Hartness Living - Summer 2023 Newsletter

DEAR FRIENDS,

Welcome to the latest edition of Hartness Living.

Since our last issue, Hartness has made remarkable progress. We have continued to grow and bring to life the vision our family set out to achieve. It is an honor to be a part of this project and to continue creating spaces for others to experience and make lasting memories.

As we move forward through 2023, our team is focused on both executing on immediate projects and planning for the opportunity for a robust future. We will utilize our current momentum to propel us into the next chapters of the multifaceted Hartness story, and we are delighted to have you join us on this journey. Together, we will make this dream a reality.

From exciting updates on new residential developments to insights into the Hartness East Village (commercial district), we have a lot to share and even more to look forward to.

As we embark on the next stages of development, we remain committed to the ideals of quality and community. I invite you to discover all the exciting new projects, people, and happenings taking place in and around Hartness in this new issue of Hartness Living.

Sincerely,

Sean Hartness

Sean Hartness CEO, Hartness Development

HARTNESS REAL ESTATE UPDATE

As the first half of 2023 wraps up, real estate sales at Hartness continue to keep solid pace with the top performing residential markets across the Southeast. Much of the attention during the last six months has focused on finishing up sales of Cottage Grove homes, the Preserve Villas, remaining builder homes, and estate homesites.

David Robertson, Director of Sales – Hartness Real Estate, says, “Our team carried over from a record-breaking 2022 and continues to have success even as property inventory levels remain extremely low. Hartness has a strong following from prospective new owners and within the Upstate brokerage community. There is a strong sense of urgency to own a home or homesite in Hartness, which is why we’ve sold virtually all properties in Phases One and Two.”

On the horizon for the second half of 2023 is the offering of three new phases containing a variety of properties. The Meadow (Phase 3a), The Heritage (Phase 4), and Woodland Retreat (Phase 2c) are all set to come online later this year. Take a moment to review the “Tapestry of Progress” article in this newsletter, which provides further details on each of these new offerings.

In terms of numbers, the news is equally encouraging. Year to date, the Hartness team has contracted 35 properties for just over $27.3 million. The team has closed approximately half of those contracts. Hartness recently hosted a community-wide open house event, which was attended by over 100 couples and families. According to Robertson, “The open house was a huge success both from the standpoint of attendance and exposure as it led to the sale of three Preserve Villa residences.”

In addition to selling current inventory, the Hartness Real Estate sales and marketing team is diligently working with our preferred builder group to establish an order of selection for the upcoming new homesites. An intense level of effort from all parties has resulted in 36 homesite reservations from builders and clients.

For more information about Hartness real estate opportunities, visit our website, or call 864-920-0375 for a discovery visit.

David Robertson Director of Sales—Hartness Real Estate

A TAPESTRY OF PROGRESS

UNRAVELING THE NEW PHASES OF HARTNESS

There is no doubt that a lot is happening at Hartness. From the upcoming releases of new residential phases to new commercial additions, the community is experiencing significant growth. New phases and residential offerings The Meadow, The Heritage, and Woodland Retreat will deliver 149 homesites and the next commercial building in the Village is imminent.

The Meadow, is already well underway with curbing and roads in progress. The first homes are expected to break ground as early as this Summer. The Meadow features an additional community entrance off Highway 14, the potential for 113 homes, fresh new common spaces, green areas, and more. Tori Wallace-Babcock, Director of Development at Hartness, explains, “Our goal for The Meadow is to complement Phases 1 and 2 but not duplicate them. We are actively considering and pursuing ideas for each phase that will make them cohesive with the rest of the community, but also unique and a way to bring new amenities and interest to Hartness.”

The Heritage follows closely behind the Meadow, with the Hartness team already hard at work and aiming to deliver lots as early as the end of this year. “The inspiration for The Heritage comes from Crescent Avenue in downtown Greenville, and other historic neighborhoods that are similar,” says Babcock. Hartness’s newest historic-inspired district will be made up of estate-sized lots with a minimum home size of 3,000 sq.ft. The land will be left as undisturbed as possible allowing the lot owners the ability to grade and work with the mature landscaping in the area.

Finally, the Hartness Development team is excited to announce Woodland Retreat. This beautifully wooded enclave of 11 homesites features three “tree house-styled” custom-designed homes. It’s an intimate site with distinctly different topography and foilage. The home plans will be significantly different from others at Hartness, creating a unique nook of nature inspired lodgings. Woodland Retreat homesites are expected to be available late this summer.

Regardless of the phase, Hartness is committed to making thoughtful decisions to enhance the neighborhood with each step. Babcock emphasizes the importance of bringing the elements of “surprise and delight” to all new offerings at Hartness. “We are working on several things at the moment, not just the phases but also some improvements and additional small amenities. We hope every time our residents walk through the preserve or through the neighborhood, they will find things that make them smile. Things that are unexpected and bring joy.”

As the newest phases of Hartness take shape, make sure you take the time to discover the details. Whatever the discovery, Hartness is sure to surprise and delight all residents, past, present, and future.

Wallace-Babcock Director of Development

Tori

We hope every time our residents walk through the preserve or through the neighborhood, they will find things that make them smile.

— TORI WALLACE-BABCOCK, DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

THE EAST VILLAGE EVOLUTION

Hartness may be known for its traditional design, beautiful homes, and unmatched natural beauty but there’s more to this community than meets the eye. If you ask Jim Burns, COO of Hartness, the Hartness we see today is just the beginning. Jim states, “Over the next few years, we will witness significant enhancements that will serve to realize the vision of the community.” This, of course, is a reference to the build-out plan of the European-inspired East Village.

The East Village is currently planned as a multi-year development project. It will be a mix of residential, retail, and service amenities. Adding to the currently existing building that is home to Hartness Development, Hartness Real Estate, and its newest occupant, The One 5-a true neighborhood restaurant and pub, Hartness is planning to announce final plans for the groundbreaking of a sister building in the coming months. According to Burns, “The next building in the Village will bring with it service-driven amenity space for the neighborhood and the surrounding areas.”

The Hartness team is currently in talks with potential businesses but is being very methodical in its selections. “We want a diversity of offerings in the East Village. We want something for everyone. The East Village is envisioned as a neighborhood town center, so we are directed by a need to find best-in-class shops and services to meet the needs of our neighbors”, says Burns. From doctor’s offices to cafes, salons, and specialty shops, there are a lot of options the team is considering. Whatever the choice, we know it will be one made with the intention of diversity in mind.

The East Village architecture will generally be in keeping with the community’s overall architectural vision. However, there will be a few spots in the village where the architects will get to stretch their legs. “We are keeping the design of the village cohesive with the neighborhood, although

you can expect a few ‘jewel boxes’ here and there,” teases Burns. One of these “jewel boxes” is the concept of a rooftop amenity. “We are playing with the idea of a signature restaurant possibly incorporating a rooftop area that will sit on the corner of the village and look out over the Grand Lawn. We are taking our time to find the right partner to create a truly remarkable piece of architecture in that spot. It will be an unbelievable space to enjoy the grand surrounds of Hartness and the Upstate.”

Hartness is clear on its vision for the East Village. A vision to create an enjoyable and walkable shopping, dining, and service experience. The design will prioritize time spent enjoying life rather than the tedious tasks of traffic, parking, and multi-stop errands. Burns explains, “It will be more of a location to come and meet your friends, to spend time together, where you have all these options of things to do without having to venture out of Hartness. It’s a place where you can enjoy a bottle of wine, play with your kids in the green spaces, grab a bite to eat at a restaurant, or pick up a few necessities. It will have tons of options, and everything will be fully integrated into the community.”

As the residential side of Hartness continues to flourish and the addition of new phases take root, the anticipation for the build-out of the East Village is growing. These upcoming developments will usher in significant changes to Hartness, promising to attract new visitors, offer exciting experiences, and provide even more ways to enjoy life at Hartness.

We want a diversity of offerings in the East Village. We want something for everyone. The East Village is envisioned as a neighborhood town center, so we are directed by a need to find best-in-class shops and services to meet the needs of our neighbors.

— JIM BURNS, HARTNESS COO

BUILDING FRIENDSHIPS

THE DYNAMIC DUOS OF CUSTOM HOME BUILDING.

JERRY FAY ( L ) AND CHRIS ROGERS ( R)

Chris Rogers’ passion for the construction business runs deep in his veins. He was introduced to the industry nearly three decades ago when he joined his father’s building company. Over time, he steadily honed his skills and knowledge, eventually assuming leadership of the company. As his productivity increased, he recognized an opportunity to expand his reach and partnered with Jerry Fay, who brought with him an intense background in production, sales, and marketing. By integrating some of the best practices from Jerry’s world—processes and discipline—into the realm of custom home building, they established Milestone Custom Homes, a company that continues to thrive under their joint guidance.

These dynamic duos may not have coined the term ‘Dream Team,’ but they are certainly worthy of the titles. Chris Rogers and Jerry Fay of Milestone Custom Homes, along with Kevin Sexton and Barry Griffith of Sexton Griffith Custom Builders, are two highly-touted tandems who have created custom home companies focused on communication, experience, and integrity.

We invite you to get to know the leaders behind Milestone and Sexton Griffith, not only as esteemed members of our Builder’s Guild but also as friendly faces around the Hartness community, both on and off the job site.

JERRY, LET’S GET PERSONAL

FAVORITE PART OF THE JOB? “I like the personal side of custom home building. I think it’s fun to come in and truly figure out how a client lives and problem-solve with them to build the house that fits them the best. We get an opportunity to marry form and function and build it right before them.”

FAVORITE SONG? “I love a lot of music. It would be an injustice to the world to just give one song, but if I had to, I would say it’s ‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.’ That was the song my daughter and I danced to at her wedding, so it’s special to me.”

DO YOU HAVE PETS? “I have three dogs and four Nigerian dwarf goats. The only thing my goats produce is happiness. They just make people happy.”

FAVORITE RESTAURANT? “I really don’t have a favorite restaurant. When it comes to food, I would rather cook and cook for other people.”

BEST ADVICE WHEN HIRING A BUILDER?

“Get to know and understand your builder on the front end. A home is personal. It’s more than a business transaction. Find a builder that communicates well and cares.”

DESCRIBE YOUR DREAM HOME. “Clean, timeless, and a function over form. I would want a home specifically designed for the way we live that fits our lifestyle.”

CHRIS, LET’S GET PERSONAL

WHAT KEEPS YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT BUILDING? “It’s fun to build, especially in our case where we get to build nice things. Everything we build is always one-of-a-kind and special. At the end of the day, you’ve produced a tangible product to be proud of.”

WHAT DREW YOU TO HARTNESS? “I’ve known the Hartness family for years. My dad and Pat Hartness were friends. Hartness is building an interesting product, and I know they will do it right. It’s great to be a part of something so cool.”

FAVORITE RESTAURANT? “To be honest, I would rather just eat what my wife cooks. If we do go out, my wife likes sushi. So, we go get sushi sometimes at Otto.”

DESCRIBE YOUR DREAM HOME. “I actually just finished building my house. It’s simple and comfortable. Everything is done well, and everything is focused around the way we live. After building other people’s homes for thirty years, it’s cool to be able to build your own house and see what people are dealing with.”

FAVORITE SEASON? “Summer. I hate the cold. In the summertime, I like going to the beach and hanging out with my family and doing things outside together.”

BEST ADVICE WHEN HIRING A BUILDER?

“Find someone you trust and someone that values that trust. It really makes things go a lot more smoothly. Experience, communication, and someone you can trust are the qualities that make a good builder.”

BUILDING FRIENDSHIPS

KEVIN SEXTON ( L ) AND BARRY GRIFFITH ( R)

Barry Griffith and Kevin Sexton founded Sexton-Griffith Custom Home Builders in 1991. These two cousins and college roommates might have pursued different paths after college: Barry followed his computer engineering degree to Robins Airforce Base, while Kevin leveraged his construction science degree to construct his own personal residence. However, years of late-night conversations in the college dorms of Clemson always kept them inspired to venture into business together. Both Barry and Kevin were exposed to exceptional construction growing up, with Kevin’s father, Bob Sexton, making a name in development and even serving as the president of the Home Builders Association. This influential family connection, coupled with their shared passion for home building, set the stage for their promising future.

KEVIN, LET’S GET PERSONAL

WHAT DREW YOU TO HARTNESS? “We were looking for a community that had the high-end product we are accustomed to building, and really, Hartness was perfect. Once we got here, we really liked what Hartness was doing and all the things they had planned for the community.”

BEST ADVICE WHEN HIRING A BUILDER?

“I encourage people to do their research and find someone they connect with. You want to have a good relationship during the process and after the process.”

FAVORITE DAY OFF ACTIVITY? “With no to-do list, I would be playing with my classic cars in the garage or driving them. I have mostly 50s-60s models. I’ve got more than I have space for.”

FAVORITE SEASON? “Definitely Summer. It’s just a good time to spend with my family. We like to go on vacations to Myrtle Beach or somewhere in Florida.”

BEST QUALITIES OF A BUILDER? “Experience and integrity, without a doubt. You have to mean what you’ve set out to do. Your work has to be worth something. If not, you won’t have a very good reputation for very long.”

DESCRIBE YOUR DREAM HOME. “It would be our model home for me. The one out on the lake. It’s a long water view on a relatively flat lake lot. Infinity edge pool with a walkout on the main floor. It’s very unique as far as lake property goes. A picture is worth a thousand words. I’d encourage people to check it out on our website.”

BARRY, LET’S GET PERSONAL

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED? “My Dad shared something with me that I’ve never forgotten. He said, ‘Don’t ever get to be more trouble than you’re worth.’”

DO YOU HAVE PETS? “I have a Labradoodle that I will blame on my wife. Her name is Prada. We’ve also had Labs in the past.”

FAVORITE SEASON? “There is just something special about the Fall. The change in the weather and the colors. For me, it’s the perfect season to enjoy hiking in the mountains and hiking to waterfalls.”

FAVORITE COLOR? “Well, it’s between Orange and Purple. But if I have to go with one, let’s say Purple.”

BEST ADVICE FOR SOMEONE BUILDING THEIR HOME? “Relax and enjoy the process. You have to be confident in the end product. People can get wound up on little things. Keep seeing the end picture. In the end, it is going to be beautiful. Don’t spend too much emotional capital on small things.”

FAVORITE SONG? “I have two songs that I never get tired of: Beethoven’s 9th Symphony and Amazing Grace.”

CHERISHED CONNECTIONS

As you wander down one of the lush green streets of Hartness, perhaps the one nestled in the cottage courtyard, you might just stumble upon the residence of the Wells Family. If you don’t see Lisa and Ken smiling at you from their charming abode, you might find them out hiking in the nature preserve or setting up a picnic in the pecan grove. Wherever you find them, you will find them right at home, enjoying everything Hartness has to offer.

For the Wells Family, what truly makes Hartness home is not only the abundance of trails, events, and amenities but the genuine connection and exceptional sense of community among the neighbors. Ken explains, “Hartness is a livable, walkable neighborhood where you actually know your neighbors again. For the last 20-30 years, I feel

like most people lived in communities where you don’t even know your neighbors. But here, we know all our neighbors. We love the whole atmosphere.”

At Hartness, we treasure the value of community and strive to create opportunities for strangers to become neighbors and neighbors to become friends.

From the Christmas tree lighting to the 4th of July fireworks, Hartness brings the spirit of community, of togetherness, to the forefront of each activity.

A peaceful stroll in the forest or a morning cast out by the ponds are not just amenities, but spaces designed to live life. Hartness provides a backdrop for every special moment, big or small. It’s a place where memories are shared, created, and cherished for a lifetime.

Nothing even compares to Hartness. No matter where we looked or what we looked at, we always came back to Hartness.

— KEN WELLS, HARTNESS RESIDENT

WELCOME TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD!

WELCOME HOME: SARAH AND MACEO JACKSON

FROM: GREENVILLE, SC

RAISED: Maceo was raised in Massachusetts, and Sarah in Germany.

FLUFFY NEIGHBORS: Two cats, Gizmo and Cleo.

BACKGROUND: These two engineers met in China, lived in Germany, got married in California, and are now living at Hartness with a new baby boy!

PASSIONS AND PASTIMES: Sarah and Maceo both love traveling. Maceo is also interested in motorcycles, and Sarah enjoys cooking and eating delicious food.

WHY HARTNESS: They both love the walkable community and the European inspired architecture that reminds Sarah of Germany.

WELCOME HOME: BRAD HALL AND ELISSA ERNST

FROM: SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA

RAISED: Brad has lived all over the U.S., and Elissa was raised in San Antonio, Texas. They recently moved to Greenville from Sacramento, California, a few months ago.

FLUFFY NEIGHBORS: Toby the house cat and Piper the Terrier mix.

WHY HARTNESS: Brad and Elissa see Hartness as the idyllic place to raise their two children, 5-year-old Ava and 2-year-old Aiden.

WELCOME HOME: JANA MARTINEZ

FROM: GREENVILLE, SC

RAISED: Jana was raised in Southern California.

PASSIONS AND PASTIMES: Jana enjoys walking, being in nature, and spending time with family and friends.

BACKGROUND: Jana is a Human Resources Consultant and the full-time caretaker for her mother. She is looking forward to retirement, meeting her new neighbors, and enjoying all the community activities.

WHY HARTNESS: Jana wanted to live in an area that had a close community connection and lots of amenities. Her former neighbor also moved to Hartness the same day she saw an advertisement for the community. She knew then that Hartness was the right place for her new home.

WELCOME HOME: BARBARA KERSCHER

FROM: HUDSON, OHIO

RAISED: Barb was raised in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio.

PASSIONS AND PASTIMES: Barb is retired from a familyowned business and enjoys reading, spending time with her friends, family, and grandchildren.

WHY HARTNESS: Barbara chose Hartness to be closer to her son and his family, who are also Hartness residents!

WELCOME HOME: LEN BYRNE

FROM: GREENVILLE, SC

RAISED: Len was raised in New Jersey.

PASSIONS AND PASTIMES: Len, now retired from his role as President of Cryovac, is an empty nester who enjoys golf, travel, reading, and time spent at the beach.

FAVORITE FOOD: A big steak and most seafood are at the top of Len’s favorite foods list.

WHY HARTNESS: This is Len’s second home at Hartness. He is excited about spending time in the beautiful environment that Hartness has to offer.

FRESH ON THE FARM

There are always new and exciting things growing and blooming at Hartness, and the Hartness Farm is no exception! With an array of colorful eggs, fresh produce, and vibrant flowers cropping up season after season, it is undeniably one of our liveliest amenities. We welcome all residents and friends to take note of the newest harvests coming to the table this Spring and Summer.

NOW THROUGH JUNE

Broccolini

Broccoli

Cauliflower

Red Curly Kale

Green Curly Kale

Dino Kale

Yellow Onion

Red Onion

Green Onions

Leeks

Shallots

Garlic

Red butter lettuce

Green Crisp Lettuce

END OF JUNE THROUGH SUMMER

Zephyr Squash

Green Zuchinni

Yellow Zuchinni

EARLY JULY

Silver Queen Corn

Zinnias multiple varieties

EARLY JULY THROUGH END OF SUMMER

English Cumcumber

Pickling Cucumber

Banana Peppers

Red Slicer Tomato

Cherokee Purple Tomato

Citrine Cherry Tomato

EARLY JULY THROUGH END OF OCTOBER

Sunflowers

Calendula

MID JULY THROUGH END OF SUMMER

Lunch Box Peppers

Fresno Pepper

Clemson Spinless Okra

AVAILABLE END OF SEPTEMBER

Pumpkins

MIXING UP MEMORIES

JOHNNY HERNANDEZ, MIXOLOGIST AT THE CAPTAIN BAR IN HOTEL HARTNESS

Tucked away in a plush leather booth of The Captain, Hotel Hartness’ bar, one can find an atmosphere fit for conversation. The warm and inviting space, weighted with heavy wooden beams and a chic pass-through fireplace, dress the scene for a relaxing cocktail. But what is a cocktail without its maker?

According to Johnny, mixologist at The Captain, a cocktail is more than a drink; it’s an experience. “To me, a cocktail is a combination of flavors, and each flavor comes with its own unique memory for each person. When fused together, this drink creates a new moment and a new memory for that person. That’s a big responsibility, and I’m happy to take it on.”

To Johnny, bartending is more than a skill; it’s a passion. He believes a good mixologist is made up of four parts: one part creative, one part honest, one part skilled, and a big heap of social skills. If shaken well and poured over a delectable atmosphere, like The Captain, you are in for a memorable experience.

Born in Merida, Venezuela, Johnny brings with him not only the cocktail flair of Caracas, Venezuela’s capital city, where his training in cocktail crafting first began, but also the knowledge of New York’s mixology scene as he continued his training in the Big Apple, working with mentors at some of New York’s most accredited restaurants. To top off his training, in 2021, Johnny received the opportunity to work in Wynwood, Miami, Miami’s hottest nightlife district

at their first-ever Gin Cocktail Club. Trained in the art of molecular cocktails, gastronomic techniques, and free-hand crafting, Johnny is truly a cocktail savant and a profound philosopher of the palate.

In 2022, Greenville, SC caught Johnny’s eye. The fast-paced scenes of Miami, New York, and Caracas made him an exceptional bartender, but he was ready for a change of pace and a chance to settle down. Greenville provided him with just that. After interviewing with Juan Nieto for a bartending position at Hotel Hartness, the team knew right away that Johnny was the guru for the job. According to Johnny, “Greenville is paradise, and Hotel Hartness is paradise in the middle of paradise”. He is thrilled to be a part of such an amazing project and is honored to serve us up some drinks along the way.

The next time you find yourself needing to wind down, make sure you stop in to see Johnny. Have him craft you up his signature cocktail, the “Golden Eagle,” a drink as lustrous as it sounds. Or perhaps have him design a cocktail based on your favorite flavors. Who knows, you might just get your own signature drink named after you! No matter your drink of choice, there is no doubt Johnny’s award-winning talents are up to the challenge. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy a cocktail at The Captain crafted by the one and only memory maker himself, Johnny Hernandez.

ALL THAT’S GREEN

It is widely recognized that the landscaping of Hartness is unmatched in similar communities around the Upstate. At virtually every turn, residents and visitors are greeted by colorful and scented flowers along with lush greenery in near perfect proportions. This defining feature of Hartness is expertly planned, planted, and maintained by an incredible team. We invite you to join us as we take a closer look into the world of Hartness landscaping and uncover the vision behind its beauty. Meet our landscape architect and our director of grounds, who have combined their talents to bring to life the 467 acres of Hartness and the true spirit of community.

KALEIDOSCOPE OF COMMUNITY

A DAZZLING VIEW OF LIFE AT HARTNESS

Each season of Hartness is filled with vibrance. Our neighborhood mosaic, made up of residents old and new, is a radiant community that’s always in bloom. It’s a place to put down roots, to take in the sun, to grow a network of family and friends, and drink in the experiences of a life well-lived.

Photo Submitted By Photo Info

1 Leslie Fischetti Hotel Hartness was a nice backdrop for Nick Young’s Eastside High Prom photo

2 Elizabeth Taggart Amy, Ross and Elizabeth Taggart enjoying Pickleball

3 Suzanne Accetta Suzanne, Pete and granddaughter Isador in the Sports Garden

4 Elizabeth Taggart Pretty Place after a rain

5 Leslie Fischetti Fischetti Family celebrating Earth Day in the Sports Garden

6 Debbie Hartness Topper and Debbie’s granddaughter Gia enjoying the playground

7 Laura Braun Diana and Erik trick or treating

8 Sarah DeLisle The DeLisles are looking forward to moving into their new home soon!

9 Margy Korfhage Beautiful hydrangeas in Pretty Place 10 Margy Korfhage Rich and Margy pausing for a pic at Pretty Place

KALEIDOSCOPE OF COMMUNITY

Photo Submitted By Photo Info 11 Jan Driscoll Homeowners gathering for the Hotel Hartness grand opening! 12 Sarah Delisle DeLisle’s checking out their kitchen in their new home 13 Brad Hall Ava Hall and Aiden Hall enjoying the Hartness Nature Preserve 14 Brad Hall Ava Hall and Aiden Hall reading on the front porch

15 Sarah Jackson Maceo & Sarah Jackson, at the tree in front of the Hartness farm

16 Leslie Fischetti Fischetti family soaking up the sun

17 Laura Braun Diana Braun and Erik Braun in the pecan grove 18 Sarah Jackson Gizmo and Cleo enjoying a rainy view from our Preserve Villa 19 Debbie Hartness Topper & Granddaughter Gia on the playground