, almost 100 cars participated, filling Main Street with spectators.

The festival’s centerpiece event is Saturday’s “Cars in the Park” concours level car show in Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park in downtown Highlands. Eighty-five special classic cars have been invited through a rigorous application process which ensures a high level of quality in the cars being displayed. There will be classics ranging from 1907 to 1989, both American and European. The event is free to the public, but donations are suggested. In 2022, over 2,500 spectators attended. The 2023 featured marque is BMW, where 15 carefully curated classics will tell the history of the brand. Other 2023 entries will include cars from Duesenberg, Ferrari, Porsche, Ford, Cadillac, Jaguar, Chevrolet, and many others. The cars will be critiqued by a highly qualified panel of judges, each

member an authority in a specific field. Trophies will be presented on the show field in the afternoon.

The festival concludes on Sunday morning with the “High Octane” car show and social gathering, which is free and open to the public. Returning to Kelsey-Hutchinson Park, everybody has the opportunity to show their car and visit with fellow enthusiasts.

Highlands Motoring Festival offers branded merchandise at all of the festival events, including posters, polo shirts, hats, mugs, calendars, and stickers. Also available are two volumes of printed route guides from previous years of “One Lap of the Mountains” driving tours with many interesting destinations, all originating and ending in Highlands.

To volunteer or for more information, visit the Highlands Motoring Festival’s website at: HighlandsMotoringFestival.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 8TH

“ONE LAP OF THE MOUNTAINS: GRANDE” DRIVING TOUR from 8:30 AM 4 PM

"HAPPY HOUR WITH BRIAN REDMAN" SOCIAL GATHERING MEET AND GREET at INVOCATIVE FINE ARTS from 5 7 PM

FRIDAY, JUNE 9TH

“ONE LAP OF THE MOUNTAINS: SPECIALE” DRIVING TOUR from 9:30 AM 4 PM

MAIN STREET PARADE OF CLASSIC CARS from 5:30 6:30 PM

SATURDAY, JUNE 10TH

“CARS IN THE PARK” CLASSIC CAR SHOW at KELSEY-HUTCHINSON PARK from 9:30 AM 4 PM

“FUNDRAISING GALA” at WILDCAT CLIFFS COUNTRY CLUB from 6 9 PM

SUNDAY, JUNE 11TH

“HIGH OCTANE” SOCIAL AND CAR GATHERING at KELSEY-HUTCHINSON PARK from 8:30 11 AM

MIDDLE

TOP AND BOTTOM RIGHT: DETAILS OF THE RE-IMAGINED BMW I4 M50 BY KITH'S RONNIE FIEG.

RIGHT: THE BMW 1602 BY RONNIE FIEG, CAREFULLY RENOVATED AND FITTED WITH AN ELECTRIC MOTOR, IS AN EXCLUSIVE ONE-OFF IS BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN THE PAST AND THE ELECTRIFIED PRESENT.

OPPOSITE TOP LEFT: 2022 BMW I4 M50 BY KITH (RIGHT) & 1972 BMW 1602 ELEKTRO (LEFT) BY RONNIE FIEG (09/2022).

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE BMW GROUP

GETTING TO WORK with Ray Trine

Silver Creek Real Estate Broker Ray Trine knows a thing or two about the HighlandsCashiers Plateau.

Ray’s passion for real estate is as undeniable as his decades of experience in the industry. Originally from Florida, Ray graduated from the University of North Florida in 1971 with a degree in accounting, and from there, he wasted no time in launching his real estate career. He went to work for Florida National Bank’s holding company and later became CFO of American Federal Savings and Loan. He worked on financing homes and commercial properties as well as building and development projects, eventually coming to find that he preferred being out in the field rather than in the office.

Seeking a respite from the heat of Atlantic Beach, a higher quality of life, and an enriching place to raise his children, Ray visited the HighlandsCashiers Plateau, where he found the idyllic natural setting and tranquility of the mountains to be exactly what he was looking for.

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TO ANYONE HE MEETS, RAY IS THE QUINTESSENTIAL “GUIDE TO THE PLATEAU,”

OFFERING PERSONAL EXPERIENCE, FASCINATING LOCAL NARRATIVES, AND ENDLESS KNOWLEDGE OF THE MOUNTAIN LIFESTYLE.

“When we came up here and realized how beautiful it was, we started looking at farm properties, and eventually, the opportunity came up to purchase the farm I have now,” Ray said. “We really wanted a place where we didn’t have to worry about locking our doors and somewhere where the kids would be able to just run free.” The decision came easily for the Trine family, who packed up their five girls, five dogs, and four cats for life in the mountains.

They bought the farm in Glenville and soon grew their family to include llamas, donkeys, cows, goats, sheep, turkeys, chickens, and two more daughters. Ray embraced the mountain lifestyle and knew that the Plateau was the perfect place to grow his real estate business. He quickly obtained his North Carolina license and went to work for one of the oldest real estate firms in the area, V.C. Smith Real Estate. Just two years later, Ray bought the firm outright and soon after became the No. 1 real estate firm in listings and sales in the Cashiers area – an accolade held for many years. As Ray recalls, he was the first brokerage on the Plateau to stay open throughout the winter months.

Retiring from V.C. Smith in 2006, Ray spent a few years enjoying life on the Plateau before deciding to put his skills to work again, this time finding his place at Silver Creek Real Estate Group in 2011. “Back then, new technologies and trends in marketing were just starting to emerge, but I saw where Jochen [Lucke; Founder/President] was taking the company and knew he was going in the right direction,” he remarked.

Ray’s active involvement in real estate on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, including sales of significant parcels of land and the development of several residential communities, effectively helped shape the area that we know today. He had his hand in developing Bald Rock, Summer Hill, Glenshore, Trillium Links and Lake Club, Bear Lake Reserve, Bridge Creek, Glen Laurel, and Glen Pointe, just to name a few. Over the 41 years that he has lived here, he has not only played a large role in shaping the area but creating everlasting relationships with those in it, and supporting our community however possible.

Raising seven daughters on the Plateau, Ray’s deep sense of family led him to active involvement in various aspects of life outside of real estate. He has served as President of the Blue Ridge School PTA, been elected to the Jackson County School

Board, and served on the Cashiers Chamber of Commerce, Friends of Lake Glenville, and many private community boards and architectural review committees.

Along with his dedicated community involvement, Ray’s expertise is bolstered by his background in accounting, property development, and real estate sales, which have provided him with unique and storied insight into the history and character of our area.

RAY’S CLIENTS CAN REST ASSURED THAT THEIR PROPERTY WILL BE SHOWN IN THE BEST LIGHT. PRIOR TO SHOWING, RAY INSPECTS HIS LISTINGS TO MAKE SURE THEY ARE IN PRISTINE CONDITION.

LEFT: READ MORE ABOUT RAY’S STUNNING MOUNTAINTOP LISTING AT 121 HARDY VIEW LANE ON PAGE 40

OPPOSITE: LEARN MORE ABOUT RAY’S UNIQUE STONEFLY LOG CABIN ESTATE AT 1090 ZEB ALLEY ROAD ON PAGE 39

To anyone he meets, Ray is the quintessential “guide to the Plateau,” offering personal experience, fascinating local narratives, and endless knowledge of the mountain lifestyle. Not only that, but his enthusiasm for this special place is nothing short of infectious. When he’s not out selling real estate, you can find Ray spending time with his daughters and 14 grandchildren and the multitude of animals on his farm, or enjoying fresh seafood and swimming with manatees in his home away from home, Homosassa, Florida.

WHAT MAJOR GOALS ARE YOU WORKING TOWARD IN 2023 AND BEYOND?

My main goal for this year is to spend more time with my family. Though I value time spent assisting my clients, at the end of the day: family means everything to me.

WHAT QUALITIES DIFFERENTIATE YOU FROM OTHER AGENTS IN OUR MARKET?

My experience and my approach to relationships with clients. I have been a real estate agent since 1971 and have been working on the Plateau since 1982 so I’ve come to know this area well. I treat each of my clients as I do my friends, and am willing to go above and beyond to help them even after our transactions have been wrapped up.

IF SOMEONE IS SPENDING ONLY A DAY ON THE PLATEAU, WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS THE #1 THING THEY SHOULD DO?

It depends on your interests, but there are plenty of options for people who want to golf, hike, eat, and drink. I’d say get outside and see the area! Visit some of the waterfalls nearby, like Silver Run Falls and Bridal Veil Falls or take the kids for a swim at Sliding Rock and, afterward, stop back by the crossroads for lunch.

IS THERE A NON-PROFIT IN THE AREA THAT YOU ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT?

I support the Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau, and in the past, I’ve devoted time to Big Brothers Big Sisters. I believe it’s important to support our local children as they’re the future.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANT ON THE PLATEAU AND WHAT MAKES IT SPECIAL.

The Orchard. Not only is their food great, but I’ve got a long history with them as well. I sold the building to the father of the current owners, and he became one of my closest friends. I also really enjoy the Library Kitchen & Bar; they’ve got great food and a unique atmosphere.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SEASON ON THE PLATEAU?

I really enjoy all of them. Although we didn’t get any snow this year, what’s great about the Plateau is that you get all four of the seasons. It’s magic waking up to a fresh blanket of white snow covering everything around, and spring is beautiful when the leaves begin to develop their color, and all the flowers start to bloom.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FESTIVAL OR SPECIAL EVENT ON THE PLATEAU?

Halloween on Main in Highlands, and the annual Christmas Parades. I love seeing everyone dressed up and having a good time. It’s events like these that bring our community together.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING THEIR SEARCH FOR A HOME ON THE PLATEAU?

Find an agent with experience not only in the industry, but in the area as well. It’s important to be a resource for local information beyond homes because the lifestyle is equally impactful to your experience wherever you live.

OUTSIDE OF THE PLATEAU, WHERE IS YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO TRAVEL?

Homosassa in Florida and the Yucatán in Mexico. I love fresh seafood and Mexican cuisine.

WHAT IS THE MOST VALUABLE THING YOU’VE LEARNED WHILE WORKING AS A BROKER?

You have to treat each of your clients as if they are your only client and be willing to go above and beyond for them.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A NEW REAL ESTATE AGENT?

Know that the market is always going to change, and be prepared for it to be slow at times, but keep networking and building relationships so that you are in a good spot when things do start to pick back up again.

TO SPEAK WITH RAY ABOUT YOUR REAL ESTATE GOALS, GIVE HIM A CALL AT 828-506-8520 OR EMAIL HIM AT RAY@NCLIVING.COM .

KENTUCKY

DERBY

Very few sporting events have as much history and tradition as the annual Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville. This year, Saturday, May 6th, marks the 149th year of the greatest two minutes in sports, where 20 three-year-old thoroughbreds will make the run for the roses. The Derby, a Grade I stakes race, is the first race of the American Triple Crown, followed by the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes, and a horse must win all three of these races to clinch the Triple Crown title. Millions flock to Louisville and their closest televisions each year, donning their fanciest hats and frostiest Mint Juleps, to watch the historic race, which, to its credit, has remained uninterrupted since its inaugural event in 1875.

The Kentucky Derby was the brainchild of Colonel Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr., grandson of the famed William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1804. Inspired by his travels abroad to England and France, home to the Epsom Derby and the Grand Prix de Paris Longchamps, respectively, Clark endeavored to bring a similar spectacle to the United States. He returned to the States and consulted with his uncles John and Henry Churchill, who then gifted him the land onto which he developed the racetrack and formally organized the Louisville Jockey Club with a group of local race fans. The club fundraised to build the permanent racetrack, and on May 17th, 1875, they sponsored the very first Kentucky Derby.

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The track was officially named Churchill Downs in 1883, and throughout its history, the Kentucky Derby has occurred each year, even during revolutionary events such as The Great Depression and both World Wars. Though the Derby and Churchill Downs have undergone various changes throughout their history, the integrity of the race has remained the same. This spectacle continues to deliver some of the most legendary equine performances of all time, such as that of Secretariat, who in 1973 won the race with the fastest time to date – 1:59.40 minutes – and later went on to secure the Triple Crown ending a 25-year drought that began in 1948. To this day, his record-setting times in all three races have yet to be broken. The most recent Triple Crown was won in 2018 by Justify.

If you aren’t going to be present at Churchill Downs this year for the 149th Kentucky Derby, make sure to tune in to the television on Saturday, May 6th with an icy Mint Julep in hand and watch the most exciting two minutes in American sports. For more information about this years race, and to place your bets, visit KentuckyDerby.com , and keep reading to learn more about some of the Kentucky Derby traditions.

DERBY TRADITIONS

As rich as its history, the Kentucky Derby is steeped in traditions that have endured the tests of time and become synonymous with the race and its home at Churchill Downs.

THE GARLAND OF ROSES

Each year, the winner of the Kentucky Derby is draped in a garland of more than 400 red roses sewn onto a green satin backing. Dubbed by New York sports columnist Bill Corum in 1925 as the “Run for the Roses,” the flowers first appeared in the race in 1896 when the winner, Ben Brush, was presented with an arrangement of white and pink roses. Later in 1904, the red rose became the official flower of the Derby, but the garland as we know it today did not emerge until 1932 - the race’s 58th running. The garland is adorned with the seal of the Commonwealth, and on the other end, the Twin Spires, and the

HORSE KICKS BY LEXINGTON NATIVE MARCUS FLOYD. COURTESY OF VISIT LEXINGTON ADAM PADGETT / CORNETT. VISITLEXINGTON.COM

number of the race’s current renewal. Symbolizing the struggle and the endurance of the heart necessary to arrive in the Derby’s Winner Circle, each garland is adorned with a “crown” of roses, green ferns, and ribbon, with one upwardpointing rose in the center of the garland. Since 1987 the Kroger Company has been crafting the prestigious garland.

THE TWIN SPIRES

A landmark known worldwide, The Twin Spires of Churchill Downs draws visitors from across the globe to the racetrack to photograph the iconic spires. Built in 1895, the spires were a concept brought forth by Joseph Dominic Baldez, a 24-year-old draftsman who was tasked with crafting the blueprints for Churchill Downs’ new grandstand. The spires were not initially included in Baldez’s drawings when designing the grandstand, but he decided that the structure needed something more, and the idea for the Twin Spires was born. The hexagonal spires epitomize 19th-century architecture, and while Baldez designed many other structures in the city, the Twin Spires stand to this day as an honor to his work and memory.

KENTUCKY OAKS

The Longines Kentucky Oaks is a Grade I stakes race held on the Friday before the Kentucky Derby, and alongside the Derby, it is another one of the oldest

sporting events in United States history. Also founded by Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr. in 1875, the Kentucky Oaks is a race for three-year-old fillies, and each winner is presented with a garland blanket of lilies, which has earned the event’s nickname “Lilies for the Fillies.” The Kentucky Oaks has become a celebration of the ladies. Attendees are asked to incorporate pink into their outfits in a show of advocacy and support for women’s health issues. At the event, a Survivors Parade is held, welcoming breast and ovarian cancer survivors to march on the historic racetrack before the running of the Kentucky Oaks, and since its inception, the Kentucky Oaks charitable initiative has raised more than a million dollars for women’s health advocacy.

There is also a Longines Kentucky Oaks Fashion Contest where those dressed in their most elegant and creative outfits compete for a luxury timepiece. The official drink of the Kentucky Oaks is the Finlandia Oaks Lily, a colorful concoction of vodka, triple sec, sweet and sour mix, and cranberry juice.

DERBY HATS

If not Mint Juleps, the extravagant and colorful hats donned by race attendees are almost always what comes to mind when people think of the Kentucky Derby. Though this trend did not really start until the 1960s when the norms

surrounding fashion began to loosen, Meriwether

Lewis Clark Jr. planted the seeds at the Kentucky Derby’s beginning. He had a vision for the events to be a high-class spectacle, like the horse races in Europe, and he recruited upper-class women to draw in his desired clientele to attend the race. Eventually, this became an opportunity for people to show off the latest in spring style, and women

the featured milliner of the 149th Kentucky Derby. Pfanenstiel is a world-renowned milliner who embraces traditional millinery techniques, an art that dates back centuries, and if you visit Churchill Downs, you can view her permanent hat display.

THE WINNERS CIRCLE

When the races first started in 1875, the winners of The Run for the Roses would be led to a chalk dust circle on the racetrack where the winner’s presentation would take place. This practice continued until 1930, when officials moved the presentation to an area adjoining Churchill Downs Clubhouse, and come 1938, there was finally an official presentation stand where each subsequent Kentucky Derby winner would be honored. This new stand featured an electric odds board, and in 1944 the winner’s circle was introduced to a meticulously landscaped horseshoe floral arrangement that still stands as the backdrop for the winning horse to be photographed. The winner of the Kentucky Derby receives a 14-karat gold trophy, and since 1975 New England Sterling in North Attleboro, MA, has been crafting the winner’s piece. The trophy is topped by an 18-karat gold horse and rider; it has horseshoe-shaped handles and an exquisite jade base. This is believed to be the only solid gold trophy awarded to the annual winner of an American sporting event.

THE MINT JULEP

While the Mint Julep became the Kentucky Derby’s official drink in 1939, it is likely that racegoers have been drinking the refreshing cocktail since the dawn of the Derby. Dating to the early 1800s,

coordinated their hats, dresses, bags, shoes, and parasols specifically for the event. Over time the Derby became just as much about fashion as it did about horse racing, and when technology advanced, and televisions emerged, the outfits, and especially the hats, became even more extravagant. This year

Louisville-based Master Milliner Jenny Pfanenstiel is

juleps have long been a staple of sophisticated society below the Mason-Dixon Line. Even before then, its origins lie in Persia’s ancient Sasanian Empire, somewhere around 224-651 AD. What started as a rosewater bath enjoyed by nobility called gulab (Persian for “rose water”) became an elixir of health for many who opted to drink it straight or incorporate it into other dishes. In the 9th century, it was prescribed as a medicine for shortness of breath and stomach ailments, and it eventually reached India through trade, where it was refined as an oil and became highly regarded in the Egyptian, Roman, and Byzantine Empires for its medicinal purposes and skin care

julep fans and Kentucky’s plentiful corn crops and limestone water made the state a thriving producer of bourbon, which continued to grow in popularity and price. Some of the earliest ties between Kentucky’s staples of racing and juleps date back to the 1820s when sterling silver julep cups were awarded to winning jockeys. The drink even gained the likes of Henry Clay, Kentucky’s senator, who introduced it to the nation’s capital in 1850.

In 1938, Churchill Downs noticed that patrons were absconding with their decorated water glasses as souvenirs, and rather than crack down on this trend, they embraced it. Julep collector cups emerged the following year, as did the event’s embrace of the mint julep as their official drink. According to Churchill Downs, nearly 120,000 mint juleps are served yearly over the two-day period that hosts the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby. The weekend breezes bye with the use of over 10,000 bottles of Old Forester Mint Julep Readyto-Serve Cocktail, 1,000 pounds of freshly harvested mint, and 60,000 pounds of ice.

Want a taste of this Derby tradition at home? Try the official Old Forester Mint Julep recipe below.

benefits. Once it reached the Mediterranean, where mint grew in abundance, the popular leafy green replaced rose petals, and the name gulab transformed into the Arabic julab and Latin julapium . The beverage found its way to America in the 18th century, where the concoction of rum or brandy, honey, and muddled mint stuck around as a preventative medicine and an earlymorning energizer for hard-working farmers. As the applications of the julep continued to evolve, it found itself among high-society drinkers who could afford the luxury of ice and silver stemware.

By the early 1800s, bourbon had replaced brandy and rum as the spirit of choice among mint

THE OLD FORESTER MINT JULEP RECIPE

• 2 oz. Old Forester 86 Proof

• 0.75 oz. Simple Syrup

• 8 10 mint leaves

• 3 mint sprigs, for garnish

Pack mint julep cup with crushed ice. In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, syrup, and mint leaves. Lightly bruise mint leaves with a muddler, strain contents into julep cup. Garnish with 3 generous sprigs of mint. *Make sure to slap mint. Make sure to insert straw into ice near mint. Learn more at KentuckyDerby.com . Recipe from OldForester.com

JOCHEN LUCKE PRESIDENT/BROKER

828-226-1126

JLUCKE@NCLIVING.COM

JOCHENLUCKE.NCLIVING.COM

With a bold entrepreneurial spirit and a firm belief that real estate is in his blood, Jochen Lucke has spent over two decades building his reputation as a skilled Realtor, broker, contractor, and developer — first in Southeast Florida and now on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau.

His love of the mountains, paired with his love of family and community, brought Jochen to Western North Carolina. The decision to leave the sweltering heat and stressful environment of Fort

JOCHEN INSPIRES

Lauderdale for the cool, clean air and laid-back atmosphere of Cashiers was an easy one. Since making the move, he has become deeply involved in the community. He is also a member of the Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO). Jochen and his wife, Adrienne, are members of The Country Club of Sapphire Valley and The Chattooga Club. He is partnered with Haute Residence, an invitationonly luxury real estate portal. When he’s not hard at work at the Silver Creek Real Estate Group offices, Jochen can be found on the golf course or croquet lawn or dining in one of the area’s fine restaurants.

Jochen is devoted to the Silver Creek credo of “Building Relationships, Delivering Dreams.” Whether you are looking for your vacation home, your primary residence, or your dream estate, Jochen and his team of brokers are committed to finding the ideal property to fit your vision. Jochen has a firm grasp of the local real estate market while always keeping an eye on national trends. He has an innate understanding of the practice of purchasing and selling properties, both as a broker and a developer. He attributes much of his success to his tenacity and has negotiated and closed many deals from which others might have walked away. Jochen truly enjoys real estate and development and finds great rewards in the accomplishment of finding the perfect home for his clients.

DR LANI AND NORM KASS

CONFIDENCE AND DELIVERS QUICK RESULTS. HE DOESN’T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF AND MAKES SURE YOU DON’T EITHER. HE IMMEDIATELY INSPIRES TRUST AND CONFIDENCE AND THEN GOES ABOVE YOUR HIGHEST EXPECTATIONS. PEERLESS!

DAN ALLEN BROKER, CERTIFIED LUXURY HOME MARKETING SPECIALIST GUILD™

828-508-2107

DAN@NCLIVING.COM

DANALLEN.NCLIVING.COM

A member of the Silver Creek team since its beginnings, Dan has built a solid reputation as a skilled real estate professional and a consistent top producer. His dedication, knowledge of the area and market trends, and his strong work ethic make him the ideal broker choice for buyers and sellers alike to achieve their real estate goals. He possesses an innate understanding of what draws families to the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau - just as he was after many summertime visits with family as a child.

In 1994, Dan was able to realize his lifelong dream when he set down roots on a mountaintop farm near Cashiers. Over the ensuing years he has been deeply involved in his community. As an advocate for animals and the environment, he previously served on the board of the CashiersHighlands Humane Society and the JacksonMacon Conservation Alliance, and has supported the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust, American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and the Nature Conservancy, as well as local first responder organizations and Big Brothers Big Sisters. Always seeking new ways to better himself in the industry he loves, Dan is a member of the North Carolina Board of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors and recently

retired from serving on the Highlands-Cashiers Board of Realtors. He brings nearly three decades of experience with local builders, designers, contractors, lawyers, fellow brokers, and business owners together for a seamless real estate experience. He brings a fresh approach and genuine enthusiasm about our area to each new client he serves. His positive, straight-shooting perspective, vast local knowledge, honesty, integrity, and authentic interest in his clients’ satisfaction make him an invaluable listing and buying partner.

When Dan is not helping other families realize their dreams of living in NC’s Blue Ridge Mountains, he spends much of his time with his own family, friends, and two rescue dogs, and can be found enjoying a relaxing day at the lake, hiking, or biking local trails, gardening, foraging, or cultivating his farm. Dan is a respected member of the Plateau community and a welcome member of the Silver Creek Real Estate Group team.

DAN IS A GREAT REALTOR

AS WELL AS AN UPSTANDING MEMBER OF THE COMMUNITY... HE HAS A THOROUGH KNOWLEDGE OF EVERYTHING REAL ESTATE, IS A GOOD LISTENER AND WELL AS COMMUNICATOR... USING DAN ALLEN AS AN AGENT IS ABSOLUTELY THE BEST CHOICE.

DENISA P.

PARKER ANDERSON

BROKER

828-200-2695

PARKER@NCLIVING.COM

PARKERANDERSON.NCLIVING.COM

Hailing from Northwest Georgia, Parker is a third-generation Realtor who is passionate about creating bonds with his clients. He spent six years focusing on and helping to grow the booming residential market in New Orleans before relocating to Cashiers. Parker is extremely steadfast in assisting and representing both buyers and sellers with any of their real estate needs throughout the HighlandsCashiers Plateau.

As a Realtor in the North Carolina mountains, Parker is able to combine his passion for real estate with his love of the outdoors, fine dining, and community involvement. He is no stranger to the mountains, as he was a frequent visitor to Southern Appalachia throughout his childhood and lived in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, for a period of his adult life. Parker’s wife, Caroline, was both a camper and counselor at Camp Merrie-Woode in Sapphire for 13 summers. This, along with a family home for 10 years in Cashiers, is what led them to the Plateau for many extended trips and holidays. They married at High Hampton in May 2017 and decided to leave the Crescent City to make Cashiers their permanent home in 2019. Parker and Caroline welcomed their first child in February 2021 and are looking forward to raising their family in the mountains.

Parker is committed to community involvement, from attending Church of the Good Shepherd to serving on his HOA board to volunteering at the Village Green and serving on the board of the Cashiers Historical Society. Outside of the office, you can also find him hiking the many mountains in our area, reading a book, or spending time enjoying this lovely place called home with Caroline, his son Michael “Reeves,” and their golden retrievers, Jane and Winnie.

PARKER IS A JOY TO WORK WITH. HE IS RESPONSIVE, CALM, PROFESSIONAL, EFFICIENT AND PATIENT.... I HAVE HAD EXPERIENCE WITH DOZENS OF GOOD AGENTS OVER THE YEARS, AND PARKER IS WITHOUT DOUBT

THE VERY BEST. I WOULD RECOMMEND HIM WITHOUT RESERVATION.

DOT MOYER

JULIA TATUM BANNER BROKER

828-556-7745

JULIA@NCLIVING.COM

JULIABANNER.NCLIVING.COM

Helping clients find a little taste of home comes easily for Julia Tatum Banner.

Born and raised in Oxford, Mississippi where generational roots run deep, Julia’s love of all things reminiscent of “home,” was sparked by visits to her grandmother’s national landmark home, Ammadelle. From family meals and heirlooms shared to architectural endeavors, her family left its mark on Oxford. Her grandfather even built the city’s golf course, now the local park, and employed his five sons to make sure every golfer had a caddy for their game.

After receiving her Fine Arts degree with an emphasis in graphic design from the University of Mississippi in 2014, Julia went on to purchase Delta Grind, a familyowned business, in 2016. Her creative spirit found immense satisfaction in watching something hand-crafted turn into a beautiful final product - no matter the medium. Since taking over Delta Grind, Julia has successfully reshaped the business model and continues to grow the company with the construction of a new commercial facility. You

will find Julia and her grits featured in magazines such as Garden & Gun and Southern Living.

Today, Julia and her husband Mac reside in Lake Toxaway where they run a successful construction company focusing on residential and commercial projects. They have found that the golf communities, friendly atmosphere, and breathtaking views make it easy to find a taste of home in the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau.

From building lasting relationships to providing an unforgettable home-buying experience, Julia understands the intricacies of delivering on the dreams of her clients. When she’s not working, Julia enjoys reading, gardening, entertaining with friends and exploring the local lakes and hiking trails with their two Great Danes, Grace, and George, and blue heeler, Gus.

JULIA BANNER HELPED US SELL SOME LAND IN LAKE TOXAWAY AND IT WAS A GREAT EXPERIENCE. THE PICTURES THAT WERE TAKEN WERE BREATHTAKING! SHE WAS ABLE TO GET US AN EXTREMELY GOOD OFFER... IF WE EVER HAVE ANY LAND IN HER AREA AGAIN, SHE WILL BE THE PERSON I WILL CALL! THANK YOU, JULIA!

STEPHANIE HERNANDEZ

CHRIS DUFFY BROKER

828-526-6763

DUFFY@NCLIVING.COM

CHRISDUFFY.NCLIVING.COM

Chris was born in Germany and grew up in Washington, D.C. After studying at Georgia Tech and graduating from the University of Maryland, Chris moved to Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, where he lived for 22 years. In Canada, Chris worked as an on-air talent on numerous radio stations. He moved to Highlands in 2017 to take the job at WHLC. “I moved to the mountains to become the voice of Highlands, little did I know how much the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau would speak to me.”

An avid cook, Chris attended Le Cordon Bleu, receiving a Certificat de Traiteur, and loves sampling all the culinary delights the HighlandsCashiers area has to offer. Chris quickly fell in love with the Plateau and decided he wanted to help other people enjoy our beautiful nature and live in our truly unique and amazing community. While he’s no longer on the air, Chris still gets behind the mic as the in-game P.A. announcer for Highlands High School Basketball.

Denizens and regular visitors of the HighlandsCashiers Plateau recognize Chris’ voice the second they speak with him. That’s not surprising, as Chris was the voice of the Plateau for a number of years as the morning show host on WHLC FM 104.5. Once you meet Chris, you’ll certainly never miss him again, as his 6’9 stature literally makes him stand above the crowd.

IT WAS A PLEASURE WORKING WITH YOU TO SELL OUR PROPERTY. THE LISTING ITSELF WAS BRILLIANTLY MARKETED - ALMOST WANTED TO KEEP IT OURSELVES!! SOLD WITHIN A VERY SHORT TIME AND CLOSED ON THE DATE CHOSEN. GOOD COMMUNICATION AND EXCELLENT ATTORNEY REFERRAL! THANK YOU!

CONNIE & GREG

DEBBY HALL

BROKER

828-526-6763

DEBBY@NCLIVING.COM

DEBBYHALL.NCLIVING.COM

For more than three decades, she has been a successful, Atlanta-based interior designer and entrepreneur, with clients across the Southeastern U.S. Debby’s work was featured for three consecutive years at both the Atlanta Symphony Showhouse and Christmas at Callanwolde events.

Silver Creek Real Estate Group’s motto, “Building Relationships, Delivering Dreams,” aligns with Debby’s philosophy. Through years of experience, she gained the ability to listen closely and understand clients’ wants and needs, and then match them to a home that fits. Debby often scouted potential homes with her clients in Atlanta, Highlands, on Lake Keowee, and on Daufuskie Island. Her keen eye and expertise in space planning and design led to her decision to shift to the real estate profession, which allows her to help sellers position their home for the highest sale and walk buyers through spaces and point out opportunities that most do not see. Debby envisions the simple changes that can convert a house into the dream home her clients are seeking. Whether for a high-end custom or speculative home, she also collaborated with architects during the planning stages, and with builders on construction and interiors.

After living part-time in Highlands for more than 15 years, Debby permanently relocated to the area and began working as a real estate professional. She is based at Silver Creek’s office in downtown Highlands.

Debby holds a bachelor of science degree in interior design from the University of Tennessee as well as real estate licenses in North Carolina and Georgia. She has served as a volunteer for the Special Olympics and as treasurer for her homeowner association’s board of directors. She has also been active in various neighborhood associations, volunteering on the architectural control and landscape committees.

When she’s not working, Debby enjoys gardening and other creative outlets. She cherishes time with her son and family in Knoxville, Tennessee as well as with friends—whether two-legged or four. She can be seen with her rescue dog, Gracie, walking the trails and around town. A lifelong lover of architecture and homes, she also enjoys cooking in her “laboratory,” using her friends as guinea pigs for her creations. She even cooks meals for Gracie.

Debby Hall is used to finding and creating dream homes for clients.

...DEBBY AND THE SILVER CREEK TEAM TOOK THE REIGNS AND NAVIGATED US THROUGH THE INTRICACIES OF OUR UNIQUE PURCHASING EXPERIENCE.

WITHOUT THEM, WE WOULD HAVE BEEN LOST AND COULD HAVE POTENTIALLY LOST THE DEAL.

LISHA AND SHAWN DESANTIS

RICK JACKSON BROKER

404-275-7617

RICK@NCLIVING.COM

RICKJACKSON.NCLIVING.COM

RICK LISTED

OUR LAKE

The Lake Toxaway, Cashiers, and Sapphire Valley areas have always been a huge draw for Rick and his family. Since the mid-90s, Rick and his family knew that one day they would like to own a second home where they could escape the heat and bustle of Atlanta.

In 2008, they purchased a home on Lake Glenville where Rick, his wife, and three children — along with countless friends — have enjoyed the cool summers, beautiful fall colors, and the occasional snow during the holidays.

Rick obtained his Georgia real estate license in 1998. He worked at a commercial real estate firm, specializing in residential development land in both suburban and in-town land tracts. In 2002, Rick started purchasing his own investment property in the Atlanta area. His interests in real estate lead him into the Cashiers and Sapphire Valley market, and he obtained his North Carolina Real Estate License in 2014.

When Rick is not busy selling real estate, he can be found outdoors playing golf, boating on Lake Glenville, or enjoying a motorcycle ride. He remains an active member at First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta, where he has taught Sunday School to four-year-olds for the last 21 years. He enjoys his commitments to his communities and has participated on several boards both in Atlanta and in NC.

GLENVILLE HOME AND WITHIN DAYS HAD MULTIPLE CASH OFFERS, WHICH TURNED INTO A BIDDING WAR. RICK’S PROFESSIONAL GUIDANCE AND CONSTANT COMMUNICATION PROVIDED US A SMOOTH PROCESS DURING THE TRANSACTION. HAVING AN AGENT THAT LIVES ON THE LAKE AS WELL HAS HAVING AN OFFICE ON THE LAKE PROVED TO BE INVALUABLE...

CHRIS AND MARY LYNN D.

Philanthropic support is very important to Rick and his wife Lisa. Areas of specific interest include the University of Tennessee baseball program, the Auburn University baseball program, Camp Merrie-Woode, Friends of Lake Glenville, CashiersGlenville Volunteer Fire Department, Annandale Village of Suwanee, GA, the Chautauqua Institution in NY, and First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta.

BAMBI FAMOUS KAINE

BROKER, CERTIFIED LUXURY HOME MARKETING SPECIALIST GUILD™

828-200-4040

BAMBI@NCLIVING.COM

BAMBIKAINE.NCLIVING.COM

Raised in the suburbs of Philadelphia with her five siblings, Bambi spent her childhood years as an outdoor, sports, and animal enthusiast. Creating family memories at their lake home in the Poconos left an indelible impression on Bambi. Fulfilling a lifelong dream of returning to the mountains, destiny led Bambi and her husband Jeff to the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau where they own a contemporary home in Sapphire.

Complementing her nurturing personality, Bambi pursued a nursing degree at Villanova University. Upon accomplishing extensive clinical and nursing management expertise in the Tri-State area, Bambi was recruited to the pharmaceutical industry. She relocated her family to Sarasota, Florida, where she excelled as an executive sales consultant with both Merck and Novartis. Inspired by several family members in real estate, Bambi obtained and has held her Florida license with one of the Leading Real Estate Companies of the World since 2007. Drawing from over a decade of experience in real estate, coupled with longstanding pharmaceutical sales, Bambi has built a reputation for her enthusiasm, integrity, and caring nature which is an asset for matching clients’ desires. It’s no surprise that she promptly became a reputable owner and property manager of luxury rentals in Sarasota.

Bambi is a dedicated community member who fosters philanthropic endeavors. She established a 501(c)3 scholarship and mentoring program for high school students in Florida. Her genuine love for children and young adults continues to shine on the Plateau, where she serves on the Board of Directors with The Boys and Girls Club of the Plateau and volunteers with Girls on the Run of WNC. Bambi also serves the community through her position on the membership committee at the Country Club of Sapphire Valley.

Having lived in Pennsylvania, Florida, and now North Carolina, Bambi understands the experience

of buying and selling homes and the benefits of mountain living. So, when not fulfilling the dreams of her clients, she may be visiting her son, Dane, and his new wife, Pamela, or spending time with Jeff and their friends at the Country Club of Sapphire Valley.

BAMBI FAMOUS KAINE RECENTLY SOLD MY HOME. FROM THE INITIAL MEETING THROUGH THE CLOSING, I FOUND HER TO BE ATTENTIVE, HONEST, DETAILORIENTED, AND KNOWLEDGEABLE.

IT WAS EVIDENT SHE UNDERSTANDS THE SAPPHIRE AREA MARKET AND HOW BEST TO SHOW YOUR HOME...

C.S.

KEVIN KOACH BROKER

828-556-9545

KEVIN@NCLIVING.COM

KEVINKOACH.NCLIVING.COM

multiple companies engaged in the oil and gas industry in North Dakota. It was there in North Dakota that Kevin was introduced by mutual friends to his wife Lindsey, and they were married in June 2019 in Charleston, SC. After enduring numerous long and frigid winters, the allure of his boyhood summer home proved too strong and they moved permanently to the Highlands-Cashiers area a few months later.

When not advocating for the Plateau lifestyle with his clients, Kevin is an avid outdoorsman and can be found hiking with his beautiful wife, playing a round of golf or tennis, and enjoying phenomenal food at one of the area’s local restaurants. Kevin is also a member of the Trillium Links & Lake Club and enjoys playing with the Men’s Tennis group and has recently begun dabbling in the increasingly popular sport of croquet. Kevin’s wife, Lindsey, recently completed her Doctorate of Nursing Practice and serves the community as a Family Nurse Practitioner – DNP, APRN, FNP-C.

Born and raised in Sarasota, Florida, Kevin was fortunate enough that his family had escaped the heat and humidity of Southwest Florida summers and vacationed in the cool mountain air of Western North Carolina. Spending time in the Highlands-Cashiers area since he was a young boy led to a genuine appreciation for the miles of hiking trails, pristine lakes, majestic waterfalls, and awe-inspiring vistas, all of which add to the allure of the Plateau landscape.

After graduating from Clemson University, Kevin headed out West for the open plains of North Dakota where he spent the next six and a half years developing and managing

KEVIN KOACH

IS A VERY PROFESSIONAL, RELIABLE AND TRUSTWORTHY REAL ESTATE AGENT WHO WENT ABOVE AND BEYOND TO FIND MY DREAM HOME AND ASSIST IN THE CLOSING WHICH WAS A LITTLE DIFFICULT ESPECIALLY BEING FROM OUT OF STATE...

STACY KOSCINSKI

828-421-8196

EDDY@NCLIVING.COM

EDDYMCDONALD.NCLIVING.COM

Eddy McDonald’s lifelong passion and talent for golf led him to a career as a PGA professional. After relocating from Destin, FL, for a position at Highlands Falls Country Club in 1995, Eddy fell in love with the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau and knew he’d found home.

Looking to follow his interest in development, Eddy embarked on his real estate career at Highlands Cove (now Old Edwards Club at Highlands Cove), where he spent 13 years helping it to grow from its first home into the community it is today. Eddy’s knowledge of the area and passion for building relationships with his buyers and sellers have been major factors in his success. He believes in going above and beyond to assist his real estate clients, providing them with a superior level of service and the resources to make informed decisions.

EDDY IS A FABULOUS REALTOR. HE HAS BEEN RESPONSIBLE FOR OUR RENTAL HOME FOR THE LAST YEAR AND HAS INCREASED OUR RENTALS BY 200%! HE KNOWS MARKETING AND INTERNET ADVERTISING. WE CAN COUNT ON HIM FOR INSTANT ACTION WHEN EMERGENCIES HAPPEN AND FOR SUPERB SOCIAL SKILLS IN DIFFICULT SITUATIONS... IN SUMMARY, HE HAS WHAT IT TAKES TO MAKE AN EXCELLENT AGENT FRIENDLY AND SMART, A STRONG WORK ETHIC, AND SALESMANSHIP.

JOE AND MARY SERDULA

Eddy enjoys spending time with his young daughter, Sara. They can be found on the golf course, on hiking trails, or simply out exploring the natural beauty of the Highlands-Cashiers area.

JODI MOORE

BROKER

828-482-2525

JODI@NCLIVING.COM

JODIMOORE.NCLIVING.COM THE MONTELEONE’S HAVE BOUGHT MANY HOMES IN OUR 56 YEARS OF MARRIAGE! BUT, WITHOUT A SHADOW OF A DOUBT, JODI MOORE IS THE BEST REALTOR WE HAVE EVER HAD. NOT ONLY IS SHE VERY KNOWLEDGEABLE BUT VERY PROFESSIONAL WITH A VERY SWEET SIDE OF HER. SHE DEFINITELY HAS YOUR BEST INTERESTS AT HEART. SINCE WE ARE VERY CONTENT WITH OUR HOME CHOICE, JODI IS NOW A VERY DEAR AND WONDERFUL FRIEND.

PATTY AND BIMMER MONTELEONE

Jodi Moore began her real estate career in Palm Beach County, FL in 1999 with Prudential Florida WCI Realty, where she was an award-winning residential agent beginning with her first year. Prior to working in real estate, she was the vice president of sales and marketing for a consumer product company for nine years, during which time the company’s sales grew by nearly 400% and was acquired in a highly successful buyout. She and her family became full-time residents of Cashiers, NC, in 2008 after visiting the area and falling in love with the mountain lifestyle. Jodi’s strengths lie in her sales and marketing skills and the ability to work with a diverse group of people, as well as in her passion for real estate. Her many years of sales, marketing, and intuitive personal relations have helped bring buyers and sellers together successfully time and time again.

Born and raised in a military family, Cassie Neal has lived in many beautiful places over the years - from Florida to Alaska - but Western North Carolina is her favorite place to be.

Cassie has been part of the local real estate business for over 21 years, starting her career at Village Realty in 2000. She has extensive knowledge of marketing, technology, and the greater Sapphire and Cashiers market and has earned a reputation among agents as someone who is hardworking and extremely competent. Her sense of responsibility to her clients and attention to detail make her an asset to anyone looking to buy or sell property in the area.

Cassie is an active member of the HighlandsCashiers Board of Realtors and has previously served as a director on the MLS Board and the

Technology Committee. Her National Association of Realtors Short-Sales and Foreclosure Resource Certification has proven to be beneficial in the many short-sale, foreclosure, and REO transactions she has closed over the years.

When Cassie isn't working with clients, she enjoys spending time with her family. Cassie, Jeremy, and their two children, Cadence and Jalen, can often be found hiking around Lake Fairfield with their fur babies Buddy, a black lab & Turbo, a terrier/ Yorkie mix. The family kitties, Myla, Kuna, and Blackjack, stay behind and hold down the fort while they are away. Cassie also enjoys gardening, camping, bowling, traveling, concerts, and of course, shopping! Her down-to-earth personality, perseverance, and willingness to go the extra mile make her a great addition to Silver Creek Real Estate Group.

WE’VE BOUGHT AND SOLD OVER TEN PROPERTIES THROUGH THE YEARS, SO WE CAN SAY WITH GREAT CONFIDENCE THAT CASSIE NEAL IS BY FAR ONE OF THE MOST EFFECTIVE REALTORS WE’VE EVER HAD THE PLEASURE OF DEALING WITH!

HER KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE PRODUCED A QUALIFIED BUYER WITHIN DAYS!

ANDREW & SUSIE CLARK

KATIE NICHOLSON BROKER

828-399-1824

KATIE@NCLIVING.COM

KATIENICHOLSON.NCLIVING.COM

Raised in Dublin, GA, Katie Adams Nicholson graduated from college and moved to Atlanta in 2000. During her seven years at a real estate investment and management company there, she worked in the acquisitions department, seeking retail and commercial facilities in New York, Boston, San Francisco, and Atlanta.

After hearing about the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau for years while living in Atlanta, she took a leap of faith and moved in 2008 to work on a mixed-use project in downtown Cashiers. Although the project never came to fruition, Katie had fallen in love with the area and never left.  Katie met her husband, a local general contractor who was born and raised in the area, in 2009. She spent the next 10 years working at the Chinquapin management office and was hands-on with the development and growth of the community, becoming a top-selling agent with a focus on land and new home build packages. With a passion for the outdoors and the mountain lifestyle, Katie loves helping clients find their perfect fit.  Katie attributes her success to working closely with clients throughout the entire process, from learning about the area to finding their ultimate home, as well as handling the sale or construction of it.

Katie spends her free time hiking with friends and her dog, Bella.

KATIE ADAMS

NICHOLSON AT SILVER CREEK REALTY WAS SUPER HELPFUL WITH ANY OF OUR QUESTIONS

AND SHE WAS VERY TIMELY WITH ALL HER RESPONSES. SHE WENT ABOVE AND BEYOND TO HELP SINCE WE WERE NOT IN THE AREA. SHE HANDLED EVERYTHING FOR US.

CHRIS AND MARY LYNN D.

LINDA PRIDGEN

BROKER

828-507-3206

LINDA@NCLIVING.COM

LINDAPRIDGEN.NCLIVING.COM

Born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and raised in West Palm Beach, Florida, Linda Pridgen and her family enjoyed cool summers in the Cashiers area. After graduating from college and spending 15 years as a schoolteacher, she decided to live on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau full-time.

Linda managed The Chattooga Club for two decades and was also the on-site real estate broker, focusing on The Chattooga Club and Wade Hampton Golf Club. Her extensive knowledge of luxury properties in both of these communities, as well as High Hampton, make her a natural fit for Silver Creek Real Estate Group.

Linda enjoys reading and playing tennis and croquet. She is a Board member of the Friends of the Library, on the Vestry Board of The Church of the Good Shepherd, and participates in many charity events in the community.

WE HAD A WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE IN PURCHASING OUR HOME AT CHATTOOGA. LINDA PRIDGEN REPRESENTED BOTH SIDES OF THE TRANSACTION AND HANDLED DELICATE MATTERS WITH GRACE AND TENACITY, MAKING OUR ENTRANCE INTO THE CASHIERS COMMUNITY TROUBLE FREE. WE ARE PLEASED TO BE HERE AND TO HAVE LINDA AS A FRIEND.

BOB AND ELIZABETH

CHUCK

SELF BROKER, CERTIFIED LUXURY HOME MARKETING SPECIALIST GUILD™

828-734-7302

CHUCK@NCLIVING.COM

CHUCKSELF.NCLIVING.COM

In search of mild temperatures and a place to unwind, Chuck Self made his first visit to the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau more than 20 years ago on a summer getaway with his family. During that short visit, Chuck realized that Western North Carolina was where he wanted to be. The desire for the mountain lifestyle led him to search for property in the area for several years until he found the perfect piece of land on which to build a dream home.

Intended to be a second residence until Chuck’s retirement, the home soon took precedence; the lure of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains inspired him to say “goodbye” to the intense pace, traffic, and heat of Atlanta when construction was completed. And so, the simplicity and splendor of full-time mountain living began.

A native of Kansas City, Missouri, Chuck enjoyed a successful sales career in the television and entertainment industry, experiencing multiple relocations and finishing as vice president of sales for Raycom Sports in Charlotte and Warner Brothers Television in Atlanta, before parlaying his corporate experience and skills into real estate more than a decade ago. A University of Missouri alumnus, Chuck is perennially one of the top real estate brokers on the Plateau.

When he’s not helping clients, Chuck enjoys hiking, golfing, fitness activities, cooking, reading, and boating on Lake Glenville. He is an active contributor to the Cashiers community, having previously served in board positions with the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina, and the Highlands-Cashiers Board of Realtors. Currently, Chuck serves on the board of the Blue Ridge School Education Foundation. He is an active member of Mountaintop Golf and Lake Club and the club at Lonesome Valley.

He looks forward to mountain visits from his daughter in Atlanta and his son, daughter-in-law, and two grandsons in Nashville.

CHUCK WAS GREAT TO WORK WITH. AS I LIVE A LONG DISTANCE FROM THE PROPERTY, I NEEDED A REALTOR WHO WAS RELIABLE AND DEPENDABLE. CHUCK TOOK CARE OF EVERY DETAIL, FROM SETTING AN APPROPRIATE PRICE TO LISTING, SHOWING, AND CLOSING. HE WAS EASY TO REACH ANYTIME. I WOULD RECOMMEND HIM TO ANYONE.

MIKE AND CARRIE RYAHL, MYRTLE BEACH, SC

North Carolina native Ken Taft joined Silver Creek Real Estate Group in November 2021 as the first Broker-In-Charge of the company’s Highlands office. He brings to Silver Creek a solid background in real estate, corporate management, leadership, and quality customer service.

Before settling in Highlands, Ken lived most of his life in Charlotte, where he began his real estate career. After migrating to the HighlandsCashiers Plateau in 2013, he built upon his real estate success by growing his loyal client base, deepening his knowledge of the Plateau, serving in a leadership role at a firm, and helping expand its market reach.

Before real estate, Ken worked in the corporate sector, first with a frozen food distributor, eventually serving as General Manager of the Carolinas after 16 years. Next, he managed customer service and communications at American Studios, which was acquired by P.C.A. International, where Ken added warehousing, shipping and receiving, and facilities to his areas of responsibility. Ken is an alumnus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he earned a dual degree in business administration and management.

Ken’s service to the Plateau community is extensive. He is a past president of the Highlands-Cashiers Board of Realtors, and previously served on the Highlands Playhouse Board of Directors and the Highlands Food and Wine Committee. Currently, Ken serves on the board of the Sherwood Forest Homeowners Association.

KEN TAFT BROKER

828-200-1464

KEN@NCLIVING.COM

KENTAFT.NCLIVING.COM

When he’s not working, Ken spends time with his three champion Portuguese Water Dogs and a new puppy in training. He participates in water sports competitions with his dogs and is active in the Movers and Shakers Portuguese Water Dog Club and the Portuguese Water Dog Club of America. He also enjoys hiking and biking on the Plateau.

I AM ENJOYING WELCOMING CLIENTS AND VISITORS TO MAIN STREET HIGHLANDS AND BEING A PART OF THE INCREDIBLE MOMENTUM OF THE SILVER CREEK TEAM.

KEN TAFT

Lisboa

NO LONGER CONTENT TO BE OUTSHONE BY OTHER EUROPEAN CITIES, PORTUGAL’S SEDUCTIVE CAPITAL IS BECKONING VISITORS

One of the world’s oldest cities, Lisbon captures the imagination in a way unlike some of its more glamorous European peers such as Rome and Paris.

Lying just off the Atlantic coast on the Iberian Peninsula, Lisbon’s location makes it unique among its counterparts on the continent. The Portuguese capital predates most major European cities by centuries, and has seen a revival in recent years.

“Lisbon is a monumental city, blessed with a feeling of measured serenity that became a melting pot for new restaurants, new concept stores and with a vibrant cosmopolitan life,” says Kika Coutinho, concierge and assistant guest service manager at Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon. “Underneath

word S by S arah ramirez

the brightly tiled exteriors of its traditional azulejos façade is a city bursting with the energy of youth.”

“Cool breezes from the Atlantic protect Lisbon from the blistering summer heat of other southern European destinations, but this proximity to the sea brings other advantages — a trip to the beach is no more than half an hour from the center of the city,” she says.

“From the luscious hilltop retreats, water sports, to the more traditional seafood restaurants and local appeal of Cascais, city life transforms into seaside idling with impeccable ease.”

A few days is all it takes for a traveler to get a taste of everything that Lisbon has to offer, from museums and monasteries to one’s fill of wine, cheese, seafood and pastries.

The best way to explore Lisbon’s tiled cityscape, cozy streets and seven hills is by foot. Old-fashioned yellow trams offer a colorful alternative to visiting the city’s most historic sections as well.

“There is so much to do, you will have no trouble filling your day with remarkable experiences,” says Sunil Metcalfe, sales director at luxury tour operator Black Tomato.

SHOPPING

Meaning “royal prince,” Príncipe Real is one of Lisbon’s most fashionable neighborhoods. Start your visit with a stop at Portuguese department store Embaixada, located in a converted 20thcentury neo-Arabian palace. Príncipe Real is also a gold mine for antiquing.

The neighborhoods near Lisbon’s docks and marinas have been reinvigorated in recent years, with LX Factory as one of the area’s standouts. The historic industrial complex is host to more than 50 hip shops, restaurants, coffee shops and bars. Visit on Sundays for market day, with vintage shopping and food stands.

Luxury shoppers descend on the Avenida da Liberdade in the heart of Lisbon. Known to locals as the Avenida, this monument-lined boulevard is home to Louis Vuitton, Bulgari, Dior, Cartier, Versace, Van Cleef & Arpels, Prada and Gucci.

Equally upscale shopping, including Boss and Swarovski, awaits on

Rua Garrett in the Chiado neighborhood. The retail street also has historic landmarks, including Livraria Bertrand, a bookshop opened in 1732. Sip on tea or coffee while reading your new book at the shop’s own café.

DAY TRIPPING

Portugal has plenty to offer outside Lisbon as well, with unique destinations for day trips or even overnight stays.

“Guests can swap a day in the city for a tailored trip into the countryside to discover Sintra’s fairytale magic and Cascais’ beach-chic surrounds, linked by Europe’s westernmost point,” Four Seasons’ Ms. Coutinho says.

“Head to Alentejo for cheese and wine tastings in the beautiful landscape of this region and Arrábida for a full wine experience at José Maria da Fonseca,” she says.

TAKE IN 360 VIEWS OF LISBON FROM TIVOLI AVENIDA LIBERDADE’S SEEN LISBOA BY OLIVIER DA COSTA. RICHARD WAITE / TIVOLI AVENIDA LIBERDADE LISBOA HOTEL.

Black Tomato’s Mr. Metcalfe also recommends Cascais for its oldfashioned Riviera vibes, its quaintness contrasted by the lavish hillside palaces of Sintra.

South of Lisbon is Comporta, a stylish resort destination that is as exclusive as the Hamptons or Nantucket in the northeast United States. The region’s famous residents include Christian Louboutin and French power couple Nicolas Sarkozy and Carla Bruni.

In the northeastern corner of Portugal is Douro, a region known for its hillside wineries and Port production. The picturesque views are paired best with a refreshing white Port and tonic.

HOTELS

Located across from Parque Eduardo VII, Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon offers expansive views overlooking the entire city. The midcentury hotel is minutes away from some of Lisbon’s most luxurious shopping on Avenida da Liberdade.

Also nearby is the lush Jardim Botânico de Lisboa, one of the city’s many botanical gardens. Do not miss the spa, which is one of the best in Europe, says Black Tomato’s Mr. Metcalfe.

+351 21 381 1423 fourseasons.com/lisbon

Nestled between the bohemian Barrio Alto and the Chiado theater district is the Barrio Alto Hotel . Equal parts quaint and elegant, the hotel is surrounded by intimate restaurants, bars, boutiques, bookstores and art galleries. The rooftop bar is a must for sunset cocktails.

+351 21 340 8288 barrioaltohotel.com

While not the most traditional hotel, Santa Clara 1728 offers visitors the privacy and comfort of a home away from home. The 18th-century property — located on the outskirts of Alfama, the city’s oldest Moorish quarter — has been restored and transformed into a minimalist, six-bedroom hotel. A bit off the beaten path, the hotel overlooks Jardim Botto Machado and the Tagus River. On Tuesdays and Saturdays, visit the flea market steps away from the building.

+351 923 251 056 silentliving.pt/houses/santa-clara-1728

TOP: THE FOUR SEASONS HOTEL RITZ LISBON’S RUNNING TRACK OVERLOOKING LISBON AND THE TAGUS RIVER. FOUR SEASONS STAFF MEMBER / FOUR SEASONS.

BOTTOM: MEZZANINE PORMENOR ESCULTURA AT BAIRRO ALTO HOTEL. BAIRRO ALTO HOTEL.

HOTELS OUTSIDE LISBON

On the bright sandy beach of Cascais is the seaside Albatroz Hotel . This glamorous property is on the edge of the bay and offers a memorable respite from the city. Guests can enjoy gourmet meals with ocean views, a dip in the elegant pool or set sail on the Albatroz yacht.

+351 214 847 380 thealbatrozcollection.com

Travelers looking for the royal treatment in Cascais can do no better than the Grande Real Villa Itália Hotel & Spa . The hotel site is the former residence of the last king of Italy, Humberto II. Lavish rooms offer sea or garden vistas, while the property’s spa, saltwater pools and bars help guests unwind.

+351 213 199 150 granderealvillaitalia.realhotelsgroup.com

For privacy and exclusivity, Sublime Comporta sits on a secluded countryside property. The rooms, suites and villas are scattered across multiple buildings, enhancing the hotel’s intimate feel. A quick journey to Comporta’s beaches allows one to enjoy activities such as surfing, horseback riding and dolphin watching.

+351 269 449 376 sublimecomporta.pt

Six Senses Douro Valley is the ideal upscale retreat for wine lovers exploring the region. Tour Old World wineries, visit medieval towns and reconnect with nature. Black Tomato recommends intimate wine and Port tastings aboard private antique schooners.

+351 254 660 600 sixsenses.com/en/resorts/douro-valley

sales director at luxury tour operator Black Tomato.

TOP: BARRIO ALTO HOTEL’S ROOFTOP OVERLOOKING THE TAGUS RIVER. MANUEL MANSO / BARRIO ALTO HOTEL.

BOTTOM: THE GRANDE REAL VILLA ITÁLIA HOTEL & SPA’S THALASSO POOL. GRANDE REAL VILLA ITÁLIA HOTEL & SPA.

Text reproduced with permission from Luxury Portfolio International and Luxury Portfolio magazine. © Luxury Portfolio International. All rights reserved.

“THERE IS SO MUCH TO DO, YOU WILL HAVE NO TROUBLE FILLING YOUR DAY WITH REMARKABLE EXPERIENCES,” Sunil Metcalfe,

A serene mountain lifestyle awaits in this coveted cul-de-sac property in the prestigious gated community of Chinquapin. Nestled amidst the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the mountains, this picturesque home offers an unparalleled view that will take your breath away.

As you step into the grand entrance, prepare to be captivated by the inviting living room boasting of stunning vaulted box-beamed ceilings and a warm, inviting woodburning fireplace that will make you feel right at home.

The living room seamlessly leads into the expansive kitchen that features ample counter space and provides effortless access to the screened-in outdoor living area with a striking stone wood-burning fireplace, perfect for entertaining guests or simply unwinding with family.

This remarkable four-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bath home is the epitome of elevated mountain living, complete with an abundance of storage space, three bonus rooms, three living areas, fiber internet, on-demand recirculating hot water, and a full house generator.

Chinquapin is an exclusive 2,000acre private community, unparalleled in its offerings of park-like living and outdoor adventure amenities. Revel in the thrill of lake and stream fishing, canoeing, a disc golf course, a driving range, miles of hiking and biking trails, a fitness room, live music during the season at the Outpost Clubhouse, and the brand new pickleball courts.

Make this exquisite mountain retreat your new home and experience the tranquil, luxurious lifestyle you deserve. Don’t miss out on this oncein-a-lifetime opportunity to call this stunning property your own.

CREATE THE PERFECT OFFICE SPACE

WORKING FROM HOME HAS BEEN A GROWING TREND FOR YEARS, BUT RECENT EVENTS HAVE ACCELERATED ITS ADOPTION, MAKING HOME OFFICES EVEN MORE OF AN ESSENTIAL AMENITY THAN BEFORE. LOOKING TO BUILD A NEW WORK HAVEN OR RECONFIGURE AN EXISTING SPACE? HERE ARE A FEW DESIGN TIPS TO PROVIDE INSPIRATION AND HELP YOU CREATE YOUR DREAM OFFICE.

KEEP IT SIMPLE

The ideal office space is both calm and free of distractions, making minimalism a worthy design strategy. Keep your desk cleared with nothing but the essentials. If you incorporate décor on your desk, make sure it’s small and out of the way.

Simplicity additionally necessitates keeping the room tidy — utilize storage in the form of shelves, drawers and supply bins to prevent clutter. Also consider comfortable seating so you can take multiple breaks throughout the day without the distraction that comes with the rest of the house.

MAKE THE MOST OF SMALL SPACES

Living in the city has its advantages, but it comes at a cost — space. As long as you can find somewhere in your apartment or small home that’ll fit a desk, you have space for an office.

If you’re lacking rooms, find a quiet corner within your main living space and combat distractions by positioning the desk to face either a wall or windows and investing in high-quality, noise

RAILTON DESK, DARK EMPERADOR MARBLE BY SOHO HOME; $3,995. SOHOHOME.COM

cancelling headphones. Visual dividers, like screened panels or shelving units, can help it feel further secluded from the rest of the room — and will double as the perfect Zoom backdrop!

EMBRACE YOUR INNER BOOKWORM

Reading enhances our lives in many ways — we can read for work or self-improvement, to learn a new skill or escape. The added knowledge, as well as positive impact on our mental health, means that reading makes us better employees. It’s also worth noting that home libraries and offices require a similar, peaceful setting, so combining the two is a no-brainer.

To create the idyllic combination library/ office, include a wall or two of bookshelves, as well as cushy seating or a reading nook — bonus points if it’s near a window to capture some natural light and scenery.

USE PAINT COLOR TO ENHANCE YOUR MOOD

Be thoughtful when selecting the color scheme of your home office. One option is neutrals, which will keep a room simple and non-busy — the perfect contrast to any hectic workday.

If you prefer a pop of color, opt for cool colors. Green, for example, is a color associated with nature and encourages feelings of tranquility, soothing and luck. Another cool color, blue, can bring about feelings of calmness, stability and productivity.

Alternatively, warm colors evoke feelings of power, energy and passion, prompting a productive mindset. Proceed with caution, however, as these will not have the same calming effect as cool colors.

Text reproduced with permission from Luxury Portfolio International and Luxury Portfolio magazine. © Luxury Portfolio International. All rights reserved.

BY SILVER CREEK REAL ESTATE GROUP

BALD ROCK

Spectacular opportunity to build your mountain dream home on this gently sloping 10+ acre estate lot. This lot borders national forest and equestrian trails allowing easy access to trail ride, hike, or mountain bike. Ownership also comes with Sapphire Valley amenities.

10.05 ACRES | MLS# 101656

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $399,000

Luxurious 6+ acre lot in Bald Rock, Sapphire Valley. Direct access to Panthertown Valley hiking trails. Club membership to Sapphire Valley offers golfing, tennis, fitness center, Fairfield lake access, skiing, and more. Equestrian center, waterfalls, streams, pavilion with fireplaces and full kitchen. High-speed internet with fiber optics. Near Cashiers shopping and dining.

6.41 ACRES | MLS# 101717

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $280,000

BEAR LAKE RESERVE

Discover panoramic 180˚ views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and long-range views of Bear Lake with a clearing on this homesite at the end of a culde-sac in Bear Lake Reserve, a private and gated luxury mountain resort. Enjoy countless community amenities including golf, tennis, hiking and trails, outdoor pavilions, a lake club, and more.

1.44 ACRES | MLS# 98968

OFFERED FOR $60,000

BRIDGE CREEK

An easy building site, this flat, 2.4-acre lot boasts a long-range mountain view. This gated community offers a fishing/swimming pond, a fire pit, a chimney garden, and more. Bridge Creek features a community water system and underground power.

2.42 ACRES | MLS# 101617

OFFERED FOR $75,000

This gently sloping lot at the end of the road should offer good long-range mountain views to the northeast from your dream home. Enjoy cool temperatures at over 3,900’ in a setting that exemplifies the temperate rainforest flora and fauna of the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau.

1.75 ACRES | MLS# 101114

OFFERED FOR $65,000

Nearly level land creates an easy and picturesque building site to build your perfect home. This land adjoins the protected trout waters known as Norton Creek, a wondrous sound to hear as you enjoy a cup of coffee. Bridge Creek features a community pond, less traveled roads for walking, a fire pit, a picnic area, and an outdoor chimney garden.

1.24 ACRES | MLS# 99163

OFFERED FOR $59,000

Located within the low-density community of Bridge Creek, this lot is situated at over 3,600 feet in elevation. An aggressively priced property to build your dream home with gently rolling land, recent septic approval, and significant potential for beautiful mountain views with the clearing of some trees. This land is also accompanied by a trickling stream that runs through a small portion of the lot.

0.76 ACRES | MLS# 99162

OFFERED FOR $19,900

BURLINGAME

The most spectacular property available in Burlingame! These two lots are being sold together, comprising over 5 buildable acres, right on Miller Falls, so that you can build a driveway through lot 4 to your new homesite on lot 5, right on top of this major waterfall.

5.47 ACRES | MLS# 96858

OFFERED FOR $660,000

Enjoy all that Burlingame has to offer with complete privacy on your 5+ acres on the designated “Wild and Scenic” Horsepasture River.

5.15 ACRES | MLS# 96872

OFFERED FOR $595,000

Build your mountain getaway on this almost flat, elevated lot in Burlingame. Great views of the golf course and mountains beyond. Quick golf cart drive to the club. Private building site, must see to appreciate.

0.58 ACRES | MLS# 100861

OFFERED FOR $89,000

CASHIERS

The historic Waddell/Hanks estate sits in the heart of the highly desirable Highway 107 South corridor. The estate overlooks a gently meandering Fowler Creek and Wade Hampton Golf Club’s beautiful 7th and 8th holes. With few building restrictions, the estate property represents an exceptional opportunity to build a custom single-family compound, several estate homes, or a development with upscale cottages for seasonal or year-round residents. The 12.16-acre property consists of contiguous parcels of 3.41 acres, 0.64 acres, and 8.11 acres.

12.16 ACRES | MLS# 100839

OFFERED FOR $4,200,000

CEDAR CREEK CLIFFS

Gorgeous mountain views from a 2.49-acre lot in Cedar Creek Cliffs. Cool weather at almost 4,400 feet in elevation. South-facing for sunshine, with easy access to community water system. Convenient to Lake Glenville, Happs Place restaurant with live music, and the Village of Cashiers for dining, shopping, and hiking. Lot has a level building site and easy view opening. Ideal for your mountain dream home.

2.49 ACRES | MLS# 101075

OFFERED FOR $37,500

CEDAR CREST

Stunning new construction property opportunity in Cedar Crest community. Choose a custom home with the developer, or bring your own builder. Sprawling 1.15-acre double lot for a luxurious mountain home. Elegant design with high ceilings, wood beams, and stone fireplaces. Flowing floor plan with private spaces on each floor. Enjoy indoor-outdoor living with screened porch and decks on both levels. Make your final selections now!

1.15 ACRES | MLS# 101487

OFFERED FOR $125,000

CEDAR HILL

In the gated Cedar Hill community, this 21-acre parcel provides immense privacy and long-range mountain views. Over 3500 ft in elevation, with septic approval and underground utilities, it’s ready for your dream home. Enjoy cool weather, nature trails, and wildlife just ten minutes from Cashiers and 45 minutes from Brevard.

21,94 ACRES | MLS# 101684

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $1,250,000

Experience luxurious mountain living in Cedar Hill community with this over 24-acre parcel offering immense privacy, awe-inspiring long-range mountain views, and a babbling brook running through the property. Enjoy cool summers at over 3500 feet in elevation. Septic and underground utilities are already in place, making it ready for your dream home. Only 10 minutes from Cashiers’ fine dining, shopping, and outdoor activities.

24.34 ACRES | MLS # 101235

OFFERED FOR $899,000

Located within the upscale subdivision known as Cedar Hill, become enamored with luxurious mountain living that offers spacious lots, nature trails, and mesmerizing views. Situated over 3,500 feet in elevation that grants cool temperatures all summer long. This idyllic parcel of land makes it easy to envision sitting on your newly constructed deck, sipping on your favorite drink, and soaking in the view.

22.97 ACRES | MLS # 101234

OFFERED FOR $850,000

Sitting at an elevation of over 4,000 feet inside the coveted gates of Cedar Hill, this lot will boast stunning views of Chimney Top and Rock Mountains. Created to elevate the mountain lifestyle, Cedar Hill combines natural splendor, effortless convenience, inspiring architecture, and privacy. The community installed underground utilities to all homesites, easing the building process of your bespoke mountain estate. The luxury of proximity and the refinement of living can be yours today.

1.21 ACRES | MLS# 101088

OFFERED FOR $375,000

Experience luxury mountain living at The Meridian at Cedar Hill. Estate lots with unparalleled views of Bald Rock and Lonesome Valley Canyon, private sewer access, water, paved roads, and underground power. Close to Cashiers and Sapphire, this gated community offers convenience and exclusivity. Find your perfect lot for your future dream home and experience the pinnacle of luxury mountain living.

1.53 ACRES | MLS# 101730

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $335,000

Build in this peaceful setting and enjoy the park-like setting right in your own backyard! The lot calls for a short driveway in with a private homesite only 50 feet off the streams. There are 3 streams that pass through the property and 2 that intersect at one point. A pretty setting and an easy-to-walk lot with some short-range winter mountain views possible, with tree trimming.

3.39 ACRES | MLS# 95571

OFFERED FOR $119,000

CEDAR MEADOWS

Magnificent 2.2-acre lot nestled in the heart of the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, minutes from Cashiers and Sapphire communities. Southern exposure for warmth and lush garden areas. Design and build a one-of-a-kind custom home with outdoor entertainment space. Create a cozy cottage or

grand residence. Limitless opportunities for indulgent mountain living. Embrace the chance to make your personal haven in this picturesque setting.

2.2 ACRES | MLS# 101465

OFFERED FOR $175,000

CEDAR RIDGE ESTATES

Enjoy privacy from this estate-size lot that is only a few minutes drive to the Cashiers Crossroads! Walk up the steps to the trail into the lot and follow along the edge of the small stream to the building knoll at the top of the lot shown on the expired 4-bedroom septic permit. Cedar Ridge Estates is a beautifully maintained community with mountain views and streams throughout. Existing water system is available to hook up to, so no well drilling is needed.

4.26 ACRES | MLS# 96955

OFFERED FOR $99,000

Unique opportunity to own a 3.08-acre lot in Cashiers, NC, with a rock-face mountain view and a lovely stream running through it. Gently sloping and in a great location, this lot is close to local shopping and dining while also offering national forest, waterfalls, and hiking trails in your own backyard. Cedar Ridge Estates is a beautifully maintained community with mountain views and streams throughout. Electricity is accessible, and the existing water system is available for hookup. Low association

fees, no club memberships required, and a 10-day minimum rental period.

3.08 ACRES | MLS# 101708

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $89,000

laurels. Great spot for someone to build their perfect summer retreat or year-round mountain home!

4.5 ACRES | MLS# 96848

OFFERED FOR $950,000

Beautiful virgin forest land in an idyllic setting in the well-established gated community of The Chattooga Club. Gentle building site has a view of the mountain range and Fowler Creek, which flows into the Chattooga River, runs alongside the property. The lot is surrounded by beautiful hardwoods and indigenous plants including rhododendrons and mountain laurels. Great spot for someone to build their perfect summer or year-round mountain home!

4.3 ACRES | MLS# 96849

OFFERED FOR $950,000

Located in The Chattooga Club, this beautiful 3.2acre lot features a mountain view on one side and the sound of Fowler Creek on the other. The community offers wonderful amenities, including security, a lake that is annually stocked with 1,000 pounds of trout, and Mac’s View, a picnic area with beautiful sunsets. Club membership is by invitation only.

3.22 ACRES | MLS # 97078

CHATTOOGA CLIFFS

This parcel boasts breathtaking views of Whiteside Mountain and Devil’s Courthouse. Even though this lot is perched at over 3,700 feet in elevation, you can forget the steep, winding roads normally required for such views. Being mere minutes from the center of the Village of Cashiers allows you to easily enjoy plenty of shopping and dining, and the wide variety of additional activities this area has to offer. Private gated access to Chattooga Cliffs is via Timber Ridge.

2.33 ACRES | MLS# 98584

OFFERED FOR $249,000

CHATTOOGA CLUB

Beautiful virgin forest land in an idyllic setting in the well-established gated community of The Chattooga Club. Gentle building site has a view of the mountain range and Fowler Creek, which flows into the Chattooga River, runs alongside the property. The lot is surrounded by beautiful hardwoods and indigenous plants including rhododendrons and mountain

OFFERED FOR $750,000

Beautiful lot on the corner of Club Drive and Gorge Trail in the well-established Chattooga Club community. The property features a stunning waterfall, plentiful hardwoods, and indigenous plants including rhododendrons and mountain laurels. Club membership by invitation only.

2.91 ACRES | MLS# 96442

OFFERED FOR $595,000

CHINQUAPIN

9+ acres of privacy within the gates of Chinquapin! Currently the largest lot available for sale within the Double Knob section of Chinquapin. This lot has great short-range mountain views along with streams running through it. The driveway is already built and ready for your dream mountain home to be constructed!

9.40 ACRES | MLS# 101139

OFFERED FOR $659,000

Envision your dream home on this lot with spectacular long-range mountain views, located in Chinquapin’s exclusive Double Knob section, privately gated within the main gates of the community. Enjoy lake and stream fishing, canoeing, a disc golf course,

LAKE CHATTOOGA

a driving range, miles of hiking and biking trails, an Outpost clubhouse with a fitness room and live music during the season, as well as new pickleball courts! Chinquapin also offers fiber to the home.

2.74 ACRES | MLS# 100501 OFFERED FOR $569,000

Located at Chinquapin’s Logan Gap entrance, this lot offers privacy and long-range mountain views. Large mature trees create a peaceful canopy as you enter this lot through the cut-in trail leading to an almost completely level construction site at the highest elevation point on the property, which is above 4,000 feet. Enjoy the views of the long, layered mountain ranges from this excellent building site. There was an expired 5-bedroom septic evaluation on the property, indicating that it could accommodate a larger home.

3.56 ACRES | MLS# 100810 OFFERED FOR $399,000

Excellent opportunity to purchase a lot in Cow Mountain, the brand-new section of the gated Chinquapin community. Flat build site with stunning long-range views for your dream mountain getaway. 2,000-acre community with park-like living and outdoor amenities like fishing, canoeing, disc golf, and more. Enjoy miles of hiking and biking trails, Outpost clubhouse with fitness room and live music, and brand-new pickleball courts. True fiber to the home for connectivity.

3.01 ACRES | MLS# 101356 OFFERED FOR $300,000

This setting of 1.91 acres has a building site that is delightfully tucked in the woods for optimum privacy. Excellent access to the main entrance of the nearby conservation trail makes it perfect for a family or couple who loves to explore the great outdoors. A gentle sloping property with mature rhododendrons for additional privacy from the neighboring site creates an ideal setting to build your dream mountain

home. You can enjoy a filtered summer view of Big Ridge and open winter ridge views while surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Western North Carolina.

1.91 ACRES | MLS# 101811

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $249,900

Excellent opportunity to purchase a lot in Chinquapin’s brand-new Cow Mountain section with privacy and stunning views. Backs up to Chinquapin’s conservation land and near hiking trails. 2,000-acre, private, gated community with park-like living and outdoor adventure amenities like fishing, canoeing, disc golf, and more. Enjoy miles of hiking and biking trails, Outpost clubhouse with fitness room and live music, and brand-new pickleball courts.

2.21 ACRES | MLS# 101474

OFFERED FOR $249,000

Create your dream mountain home on this easy-build lot of more than 2 acres and enjoy the long-range view from your back porch! Enjoy lake and stream fishing, canoeing, a disc golf course, a driving range, miles of hiking and biking trails, an Outpost clubhouse with a fitness room and live music during the season, and new pickleball courts! Chinquapin offers fiber to the home for great connectivity.

2.01 ACRES | MLS# 97805

OFFERED FOR $224,900

Unique opportunity to own a lot on Chinquapin’s Wolf Lake in a private, gated 2,000-acre community. Enjoy outdoor adventure amenities such as fishing, canoeing, disc golf, miles of hiking and biking trails, fitness room and live music in the Outpost clubhouse during the season, and brand-new pickleball courts.

1.002 ACRES | MLS# 101457

OFFERED FOR $220,000

Lot 92 has a building site that is perched above the road for a great distant mountain view and privacy. Enjoy lake and stream fishing, canoeing, a disc golf course, a driving range, miles of hiking and biking trails, an Outpost Clubhouse with a fitness room and live music during the season as well as new pickleball courts! Chinquapin offers fiber to the home for great connectivity.

1.71 ACRES | MLS# 100314

OFFERED FOR $199,900

Located within the gates of beautiful Chinquapin, this large, private lot is perched above the road for maximum privacy. Enjoy lake and stream fishing, canoeing, a disc golf course, a driving range, miles of hiking and biking trails, an Outpost clubhouse featuring

live music during the high season, and a fitness room, as well as new pickleball courts. Chinquapin offers fiber to the home for great connectivity.

6.767 ACRES | MLS# 101809

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $199,000

Flat lot with great usable build space in the brand new section of Cow Mountain! Enjoy lake and stream fishing, canoeing, a disc golf course, a driving range, miles of hiking and biking trails, an Outpost clubhouse with a fitness room and live music during the season as well as new pickleball courts!

2.26 ACRES | MLS# 100872

OFFERED FOR $199,000

Own a lot along Robinson Creek in Chinquapin! This private gated community is an excellent place to build your dream mountain home. The 700 +/- acres of conservation property provide privacy and convenient access to hiking trails. Building and site plans have already been made. Enjoy lake and stream fishing, canoeing, disc golf, hiking and biking trails, a fitness room, live music, and pickleball courts in Chinquapin’s park-like setting.

2.19 ACRES | MLS# 101355

OFFERED FOR $199,000

Take advantage of this opportunity to construct your dream home on this easy-build lot with a gorgeous mountain view! Chinquapin is a 2,000-acre, private, gated community that offers park-like living with outdoor adventure amenities. Enjoy lake and stream fishing, canoeing, a disc golf course, a driving range, miles of hiking and biking trails, an Outpost Clubhouse with a fitness room and live music during the season as well as new pickleball courts.

2.21 ACRES | MLS# 101648

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $189,000

This parcel features a level building site, privacy, and Robinson Creek running through its northern and western ends! Enjoy lake and stream fishing, canoeing, a disc golf course, a driving range, miles of hiking and biking trails, an Outpost clubhouse with a fitness room and live music during the season as well as new pickleball courts!

2.65 ACRES | MLS# 100841

OFFERED FOR $185,000

Lot S11 is a flat, easy-build lot that is conveniently located within walking distance of an Outpost clubhouse and all the outdoor amenities that Chinquapin has to offer. Enjoy lake and stream fishing, canoeing, a disc golf course, a driving range, miles of hiking and biking

trails, the Outpost's fitness room and live music during the season as well as brand new pickleball courts!

0.87 ACRES | MLS# 100637

OFFERED FOR $185,000

Quite the sleeper site in Chinquapin, this 6.04 wooded acreage provides ultimate privacy within a gated community. You’ll find a gently sloping setting with plenty of light that filters through mature oak and maple trees. This lot is bordered in the back by a fantastic creek that rolls down the mountain with deep rhododendrons and close trail access. A child’s haven for discovery for years to come, you will enjoy exploring all this lot has to offer!

6.04 ACRES | MLS# 101810

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $169,000

Large private lot with a great mountain view! Enjoy lake and stream fishing, canoeing, a disc golf course, a driving range, miles of hiking and biking trails, an Outpost clubhouse with a fitness room and live music during the season as well as new pickleball courts! Chinquapin is one of the few communities in the area that offers fiber to the home for great connectivity.

2.78 ACRES | MLS# 100835

OFFERED FOR $169,000

Lot 23 is a large, very private wooded lot with potential mountain views. Enjoy lake and stream fishing, canoeing, a disk golf course, a driving range, miles of hiking and biking trails, an Outpost clubhouse featuring live music during the high season, and a fitness room, as well as new pickleball courts.

Chinquapin is one of the few communities in the area that offers fiber to the home for great connectivity. Don’t miss this opportunity!

3.839 ACRES | MLS# 100313

OFFERED FOR $169,000

Located within the gates of beautiful Chinquapin, Lot 24 offers a private, mountain view and two possible build sites. Enjoy lake and stream fishing, canoeing, a disk golf course, a driving range, miles of hiking and biking trails, an Outpost clubhouse featuring live music during the high season and a fitness room, as well as new pickleball courts. Chinquapin offers fiber to the home for great connectivity. Don’t miss this opportunity!

2.36 ACRES | MLS# 98273

OFFERED FOR $159,000

Unique opportunity to own a cottage lot in Natures Walk with a view! Conveniently located within walking distance of an Outpost clubhouse and all the outdoor amenities that Chinquapin has to offer. Enjoy lake and stream fishing, canoeing, a disc golf course, a driving range, miles of hiking and biking trails, the Outpost's fitness room and live music during the season as well as brand new pickleball courts!

0.55 ACRES | MLS# 98913

OFFERED FOR $159,000

Gorgeous mountain view lot with a very gentle homesite sitting above 3,800 feet in elevation! Northwesterly facing lot in the gated community of Chinquapin. Current 3-bedroom septic permit (authorization to construct) on hand and water and electricity hook up also available at road. You will notice that there are several beautiful homes that have just recently been built, or are currently under construction, on your way to this homesite. The Chinquapin community is truly a nature lover’s paradise with 13 different trails to explore, some for UTV/ATV’s, hiking, and mountain biking.

1.91 ACRES | MLS# 96950

OFFERED FOR $149,000

Located in Chinquapin, Lot 17 offers almost 3 acres of native mountain laurel surroundings and a private site for your dream home. Enjoy park-like living with lake and stream fishing, canoeing, a disk golf course, hiking, and biking trails, an Outpost clubhouse with fitness room, live music and brand new pickleball courts. This gated community offers great connectivity with fiber to the home, and is just minutes from Cashiers, N.C.

2.95 ACRES | MLS# 101416

OFFERED FOR $139,900

CROSS CREEK PRESERVE

Amazing, long-range mountain views can be seen from this lot that sits at 4,200 feet in elevation! The seller already has a complete set of ready-to-build, custom house plans designed specifically for this lot, for a three- or four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath home. House plans show 3,455 square feet of heated living space on two floors (with the primary bedroom on the main level) and an additional 1,854 square feet of unheated space, including a screened deck and a double carport.

2.54 ACRES | MLS# 98193

OFFERED FOR $179,900

CULLOWHEE

Rare, stunning 35 +/- acre land minutes from Cashiers. Endless potential with flat and sloping terrain perfect for residential use. Revel in nature with artesian springs, walking trails, and Lake Glenville views. Ideal for investors, equestrians, or family compound. Customize the land with no restrictions. Close to shopping, dining, and hiking. Create your private paradise today. Contact us for a guided tour.

35 ± ACRES | MLS# 101545

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $1,225,000

FALCON RIDGE

Truly a great wide and very gentle lot with views galore! Tons of space to build an all one-level home with room for a circular driveway and a garage, if desired. Panthertown Valley National Forest is only 500 ft. up from this lot (just across from Falcon Ridge Road). Underground utilities, community water access, and an expired 4-bedroom septic permit on file.

3.92 ACRES | MLS# 101131

OFFERED FOR $175,000

FIVESTONE

Enjoy breathtaking mountain views from this 4.10 acre lot in the private Fivestone community. With a gentle building site and circular driveway already in place, this location offers peace and privacy at 4,100 ft. elevation. Owners have access to Sapphire Valley Resort amenities, and are just 2,000 ft. from the 6,300 acre Panthertown National Forest. Fivestone offers

underground utilities, fiber internet, and low property ownership fees.

4.10 ACRES | MLS# 101477

OFFERED FOR $199,000

GLASS ROCK FARMS

Located within the quiet community of Glass Rock Farms, this extremely affordable parcel offers great potential for mountain views and the option to build your dream home at an elevation of over 3,900 feet. Glass Rock Farms has a 1,250 sq. ft. minimum build requirement. No modular or mobile homes are permitted. There is an expired 3-bedroom septic permit on file.

1.25 ACRES | MLS# 100293

OFFERED FOR $19,500

GLEN LAUREL

Huge views of Lake Glenville and the mountains. Access to Lake Glenville with a shared dock. Paved roads; community water; underground utilities. Frontage on 2 community roads. Lot is less than 1/4 mile, from a public boat launch, so you can easily put

in and take out any watercraft. If you’re looking for it all - view, lake, and elbow room - this is it.

1.88 ACRES | MLS# 95547

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $39,500

GREYCLIFF

Sitting at an elevation of approximately 4,000 feet, this homesite features some of the best southern lake and mountain views around. The Greycliff neighborhood offers a gated entrance, large, paved roads, underground power, community water, and a fantastic lakefront common area with a shared boat dock for the property owners to enjoy. One of the few lots left with these types of views and amenities around Lake Glenville.

3.12 ACRES | MLS# 101083

OFFERED FOR $120,000

HIGH SPRINGS

This lot offers a wooded setting with a mountain view in the High Springs neighborhood. Your future mountain dream home will be just a few minutes from the dining and shopping experiences found in the Village of Cashiers and a short drive from Lake Glenville, the highest altitude lake east of the Mississippi River. Don’t miss this opportunity!

2.1 ACRES | MLS# 97911

OFFERED FOR $60,000

HIGHLANDS

Welcome to your secluded mountain getaway, located only a few miles from downtown Highlands! Enjoy partial views of Shortoff Mountain and a flat building site offering over 7 acres of privacy and unlimited opportunities! This lot is the perfect place to construct your dream home, where you can relax surrounded by

the abundant wildlife and native flora of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains!

7.62 ACRES | MLS# 101808

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $450,000

You will not find a parcel this large and this close to Highlands, NC at anywhere near this price! This estate-sized, 16.52-acre parcel is a mere 10 minutes from highly desirable downtown Highlands. The land features multiple springs and an active creek with several small waterfalls. Several potential homesites on the property could offer wonderful, long-range mountain views. An existing logging road runs from the road and winds through the property; with nearly one-half mile of frontage on Buck Creek Road, you’ll have several more potential access points. The lot has minimal deed restrictions and can be subdivided into five parcels. Build your private, legacy estate or family compound just minutes away from the elevated shopping, dining, and entertainment of charming Highlands.

16.52 ACRES | MLS# 101585

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $299,000

Proximity and privacy! This 9.01-acre parcel is only 10 minutes away from the shops and restaurants of downtown Highlands, NC. Several potential homesites on the property could offer great, longrange mountain views. An existing logging road winds through the property and, with nearly one-half mile of frontage on Buck Creek Road, you’ll have several more options for access. Come build your private, mountain dream home just minutes from quaint and sophisticated Highlands! (Note: When combined with the adjoining parcel the total becomes 16.52 acres).

9.01 ACRES | MLS# 101586

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $185,000

Waterfalls along an active stream bisect this large property just 10 minutes from downtown Highlands, NC and waiting for your dream home. Several potential homesites on the 7.51-acre property could

offer wonderful, long-range mountain views. An existing logging road winds through the property, giving quick access to Buck Creek Road. You’ll enjoy privacy in nature just minutes from the shopping, dining, and entertainment of charming Highlands, NC. (Note: When combined with the adjoining parcel the total becomes 16.52 acres).

7.51 ACRES | MLS# 101587

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $165,000

HIGHLANDS POINT

A beautiful lot with spectacular mountain views, this property will not disappoint. Located in the gated community of Highlands Point and surrounded by luxury homes, the lot boasts a gently-rolling, wooded setting with views to the iconic mountain peaks of the region. A short drive from the fine dining and shopping in downtown Highlands, this is the perfect place to build the mountain home of your dreams.

1.43 ACRES | MLS# 101241

OFFERED FOR $95,000

HOLLY FOREST

This is a remarkable lot that has lovely stream frontage, golf course frontage, and great mountain view potential! The front lot setback is only 15 feet, making the perfect spot for a 2-story home, with a garage and breezeway to be built at a 90-degree angle from the house. Overlooks the 14th fairway of the Sapphire National Golf Club and the several streams running through the property. Ownership comes with Sapphire Valley Resort amenities.

0.75 ACRES | MLS# 99013

OFFERED FOR $58,900

A wonderful building lot, with potential views! As most of your neighbors’ homes are nestled around your lot, you will be able to see the best placement of your

future home to maximize the potential view, while maintaining your privacy.

2.31 ACRES | MLS# 98799

OFFERED FOR $45,000

This affordable 0.94-acre mountain lot in Sapphire Valley is perfect for your dream home. Enjoy long-range mountain views with some tree trimming. Adjacent to Trillium High community, this lot offers privacy and easy access to hiking, fishing, and golf. Enjoy community water and fiber optics. The new owner will have access to Sapphire Valley Resort amenities, including Fairfield Lake, a fitness center, swimming pools, tennis, skiing, and more. Just 15 minutes from Cashiers and 1-hour drive to Asheville airport. Contact us today to schedule a viewing and make your mountain dreams come true!

0.94 ACRES | MLS# 101479

OFFERED FOR $30,000

Located just a few minutes from Fairfield Lake and all the highly sought-after amenities of the Sapphire Valley Master Association, this gently rolling lot affords ultimate privacy, with a large conservation tract of land bordering the backside of the property. The small but bold Mud Creek flows along the border between this lot and the conservation land, further adding to the visual and auditory aesthetics of the land.

0.67 ACRES | MLS# 97540

OFFERED FOR $27,000

Build your dream mountain home in Sapphire’s tranquil Holly Forest. Bordered on two sides by greenspace, this lot should afford good mountain views. Quick access to Highway 64 and all the Sapphire Valley Amenities.

1.06 ACRES | MLS# 101011

OFFERED FOR $17,500

Wonderful low-cost lot in the heart of Sapphire Valley! Ready for the willing buyer with a new survey and new 2-bedroom septic permit on file with Jackson County. This low maintenance lot would be perfect for the homeowner looking to build a cute cabin. Ownership includes access to Sapphire Valley Master Association amenities.

0.83 ACRES | MLS# 101209

OFFERED FOR $12,500

LAKE TOXAWAY ESTATES

This beautiful, wooded lot is located in the premier, private community of Lake Toxaway Estates. Features winter views of Lake Toxaway and Lake Cardinal. Access to the lake and marina, as well as Lake Toxaway Country Club (membership by invitation), is limited to Lake Toxaway Estates property owners. Build your dream mountain home and be a part of the modernday story of Lake Toxaway, a retreat with a history of drawing some of America’s most prestigious guests!

1.37 ACRES | MLS# 100695

OFFERED FOR $189,000

LAUREL FALLS - CASHIERS

This large lot offers great potential mountain views, a stream that cascades down the lot, and lush flora, all within the gates of Laurel Falls. At nearly 3,800’ you’ll experience cool temperatures in a dramatic temperate rainforest setting. The top of the lot features a natural build site that should afford some stunning mountain views. An old logging road gives access to a lower portion of the lot, and the bottom can be accessed via Trimble Ridge.

13.76 ACRES | MLS# 99041

OFFERED FOR $145,000

LONESOME VALLEY

Luxurious 2.37-acre wooded lot in Lonesome Valley. Serene private property with stream, picnic area, and mountain views. Perfect for a dream mountain retreat or peaceful respite. Premier community with endless amenities including hiking trails, fly fishing, recreational lake, and more. Schedule a visit to experience the tranquil paradise of Lonesome Valley.

2.37 ACRES | MLS# 101762

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $680,000

PILOTS KNOB

Fantastic building lot in the desirable neighborhood of Pilots Knob! Great year-round mountain view potential with tree trimming from this gently rolling lot.

Community features include a trout pond, a fire pit, and a common area where owners enjoy the idyllic mountain scenery. Pilots Knob is paved throughout and has an inviting gated entrance with a pretty waterfall feature. Low POA fees and underground utilities make this a great place to build your mountain escape at almost 4,000 feet in elevation!

0.74 ACRES | MLS# 98942

OFFERED FOR $23,900

RIVER ROCK

This is a great, buildable lot in River Rock. Nestled behind the gates of Cullowhee Forest, it has already been partially cleared due to a temporary logging road. The area features meandering streams and waterfalls, and a small but active stream runs alongside the lot. It is priced to sell, at well below the tax value. The motivated seller is ready to make this lot yours!

0.64 ACRES | MLS# 101135

OFFERED FOR $9,999

Build your mountain retreat in River Rock! This lot, nestled behind the gates of Cullowhee Forest, should feature spectacular mountain views with trimming. The area features meandering streams and waterfalls. It is priced to sell, well below the tax value. The motivated seller is ready to make this lot yours.

0.57 ACRES | MLS# 98124

OFFERED FOR $9,999

ROCKY KNOB

Two lots for the price of one! Located in the gorgeous gated community of Rocky Knob, these lots provide a peaceful setting to build a mountain home with lots of land to explore. Owners can enjoy the beautiful Lake Osage, a 17-acre lake, along with a covered pavilion and grilling area. Sitting at approximately 3,700 feet in elevation, this is the perfect area to escape the heat of lower elevations.

2.36 ACRES | MLS# 95238

OFFERED FOR $49,000

SHEPHERDS MOUNTAIN

Private lot located near the end of a cul-de-sac inside the gated community of Shepherds Mountain. North-

westerly facing lot with possible views of Lake Glenville and mountains beyond with a lot of tree trimming. There is also a small stream that runs through the lower portion of the lot. Create your own trail from the house site to the stream. A new walking trail leads you to the gentle house site. Shepherd’s Mountain is a small peaceful community with paved roads, community water, underground utilities, a community center with a playground area, and lake access.

4.72 ACRES | MLS# 100467

OFFERED FOR $90,000

SIMS VALLEY

Extremely desirable lot with bold stream frontage and a nearly level building site. Surrounded by beautiful native flora and dogwood trees, this is the ideal place to build a mountain home overlooking a beautiful babbling stream with many small waterfalls. Enjoy some short- and long-range mountain views from this peaceful setting as well. Conveniently located near the community clubhouse, outdoor pool, fitness center, and pavilion that owners can use for social gatherings.

0.95 ACRES | MLS# 85846

OFFERED FOR $66,000

Escape city life to build your mountain home on a 2.11-acre lot in Sims Valley. Low-density neighborhood with amenities including clubhouse, pool, and exercise facility. Surrounded by native flora and wildlife, potential for long-range views. Near Cashiers, Glenville, and Sapphire for shopping, dining, and hiking. 15 minutes to Lake Glenville for water activities. Fine dining with live music at Happs Place only 10 minutes away. Build your paradise in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains.

2.11 ACRES | MLS# 101622

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $65,000

Located within the private and low-density community known as Sims Valley is this wooded 2.03-acre lot offering plenty of space and a delightful place for your future mountain home. With gently sloping terrain, this lot provides an easy-build site surrounded by nature and native flora, and there is even potential for longrange mountain views with tree trimming. You will enjoy peace and privacy with Sims Valley amenities, including gated access, a clubhouse, a pool, a small exercise facility, a pond, and picnic areas. Escape city life and enjoy the best of mountain living while still being near to the shopping, dining, and hiking of the

Village of Cashiers and the communities of Glenville and Sapphire.

2.03 ACRES | MLS# 101623

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $65,000

Discover this gently rolling lot in Sims Valley, perfect for your mountain getaway. With 1.52 acres and easy, paved access, this lot offers amenities including a clubhouse, community pool, and fishing at two trout ponds. Eight minutes from Happs Place restaurant, and less than 15 minutes from Lake Glenville for swimming, boating, and kayaking. Less than 20 minutes from the Village of Cashiers with shopping and dining. An expired 3-bedroom septic evaluation is on file.

1.52 ACRES | MLS# 101439

OFFERED FOR $35,000

Escape to a serene retreat with Lot 37 Farm Meadow Lane in the Sims Valley community. At 1.20 acres, this gently rolling lot is surrounded by mature trees and features aesthetic boulders. A large road frontage footprint along Farm Meadow Lane allows for easy access. Multiple utilities are available, including underground electricity and water. The clubhouse, pool, and stocked trout ponds are within walking distance. An expired 3-bedroom septic evaluation is on file with the county. Enjoy the deep sense of tranquility and connection to nature this lot provides.

1.20 ACRES | MLS# 101415

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $30,000

STONE CREEK ESTATES

Located behind the gates of the coveted Country Club of Sapphire Valley, this ready-to-build lot offers sweeping long-range views of Bald Rock. Equipped with underground electric (temporary service), Carolina Water tap, sewer, and a wide gravel driveway. Paved roads lead you to the driveway lined with boulder walls and 100 feet of hydra seed and straw-covered sloping lawn space. This homesite’s foundation is ready and waiting for the next buyer wanting to escape to the Blue Ridge Mountains and build their mountain retreat.

1.16 ACRES | MLS# 100352

OFFERED FOR $100,000

Location is key and this lot is in the heart of the Sapphire Valley Resort area! Enjoy the convenience of being in a gated community and within walking

distance to resort amenities, including golf, tennis, indoor/outdoor swimming pools, carpet golf, a park and playground, a ski resort, a zip line, and more! This lot is also just a short walk from the Country Club of Sapphire Valley (where membership is by invitation only) and several amazing restaurants, including the Library Kitchen + Bar, Mica’s Restaurant & Pub, and SlopeSide Tavern. This extremely gentlelaying lot offers a very easy potential driveway as you enter from the side and leads to the perfect homesite that overlooks the Sapphire Valley Resort area and beautiful mountains beyond. Public water, sewer and Vyve cable & internet are also available.

0.81 ACRES | MLS# 101568

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $89,000

STONEFLY

Looking for a lot in town with frontage on the headwaters of the Chattooga River? Here it is, 340+ feet of river frontage, very private, and only a short distance to town. Large, easy building site. Short, easy walk to Summit Charter School.

2.61 ACRES | MLS# 101561

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $395,000

In-town lot with 460 feet of stream frontage. The headwaters of the Chattooga River run down 2 boundaries. Easy build, easy access. Located in a gated community only minutes from shopping and restaurants. The whole community is very gentle lying, so very walkable.

1 ACRE | MLS# 101557

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $295,000

In-town lot with 290+ feet of stream frontage on the headwaters of the Chattooga River and a small waterfall. Only minutes to shopping and restaurants. Easy build, gentle lot with a gradual slope from the paved entry road down to the stream. Gated community with paved roads and underground utilities. If you love the sound of cascading water and you want the convenience of being close to everything, then this could be your property!

1.1 ACRES | MLS# 101556

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $245,000

Easy-build lot, wooded with beautiful deciduous trees, close to town, in a gated community, and with a stream that is part of the headwaters of the Chattooga River. Stonefly is only a little over a mile from the Cashiers crossroads. Convenient to shopping and restaurants,

STRAWBERRY HILL

Great opportunity to build your mountain dream home in the lakefront community of Strawberry Hill. Exceptional views of Lake Glenville, London Knob, and the mountains beyond. Tennis courts, boat storage, and community pavilion. Build your dream home here.

1.19 ACRES | MLS# 98982

OFFERED FOR $79,500

THE LAKE CLUB

This is your chance to own an easily buildable lot within the highly coveted Lake Glenville community, The Lake Club of Cashiers! With over 2.54 acres of land, the Lake Glenville views could be enhanced even more with some tree trimming. The Lake Club offers owners buried utilities, to include high speed fiber optic internet, to each building site along with the rare opportunity to be in a gated community on Lake Glenville with a clubhouse dedicated to those owners relishing in the boating lifestyle. The Lake Club has a community dock just minutes away from this lot easily reached by golf cart, allowing the new owners an opportunity to escape to the lake for a day of fun at a moment’s notice. Nearby, the quaint villages of Cashiers and Highlands feature abundant choices for fine dining and eclectic shops for exploring. Don’t miss out on one of the few opportunities within The Lake Club of Cashiers and your opportunity for living the Lake Glenville lifestyle.

2.54 ACRES | MLS# 101771 NEWLY OFFERED FOR $185,000

this lot has a gentle slope from the paved entry road down to the stream. The house site is so gentle that there would be plenty of room for parking, a driveway, and easy in and out.

1.07 ACRES | MLS# 101555

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $239,000

A wonderful easy-build lot in town. A small stream is one border for approx. 350 feet, which is the headwaters of the Chattooga River. Stonefly is a gated community with paved roads and underground utilities. Foundation, driveway, and parking would all be very easy since this lot is so gentle. Many possible homesites on this property.

1.38 ACRES | MLS# 101554

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $230,000

THE PRESERVE AT

ROCK CREEK

Enjoy amazing mountain views all year long from your future dream home on this five-acre lot. Very level driveway and build site that will let you concentrate on creating your home. More than two-thirds of the 320 acres within this upscale, gated community are protected by a conservation easement, guarding against encroachment from future development. Property owners and their guests have exclusive access to maintained hiking trails leading to Rock Creek Falls and other waterfalls.

5 ACRES | MLS# 98076

OFFERED FOR $350,000

TRILLIUM LINKS

Incredibly gentle rolling lot located at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac boasting long-range mountain views backdropped against Trillium Links and Lake Club’s iconic 12th Hole. 1.32 acres of secluded privacy and a gentle build site with currently only three homes sharing the same street. The position of this lot would allow a home builder to drive straight into their home, which could be optimally placed to take in the stunning long-range mountain views. Membership to Trillium Links and Lake Club is not required with the purchase of this lot.

1.32 ACRES | MLS# 100231

OFFERED FOR $310,000

Lot 7 in Trillium Links and Lake Club is your last chance for a buildable Lake Glenville view lot with all modern utilities ready for connection. Located on the corner of New Trillium Way and Corrie Court, it offers enhanced privacy with an adjacent green space. Architectural drawings and site plans by Legerton Architectural are included, and Trillium membership can be added for access to 18-hole golf, club dining, tennis courts, pool, croquet lawn, and more. Don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity!

0.57 ACRES | MLS# 101583

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $299,000

WALNUT GAP

This wonderful, high-elevation lot nestled in at over 4,600 feet in elevation in the Walnut Gap community is ready for that buyer who is looking to escape to the mountains and the find cooler summer temps. Lot 1B

lies strategically with easy access to both Cashiers, NC, for the small-town feel, and Franklin, NC with the name brand stores for everyday needs. This is your opportunity to build your home away from home in the heart of the mountains of Western North Carolina!

2.77 ACRES | MLS# 101212

OFFERED FOR $25,000

WHITEWATER RIDGE

Build your dream mountain home on this 4.86-acre lot in the private subdivision of Whitewater Ridge. Multiple build sites offer expansive long-range views with southern exposure and no obstacles. Gated entrance, low HOA fees, fiber optic internet, and nearby Burlingame CC amenities. Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity.

4.86 ACRES | MLS# 101772

NEWLY OFFERED FOR $275,000

WILD TURKEY

16 acres of rolling property with good mountain views.

16 ACRES | MLS# 96616

OFFERED FOR $150,000

WOUDES MTN VILLAGE

In the charming community of Woudes Mountain Village sits this serene and private land that boasts beautiful hardwoods and native flora. Features include a small stream and a private walking trail that allows a short hike down to the community’s shared docks and lake access, making it easy to get into your boat and out on the water! The land is gently sloping to provide a more accessible build site for your mountain retreat or year-round abode.

2.53 ACRES | MLS# 100747

OFFERED FOR $69,900

RUG RAT

PHOTO COURTESY OF JOHN LEWIS

What would a remarkable home be without a pristine rug to lay one’s eyes — and feet — upon?

People have sought the right rug for thousands of years, and luckily have quite a breadth of style choices such as Aubusson, Persian, Turkish, Kashmiri and Tibetan to complete their homes and, sometimes, expansive carpet collections.

“Many interior designers consider a beautiful rug to be the foundation, both literally and aesthetically, of a room’s design scheme,” says Anthony Barzilay Freund, editorial director of 1stDibs. “So, a top-quality piece — whether it’s antique Persian, Chinese art deco, midcentury Swedish or a contemporary show-stopper — can be an investment on top of which all other decisions follow.

“As we’ve emerged from a long period of neutral interiors that dominated the first decades of this century, people have once again been embracing color and pattern and the textural warmth that textiles can give to a room,” he says.

WEAVING HISTORY

The very first rugs were made from sheep’s wool or goat hair as early as 2000 or 3000 BC. Many believe carpets to have originated in the Middle East, being used for comfort or to keep the ground warm during cold temperatures.

Thousands of years later, rugs and carpets are now made of exceptionally thoughtful and exquisite materials and come in many forms.

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HOMEOWNERS ARE ALL IN ON ROLLING OUT THE RIGHT CARPETS FOR THEIR LIVING SPACES — FROM PERSIAN TO TIBETAN AND BEYOND

Aubusson rugs, named after the French town, came onto the scene around the 16th century, when weavers were designing tapestries and carpets for castles. These kinds of rugs are handknotted, traditional woolen rugs with handcarved designs.

Whenever a new French ruler came into power, he would have an Aubusson rug crafted to represent his leadership and style. A mid-18th-century pile French Aubusson carpet can retail for six figures on sites such as 1stDibs.

An Oriental rug refers to heavy woven fabric produced in any area that is in the Eastern world relating to Europe.

Persian rugs are Oriental rugs, but they are only made in Iran and are known for their thickness, with up to 160 knots per square inch. According

to handmade rug specialist Little Persia, the prominence of this kind of carpet traces back to the disparate rulers of the country over time.

Persian rugs are also known for their unique colorways and design motifs, as well as a distinct knot. The patterns are said to reflect Persia’s history and culture.

Afghan rugs are handwoven, usually made in the northern and western parts of Afghanistan. They are immensely popular — the country exported 800,000 square meters of rugs, worth an estimated $30 million, from March 2021 to January 2022, according to the Afghan Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Afghan rugs hold a rich history. The “war rug,” or “Afghan war rug,” style emerged from the Soviet Union’s occupation of Afghanistan in the 1980s. While they share some design elements

with Persian rugs, these Afghan versions usually illustrate imagery of war as opposed to typical geometrical designs.

The earliest records of Tibetan rugs stem back to the British invasion of Tibet in 1903. Tibetan rugs are usually made from Tibetan highland sheep’s wool, called changpel. People in Tibet are known for using rugs for several purposes, including flooring, wall hangings, horse saddles and seating.

Nomadic people in Nepal originally used sheep’s wool and other natural resources to make their carpets. The wool in Nepal is known for its softness and warmth, and its carpets for incorporating soft and shiny fabrics such as silk inserts.

Turkish rugs hold a history stemming back to the 13th century, with 18 surviving pieces woven during the Seljuk Turk’s empire. These rugs illustrate floral and geometric patterns and were woven in the Sivas, Kayseri and Konya provinces, where people still do so today.

There are several types of rugs produced in Turkey that are classified according to the materials used — silk on silk, wool on cotton, wool on wool, viscose on cotton, Kilims and Tulu. These rugs usually have either geometric, stylized motifs or naturalistic and floral designs.

“Certain types of rugs, such as Aubusson, Persian, Afghan, Tibetan, Nepalese and Turkish rugs, are often considered to be pillars of luxury due to their intricate designs and high-quality materials,” says Chloe Hughes, editor in chief of architecture, decoration and interiors Web site Foter, New York. “Such rugs can often be quite expensive and are seen as a symbol of wealth and status.”

DRESSING A ROOM

The right rug can complete a room. Aubusson rugs are largely used to complement spaces, with recommended placements including in front of a fireplace, under a dining room table, at the foot of a bed or in a hallway.

Persian rugs are recommended for bedrooms, often in front of dressers, working as a pillar to establish harmony amongst the room’s furniture.

“Many of our clients, even though they also invest in artwork, the rugs are the last thing they want to let go of because they have an actual personal relationship with them,” says Jan David

Winitz, founder and president of Claremont Rug Company in Oakland, California.

“We help them to discover the style of rugs which they relate to the most, which work with the décor and which touch them,” he says.

“To me, just something that works with the décor itself is belittling. It needs to touch the individual as well, and we work to bridge that gap.”

Affluent consumers and public figures appreciate rugs and carpets for their rich heritage and artistic flair, with some owners even curating personal collections or offering the textiles as gifts.

American actor Chris Meloni reportedly boasts an extensive rug collection, while former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger also has an appreciation for antique carpets, specifically exquisite Oriental rugs.

THE RUGS AND CARPET market in the United States was estimated at $10.3 billion in 2021, and the global market is expected to reach $38.8 billion by 2026. It is clear that the market is booming and leaves ample room for both creativity and investment.

“The luxury rug market is a niche market that is composed of high-end, handmade rugs,” Ms. Hughes says.

“These rugs can be quite expensive and are typically purchased by affluent consumers who are looking for a high-quality product that will last for many years,” she says.

“The luxury rug market is highly competitive, and manufacturers must continuously innovate to stay ahead of the curve.”

BOTTOM RIGHT: VIA UNSPLASH.COM

Text reproduced with permission from Luxury Portfolio International and Luxury Portfolio magazine. © Luxury Portfolio International. All rights reserved.

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THE ONLY GAME IN TOWN

SILVER CREEK AT 2023 LEADING REAL ESTATE COMPANIES OF THE WORLD® LUXURY SUMMIT AT THE LUXURIOUS WYNN IN LAS VEGAS

In an everchanging industry and economic landscape, our brokers at Silver Creek Real Estate Group remain curious, diligent, and eager to expand their knowledge and capacity for better serving our clients. This past March, a group of our agents attended the 2023 Leading Real Estate Companies of the World ® Luxury Summit at the luxurious Wynn in Las Vegas to engage and network with the brightest in the real estate and business industries. Leading RE is an invitationonly network of the world’s market-leading independent residential brokerages recognized for their unparalleled performance, trusted relationships, and ability to outsell all other networks, including large franchises.

Over several days, Silver Creek agents engaged in immersive learning and idea sharing, listening to an incredible lineup of keynote speakers who are pioneers in marketing and technology. One of these speakers was Christophe Georges, President & CEO of Bentley Motors Inc., who shared his experience managing customer service, evolving buyer behavior, and attention to detail as one of the world’s leading luxury automakers. AD100

interior designer Timothy Corrigan, known for his fusion of European elegance and California comfort, spoke on global design and amenities trends, and business strategist Seth Mattison, the Founder/CEO of FutureSight Labs, captivated the audience with his teachings on how to stand out and win in an uncertain world. CEO of Biltmore Farms, Jack Cecil, spoke about positioning and marketing in a nature-oriented luxury community, and Silver Creek Real Estate Group’s very own Founder & President, Jochen Lucke, shared his insight on the importance of dynamic communication and targeted marketing for reach and exposure that delivers maximum results.

“THE CONFERENCE PROVIDES AN OUTSTANDING OPPORTUNITY TO NETWORK WITH LEADING BROKERS AROUND THE COUNTRY AND TO BETTER UNDERSTAND

THE STATE OF THEIR MARKETS AND CLIENTS’ SENTIMENTS, WHICH IN SOME CASES AFFECTS OUR LOCAL MARKET,” SHARED JOCHEN. “I was honored to be asked to speak at two sessions during the conference to discuss Silver Creek’s focus on our exceptional marketing platform and client experience, which have been recognized by industry leaders. In addition to the many takeaways from the five-day conference, it was great to be with members of the Silver Creek team and see them engage and prepare for the season. We as a team strive to evolve alongside the market - staying up to date on the latest in economic and global design trends - and what we learned has helped to reinforce the steps we are already taking as leaders in real estate on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau. I am excited to continue sharing with our network of luxury agents across the country as we implement new and improved strategies and discuss integrating new technologies such as artificial intelligence and its impact on real estate brokerage.”

NC Living also asked our brokers to share some of the knowledge they gained while at the Leading RE 2023 Luxury Summit…

PARKER ANDERSON

“Attending the LPI Conference proved highly beneficial, as it emphasized the significance of acknowledging one’s selfworth and effectively communicating it to clients. As a broker specializing in luxury real estate, I am here to demonstrate the full extent of the quality and value of my customer service and to educate my clients on the efforts that take place behind the scenes. I am committed to showcasing this to my clients in order to ensure a seamless and more than satisfactory transaction. One of the critical components in cultivating interest among prospective homebuyers is building a foundation of trust. A key aspect of achieving this is establishing a personal rapport with the client, ideally through face-to-face interactions whenever possible. In cases where there are mutual contacts, it can be beneficial to engage in discussions about shared connections.

Maintaining a consistent and responsive presence with clients is paramount in the luxury real estate industry. Utilizing phone calls as a means of communication, rather than relying solely on text or email, can strengthen the clientbroker relationship and continuously build on the establishment of trust. It is essential for me to embody a composed and assertive demeanor, as this not only reinforces a sense of confidence in clients but also fosters a smooth and efficient transaction process. Ultimately, consistent and reliable conduct is fundamental to establishing a reputable and successful career as a luxury broker. Although the luxury real estate market continues to thrive, the challenge of limited inventory persists in many markets worldwide. Consequently, effective marketing strategies are pivotal in the luxury sector. Adapting to an ever-changing landscape is essential for maintaining relevance and competitiveness. FAILURE TO EVOLVE OFTEN LEADS TO STAGNATION OR EVEN OBSOLESCENCE.

IT IS IMPERATIVE TO REMAIN VIGILANT, CONTINUOUSLY ACQUIRING KNOWLEDGE AND REFINING MARKETING CONTENT AND

QUALITY, WITH THE ULTIMATE GOAL OF SERVING CLIENTS AND READERS AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL POSSIBLE.

Regarding new and upcoming design trends, it’s a true pleasure to witness the resurgence of maximalism, characterized by bold colors, patterns, and decorative statement pieces such as ornate glass chandeliers. Additionally, refined shades of blues and greens, as well as the use of brass and bronze fixtures, are gaining momentum. And when it comes to what’s trending in furniture, antiques are back! It is noteworthy that the focus has shifted towards timelessness and traditional. It is important to acknowledge that changes in design trends are often driven by how people live in their homes and their desire for comfort.

Building on my earlier observation regarding the resurgence of maximalism in design, this trend is also gaining traction in the luxury real estate market. Rather than the prevalent preference for minimalist design, there is a growing demand for more expansive square footage. In my area of expertise here in the western North Carolina mountains, this demand is driven by a desire for larger homes with the biggest and most

attainable mountain vistas. As a luxury real estate Broker, it is crucial to stay attuned to these evolving preferences in order for me to better serve my clients.”

JULIA TATUM BANNER

“Conference was an enlightening experience, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue to expand my knowledge as a broker. I learned a few things that I believe will truly aid in building relationships and establishing a rapport as a broker working in the luxury market. Firstly, all buyers and sellers are the same - from those spending millions to those spending a several hundred thousand – the home buying and selling process is important and extremely personal to each of them, no matter their background. Secondly, you have to trust yourself and your knowledge; if you do, your clients/connections will also trust you and the process. In this business, staying connected is vital; with the hustle and bustle of life, we all lose track of time. Sometimes it’s easier to send a text or a quick email, but making an effort to meet in person for coffee or even just catching up over the phone gives a more personal touch that lets buyers and sellers know

I WAS HONORED TO BE ASKED TO SPEAK AT TWO SESSIONS DURING THE CONFERENCE

TO DISCUSS SILVER CREEK’S FOCUS ON OUR EXCEPTIONAL MARKETING PLATFORM AND CLIENT EXPERIENCE, WHICH HAVE BEEN RECOGNIZED BY INDUSTRY LEADERS.

JOCHEN LUCKE, OWNER/PRESIDENT

they can trust you, you’re there for them, and that their needs really matter. Like other important purchases and decisions, its crucial to work with an agent that provides a high level of service and makes you feel as though you have someone in your corner. The agents in our brokerage serve as knowledgeable and trustworthy representatives who will advocate for each of their clients’ best interests. In today’s market, having this kind of representation is invaluable, particularly when it comes to making substantial financial decisions.

THERE WERE ALSO SOME INTERESTING CONSERVATIONS ABOUT CURRENT DESIGN TRENDS, AND I WAS EXCITED TO HEAR THAT CLASSIC, TIMELESS DESIGN IS COMING BACK! LESS TRENDY THAN WHAT WE HAVE SEEN IN PREVIOUS YEARS. WARMER TONES WITH COLOR, CLEAN BUT NOT TOO WHITE, USING ANTIQUES OR SENTIMENTAL PIECES, ECLECTIC. I PREFER THESE ELEMENTS IN MY OWN SPACE AND CHOOSE TO UTILIZE THEM IN THE DESIGN PROCESS WHEN WORKING WITH CLIENTS ON BUILDING THEIR HOMES.”

KEVIN KOACH

“There was a lot of great information that came out of the Luxury Summit. First and foremost, the real estate world is not ending, as sometimes tends to be the message on major news networks. The housing prices and transaction craziness of the last few years are gone, which is a good thing for both the housing market and the consumer as it brings in a desired state of equilibrium. Certain safeguards put in place after the 2008/2009 years continue to prevent widespread financial disorder. Similarly, the banking crisis has given buyers and sellers pause to digest the information, but recent national data indicates the relative safe haven of the real estate market will continue to be an attractive investment for both the average and luxury consumer.

The housing market forecast for resort markets will outpace many other areas around the country as luxury consumers look for areas and homes that provide

comfort, space, privacy, security, and a sense of understated prestige. The Plateau lifestyle will continue to remain a huge selling point to buyers as people retire and the new primary, Millennials, reach a point in their careers where they have discretionary incomes that afford them secondary homes.

The national market, especially for resort markets like ours, continues to remain strong for a variety of reasons. The great exodus and shifting of the population from the northern city and metro areas to southern cities and rural areas continue with the advancement of remote work capabilities. The East Coast markets (on average) continue to see strong sales when compared to West Coast markets, as prices and sales continue with strong demand and low inventory numbers.

The lockdowns of the Asia-Pacific region are beginning to relax, which means those luxury markets are just about to heat up, which could continue to push the luxury markets in the US into positive territories.

Post the covid era buying frenzy, now is the time to return to the basics of anticipating your client’s needs, providing exceptional marketing, which is heads and shoulders above the competition, and creating a seamless transaction from beginning to end. These skills are some of the leading reasons why clients continue to use Silver Creek for their personal property transactions and to refer their network of friends and family to receive the same high level of service.

In terms of design, we are moving away from the whites and grays that defined our interior lifestyle to warmer colors of browns and gold. Brass and bronze elements are coming back into fashion, and a place where a seller can add easy elegance is through the use of curtains to bring about a sense of privacy to the home. Big, bold colors are coming back into the frame as the “minimalism” seen for the last few years is trending out in terms of opening up big spaces for families and friends to gather again in a central room. This trend is also bringing back the use of antiques to personalize rooms and bring about an old-world, traditional feel to the home. We are moving past the covid era in a hurry to bring back gathering spaces!

The Conference provided an incredible opportunity to meet with and interact with real estate brokers from both around the country and the world. This event introduced and solidified agent contacts from both inside our traditional feeder markets and with those who may have never heard of The Plateau. The chance to speak with all these agents, learn from their marketing strategies, and bounce ideas off one another will be a boon to our clients as we move forward in the new housing market. Silver Creek’s affiliation and connection with both Luxury Portfolio and Leading Real Estate Companies of the World provides our client’s properties with a national and global focus to maximize marketing capabilities. Through these connections we are effectively reaching as many potential clients as possible.”

THE CHANCE TO SPEAK WITH ALL THESE AGENTS, LEARN FROM THEIR MARKETING STRATEGIES, AND BOUNCE IDEAS OFF ONE ANOTHER WILL BE A BOON TO OUR CLIENTS AS WE MOVE FORWARD IN THE NEW HOUSING MARKET.

KEVIN KOACH, BROKER

BAMBI FAMOUS KAINE

“I really enjoyed the opportunity to connect with other professionals at the Leading RE Luxury Summit. It continues to be a valuable platform for discovery and learning among those in the real estate industry, and each year provides unique insight into the market and current trends that impact our work. This year there was a large focus on validating the value of authenticity and generating trust with your clients. Developing these relationships built on a foundation of trust is paramount, as is the power of consistency as a broker. It’s important to ask great questions about your buyers, their passions, hobbies, and interests to become a trusted advisor – not just a trusted “transactional” broker.

Learning about new trends is also incredibly helpful as it allows me to more adequately position properties for entry onto the market and stay up to date with trends that my buyers may be seeking in their future homes. As of recently, bold patterns, iron accents, and wallpaper are making a strong resurgence, as are warmer colors, refined jewel tones, brass, and bronze. In the luxury market, oversized primary closets, bathrooms, and laundry rooms have become highly desirable, alongside partitioned spaces, multi-functional offices, performance materials, sustainable antiques, and mosaic and terrazzo floors. Understanding these preferences in design is crucial to serving my clients and identifying properties that fall in line or have the potential to be transformed into the homes of their dreams.

Analogous trends are consistent with real estate and luxury purchases, and consumers are spending in the luxury market! AS A BROKER WORKING IN LUXURY REAL ESTATE, I CONTINUE TO TAKE DELIBERATE ACTION TO MOVE BEYOND MY CURRENT LIMITS AND EMBRACE NEW POSSIBILITIES FOR GROWTH AND FULFILLMENT. This includes but is not limited to continuing education, pursuing new markets, and developing new services to serve my clients better.”

OUR MEMBERSHIP WITH THESE ORGANIZATIONS DIFFERENTIATES US FROM OTHER REAL ESTATE GROUPS AND IT IS A TREMENDOUS BENEFIT TO OUR CLIENTS BECAUSE IT ALLOWS US TO ACCESS AN INTERNATIONAL NETWORK OF SELECT FIRMS FOCUSING ON THE LUXURY REAL ESTATE MARKET.

CHRIS DUFFY, BROKER

CHRIS DUFFY

“As members of Leading RE and Luxury Portfolio International, there are so many resources available to us as brokers, and the Luxury Summit allowed me to discover new methods of implementing these tools to assist my clients in their buying and selling process. Our membership with these organizations differentiates us from other real estate groups and it is a tremendous benefit to our clients because it allows us to access an international network of select firms focusing on the luxury real estate market. This is also a huge benefit when it comes to competing against larger national firms. In terms of design, I found it interesting that the trend in modern farmhouses is fading, and maximalism is returning. Particularly in the luxury market, there is a new emphasis on wet spaces (kitchens and baths).

Going forward, I am looking to utilize more of the resources available to us as members of Luxury Portfolio International and Leading RE to facilitate and create more dynamic and seamless transactions for my clients and enhance their buying and selling processes.”

CASSIE NEAL

“In this industry, standing still is not an option; we need to be resilient and always learning new things, especially in an ever-changing market. People are looking for agents they can trust, and one way to fill that role is by being an agent that reduces stress and helps take things off their plate during the buying process. One of my main takeaways from the Luxury Summit is a simple notion, and that is to “talk less and listen more”! I always try to build a good rapport with my clients by talking about myself and helping them get to know and trust me as a person. However, more listening and less talking will help me learn even more about the type of lifestyle my clients envision when coming to find a vacation home or full-time residence in our area.

There are several new trends in the design realm that I found interesting, but one that stood out the most was the fact that luxurious laundry rooms are coming up in style, and as our presenter Timothy Corrigan pointed out, most of these homeowners aren’t even doing their own laundry but are still investing in expansive laundry areas. Another trend that we have already been seeing here in the mountains is the switch from cool colors to warm colors, especially the jewel tones and gold fixtures, and hardware. Homeowners are also expanding their primary closets and bathrooms and are more inclined to prefer more non-open floor plans with separate areas that serve specific functions, i.e., formal dining rooms and separate living and den areas, etc. We also learned that the materials being used are slightly different; for example…slabs of granite and marble counters are being exchanged for more detailed mosaic design, iron accents are replacing silver, wallpaper is making a comeback (at least for 2-3 years), and statement glass chandelier pieces are very “in” right now.

GENERALLY, THE REAL ESTATE MARKET OVERALL IS REACHING TOWARDS STABILITY, AND IF YOU TAKE A LOOK AT THE BIGGER PICTURE, OVER THE LAST 10 OR 20 YEARS, IT HAS, AND ALWAYS WILL, FLUCTUATE.

THERE ARE ALWAYS VARIOUS MARKET CHALLENGES, INCLUDING INTEREST RATE CHANGES AND INVENTORY ISSUES, BUT IN TIME, THESE FACTORS WILL RETURN TO THE STATUS QUO. THERE WILL ALWAYS BE PEOPLE WHO NEED TO BUY AND SELL HOMES! AND, IMPERATIVE TO THE BUYING AND SELLING PROCESS IS STAYING CONSISTENT IN MARKETING EFFORTS EVEN DURING A CHALLENGING MARKET. It is a great way to continue to generate leads and service your existing clients, which in turn will result in more business.”

LINDA PRIDGEN

“One of the biggest takeaways I had from the conference is that, when it comes to real estate, there’s no need to panic. Everything will work out. People will continue to

buy and sell properties, and knowledgeable, seasoned agents will continue to list and sell properties. Many younger people are purchasing within the luxury market because they desire safe places, gated communities, and good schools, as well as family activities available for their children and recreation opportunities for themselves. On a similar note, many people are purchasing in other countries. In Europe, for example, a majority of their business is done with clients in the United States, and in other locations, it’s about 50/50 Americans.

I think as a broker, it’s important to get back to the basics and work to establish more personal Regardless of whether your client is buying or selling, it’s more about the transaction than the property, and establishing yourself as a trusted resource is vital. As is making sure clients are fully educated before making their decision on a property or a community. As brokers, we need to be compassionate, caring, and dedicated to fostering relationships built on foundations of trust with our clients and being visible and active members of our community is an integral part of this.

Just as we work to establish these relationships with our current clients, fostering our relationships with past clients is just as important, even if you worked with them 20 years ago. Another thing that I liked about the conference was the idea of “24 touches,” which means you communicate with your clients that many times per year, staying in touch past the completion of the transaction, continuing to check in on how they are doing and if there are any other ways you might be of service to them. In a world that is ever-changing, there are many things that can impact buyers and sellers, from recessions and periods of recovery to major life events; we always need to be striving to take wonderful care of our clients.”

DAN ALLEN

“Working in a luxury real estate market, it’s vital for us as brokers to continue expanding our knowledge and capacity for better serving our clients, and the Leading RE Luxury Summit provides an excellent opportunity for us to meet

with and learn from other leaders in our industry. One of my biggest takeaways was that, with all the new technologies, it always comes back to personal relationships and working hands-on with people. The latest tools and platforms and photos and marketing are great - and necessary - but at the end of the day, it’s about knowledge, integrity, and trust... Your client needs to know they can rely on your experience and trust your advice to navigate buying or selling a property.

In terms of trends in design and amenities, it was great to see that building with sustainability practices is becoming increasingly important to home buyers, as well as building homes that promote healthy living, with spaces for fitness and yoga. Not surprisingly, technology is playing a bigger role than ever as people build with the latest smart home features. We seem to be moving away from the stark white interiors and more toward warmer colors and traditional, timeless architecture. Private pools, gyms, theaters, and other luxuries are becoming increasingly sought after. Staying up to date with these trends allows me to better navigate the preferences that my clients may have and in turn, find them exactly what they are looking for.

HERE ON THE HIGHLANDS-CASHIERS PLATEAU, WE WORK IN A UNIQUE MARKET, AND IT WAS EYE-OPENING TO HEAR PERSPECTIVES AND LEARN ABOUT THE EXPERIENCES OF OTHER BROKERS ACROSS THE COUNTRY. WHILE THE NATIONAL MARKET IS STRONG OVERALL, THE WEST COAST MARKETS HAVE BEEN SLOWING DOWN FOR SOME TIME, AND THE EAST COAST MARKETS HAVE BEEN A BENEFICIARY OF THIS TREND. As we have experienced here, the east coast markets have remained hot since COVID and have seen very little slowdown. Many people are still seeking out the lifestyle that the Plateau offers, and our clients come to us because of a strong desire not only for luxury real estate but for the luxury of peaceful living, amenities, and an escape from the commotion of city life.”

AS BROKERS, WE NEED TO BE COMPASSIONATE, CARING, AND DEDICATED TO FOSTERING RELATIONSHIPS BUILT ON FOUNDATIONS OF TRUST WITH OUR CLIENTS AND BEING VISIBLE AND ACTIVE MEMBERS OF OUR COMMUNITY IS AN INTEGRAL PART OF THIS.

LINDA PRIDGEN, BROKER

THE 2022 LEADING BROKERAGE ON THE PLATEAU

Achieving the highest transactional dollar volume and the most transactions closed per Highlands-Cashiers Board of Realtors MLS.

At our core, we firmly believe that success is best measured by the relationships we cultivate with our clients. That’s precisely why we take immense pride in offering a premier service that caters to the needs of both buyers and sellers alike. With our dedicated team, you can expect nothing less than next-level personal attention, expert guidance, and solutions that are driven by results.

Connect with our team today and experience for yourself the kind of difference a strong, collaborative relationship can make.