NC Living Magazine - Spring 2022 by Silver Creek Real Estate Group

S I LV E R C R E E K R E A l E S TAT E G R O U P

SPRING 2022

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Where High-Society, Pristine Beaches, and Equestrians Go to Play

palm beach and wellington

S ICAL

E R TA I N M E

Grab Your Investment by its Strap

in the bag

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THE NATURE OF SPRING l o c k i t i n at delilah las vegas

Behind the Chic Vegas Supper Club

the ride home

A Look at Three Equestrian Plateau Communities

A LETTER FROM OUR PRESIDENT

As we usher in Spring, the team at Silver Creek Real Estate Group is excited for what this season has in store. We continue to set the pace amongst our competitors, bringing new inventory to the market and assisting our clients in achieving their real estate goals. Even when the market is over-performing, our philosophy is never compromised. Our superior marketing platform continues to provide comprehensive property exposure through multiple media channels, resulting in the best offers. In this latest edition of NC Living magazine, we have curated a selection of wide-ranging topics from fashionable investments to equestrian adventures. Because our trendsetting mentality doesn't stop with delivering your dreams, we are taking you with us to our favorite haunts and latest discoveries!

J OCH EN

L U C K E

President and Owner of Silver Creek Real Estate Group

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SP IR AL

RA MP

TH E R OU ND TO WE R, COP ENH AGE N, D ENMA RK

JOCHEN LUCKE

President, Owner

MARY WHITTEN WARNER Creative Director and Editor

Contributing Writers

ANNETTA MULL Proofreader Copyright © 2022. NC Living is owned and published by Silver Creek Real Estate Group at 341 Highway 64 West, PO Box 430, Cashiers, NC 28717. 828-743-1999. To subscribe, email subscribe@ncliving.com. To advertise, email magazine@ncliving.com.

VOLUME 6 NUMBER 3

CHRISTOPHER POLLACK ELLEN JONES KARA ADDY KATIE TAMOLA MICKEY ALAM KHAN NORA HOWE ROBIN LASURE

All real estate advertised herein is subject to the federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make such preference, limitation or discrimination."

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S I LV E R C R E E K R E A L E STAT E G RO U P f e at u r e d

o f f e r i n g s

BELOW $1 MILLION | 62 EXCLUSIVE LAND OFFERINGS | 112

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@NCLIVINGMAG

UPCOMING EVENTS Page 9

IN THE BAG Page 12

AMPED UP Page 16

LEAPS AND BOUNDS Page 28

THE RIDE HOME Page 40

T H E G R E AT REARRANGEMENT CONTINUES Page 67

N E I G H B O R LY S P O R T Page 70

RIDE LIKE A LOCAL Page 74

OUR TEAM Page 78

BROKER ADVICE Page 98

S H O P TA L K Page 99

CUSTOM FIT

Page 104

L O C K I T I N AT DELILAH LAS VEGAS Page 108

PA L M B E AC H AND WELLINGTON Page 132

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7 | Trillium Links, $699,000, p. 65 8 | Provence Villas, $675,000, p. 65 9 | Trillium Links, $649,000, p. 66

4 | Cedar Point, $1,195,000, p. 60 5 | Whiteside Forest, $1,185,000, p. 61 6 | Cedar Hill, $1,150,000, p. 61

1 | High Hampton, $3,999,000, p. 34 2 | Snowbird, $2,300,000, p. 55 3 | Glenshore, $1,450,000, p. 59

NEW OFFERINGS

by Silver Creek Real Estate Group

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Upcoming Events

Johnny Webb Band Live

Meander in May

Commodore Fox Live

Go to page 21 to read more about this event and get Amped Up for all of the 2022 season's musical lineup starting on page 16.

"This free, self-guided event, the product of Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Visit Highlands, NC, brings live musical performances, artists, craftspeople, and fun demonstrations to locations across the town." highlandschamber.org/ event/meander-in-may/443/

Go to page 18 to read more about this event and get Amped Up for all of the 2022 season's musical lineup starting on page 16.

M AY

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High-end residential designs of refined elegance and timeless beauty ALCOTTINTERIORS.COM | NASHVILLE & CASHIERS | 615.385.2873

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getty images

elect items never go out of style, and, for many, luxury handbags are top of the list. The luxury handbag market is expected to dramatically increase in the coming years. From what some consider the “first” luxury handbag to secondhand handbag marketplaces and increasing demand, investment continues to boom. “Handbag investment has been steadily increasing over the last decade as brands started to heavily mark up prices on the primary market and as the resale market matures,” says Charles Gorra, founder/CEO of resale platform Rebag in New York. “Handbags are a relatively newer investment category compared to other asset classes like watches, classic cars, rare wines and spirits, and art.” BID BY BID

In 1908, Belgian handbag Delvaux became the first house to file an official patent for a leather handbag. Since then, it has been viewed as the inventor of the modern luxury handbag. For more than 100 years, the luxury handbag sphere has grown into quite a sizable market. According to data from Research and Markets,

the global luxury handbag market was worth $64.4 billion in 2021 and is forecast to balloon to $83.7 billion by 2025. Affluent consumers are investing in handbags not just for style, but because when well maintained they can increase in value over time and can then be sold for a profit. Handbag investment is especially enticing because it can often give consumers the best of both worlds. Shoppers can enjoy their bags and sell them later. “There are a lot of bags that you could actually continue carrying out in the world and still see the value of that product go up,” says Cynthia Houlton, global head of fashion and accessories at Sotheby’s, New York. “I think that is one thing that is interesting about investing in bags, where comparing and contrasting collecting sneakers, it’s not [similar to sneakers] where you can never carry the bag,” she says. “You have the opportunity to do both — buy the bag and think about it from a long-term investment perspective and also actually use the bag. As long as you care for it, it will increase in value.” Some of the most popular luxury handbags come

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from brands including Céline, Chanel, Christian Dior, Gucci, Hermès, Louis Vuitton and Prada. From secondhand marketplaces to auctions, luxury handbags are making a splash everywhere. The Hermès Birkin can retail from $9,000 to more than $500,000. Auction house Sotheby’s has had several handbag sales where it has auctioned off Birkin handbags for mammoth sums. In December 2021, Sotheby’s held an auction titled “Handbags & Accessories/ The New York Collection,” where a metallic silver Chèvre Birkin 25 in palladium hardware from 2004 sold for $126,000. Another Hermès bag, a white matte Niloticus Crocodile Himalaya Birkin 30 in palladium hardware from 2020, sold for $151,200. A 2020 Chanel black and red quilted patent double-flap bag with silver hardware sold for $10,080. A 2021 brown, red and pink monogram Louis Vuitton handbag with gold hardware sold for $5,040. FRENCH TWIST

Several experts believe that for novices looking to begin their investments in luxury handbags, the three brands to keep a close eye on are French luxury labels Hermès, Chanel and Louis Vuitton. “They are the brands that consistently have strong resale value,” Sotheby’s Ms. Houlton says. “The core products have also gone up over time from in the retail market, and so they also continue to go up in the secondary market.” Rebag, an organization selling secondhand luxury handbags founded in 2014, releases an annual luxury resale report called the Clair Report. The 2021 edition found that the same three brands — Hermès, Chanel and Louis Vuitton — retain the most brand value on the resale market, with their historic legacies and brand control playing a role in their success.

“Birkins and Kellys are the most iconic for Hermès, [for] Chanel it’s the double flap, for Louis Vuitton it’s the coated canvas monogram,” she says. “This was the case 10 years ago when I was at The RealReal. Those bags were still the most desired then, and those are the most desired bags now, and those are the ones that retain the most value or increase in value the most.” In 2021, online retail marketplace eBay expanded its “Authenticity Guarantee” to luxury handbags. Later in the year, eBay also launched its first luxury handbag archive auction around the holiday season. On eBay, new and pre-owned handbags from 16 luxury brands that sell for more than $500 will be professionally authenticated. The program was initially launched in the fall of 2020 for luxury watches and sneakers. The brands under the guarantee are Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, Hermès, Saint Laurent, Celine, Dior, Prada, Fendi, Goyard, Burberry, Chloé, Valentino, Givenchy, Balenciaga and Bottega Veneta. SEVERAL OTHER resale retailers boast wide handbag collections as well, including The RealReal, Farfetch and myGemma. “Luxury handbags have proven to be more transactable and valuable than any other collectible category in recent years,” says Ashley Stanton, head of handbags at myGemma. “The online luxury resale community, which began its ascent in the early–mid 2000s, has steadily grown, if not taken over, and claimed its very own place in the luxury market." “With a plethora of luxury resale companies out there, it’s competitive and thriving,” she says. “When classic or in demand handbags sell out at the retail level, their status catapults and opens up a window in the market for buying and selling at or above the retail price just to obtain hard-toget pieces.”

Classic styles remain beloved and are often a smart choice when considering an investment. “If you think of collecting to invest in or increase in value, it’s the neutral, it’s the classic shades and it’s the most iconic of the brands,” Sotheby’s Ms. Houlton says.

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“Handbags are a relatively newer investment category compared to other asset classes like watches, classic cars, rare wines and spirits, and art.” charles gorra, rebag

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YO U R S E A S O N ’ S M U S I C A L E N T E RTA I N M E N T L I N E U P

Once again, live music will fill our sweet, summer nights on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau. Mark your calendar for these outdoor concerts. words by kara addy

Live music is back. This summer, music will echo throughout Cashiers, Highlands, and Sapphire as part of five concert series. From May through October, more than 63 concerts (we counted!) will be staged, offering musical styles from traditional bluegrass to classic rock to beach to jazz and everything in between.

NC Living is pleased to offer this comprehensive guide to this summer’s live, outdoor concert series on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau. So, put on your dancing shoes, pack your picnic basket, and plan to meet friends and make summer memories in the mountains!

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“groovin’ on the green”

For the first time since 2019, “Groovin’ on the Green” is back in full. Organizers of the highlypopular summer concert series at The Village Green of Cashiers are thrilled, and believe audiences will be, too. “We’re super excited about the bands on the schedule,” says Courtney Normand, events coordinator. “There is something for everyone—a few local favorites and a few regional favorites. We tried to make the genres a little more widespread than they have been in the past.” Beginning Memorial Day weekend and continuing through Labor Day, the concerts will take place each Friday, beginning at 6:30 p.m., with one exception: the July 4 show, which is on a Monday and will conclude with a fireworks display. “Continental Divide will perform on the Fourth of July, and people love them,” Normand says. “[Lead singer] Gene Pharr is in the Beach Music Hall of Fame and that one is always super great.”

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The series will be the first overseen by Ashlie MitchellLanning since she took the helm as executive director in October 2021. Bringing Groovin’ back was a key goal, she says, along with expanding yearround programming. The Highlands native marvels at the outpouring of community support for the private park. “I had no concept of the true connection we have with the community, and the hub that we are. The event attendance, the kind words, the financial support, partnering to grow and expand—to us, that’s gold. We truly are ‘the heart of Cashiers.’” In 2021, when the pandemic was still a primary concern, The Village Green hosted a modified series, “Concerts on the Commons,” for which a limited number of attendees purchased tickets and kept their social distance. Proceeds from last year helped assure this year’s series could be offered for free (though donations are encouraged). Though the old series is back, something new will be offered: the opportunity to reserve a white, 10by-10, event tent. Strategically placed to optimize stage views within the greenspace, they will rent for $100 each, with reservations beginning two weeks before each show. Revenue will go back to The Village Green. In hopes that this will make for a fair and enjoyable experience for all, organizers

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are also discouraging attendees from bringing their own tents. A few reminders: dogs should be leashed and maintained at all times. Chairs, blankets, snacks, and beverages are welcome. (Food vendors may be provided.) Shows go on rain or shine. Sponsorship and volunteer opportunities are available. And bring your boogie shoes! Except for the July 4 show, all performances are on a Friday and begin at 6:30 p.m. at The Village Green of Cashiers. For more information, visit villagegreencashiersnc.com/concerts or email info@cashiersgreen.com.

Lineup M AY 2 7 – C O M M O D O R E F OX

An Asheville-based party band, Commodore Fox plays rock and dance hits from the 70s through today. For more: facebook.com/CommodoreFox JUNE 3 – THE CARIBBEAN COWBOYS BAND

Entertaining audiences for more than 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 to reggae to American classics. For more: thecaribbeancowboys.com JUNE 17 – 1STTRAIN BAND

The members of Sylva-based 1stTrain have played together for decades—since their high school and college days. They play 1970s and 1980s horndriven music with strong rhythm sections. For more: 1sttrain.net J U LY 4 – C O N T I N E N TA L D I V I D E

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 concert.) For more: bookece.com/artists/continental-divide J U LY 8 – E M P O R I U M

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

J U LY 1 5 – A M E R I C A N A J O N E S

AUGUST 19 – THE WOBBLERS

Based in Palm Beach County, Fla., 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

Based in Clemson, The Wobblers keep a busy concert schedule, playing throughout Western North Carolina and Upstate South Carolina. The eightpiece, roots band plays a blend of New Orleans soul and edgy jazz. For more: wobblersmusic.com

AUGUST 5 – MCINTOSH AND THE LIONHEARTS

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

AUGUST 26 – ARNOLD HILL BAND

Alternative rock trio Arnold Hill released their second album, “How to Run,” in 2021. Formed in 2011, the band takes its name from a road in Sylva where they practiced and are still based. For more: arnoldhillmusic.com/band SEPTEMBER 2 – HIGH FIVE

AUGUST 12 – ZORKI

Singer/songwriter Zorki Nostasic was once a street musician in New York City. Today, he lives in Cashiers and offers complex, acoustic guitar grooves and soothing vocals. For more: zorki.com

Sylva-based High Five is a four-member band that plays a mix of rock, blues, country, and Americana.

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“ c e l e b r at e t h e b a n d s ”

This summer, Cashiers will welcome a new concert series. “Celebrate the Bands” will offer four shows at The Village Green Commons Lawn, each featuring a tribute band or artist performing classic hits and paying homage to the legends who made them famous. Single tickets to each show are $35 in advance, and all ages are welcome.

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“Each evening is dedicated to the artists and songs that helped shape our lives,” says Nashville-based producer John Krueger. “This series celebrates their timeless music and the behindthe-scenes stories.” All shows begin at 7 p.m. at The Village Green of Cashiers. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit cashierslive.com.

Lineup M AY 2 8 – C E L E B R AT E : THE BEATLES

This show will feature the music of “The Fab Four,” spanning the band’s entire career. Audiences will hear the songs they know and the stories behind them. Rolling Stones fans are welcome, too.

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JUNE 25 – CELEBRATE: B I L LY J O E L W I T H THE STRANGER, FEATURING MIKE SANTORO

The closest thing to witnessing “The Piano Man” himself is the premier tribute band The Stranger, featuring Mike Santoro. It’s the Billy Joel experience, with the sound of his original band in its prime. It’s a New York state of mind in Cashiers. For more: thestrangerlive.com J U LY 2 9 – CELEBRATE: LAUREL CANYON

From Joni Mitchell to the Eagles to Jackson Browne and more, this show is a journey through the songs and stories from the canyon that influenced rock ‘n roll in the early 70s. It’s California Dreamin’, the Cashiers way. AUGUST 27 – CELEBRATE: JOHNNY CASH

It’s Cash in Cashiers! Walk the line with the Johnny Folsom 4, the ultimate tribute to the legendary “Man in Black.” True to Mr. Cash’s poetic spirit, JF4 offers an honest and captivating performance for all. For more: johnnyfolsom4.com

“ f r i d ay n i g h t l i v e ” a n d “ s at u r d ay s o n p i n e ”

Highlands enjoys hosting live music so much that it stages 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”—take place downtown. All shows are free and open to the public. “It’s something we want to do for the community,” says Kaye McHan, executive director of the Highlands Chamber of Commerce. “It’s our way of keeping our exceptional quality of life. We love to gather as a community, hear live music, celebrate events, and be outdoors.” Held just off Main St. at the Town Square, flanked by quaint clothing, 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 St. (hence the name) and features accomplished, regional bands and musicians offering a variety of styles, from beach to country to rock to Top 40 covers.

The concerts will kick off the weekend of another Highlands event: “Meander in May,” which invites guests to stroll along the downtown sidewalks and take in works by artists and craftspeople as well as live performances. And the shows serendipitously collide with another event mid-season. Independence Day weekend kicks off Friday with Silly Ridge Trio, a bluegrass group that isn’t afraid to mix in other styles at the Town Square. The next night, July 2, The Swingin’ Richards—a party band that once opened for the legendary James Brown—hit the Pine St. stage. After Highlands’ traditional festivities on Monday, July 4, the eight members of The Business will bring their horn section and old-school flare to close the weekend with hits through the decades. A fireworks display will conclude the festival. “The Business is an absolute blast,” says McHan. “They’re a great band that will get everyone dancing.”

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“There’s a real variety of genres this year, so we believe we’ll have something for everyone,” says Marci Sherwood, the chamber’s events and program manager who helps plan both series.

Don’t forget to bring your blanket or lawn chair, food and drinks, organizers say. “It’s a terrific opportunity to contact one of the local restaurants and have them make a picnic,” McHan suggests. “Or stop by one of our markets to put an evening meal together.” Friday Night Live: all shows take place on Friday, from 6 to 8:30 p.m., at Highlands’ Town Square. Saturdays on Pine: except for the July 4 performance, all shows take place on Saturday, from 6 to 8:30 p.m., at Highlands’ Kelsey-Hutchinson Park. For more information, visit highlandschamber.org/immerse/events/ all-events or call 828-526-5841.

Lineup M AY 1 3 - J O H N N Y W E B B B A N D

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. For more: reverbnation.com/ johnnywebbandthejwband M AY 1 4 – T H E B R E A K FA S T C L U B

Formed in 1993, The Breakfast Club® is a longrunning 80s tribute band that takes its audience back to the early days of MTV. For more: bookece.com/artists/breakfast-club M AY 2 0 – M C I N T O S H A N D THE LIONHEARTS

Steve Weams & The Caribbean Cowboys Band has been entertaining Western North Carolina audiences and beyond for more than 30 years. Influences and covers include Jimmy Buffett, Peter Mayer, Scott Kirby, Jesse Winchester, Fingers Taylor, Frank Sinatra, and Elvis Presley. For more: thecaribbeancowboys.com

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“ f r i d ay n i g h t l i v e ” a n d “ s at u r d ay s o n p i n e ”

M AY 2 7 – SYC A M O R E F L AT S

Sycamore Flats is best known for performing songs of historical relevance to Southern Appalachia, with a lively blend of old-time and bluegrass styles. From heart-pumping dance music and beautiful old country songs, Sycamore Flats has it covered. For more: sycamoreflats.com M AY 2 8 – C O N T I N E N TA L D I V I D E

A Southeast staple for more than 30 years, Continental Divide entertains with high energy, the silky-smooth vocals of Gene Pharr, a tight rhythm section, and the flowing lines of the horn section. For more: bookece.com/artists/continental-divide JUNE 3 – WILL AND LINDSEY THOMPSON

Will Thompson is a gifted producer and singer/ songwriter whose high-energy performances showcase stadium-ready songs, featuring a mix of rock-country-funk and soulful production. Lindsey Thompson, an equally talented singer/ songwriter, captivates listeners with her ethereal vocals, haunting melodies, and honest lyrics. For more: willthompsonmusic.com JUNE 4 – HIGH FIVE

High Five’s sound incorporates rock, blues, Americana, bluegrass, country, and jazz, as well as other musical styles, and provides a set list that is at once familiar and eclectic. The five-member bluegrass band Ol’ Dirty Bathtub is a regional favorite. The Sylva-based group mixes in Americana, folk, guitar, Dobo, and lots of good energy at each show. For more: beehiverecordsmusic.com/ol-dirty-bathtub JUNE 11 –ROCKSTEADY@8

Formed in 1999 in Tampa, Fla. with members from various ska and other world music groups from around the area, Rocksteady@8’s first gig was opening for the legendary reggae group Toots and the Maytals. The band has continued to perform in the Tampa Bay area for the last two decades. For more: facebook.com/Rocksteady8 JUNE 17 – CURTIS BLACKWELL AND THE DIXIE BLUEGRASS BOYS

In 1960, Curtis Blackwell, his brother, and a friend won a radio talent contest. When four 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

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J U N E 1 0 – O L’ D I R T Y B AT H T U B

County, the band includes two of its founding members. A one-time lead singer for Bill Monroe’s Bluegrass Boys, Curtis Blackwell is honored in the Atlanta Country Music Hall of Fame. For more: blueridgeheritage.com/artist/curtis-blackwelland-the-dixie-bluegrass-boys JUNE 18 – FIRECRACKER JAZZ BAND

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. Speak easy and dance hard! For more: firecrackerjazz.com JUNE 24 – SOUTHERN HIGHLAND BAND

At the heart of Southern Highland Band are lifelong friends and business partners, Tom Nixon and Dean English, the proprietors of Blue Ridge Music Academy in Clayton, Ga. Together with several rotating band members, the accomplished musicians perform across the region, with an emphasis on their bluegrass roots. For more: blueridgemusicacademy.com/about-us J U LY 1 – S I L LY R I D G E T R I O

Silly Ridge Trio is a Highlands-based classic bluegrass band that incorporates an eclectic mix of Americana and folk into their music. The energetic band showcases the talents of Knight Martorell (banjo, harmonica, and harmony vocals), Dave Mueller (mandolin and lead vocals), and David Crisp (guitar and lead vocals). For more: sillyridge.com J U LY 2 – T H E S W I N G I N ’ R I C H A R D S

The Swingin’ Richards made their debut on Feb. 2, 2001, in Charlotte’s then-NationsBank Plaza, opening for James Brown. Band members have been part of the Southeast’s most beloved and reveled party bands for more than 10 years. For more: bookece.com/artists/swingin-richards J U LY 4 – T H E B U S I N E S S

The eight members of The Business deliver powerful vocals, an accomplished horn section, and outstanding showmanship. With an oldschool flair, The Business brings soul and rock ‘n roll hits from the 50s and 60s, as well as choice tunes from the decades that followed. For more: bookece.com/artists/the-business

J U LY 8 – T H E F O X F I R E B OY S

J U LY 2 9 – B Y R D S & C R O W S

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

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, and vocals), Sheila Byrd (mandolin and vocals), Will Byrd (banjo and guitar), Andy Cole (fiddle, harmonica, and vocals), and Joe Alexander (bass). J U LY 3 0 – B I L L M AT T O C K S

J U LY 9 – B A C K P O R C H O R C H E S T R A

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 J U LY 1 5 – L E A D F O O T L I LY

Leadfoot Lily features an eclectic mix of 70s pop, rhythm and blues, country, folk, rock, and bluegrass. Lifelong friends Dean English and Mike Hamilton— two members of the band The Foxfire Boys—along with their wives, Shelli English and Christy Hamilton, genuinely enjoy performing together. J U LY 1 6 – T H E WOBBLERS

Based in the Clemson/Seneca, S.C. area, The Wobblers play a funky blend of roots, blues, hard bop, soul, and country music. For more: wobblersmusic.com

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 AUGUST 5 – KETTLE

A lively three-piece band, Kettle performs alternative country, electrified Americana, psychedelic folk, and all points in between. Kettle uses a unique drum set based around an old suitcase and various percussion instruments to embellish the songs. Suave and sometimes gritty vocals make for a unique, down-home, rocking good time. AUGUST 6 – JESSE BARRY & THE JAM

Asheville vocalist Jesse Barry, who began her music career at the tender age of eight, is known for her soulful pipes and contagious enthusiasm on and off the stage. With her talented band, she sings blues, funk, and soul.

J U LY 2 2 – J O H N N Y W E B B B A N D

See Friday, May 13.

AU G U S T 1 2 – O L’ D I R T Y B AT H T U B

J U LY 2 3 – R U S S W I L S O N A N D H I S FAMOUS ORCHESTRA

AUGUST 19 – THE FOREIGN LANDERS

For 41 years, Russ Wilson has worked as a professional musician and made a name for himself playing many distinctive styles of music including jazz—his first, true love—rock, country, gospel, blues, Broadway-style symphonic. To date, he has released 10 albums. For more: everswinging.com

See Friday, June 10. A duo hailing from opposite sides of the Atlantic, The Foreign Landers are united by their love of bluegrass and traditional folk music—and their love for each other. Together, they combine the musical styles of their respective homelands, along with instrumental prowess and haunting vocals, to create something new. For more: theforeignlanders.com

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“ f r i d ay n i g h t l i v e ” a n d “ s at u r d ay s o n p i n e ”

AUGUST 20 – PEGGY & PAULA

With their four-piece band backing them up. Peggy and Paula bring the great sing-along songs from Linda Ronstadt, Etta James, Bonnie Raitt, and more. For more: bookece.com/artists/peggy-ratusz A U G U S T 2 6 – S I L LY R I D G E T R I O

See Friday, July 1. SEPTEMBER 2 – ZORKI

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. For more: zorki.com SEPTEMBER 3 – BLAZE THE CITY

With incredible vocal harmonies, funky dance rhythms, and scorching guitar, Blaze the City captures audiences and sets the room on fire with their performances. Playing pop, funk, Top 40 dance, rock, country, blues, Motown, and everything in between, Blaze the City combines decades of performance, ability, and passion. For more: bookece.com/artists/blaze-the-city SEPTEMBER 9 - SUPPER BREAK

lo c at i o n : f o u n d e r s pa r k , h i g h l a n d s

Asheville-based bluegrass band Supper Break formed in 2019. From hard-driving tunes to dance music to deep, improvised jams to songs that will leave you in tears, Supper Break brings something for everyone. Whether you call it bluegrass, newgrass, or acoustic music, it will leave an impression. For more: supperbreakbluegrass.com S E P T E M B E R 1 0 – T H E R O C K A B I L LY S

The Rockabillys offer classic rock, retro country, 50’s and 60’s rock ‘n roll, and Americana. For more: reverbnation.com/therockabillys9 SEPTEMBER 16 - CURTIS BLACKWELL

See Friday, June 17.

SEPTEMBER 24 – WILL THOMPSON BAND

The Will Thompson Band is a talented, energetic band from Florida’s gulf coast. Recently winning best band on the Emerald Coast, the Will Thompson Band plays unique covers and head-turning originals. For more: willthompsonmusic.com SEPTEMBER 30 – THE FOXFIRE BOYS

See Friday, July 8. OCTOBER 1 – FANCY AND THE GENTLEMEN

An alt-country and honky-tonk band based out of Asheville, Fancy and the Gentlemen play downhome, roots-style originals and pay homage to the greats of country music, from the 40s to the 80s. The band features rich harmonies with the Tele, upright bass, fiddle, keys, pedal steel, and drums, and Fancy Marie on lead vocals and guitar. For more: fancyandthegentlemen.com OCTOBER 7 – BYRDS & CROWS

See Friday, July 29. OCTOBER 8 – THIRSTY HORSES

Thirsty Horses has performed across the Southeast for the past 12 years. They bring a high-energy show and an extensive setlist, covering classic rock, country, Americana, songs from the 90s, and 60s pop-rock. For more: bookece.com/artists/thirsty-horses OCTOBER 14 – SOUTHERN HIGHLAND BAND

See Friday, June 24. OCTOBER 15 – PICANTE

Everyone will want to dance to Picante! Comprised of guitar, bass, piano, violin, drums, and Latin percussion, Picante performs original and uniquelyarranged Latin rhythms, Latin jazz, rock, reggae, and popular music. For more: picanteband.com OCTOBER 21 – AUBREY E I S E N M A N & T H E C LY D E S

The HC Oakes Band covers songs by Tom Petty, Delbert McClinton, The Rolling Stones, Eagles, Allman Brothers, Chris Stapleton, Jason Isbell and Tyler Childers, among others. For more: thehcoakesband.com

This bluegrass/Americana act based in Asheville has had two singles on the Grassicana Charts, and their album, “Bowerbird,” landed on the Roots Music Top 50 albums in 2019. Their music is a sultry blend of bluesy, dark, and lively mountain song. For more: clydesonfire.com

SEP TEMBER 23 SYCAMORE FLATS

OCTOBER 22 – VEGA BAND

SEPTEMBER 17 – HC OAKES BAND

See Friday, May 27.

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When Vega’s glitter-crusted platforms hit the stage,

special night. This Atlanta band offers grooves ranging from Bill Withers and Al Green to Johnny Cash, Elvis, Blondie, and Grand Funk Railroad. For more: vegabandatlanta.com

you know you are in for a

OCTOBER 28 – EZRA AND KATIE

Husband and wife duo Ezra and Katie have played acoustic music together for more than 10 years. The Highlands natives recently spent seven years in Los Angeles pursuing their creative endeavors: writing, acting, and performing small acoustic shows around the city. They are heavily influenced by folk music, country, and traditional Appalachian hymns. OCTOBER 29 – LANEY AND FRIENDS

Born in Marion, N.C., bluegrass musician Colby Laney has performed with nationally-touring bands such as Mountain Heart (on the Opry), Next Best Thing (at The Ryman), and Volume Five, who performed his No. 1 hit, “Rich Man’s Daughter.” Since 2019, he has freelanced with other acts and performed weekly in East Tennessee with the newly-formed Laney and Friends, also known as the LAF Band. For more: colbylaneymusic.weebly.com

“concerts on the slopes” lo c at i o n : s a p p h i r e

Sapphire Valley Master Association’s “Concerts on the Slopes” will take place again this summer. Open to the public, the 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, from their own seating or picnic blankets, or even from their golf carts. Tickets are available in advance or the day of each show. The 2022 “Concerts on the Slopes” schedule was not available before NC Living went to press. For more information, visit sapphirevalleyresort. com/concert_slopes_sapphire_valley.html or call 828-743-7663.

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words by kara addy

SILVER CREEK BROKER KATIE ADAMS NICHOLSON’S SENSE OF ADVENTURE AND WILLINGNESS TO TAKE CHANCES LEAD TO SUCCESS. Katie Adams Nicholson is comfortable taking leaps of faith. About 14 years ago, she worked for Jamestown, a global, design-focused real estate investment and management company. Based in Atlanta, Katie’s focus was acquisitions, with retail and commercial projects in New York, Boston, and San Francisco. For years, she’d heard intriguing tidbits about the Highlands-Cashiers area. So, when a former Jamestown partner recruited her for a mixeduse development in the heart of Cashiers, the outdoor enthusiast took the chance, packed up, and relocated. By the time it became clear the

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project would not come to be, it was too late to turn around and head back; she had fallen in love with the mountains. “I loved the lifestyle and the weather, especially coming from Atlanta,” Katie says. “And I loved not wearing a suit, not parking in a parking garage, and being able to bring my dog to work.” And then she fell in love again—and leaped once more. Nicholson Homecrafters’ owner Jeremiah Nicholson had been hired by her former Jamestown colleague to build Brookings Anglers’ Cashiers shop. They met, dated, got engaged, and married at Chinquapin, against a sweeping mountain backdrop. “At the time, it was a lot used for the community’s marketing photos,” Katie explains. “Now, it’s somebody’s lot that Jeremiah will build a home on.”

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The Chinquapin location made sense to the couple for two reasons: Katie had begun working for the community, and Jeremiah’s company was building within it. Katie’s relationship with Chinquapin continued for a decade, as she provided hands-on support for its development and growth and, after earning her license in 2013, became a top-selling agent for land and new home construction packages. “Real estate is exciting to me. And then, when you team it up with helping people find what they want, it is even more appealing.” Katie’s next leap came in 2021, when she decided it was time for a change and joined Silver Creek Real Estate Group. She says selecting which real estate agency to join was easy. “Jochen [Lucke, Silver Creek’s founder/president] puts so much effort into his agents. He really wants us to do well, and to serve our clients well. Silver Creek’s agents are so professional, and we have a really good support team.” Her latest leap was a bit more literal. In February, she traveled with Jeremiah and a group of their friends to Las Vegas, where they celebrated a milestone birthday by skydiving. Katie explains:

WHAT QUALITIES DIFFERENTIATE YOU FROM OTHER REAL ESTATE AGENTS?

I truly care about my clients, and whenever the deal is done, I don’t just go away. I might help them find a builder or remodel a house. I stay in touch and help people with more than buying or selling a house. W H AT I S YO U R FAVO R I T E D E S I G N TREND OF THE MOMENT?

I like the more modern building trend that I’ve started seeing in this area. It’s cool and different. I like the mountain modern look. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A NEW REAL ESTATE AGENT ?

Be patient, work hard, and stick to your beliefs and ethics. W H AT I S T H E M O ST VA LUA B L E THING YOU’VE LEARNED WHILE WORKING AS A BROKER?

Never assume you know everything because things change, circumstances change, and you can always learn. WHAT IS THE CRAZIEST REAL ESTATE STORY YOU CAN P U B L I C LY S H A R E ?

“My Dad jokingly asked why I jumped out of a perfectly good airplane. But it is something I’d always wanted to do. The skydiving company was so professional, and I felt safe and exhilarated during the tandem jump. You could see the Colorado River and all the way to California. I would do it again.”

Last year, my buyer-client and I got in a bidding war the first day the house was listed. We ended up succeeding and getting it. It’s challenging not knowing what you’re up against.

When she’s not jumping out of planes or helping clients, the Dublin, Ga. native and Georgia Southern University alumna can be found exploring nature—sometimes by horseback, but more often with her beloved dog, Bella.

Spending time with my family and getting outside. My dog, Bella, is four and she hikes with me. I also enjoy spending time with clients, learning about and enjoying their passions. I recently went horseback riding with a client who has become a friend. I love animals and really enjoyed riding, but having her share that experience was what made it so fun.

NC Living asked Katie a few questions about her experiences and the life into which she leaped. WHAT THING BEFOR FOR A

IS THE MOST IMP ORTANT SOMEONE SHOULD KNOW E STARTING THEIR SEARCH HOME ON THE PLATEAU?

They should know what they’re looking for, what’s important to them, and use that knowledge to find out where they want to be. Then, be patient as they figure it all out.

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WHAT DO YOU MOST ENJOY DOING WHEN YOU’RE NOT SERVING CLIENTS?

WHAT IS A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION IN THE AREA YOU ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT AND WHY?

In the past, I spent a lot of time volunteering at Summit Charter School and the CashiersHighlands Humane Society. Looking forward, I’ve decided I’m going to apply to volunteer with Big

REAL ESTATE IS EXCITING TO ME. AND THEN, WHEN YOU TEAM IT UP WITH HELPING PEOPLE FIND WHAT THEY WANT, IT IS EVEN MORE APPEALING.

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Brothers Big Sisters. It keeps calling to me. And I’d like to be part of Leadership Cashiers. I F S O M E O N E I S O N LY S P E N D I N G O N E DAY O N T H E P L AT E AU , W H AT W O U L D YO U S AY I S T H E N O . 1 “MUST DO?”

Get outdoors! Hike. Go see Panthertown. WHAT ARE YOUR GOAL S FOR 2022?

I continue to enjoy working with Chinquapin and my clients there. But I’d like to expand my listings outside of that community. I’m working with buyers from all over and it would be nice to expand. WHAT ARE YOUR GOAL S BEYOND 2022?

To travel more. The pandemic hasn’t allowed us to do that, and I miss it. OUTSIDE OF OUR PLATEAU, WHERE I S YO U R FAVO R I T E P L AC E TO T R AV E L A N D V I S I T ?

Colorado, Montana, or almost anywhere out west. I love the outdoors and it offers a different feel than here. The wide-open spaces, the beauty, the air that just feels clean.

C U R R E N T LY, W H AT I S Y O U R FAVO R I T E P L AT E AU R E STAU R A N T ?

The Orchard. The atmosphere is laid back and the food is always good. W H AT I S YO U R FAVO R I T E S E A S O N ON THE PLATEAU AND WHY?

Fall, because of the colors and the temperature. W H AT I S YO U R FAVO R I T E F E ST I VA L OR SPECIAL EVENT ON THE PLATEAU AND WHY?

“Groovin’ on the Green.” I’m excited that it’s coming back like it used to be this year. WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST LIVE CONCERT?

Jimmy Buffett. His was the most fun, too. But I usually like the smaller-venue shows. WHAT IS THE LAST BOOK YOU READ OR A BOOK YOU RECOMMEND?

For Christmas, Jochen gave each of us a copy of “Around the World in 80 Days.” It was part of our holiday dinner theme. But I don’t read enough. I do love watching documentaries.

BROKER | 828-399-1824 | KATIENICHOLSON.NCLIVING.COM 3 2 S ILVE R C R EEK R EA L E STAT E G R O U P

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HIGH HAMPTON ESTATE HOME a n e x c l u s i v e s i lv e r c r e e k r e a l e s tat e g r o u p o f f e r i n g

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THE HEIGHT OF SOPHIS– TICATION i n

h i g h

h a m p t o n

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Welcome to 198 Cherokee Views, the pinnacle of luxury in the highly sought-after gated community of High Hampton. A sense of sophistication is immediately apparent as you drive through the gated property and the vast estate comes into view. With exquisite detailing and design, this newer constructed home is sure to dazzle even the most discerning eyes. Unmistakable elegance greets guests as they enter the great room, which opens to the impeccably maintained backyard and expertly designed kitchen. This allows guests to mingle in all spaces without feeling disconnected from any of the action. The impressive kitchen features a La Cornue range and top-of-the-line materials. A discrete prep kitchen sits off to the side so the main living area can maintain its pristine appearance during extravagant dinner parties. Just behind the kitchen sits the staircase, a wine fridge, built-in cabinets and desk, and access to the spacious laundry room. Upstairs, guests can bask in privacy with the remaining two

bedrooms, each featuring their own private ensuite bathroom and second living space. On the opposite end of the main level sits an equally opulent primary suite complete with a spa-like bath, your own HVAC system, and access to the screen porch. Outdoor mountain nights can be enjoyed to their fullest potential with the fire pit roaring and grill sizzling from the well-equipped outdoor kitchen. To truly experience the High Hampton lifestyle, membership applications are available. This home was designed to be shared and it’s waiting for you to make unforgettable memories. Call today to schedule a tour. OFFERED AT $3,999,000. VISIT NCLIVING.COM/LISTING/98600 FOR MORE DETAIL S.

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THE RIDE HOME words by kara addy

THE EQUESTRIAN LIFESTYLE IS THRIVING O N T H E H I G H L A N D S - C A S H I E R S P L AT E AU. N C L I V I N G TO O K A C L O S E R L O O K AT T H R E E C O M M U N I T I E S T H AT A R E I D E A L F O R H O R S E - L OV I N G R E S I D E N T S . Access to trails. Agreeable weather. Aesthetics. Ask any equestrian on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau what drew them to the area, and they’re likely to respond with at least one of these answers. The abundance of horse trails within national forests and state parks, or even within neighborhoods, coupled with mild summer temperatures, make for near-perfect riding conditions.

and wind in your hair motivate many people to ride. The western part of our state offers beautiful horizons and the majesty of the hills and waterfalls.” The U.S. has more horses than any country in the world, and North Carolina consistently ranks as one of the top ten states in horse population. More than 306,000 horses call North Carolina home, according to the NCHC, and the economic impact of horse ownership, equine institutions and organizations, and tourism spending in the state is north of $3.44 billion. The pandemic further fueled the desire to saddle up.

And then there’s the surrounding natural beauty—the dramatic ridgetop and valley views that stir the soul differently from atop a horse.

“With the advent of the pandemic, more people began to enjoy the outdoors,” says Gray. “We have seen a rise in horse ownership and a desire for more trails to access the outdoors. It benefits riders’ physical and mental health. It is relaxing and brings us back to nature.”

“The North Carolina mountains offer a unique beauty for horseback riders,” says Sue Gray, executive director of the North Carolina Horse Council (NCHC). “The fresh air

The number and diversity of horse farms on the Plateau have increased in recent years, and, along with it, the camaraderie among equestrians. As kindred spirits,

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cold springs saddle and tennis club 42 S ILVE R C R EEK R EA L E STAT E G R O U P

local horse owners help each other find veterinary and farrier care, food, and places to stable and ride. Most horse farms offer beautiful and plentiful riding trails. Other spectacular trails are just a horse trailer ride away, at places like Biltmore Equestrian Center, DuPont State Forest, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Nantahala National Forest, and Pisgah National Forest. Several Plateau neighborhoods—including Bald Rock, The Divide, Cold Springs, and Chinquapin—offer barns and trails, some of which tie directly into horse-friendly Panthertown Valley. Other communities, such as Laurel Falls and Silver Run Reserve, are horse-friendly, with large lots and trails (but no stables). NC Living took a closer look at the equestrian lifestyle offered by these distinct communities. BALD ROCK AND THE DIVIDE

Neighboring communities in Sapphire, Bald Rock and The Divide share amenities, including an equestrian center with stabling, pastureland, and miles of trails for riding as well as hiking and biking. Professionally managed during the warm months, the equestrian center features 16 full-sized (12 feet by 12 feet) stalls in two barns, plus a separate isolation stall. Three washing areas, nine pastures, one paddock, two training pens, and a 100 feet by 200 feet riding arena complete the offerings. Perched at approximately 4,000 feet elevation above Sapphire Valley off Trays Island Road, both neighborhoods are about 15 minutes from Cashiers and 30 minutes from Highlands. Homesites in these gated communities take advantage of the unspoiled natural beauty, including bold streams, cascading waterfalls, mountain panoramas and thick, lush forests. Even more unique are the mountain glades, highland bogs, and sheer rock cliffs. As if this natural wonderland is not enough, there’s a bonus with particular appeal for equestrians: Both neighborhoods are adjacent and have easy access to Panthertown Valley, the 6,300-acre protected preserve managed by the U.S. Forest Service featuring some 25 miles of trails, some of which are horse-friendly. Known as “the Yosemite of the East,” Panthertown’s terrain ranges from deep gorges to broad valleys to granite rock domes.

A covered, open-air pavilion, featuring a full-service kitchen and two fireplaces, plays host to community events during the social season. Potluck suppers, fire pit gatherings, hikes, and utility vehicle adventures keep residents busy. Property owners have year-round access to Sapphire Valley Master Association amenities, including indoor and outdoor swimming, two golf courses, racquet sports, mini-golf, health and fitness facilities, a community center and game room, and snow skiing and tubing. A favorite amenity is nearby Lake Fairfield, where members may sail, canoe, paddleboat, fish, and swim. The brainchild of Westmark Development, headquartered in Dubuque, Iowa, Bald Rock’s vision was that of a “civilized wilderness” in the Blue Ridge Mountains. (The company also developed Big Timber, Mont.’s Crazy Creek Ranches and Palm Island Plantation in Vero Beach, Fla.) The 778-acre Bald Rock community rests at the peak of its namesake mountain, with 118 homesites ranging from three to 12 acres each. About 78 homes have been built, with an additional three under construction. Property owners enjoy two entrances into Panthertown, including a forest service trail approved for hikers, bikers, and horses. The shared equestrian center is located within Bald Rock. Every home has one gigabyte of broadband internet access. The Divide is so named because of its proximity to the Eastern Continental Divide. Its 244 acres offer estate lots from two to 12 acres each. Creekside Village, a community inside The Divide, offers streamfront living and common areas in a valley along Hogback Creek. COLD SPRINGS SADDLE AND TENNIS CLUB

Tucked away down Buck Creek and Shortoff roads in Highlands, Cold Springs Saddle and Tennis Club offers equestrians picturesque pasture surrounded by a white, split-rail fence, stabling, and riding trails— all at approximately 4,000 feet elevation. Pass through the lighted, double gates to discover this equestrian neighborhood, bordered in part by the Nantahala National Forest. Though private and secluded, downtown Highlands is less than 10 minutes away. Surrounded by an exercise track, Cold Springs’ 400

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by 200 riding ring is joined by a second fenced area near its barn. In addition to stall space, boarders have tack and feed storage. The community allows up to six horses the use of its facilities, and horse owners may board full-time, year-round, or on a seasonal basis. The community’s equestrian facilities are not professionally managed; horse owners must personally provide care. Approved boarders pay a monthly fee and provide proof of insurance and immunization for their horses. In addition to riding and enjoying the horses, Cold Springs residents have their choice of two tennis courts (with pickleball converters), more than 20 miles of hiking and walking trails, and a 10-acre, troutstocked lake fed by Big Creek—perfect for fishing, kayaking, or canoeing. Homes enjoy mountain, lake, stream, and wooded views. CHINQUAPIN

Perched at 4,500 feet elevation in the Cedar Creek/ Breedlove area of Glenville, Chinquapin has never marketed itself as an equestrian community. However, the upscale mountain preserve with nature-focused amenities has a community barn, fenced pasture, and easy access to trail systems for its equestrian residents. For almost three years, Jennifer Price has enjoyed life with her horses in Chinquapin. A former Bald Rock resident, she knew the general lay of the land and wanted to continue her access to the horse-friendly, national forest trails at Panthertown Valley, which abuts its eastern boundary. “I find it to be just a wonderful set-up,” says Price. “I have been riding in the woods for many years now. There’s nothing more soothing and relaxing than being on horseback, up there with the greenery and waterfalls. It’s fabulous.” Price’s three Tennessee walkers and 30-year-old American quarter horse have ample barn space, Price says, but pasture is somewhat limited. Keeping them in the barn each night helps protect the pasture as well as the horses from area wildlife, she says.

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“My horses are like a lot of people’s dogs,” Price says. “I don’t think of them as work animals. I think of them as pets with distinct personalities.” With nearly one-third of its 2,000 acres in a conservation easement, Chinquapin is both a natural playground and a relaxing mountain retreat, tucked away on one of the highest points of the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau. Property owners have access to lake and stream fishing, canoeing, a disc golf course, a driving range, a clubhouse with a fitness room, and new pickleball courts. A major draw for those who love the outdoors is the onsite access to miles of hiking, UTV, and equestrian trails. Flat Creek winds through Chinquapin, including next to the horse stables. “I’ve delineated which trails are best for horses,” Price explains. Price’s commitment to the equestrian lifestyle extends far beyond Chinquapin. She is a member of Back Country Horsemen of America, a nationwide organization committed to protecting the access of equestrians to public lands. Locally, she works with other members and groups, such as Friends of Panthertown, to help maintain and improve the area’s national forest trails. Additionally, she area equestrians.

stays

connected

other

“We’re a very tight group. Between Chinquapin and Bald Rock, and Laurel Falls, we have a good number of equestrians. I know people who will train or board horses or babysit. We all help each other. It’s wonderful.”

chinquapin

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WE’RE LOCAL. WE’RE NATIONAL.

1.3 MILLION TRANSACTIONS 150,000 SALES ASSOCIATES 550 COMPANIES

INDUSTRY LEADING SALES. WORLD-CLASS SERVICE.

LEADING REAL ESTATE COMPANIES OF THE WORLD

COMPASS

$152 BILLION

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY SOTHEBY’S

$296 BILLION

$110 BILLION $97 BILLION

This bar chart is sourced from REAL Trends Top 500 for 2020, realtrends.com

EXCLUSIVE OFFERINGS by Silver Creek Real Estate Group

NC L IVI N G S PR I NG 2022 47

offered at $6,500,000

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. MLS# 91521.

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Stonefly CASHIERS

Chattooga Club CASHIERS

This beautiful Chattooga Club estate designed by renowned Meyer | Greeson | Paullin | Benson is a “one-of-a-kind” built by Stewart Construction. It sits on a private, 3.65-acre lot with fabulous views of Little Terrapin, Big Terrapin, and Whiteside mountains above the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau. Fowler Creek provides the soothing sound of water as it flows into the Chattooga River. Recently refurbished, the house boasts high-end appliances and finishings, including all-wood walls and ceilings, and a light and bright aesthetic. MLS# 97510.

offered at $5,950,000 NC L IVI N G S PR I NG 2022 49

offered at $4,250,000

This luxurious, sprawling, modern rustic home offers floor-to-ceiling windows to capture the stunning mountain landscape of the Plateau. Cedar and stone accents give the façade a warm and welcoming feel, while dormers and angled rooflines create architectural interest. This new construction project by the award-winning builder, Loudermilk Homes, on over 22 acres is designed for entertaining and bringing friends and family together. A gourmet chef’s kitchen with two islands, a sunroom, and a dining room make entertaining a joy. MLS# 96917.

NEW CONSTRUCTION

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Cedar Hill CASHIERS

Cashiers INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY

Unique opportunity in the heart of Cashiers downtown business district. Purchase the Village Car Wash which is an operating business and land, as well as the real estate leased to Cashiers Valley Smokehouse. The Smokehouse is leased on a multi-year lease with options. MLS# 97717.

offered at $3,500,000

COMMERCIAL

NC L IVI NG S PR I NG 2022 51

offered at $3,500,000

This remarkable, fine mountain estate under construction on almost two acres in Cedar Hill in Cashiers, North Carolina may be waiting for you. As you enter the gates into this premier community, situated within a mountain forest between the resort areas of Cashiers and Sapphire Valley, your senses awaken. Nature, falling water, and long-range mountain views abound, including the stunning sight of Chimney Top Mountain and vistas that extend to Upstate South Carolina from this five-bedroom, five and one-half bath home. MLS# 97483.

NEW CONSTRUCTION

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Cedar Hill CASHIERS

Golf Club Estates SAPPHIRE

Just a short stroll or golf cart ride from the Country Club of Sapphire Valley, At Last Lodge, is a custom-built, gated estate featuring artisanal, elegant finishes and the ultimate in creature comforts. Secluded and peaceful, the 4.7+ acre property is flat with many enclaves to enjoy outdoor living, such as a chimney garden with a wood-burning fireplace from the 1800s, a koi pond, waterfall, and a stone patio with a firepit. An elevator makes this 6,240+/- square-foot home handicap accessible. Membership to the Country Club of Sapphire Valley is by invitation only. MLS# 97908.

offered at $3,200,000

UNDER CONTRACT

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offered at $2,490,000

This is the mountain estate for which you've waited! Designed and built by Design South Builders, it is located within the gated and desirable community of Chinquapin, just minutes from the Village of Cashiers. Resting on more than two acres at just more than 4,400 feet elevation, you'll enjoy gorgeous, long-range mountain views and mild temperatures that can't be beat. The three-bedroom, threeand-a-half bath home offers easy, one-level living and feels brand new, with beautiful finishes. It is offered furnished and move-in ready. MLS# 98268.

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Chinquapin GLENVILLE

Snowbird CULLOWHEE

This remarkable, 74-acre property, at nearly 4,700 feet elevation, feels like you own your very own mountaintop! The mountaintop is virtually flat and upon it sits a charming, rustic lodge designed by renowned architect Tim Greene that is being offered furnished. Use it as your off-the-grid getaway or future guest quarters after you build your dream home upon the unspoiled land. You'll own the entire mountaintop, with dramatic, 360-degree views. From the top, the property drops to about 4,200 feet in elevation, where a traditional, wooden barn and open-field wildlife abounds. MLS# 98551.

offered at $2,300,000

N E W LY L I S T E D

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offered at $1,995,000

Situated on gently rolling 75 ± acres with a large fenced pasture and tractor shed, this one-bedroom tiny house would make a great guest cottage or rental. The site for the main house has a long southern view overlooking the pasture area and distant mountains. 65 of the acres are in a conservation easement, while 10 remaining acres can be subdivided. Paved entry leads directly from Highway 64, and walking trails with creeks and falls are adjacent to the property. MLS# 96260.

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Sapphire 75± ACRES

Stonefly O F F E R E D AT $ 1 , 9 5 0 , 0 0 0

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 as you have a fire in the fire pit and listen to the sounds of nature. Downstairs provides another living area, bedroom, small kitchen, and media room. MLS# 96467.

Highlands Falls Country Club O F F E R E D AT $ 1 , 7 8 5 , 0 0 0

Don't miss your opportunity to live in the prestigious, gated community of Highlands Falls Country Club. This five-bedroom, 4.5-bath home on more than one acre with mountain views boasts five fireplaces, a wealth of space, and all the amenities one would expect in a fine home. Attached to the house is a two-car garage to keep both you and your vehicle away from the elements throughout the year. Club membership is optional, but necessary to enjoy all the club's amenities. MLS# 98313.

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The Divide O F F E R E D AT $ 1 , 7 5 0 , 0 0 0

Be the first to occupy this quintessential mountain home in The Divide, a highly-desirable, gated community in Sapphire, just minutes from Cashiers. This fourbedroom, three and one-half bath home built by Fern Creek Builders features the owner's suite on the main level, with three additional bedrooms downstairs. Enjoy beautiful, long-range mountain views on almost two private acres. Enter the double front doors and take in the stacked stone and beautiful wooden flooring and stunning contrast of the bright walls and ceilings. MLS# 97105.

NEW CONSTRUCTION

The Crest O F F E R E D AT $ 1 , 6 5 0 , 0 0 0

Authenticity meets luxury in this fine mountain estate located in The Crest, a gated community in the heart of beautiful Sapphire, N.C. Expansive, dramatic views of mountain ridgetops envelope you from every level of this fourbedroom, 4.5-bath home. The Village of Cashiers and Sapphire Valley Master Association amenities – including tennis, golf, swimming, boating and paddling, fitness, and lawn games - are just a short drive away. This home is being offered fully furnished. MLS# 98244.

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PENDING

Glenshore O F F E R E D AT $ 1 , 4 5 0 , 0 0 0

N E W LY L I S T E D

A cozy cottage style home with a private dock, this property is situated on the shores of Lake Glenville on more than one and a half acres. With an elevation of 3,500 feet, Lake Glenville is the highest elevation major lake east of the Mississippi River. It's located in the beautiful gated subdivision of Glenshore. This home features two bedrooms, two baths, lofted bonus room, and a private deep-water dock. You won't regret making this beautiful home your summer getaway destination! MLS# 98686.

Highlands Country Club O F F E R E D AT $ 1 , 4 0 0 , 0 0 0

This is a wonderful and rare opportunity to reside in the prestigious Highlands Country Club. From the Donald Rossdesigned golf course to the impeccably-maintained croquet courts, tennis courts, and a heated pool, this club is second to none. Easy, one-level living is just waiting for you to update it with your personal touch. This home on just more than one-half acre is bordered by a nice stream with views of the 10th and 14th fairways/ greens. Membership in Highlands Country Club is by invitation only. MLS# 98237.

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Lake Toxaway Estates O F F E R E D AT $ 1 , 2 9 9 , 9 9 9

Enjoy gorgeous, year-round mountain and lake views from this traditional log home with great curb appeal in desirable Lake Toxaway Estates. The gentle, paved driveway allows for easy entry to the idyllic mountain home which sits on 1.82 acres. Warm, wood interiors showcase timber frame elements throughout. The main living space features a woodburning, stone fireplace and leads to wrap-around decks that will surely host memorable events with friends and family. MLS# 98147.

Cedar Point O F F E R E D AT $ 1 , 1 9 5 , 0 0 0

Rare opportunity for a custom lake and mountain view home located on the east side of Lake Glenville. The home offers an open floor plan from kitchen, to dining, to the living room with floor-to-ceiling windows. Take in the stunning views of the lake and mountains while sitting by the fireplace in the living. There is a great, spacious detached 2 car garage with a workshop/art studio location with fantastic storage space above. The owners also own a great boat slip across the street that they would be willing to sell at Cedar Point Landings. MLS# 98595.

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N E W LY L I S T E D

Whiteside Forest O F F E R E D AT $ 1 , 1 8 5 , 0 0 0

N E W LY L I S T E D

Striking Whiteside and Timber Ridge views abound in this Whiteside Forest contemporary mountain retreat, conveniently located within 15 minutes of the quaint towns of Highlands and Cashiers, N.C. This is a well-appointed, four-bedroom, 3.5-bath home created to capture the magnificence of solitude and comfort that Western North Carolina has to offer. A tandem, two-car garage, and unfinished basement area provides an option for additional storage or a workshop. Privacy, peace, and sunsets will enhance your soul in this unique hideaway. MLS# 98514.

Cedar Hill O F F E R E D AT $ 1 , 1 5 0 , 0 0 0

N E W LY L I S T E D

Location, privacy, mountain view, and water on the property - this property has it all. Inside the gates of the prestigious Cedar Hill community, this home has a great floor plan with three bedrooms in the main house, and a fourth over the two car garage, all with ensuite baths. Sit out on the covered porch or the back deck and enjoy incredible views of Laurel Knob while listening to the sound of moving water. Many upgrades made to this one by the current owners. The house is being offered primarily furnished with an exception list. MLS# 98683.

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Cullowhee River Club O F F E R E D AT $ 9 4 0 , 0 0 0

Perched above the Tuckasegee River with mountain views, "River View Cabin” radiates the vibe of outdoor living. Nestled in the Cullowhee River Club, experience the tranquility of the rushing waters from the covered Trek deck or the walk-out lower-level equipped with a gas line for a fire pit/grill and wiring for a hot tub. This maintenance-free home exudes elegance, comfort, and craftsmanship. Natural slab stone adorns the entry and perimeter and is complemented by terraced stone landscaping. MLS# 96038.

Cashiers In-Town O F F E R E D AT $ 9 0 0 , 0 0 0

Located in Cashiers' Chestnut Square, at the corner of Highway 64 and Lance Road, this property is ideal for a business operation. Each of its three floors features offices, storage areas, and bathrooms. The main and upper levels include common areas for reception space. The upper and lower portions of the building currently bring in rental income on month-to-month leases that could be extended. The building is on sewer and has fiber optic in place adjacent to the building; it just needs to be connected. MLS# 97408.

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COMMERCIAL

N E W LY L I S T E D

Sapphire High O F F E R E D AT $ 8 5 5 , 0 0 0

NEW CONSTRUCTION

Burlingame O F F E R E D AT $ 8 4 9 , 0 0 0

10.92 ACRES

Otto O F F E R E D AT $ 7 9 9 , 0 0 0

Perched at 3,800 feet elevation, this humble abode features three bedrooms, a bonus room, a wet bar, and an attached, two-car garage. Indulge in the exceptional, long-range, yearround views from the screened-in porch or open deck areas. The open floor plan on the main level is perfect for entertaining and includes the primary and a guest en suite, with another en suite bedroom in the upstairs loft. A fire pit, hot tub, and garden space are ready for outdoor enjoyment. Offered furnished, it's ideal as a rental option or a mountain escape. MLS# 98373.

Build your dream home in Burlingame Golf and Country Club. This ready-to-be-built custom home has large private primary suite with an office or craft room and a small porch off of it to sit and relax. Two en-suite guest rooms on the main level, split floor plan, large open family room with stone fireplace. Builder is Complete Property Services of G.A. a well known reputable builder on the Plateau. MLS# 96489.

Calling all equestrians and horses as this 2021 well-constructed barndominium on almost 11 rural, mountain acres in Otto, NC awaits your arrival! Country living has many advantages, including space and rural aesthetics, as you will find with this trendy and functioning barndo, surrounded by pristine pastures, Middle Creek and long-range mountain views. You will be drawn to the one-level living and open-concept floor plan. MLS# 97793.

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This retreat is one of very few homes in the area that sits at an elevation above 4,500 feet and almost eight, private acres. Boasting panoramic views of mountain ranges many miles away, this haven offers multiple decks and a huge, screened-in porch, where you can watch the sunrise over the distant mountains. Warm yourself in front of the stone fireplace in the living room, surrounded by vaulted ceilings and a wall of windows. The gated, circular driveway and a large, two-car garage directly accesses the home's lower level. MLS# 98587.

This spacious home in Sapphire's Holly Forest sits on a nearly-level lot with a two-car garage. The main level features a great room with lots of windows, soaring high wooden ceilings with accent beams, a gas fireplace, and beautiful wood floors. Another large room with a half bath is located just off the kitchen and can be used as a dining area, second living area, rec room, craft room, or whatever you might imagine! MLS# 98234.

If you’re looking for a lake and mountain view home that is "turnkey” and ready to go, this is it! Just the right size, the home includes two bedrooms and two baths on the main level, and a third bedroom and bath downstairs. Enjoy nice, open space from the kitchen to the dining to the living room. Creating the quintessential mountain living room are the vaulted ceilings, a fireplace, and floor-to-ceiling windows for great natural light. MLS# 97347.

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UNDER CONTRACT

Cats Paw O F F E R E D AT $ 7 9 9 , 0 0 0

Holly Forest O F F E R E D AT $ 7 7 8 , 0 0 0

UNDER CONTRACT

Strawberry Hill O F F E R E D AT $ 7 2 5 , 0 0 0

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Trillium Links O F F E R E D AT $ 6 9 9 , 0 0 0

Cedar Creek Woods O F F E R E D AT $ 6 8 9 , 5 0 0

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Provence Villas O F F E R E D AT $ 6 7 5 , 0 0 0

A charming 3 bedroom, 3 bath mountain cottage centrally located among many of Trillium's great amenities. Rustic mountain exterior and warm and well-thought-out interior. If desired, an optional Trillium Club Membership will include generational privileges and all of the unmatched Trillium Links & Lake Club family-friendly amenities that can be enjoyed by your family or guest. The owner cannot close on the property until after September 1, 2022, however it can be rented up until closing. MLS# 98656.

Privacy abounds in this centrally-located, lovely cottage! You are convenient to all that Cashiers and Sapphire have to offer - fine restaurants and shopping amidst breathtaking mountain beauty. This well-maintained home boasts a newer roof (added in 2019), a partial home generator, and an encapsulated basement. Sip an evening beverage on the sizable, screened-in porch with a vaulted ceiling, enveloped by the soothing sounds of Laurel Creek. MLS# 97735.

Very rare and unique opportunity to own this amazing lake and mountain view townhome. You will right away notice the 20+/- foot T&G ceilings, wood flooring throughout the main level, with a great open floor plan, from living room, to kitchen to the dining area. From the spacious kitchen which offers more than enough cabinets and island space, you are able to enjoy those wonderful lake views. No restrictions against vacation rentals. MLS# 98693.

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This in-town, road-level commercial property is off Highway 64 West. The 2.34 ± acres include two parcels. It offers great visibility from this main thoroughfare between Cashiers and Highlands. A well and septic system is on the property. MLS# 97093.

COMMERCIAL

Cashiers In-Town O F F E R E D AT $ 6 4 9 , 0 0 0

This 3 bedroom, 3 bath upper-level condo is the perfect investment for your mountain home or vacation rental! The light and airy color palette welcomes you into the open living area. Days can be spent by the fireplace in the living room or out on the covered deck while overlooking the fairway’s second hole. Although not required, a Trillium Links & Lake Club membership, one of two clubs with direct Lake Glenville access, will provide access to the extensive club amenities! MLS# 98599.

Cullowhee Forest is a gated community focused on nature and a pristine mountain feel, offering a kind of serenity that is increasingly difficult to come by with the added benefit of lightning-fast fiber optic internet. This three-bedroom, four-bath home on almost three private acres is a haven for nature lovers. It features a living space with both a wood stove and wood-burning fireplace, open kitchen area, as well as both covered and un-covered decking that overlooks the fire pit and garden space. MLS# 98646. 6 6 S ILVE R C R EEK R E A L E STAT E G R O U P

N E W LY L I S T E D

Trillium Links O F F E R E D AT $ 6 4 9 , 0 0 0

UNDER CONTRACT

Cullowhee Forest O F F E R E D AT $ 4 5 9 , 0 0 0

THE GREAT REAR RANGE MENT CON TINUES Well-heeled consumers are rethinking lifestyles, occupations, employers and geographies

As wealth accumulation escalates at a dramatic pace, consumers will find that money cannot buy everything — especially a swanky house — simply at the snap of their fingers. That realization in year three of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic comes amidst rising inflation in the United States, geopolitical turmoil along Russia and China’s borders, continued pressure on available prime housing inventory and fears of a bubble. But Marci Rossell, chief economist of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, is not much perturbed. “Bubbles require that people are buying not because they need or want to buy, but because the collective consciousness believes that prices can only go up,” Ms. Rossell says. “I don’t think that’s where we are.” “People may think they are overpaying, but they don’t care,” she says. “They need a bigger house with more space, so they are okay with that.” In this interview, Ms. Rossell discusses trends in the affluent market, high-net-worth consumer behavior, wealth growth, impact of rising interest rates and fears of a housing market bubble. Please read on. W H AT OV E R A L L T R E N D S H AV E YO U SEEN FOR THE AFFLUENT MARKET AND THE LUXURY BUYER?

One of the things I have homed in on is the fact that global wealth increased by nearly $60 trillion over the last two years. So, in the middle of the biggest disturbance to the global economy that any of us have seen in our lifetime, the value of wealth, or the sum total of stocks, bonds, real estate and assets, increased by $28.7 trillion in 2020 and nearly $30 trillion in 2021. While half of this growth is in Europe and the U.S., the other half is spread throughout the globe. That translates to incredible buying power in many markets worldwide.

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PERCENT IN THE MARKET TO PURCHASE RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE BY END OF THE YEAR (2022) AMONG THE GLOBAL AFFLUENT asia pacific

30 37

north america

21 25

europe

19 39

middle east

2021 SURVEY 2022 SURVEY

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As identified by Luxury Portfolio International research for the 2022 State of Luxury Real Estate Report

DO YOU EXPECT THIS TREND TO CONTINUE IN 2022, AND WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO THAT MONEY?

If you believe purchases and spending are grounded in how wealthy people are, yes. They got wealthier in 2020 and even more so in 2021. That is a remarkable statistic that we shouldn’t lose sight of in terms of where the world is headed. People want to spend money on luxury assets like real estate, and the growth of those assets, at that rate and pace, is unprecedented. SHOULD WE BE CONCERNED ABOUT A HOUSING BUBBLE?

No. First, bubbles require that people are buying not because they need or want to buy, but because the collective consciousness believes that prices can only go up. I don’t think that’s where we are. People may think they are overpaying, but they don’t care. They need a bigger house with more space, so they are okay with that. Secondly, a bubble requires a lot of leverage. When people are leveraging too much, insolvency problems develop. People are not leveraged like they were in 2005, 2006 or 2007, which created a boom that turned into a bust. Those numbers are not here this time around. People have already made their money. WHAT IS THE AFFLUENT CONSUMER MINDSET AS WE HEAD INTO YEAR THREE OF THE PANDEMIC?

One of the shockers for the luxury buyer has been that, for the first time in their recent memory, maybe in their entire lives, they have the money and still cannot buy something. This is particularly true of the American consumer. The U.S. mindset is, if I have the checkbook, it does not matter what it costs. If I want that Sub-Zero refrigerator, I can get it. If I want that house in Palm Springs, I can get it. Because of supply chain issues and the demand for housing, that is not necessarily the case. Luxury buyers don’t feel in control of their destiny in a way that they are accustomed and, to a certain degree, this will continue in 2022. WHAT DO YOU EXPECT FOR THE HOUSING MARKET?

Prices may not go up like they did last year, but I don’t expect a big decline.

We will continue to have inventory issues, partly because new homebuilding is not keeping up with demand. Large builders have been consolidating for years, and smaller ones are retiring very quickly as that population ages. These challenges are compounded by supply chain issues impacting the availability of building materials. WHAT ABOUT THE P OTENTIAL FOR RISING INTEREST RATES?

Keep in mind that just because the Federal Reserve may raise rates on the short end, it does not necessarily translate to a comparable increase in the long-term. I do not think the interest rate picture will change dramatically over the next 12 months. WHAT ABOUT THE LUXURY VAC AT I O N H O M E M A R K E T ?

One of the surprising developments of 2020 was the escalation of retirements for baby boomers. Normally, just like you can predict births and deaths, you can predict retirements consistently. In the U.S., there were 1.3 million retirements more than what we would typically expect. People didn’t want to figure out a new way of working. They had the money, and the value of their house was up. They thought, “Why don’t I retire early?” This trend continued in 2021 and is likely to continue in 2022. The escalation of second-home purchases should continue as the rate of retirement increases. ANY CLOSING INSIGHTS?

One of the unexpected consequences of the pandemic is the great rearrangement of people in terms of occupations, employers or geographies. For example, before the pandemic, the millennial generation was slowly moving out of high-density areas as they formed families and needed space. The pandemic heightened that dramatically, and we are suddenly seeing the impact on outer-ring suburbs, where prices are escalating.

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words by kara addy

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w i t h m o u n ta i n time sport horses’ co-owner anne duchac

WHEN ANNE AND STEVE D U C H AC M OV E D TO GLENVILLE FROM OCALA, FLA., THEY WEREN' T SURE IF THEIR HORSE TRAINING BUSINESS W O U L D S U RV I V E . T H I R T E E N Y E A R S L AT E R , I T I S T H R I V I N G . Before 2009, Anne and Steven Duchac ran a highly successful horse training company at Lynn’D Farms Training Academy in Ocala, Fla., an area known for its rich equestrian life. The work was intense but rewarding, clients became friends, and the couple traveled to conduct clinics. When they accepted the opportunity to move to the Cashiers area, they welcomed the changes in climate, scenery, and—perhaps most of all—pace. In fact, they named their new Glenville farm “Mountain Time,” to reflect their embrace of the new lifestyle. NC Living recently asked Anne Duchac a few questions about equestrian life on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau.

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NCL: IT HAS BEEN ABOUT 13 YEARS SINCE YOU RELOCATED FROM OCALA, FLA. WHAT HAS BEEN THE BIGGEST SURPRISE ABOUT EQUESTRIAN LIFE IN GLENVILLE AND ON THE HIGHLANDS-CASHIERS PLATEAU?

A D : When we left Ocala, we assumed we would need to find another way to make a living, that horse training would not be a viable option in the Cashiers/ Glenville area. So, we started a property management business, which eventually led to Steven becoming a general contractor. But the horse business never died off! Several clients sent horses up with us [from Florida] when we first moved here, and many others have continued to do so over the years. We did very little to advertise or promote our horse training business after moving, but we've never been without several here or wanting in. What has surprised us the most is how the horse community here has grown! It seemed almost nonexistent when we first moved, but it has increased by leaps and bounds. So many people have bought or built their own private farms, and Denisa Palinkas has opened Terrapin Mountain Equine for boarding and horse-related events. We receive inquiries all the time about boarding, training, and horse life in the area. In fact, it seems there are now far more people wanting to bring their horses here than there are horse properties available. NCL: WHAT SERVICES DOES MOUNTAIN TIME PROVIDE?

A D : We are mainly a training facility. We start a lot of young horses under saddle, put mileage on green horses, and work on more advanced skills with horses whose owners are focused on a specific discipline. Steven studied under [pioneer horse trainers] Pat Parelli and John Lyons back when Natural Horsemanship was first becoming popular and has worked with literally thousands of young horses and so-called problem horses. I have been riding and teaching since I was 18, and although I've dabbled in everything from eventing to reined cow horse, dressage is my passion, and we always have at least one upperlevel horse here that we're bringing along. Between Steven and I, in the last 10 or so years, we've brought along about a half dozen horses, from youngsters up to schooling most of the Grand Prix [the uppermost level of show jumping]. We also regularly give lessons on groundwork, round pen work, problem solving, and, of course, riding. When we have schoolmasters (experienced, highly trained horses) here, we love to offer lessons on them, so people can work on more advanced skills—the really fun stuff—and learn what they want to aim for with their own horses.

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N C L : H AV E YO U F O U N D PARTNERSHIP OR CAMARADERIE WITH OTHERS IN THE LOCAL EQUESTRIAN COMMUNITY? IF SO, DESCRIBE THAT A BIT.

A D : I think we were wondering if we could survive here with horses, until we found a good vet and a farrier; but after solving that, it really felt like we could settle into horse life here. Dr. Beil (of Whiskey River Large Animal Mobile Veterinary Services in Franklin) and [farrier] Trevor Burns have been instrumental in keeping our horses going well, and they have also passed our name along to many people who have become our local clients. Also, Denisa Palinkas, who I mentioned earlier, has done a tremendous job of transforming her place from an old bottling plant into an equestrian facility with a lovely indoor arena. She has made huge efforts to sponsor activities like saddle fitting and equine bodywork clinics, to offer lessons for beginner riders and children, and to have fun get-togethers. The horse community up here is becoming more close-knit, and many of us call each other for help, or if we've run out of something, or need last-minute coverage to feed our horses. We have to “make do” a little bit because resources aren't as accessible as in other areas, so I think that brings people together. NCL: WHERE DO MOST OF YOUR CLIENTS LIVE?

A D : Some are local—Franklin, Murphy, and Tryon— and some are old contacts from Florida. Some are from Alabama, Tennessee, New York... all over, really. Oh, and we've taught clinics in Venezuela twice! NCL: PLEASE SHARE ANYTHING ELSE YOU'D LIKE OUR READERS TO KNOW.

A D : We've been involved with Quantum Leap Farm in Odessa, Fla., for around 15 years now. They run a large therapeutic riding program that serves people of all ages with special needs, children with cancer, and veterans and their families. Until COVID, we regularly traveled there to teach clinics to their staff and volunteers, and they also sent staff members up to us for intensive learning sessions. Best of all, we get to care for some of their most special horses when they earn their retirement! Often, the Florida heat becomes too much for the older horses, so they get to spend their leisure years with us in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina. It is truly one of our greatest joys that we can give back to the people and horses who have given so much of their love and energy to others.

"WHAT HAS SURPRISED US THE MOST IS HOW THE HORSE COMMUNITY HERE HAS GROWN!" anne duchac, co-owner, m o u n ta i n t i m e s p o rt h o r s e s

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words by kara addy H O R S E B AC K R I D I N G L E S S O N S C A M P S . M O U N TA I N T R A I L R I D E S . E Q U I N E T H E R A P Y. S TA B L I N G — A N D E V E N L E A S I N G — A H O R S E . I T ’ S A L L AVA I L A B L E O N T H E H I G H L A N D S - C A S H I E R S P L AT E AU. W H E T H E R YO U A R E A N AC C O M P L I S H E D E Q U E S T R I A N O R S I M P LY L O O K I N G F O R A O N E - DAY E X P E R I E N C E ( O R S O M E W H E R E I N B E T W E E N ) , A N A R R AY O F FA M I LY- O W N E D H O R S E FA R M S I S R E A DY TO S U P P O R T YO U R A DV E N T U R E S

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AFTER HOURS FARM

After Hours Farm is a small, privately owned horseback riding facility in Cashiers. It offers a variety of English and Western riding lessons for ages five and up. The facility is not set up to accommodate boarding horses or trail rides. Instead, the focus is on providing a solid foundation upon which any student can confidently build a riding career. Looking to begin riding for the first time, continue training while on vacation, or get back into the sport after much time out of the saddle? After Hours Farm will tailor lessons to help you achieve your goals. Owner/instructor Kim Phillips brings more than 30 years of experience and knowledge to her business. She is certified by the American Riding Instructors Association to teach both English and Western riding and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in equine studies/business management. The facility consists of a small barn where students learn to safely groom and saddle their horse, and an outdoor 80-by-112-foot arena with natural sand footing, suitable to accommodate most riding needs. c o n tac t Kim Phillips 452 Wayfaring Road, Cashiers 423-956-0309 afterhoursfarmnc.com ARROWMONT STABLES + CABINS

Stay, ride, and refresh. That’s the idea behind Arrowmont, a well-established, working horse farm that offers trail riding, lessons, camps, and even horse leasing, along with vacation cabins and a lodge for events. Located on 200 acres off Cullowhee Mountain Road, Arrowmont offers five trails, stables, a ring area for training, and the Old Fort Lodge for special events. The property’s elevation ranges from 3,400 feet at the bottom of the valley to 4,200 at the top of the mountain. It includes majestic views, streams, a small lake, and accommodations—vacation cabins (that sleep up to six), a small room for two, and primitive campsites. Family owned and operated since 1960, Arrowmont also offers 45-minute private and group lessons for

all skill levels, followed by free time in the ring. The farm also hosts summer camps for kids, equine seminars for adults, and year-round activities, such as hayrides. A safety program that includes information about horse training and personality precedes every trail ride. Arrowmont offers a variety of trails. The Flame Azalea Trail leads to the top of the mountain. Riders travel through soft and hard woods to the high meadow with expansive views that extend to the Blue Ridge Parkway, then on to a picturesque valley to encounter creeks, streams, and a small lake—with birdsong and other potential wildlife encounters along the way. Rough Run stream helps lead riders back to the training ring and stables. For more skilled and adventurous riders, Arrowmont offers a walk-trot-canter ride utilizing the same trails and meadows for an exhilarating experience. A luncheon ride and ring rides for those under age six are also offered. c o n tac t Nancy Sellers 276 Arrowmont Trail, Cullowhee 828-743-2762 arrowmont.com CARPE DIEM FARMS

A non-profit organization located on 44 acres eight miles outside of Highlands, Carpe Diem (Latin for “seize the day”) is a life enrichment center that offers summer camps, afterschool programs, riding lessons, and more. In 1997, Equestrian Sue Blair founded Carpe Diem as a sanctuary for humans and animals alike. Since then, it has served to empower individuals to convert life challenges into opportunities. Its “equine staff” help individuals work through fears, overcome physical and emotional limitations, and more. Carpe Diem is open to individuals, couples, families, students, and groups for one-day use or an extended stay. c o n tac t Sue Blair 544 Western Rhodes Drive, Highlands 828-526-2854 carpediemfarms.org

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MOUNTAIN TIME SP ORT HORSES

Owned by the Duchac family, Mountain Time has offered horse training and riding lessons from their Glenville farm since 2009. Read more about Mountain Time Sport Horses in Neighborly Sport on page 70. c o n tac t Anne and Steven Duchac 1095 North Robinson Creek Road, Glenville 828-226-5974 or 352-961-5513 mountaintimesporthorses.com SMOKIN’ SADDLES RIDING CO.

If you’ve experienced “nose-to-tail” trail riding, in which horses walk closely behind each other in a single-file line, you might be in for something different at Smokin’ Saddles Riding Co. “We are not a ‘walk’ operation,” reads the company’s website. “We canter and gallop throughout our rides.”

Terrapin features beautiful hand-hewn stalls, arenas, large pastures, nature paths, and views of the surrounding mountains—all nestled in lush forest. It also works to build positive connections and support within the local equestrian community, says Denisa Palinkas, a lifelong equestrian who heads the farm staff. “We’re enjoying the diversity of disciplines—the riding styles—and horsemanship in the area,” she says. Palinkas combines her background in riding, teaching, training, multi-modality bodywork, and fitness to create a well-rounded experience for each horse and rider. Terrapin hosts clinics, classes, and workshops on these and other topics. c o n tac t Denisa Palinkas Located in Cashiers 828-808-0880

Along with the change of pace comes their assurance that even novice riders should feel comfortable and have fun.

WHITEWATER EQUESTRIAN CENTER

“All of our horses are gaited, which means they move each of their legs independently, with one leg always on the ground, making for smooth rides over long distances,” explains Kelly Kempton, who, along with her husband, owns Smokin’ Saddles.

The guides at Whitewater Equestrian Center not only lead the way, they share information about local Native American history, flora, fauna, lakes, and waterfalls as well. The legendary Daniel Boone may have traveled along one of the Cherokee footpaths that are part of the approximately four-mile trail ride.

At this Scaly Mountain outfit, Tennessee Walkers, Spotted Saddles, and Missouri Fox Trotters are ready to take riders on a mountain adventure. Views and water features—including small waterfalls—dot the trails, some of which are old logging roads. Groups of six or less can enjoy one-and-a-half or three-hour rides. Participants must be aged 12 or older. Smokin’ Saddles also offers private lessons. c o n tac t Kelly Kempton Bob Long Mountain Road, Scaly Mountain 828-205-0477 smokinsaddlesridingco.com TERRAPIN MOUNTAIN EQUINE

“Respect for and harmony with horses.” This is the motto of Terrapin Mountain Equine, a full-scale horse facility minutes from the Cashiers crossroads.

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Why not learn as you see Sapphire from horseback?

For more than 150 years, the Hinkle family has owned and protected Whitewater’s 375 acres. Riders may choose a one-hour or one-and-a-halfhour experience featuring panoramic views from mountain peaks and natural lakes. Whitewater also offers gem mining. Originating from a children’s camp, the horses at Whitewater are mild-mannered and gentle. c o n tac t Kayren Hinkle 6420 Whitewater Road, Sapphire 828-966-9646 funhorsebackriding.com

photo by elizabeth mills

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L O C A L LY O W N E D . I N D E P E N D E N T LY O P E R A T E D .

JOCHEN LUCKE

DAN ALLEN

PA R K E R A N D E R S O N

C H R I S D U F FY

D E B BY H A L L

R I C K J AC K S O N

B A M B I FA M O U S KA I N E

K E V I N KOAC H

E D DY M C D O N A L D

president/broker

broker

NCLIVING.COM | CASHIERS / LAKE GLENVILLE: 828-743-1999 | HIGHLANDS: 828-526-2999

JODI MOORE

CASSIE NEAL

LINDA PRIDGEN

CHUCK SELF

M E R RY S O E L L N E R

K E N TA F T

RAY T R I N E

ROB WHITNEY

broker

S AVA N A H H O P P E R

broker

LOTA H OW E L L

KAT I E N I C H O L S O N broker

broker

A N N E T TA M U L L

assistant

assistant/broker

office manager

R I VA S M I T H

C A I T L I N S TA R N E S

M A RY W H I T T E N WA R N E R

assistant/broker

assistant

marketing director

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of Sapphire Valley and The Chattooga Club. He is partnered with Haute Residence, an invitation-only 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.

JO C HEN

LUCKE 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 Lauderdale for the cool, clean air and laidback atmosphere of Cashiers was an easy one. Since making the move, he has become deeply involved in the community. He currently serves on the Highlands Performing Arts Center (PAC). He is also past chairman of both the HighlandsCashiers Hospital Foundation and The Village Green boards and served on the boards of the Highlands-Cashiers Hospital and Fidelia Eckerd Living Center and has served on the board of the Cashiers Community Fund . Jochen and his wife, Adrienne, are members of The Country Club

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.

“We used Jochen for the lot and property sales at Cedar Hill Subdivision in Cashiers. Our experience was very positive. He is well known and his firm has a big presence in the local market. He was knowledgeable and helpful in the initial pricing of the properties and also good with the negotiation of offers we received. Once under contract he was diligent in getting us to closing. A consummate professional and one who I highly recommend.”

- RUSTY BENNETT

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DAN

AL LE N 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. An advocate for animals and the environment, he has been deeply involved in his community, previously serving on the board of the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society and the Jackson-Macon Conservation Alliance, and supports 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 currently serving on the HighlandsCashiers Board of Realtors and is a member of the North Carolina Board of Realtors and the National Association 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.

“We are so lucky that Dan Allen was our realtor, especially in this crazy market! Dan is so patient and never put any pressure on us, even though it took us over a year to find the right house. In fact, he was intuitive enough that when we were debating properties he would tell us “I know we can find a better home for you than this” and spoke with us about his thoughts from an investment/resale perspective down the road as well. He genuinely wanted to help us find the best place, not just make a sale. I cannot tell you how much we appreciate his patience and local knowledge of the market and Cashers/Sapphire area. We were constantly driving up from Atlanta to look at properties and not only was Dan incredibly accommodating, but over time he got to know us well enough to tell us if it was worthwhile for us to make the drive (he was always right!). Thank you so much for your help navigating this market during a tricky time! We are so excited about our new home. We hope to have the opportunity to work together again in the future.

- DAVID & ANNA I.

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 three 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. BROKER | 828-508-2107 | DANALLEN.NCLIVING.COM NC L IVI N G S PR I NG 2022 8 1

“I wanted to let you know how much I have enjoyed working with Parker Anderson on the purchase of our home in Cashiers. He has been extremely helpful with all of our questions and concerns about purchasing property without seeing it first hand. We trusted his judgment and were able to make a quick decision on this property. We enjoyed getting to know Parker and we even discovered that we have several mutual friends. One is my husband’s godchild who is also Parker’s good friend from New York. Parker made this purchase very smooth and enjoyable for all of us! He has also continued to be helpful after the purchase. I would recommend Parker to anyone looking for property in the area.”

- SHARON TALLEY

PA R KE R

ANDERSON Hailing from Northwest Georgia, Parker is a thirdgeneration 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 Highlands-Cashiers 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.

BROKER | 828-200-2695 | PARKERANDERSON.NCLIVING.COM 8 2 S ILVE R C R EEK R EA L E STAT E G R O U P

C HRIS

DUF FY B R O K E R

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.

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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.

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“Chris Duffy recently helped my husband and me buy a second home in Highlands. Chris was so friendly and personable, and he answered every question we had - even those we didn’t know we had. We viewed the house on a Friday morning, and Chris worked all afternoon and into the evening to make sure that we reached a deal that worked for the sellers and us. Between execution of the contract and closing, he answered even more questions promptly and patiently. We live eight hours away, so this purchase could have been really difficult, but Chris ensured that the closing went very smoothly. If we ever need a realtor again, Chris will definitely be our guy.”

- SARAH AND MITCH

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D EBBY

HALL 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

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D E B BY H A L L . N C L I V I N G .C O M

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

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.

“I have been a general contractor for 38 years. In that time I have had the pleasure of working with many talented architects and interior design professionals. Debby Hall is in the top tier of that group. She is pleasant and has a great sense of design. She is empathetic to the customer’s needs and style and is a pleasure to work with. She is clear in her concept and precise in her schedules. The end result of her planning is a well thought out concept that fits her clients program and was easy for a contractor to achieve. It has been an honor to work with Debby.”

- WES STONE, CONTRACTOR JOHN WESLEY HAMMER

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R I C K

JACKSON 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 starting 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. 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 MerrieWoode, Friends of Lake Glenville, Cashiers-Glenville Volunteer Fire Department, Annandale Village of Suwanee, GA, the Chautauqua Institution in NY, and First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta.

“Rick listed our Lake 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. Rick went above and beyond in handling an abandoned well issue and septic permit discrepancy we were not aware of, he spent several weeks of his time sorting through the issues with the County and various vendors while we were out of state. Without question, Rick’s ability to take perspective buyers to visit lake properties via his boat made all the difference in getting maximum dollar for our home.”

- CHRIS AND MARY LYNN D.

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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.

B A MBI

FA MOUS KA INE 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

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, who is a teacher in Miami, or spending time with Jeff and their friends at the Country Club of Sapphire Valley.

“Bambi, I can’t thank you enough for being my broker throughout the process of selling my house in Sapphire. It took longer than either of us ever imagined it would, not to mention we were involved in most of the early problems with the pandemic. We also had a few setbacks that neither of us could not have imagined. Throughout the entire process you were the consummate professional. You always had the answer to a problem and especially always seemed to know what to do next to try and market the house and find that special buyer. I particularly appreciated your calm and steady approach with me when I would get a little discouraged that the offers didn’t seem to be coming in. Thank you! Please accept my sincere thanks for all you did to make selling my house an overall positive experience. I would highly recommend you and Silver Creek to anyone you wanted to share my contact with. Take care of yourself and God bless you and your family.”

- JERRY OGLE

BROKER | 828-200-4040 | BAMBIKAINE.NCLIVING.COM 8 6 S ILVE R C R EEK R E A L E STAT E G R O U P

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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, or enjoying the phenomenal food at one of the area’s local restaurants. Kevin is also a member of the Trillium Links & Lake Club and serves on the Board of the Trillium Links Condo Association. Kevin also serves as a member of the men’s tennis group and recently began dabbling in the increasingly popular sport of croquet. Kevin’s wife Lindsey recently completed her Doctorate of Nursing Practice and is in talks to serve the community as a Family Nurse Practitioner—DNP, APRN, FNP-C.

- DAN & KATHY

in Charleston, South Carolina. After enduring numerous long and frigid winters, the allure of his boyhood summer home proved too strong, and they moved permanently to the HighlandsCashiers area a few months later.

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“I knew working with Kevin Koach was going to be a terrific experience and a comfortable fit from the first time he and I spoke on the phone. Kevin is extremely diligent and is an excellent communicator, which was essential since we live more than four hours away. We find Kevin to be a true professional in every sense of the word. His local knowledge of the area helped us immensely and quickly allowed us to focus on what was truly important to us. He was always available to meet us in person, or for a phone call at our convenience. Our experience was nothing but a pleasure because of Kevin’s expertise and demeanor. We highly recommend Kevin and will continue to use him and Silver Creek Real Estate Group for all of our future realtor needs.”

KOAC H Born and raised in Sarasota, Florida, Kevin Koach was fortunate enough that his family had the good sense to escape the heat and humidity of Southwest Florida summers to vacation 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 that make up the Plateau landscape.

K E V I N KOAC H . N C L I V I N G .C O M

KEVIN

After graduating from Clemson University, Kevin headed west for the open plains of North Dakota where he spent the next six and a half years developing and managing multiple companies engaged in the oil and gas industry. There, mutual friends introduced Kevin to his wife Lindsey, and they were married in 2019

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

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E D DY “We visited Western North Carolina recently to learn about the area as a possible place to retire. My cousin had referred Eddy McDonald to us since she and her husband had purchased their Cashiers mountain retirement home from him. I have been a buyer for several major manufacturers for many years and therefore my standards for assessing those whose job it is to sell anything are quite high. And in my personal experience, I realize good realtors can be found, but truly excellent real estate professionals can be hard to find. From the first day we met him, Eddy impressed us. The consummate professional yet casually personable and relaxed, Eddy made us feel as if we were his only client. Highly organized and thoroughly prepared, Eddy gave us the time to view a variety of homes. A keen listener, Eddy had meticulously prescreened and selected qualified homes for us to see, and he gave us all the time we needed to look at numerous homes more than once. I was impressed at how flexible and helpful he was throughout the entire process. Eddy is a busy professional, yet he was always extremely responsive in person, phone, or text, making the process of buying this home from another state seamless. Without a doubt, we found and purchased our home in Cashiers because Eddy was our broker. Both before and after the closing Eddy has gone far beyond what was actually required. Thank you, Eddy McDonald, for being such a great person, professional, and realtor.”

- J.S.

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JO DI

MOORE 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.

“We have been exploring various areas to buy a mountain home in North Carolina for the past two years. Several friends suggested we look into the Cashiers/Highlands area. This spring we contacted Jodi Moore after seeing her name on several listings in the area. We had several conversations about what we were looking for, then scheduled a day together. Jodi had done an extensive search and set up several home tours. She took us to different communities and we found her to be very informative about the area. We are from out of state and found her knowledge and experience invaluable. We spent three days with Jodi and we found a beautiful home in the Sapphire/Burlingame community. Jodi provided us with details of the community and arranged a tour of the country club. We worked

together to put an offer together and after some back and forth, our offer was accepted. Jodi made all the arrangements for all the home inspections and referred us to other tradesmen and other professionals in the area to help us complete the transaction. We recently closed on our mountain home and are very excited to move in!!! It has been many years since we purchased a home. The most important aspects that Jodi delivered on include: regular communication, responsiveness, knowledge of the area, and a strong network of colleagues. With this said, we strongly recommend Jodi Moore to all prospective homebuyers in the Sapphire area.”

- CHRIS MEYER

BROKER | 828-482-2525 | JODIMOORE.NCLIVING.COM NC L IVI N G S PR I NG 2022 8 9

CA SSIE

NEAL 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.

“To anyone buying or, in particular, selling a home in the Sapphire Valley area you will not find a broker that will work harder for you. We had our home on and off the market a couple times over the past two years and experienced minimal activity. With Cassie things really began to click. Due to her marketing efforts showings increased dramatically. Homes only sell when they’re shown to enough potential buyers. She does the little things that make her successful and gets you as a seller results. For example, with cooler weather approaching and us away we winterize the home. Cassie would take the time to go by ahead of showings, turn on the water & hot water heater, adjust the home temperature to a comfortable level and make sure all was in good order. And then put all back as we left it. She went over and above our expectations based on prior experience. Can’t say enough about her professionalism, courtesy, integrity and work ethic...a real pro and a joy to work with.”

Cassie has been part of the local real estate business for over 18 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 currently serves as a director on the MLS Board. She has also served on the Technology Committee in the past. Her National Association of Realtors Short Sales and Foreclosure Resource Certification has proven to be beneficial in the many shortsale, foreclosure, and REO transactions she has closed over the years. When Cassie isn’t working with clients, she is spending time with her family. She also enjoys camping, tennis, boating, dining out with friends, and of course, shopping! Her down-toearth personality, perseverance and willingness to go the extra mile make her a great addition to Silver Creek Real Estate Group.

- ROD AND GAIL BRAZZELL

BROKER | 828-226-0383 | CASSIENEAL.NCLIVING.COM 9 0 S ILVE R C R EEK R E A L E STAT E G R O U P

LINDA

PRIDGEN

- STEVEN PRESTON, MD AND NEDRA PRESTON, DMD

Linda managed The Chattooga Club for two decades and was also the onsite 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.

BROKER | 828-507-3206 | LINDAPRIDGEN.NCLIVING.COM

“When we decided to sell our home in the Chattooga Club, Linda was the first person we called to help us. Her understanding of the market from pricing, staging of a home, updating, and showing the home were invaluable and resulted in a sale in a very tough competitive high end market. Her network of potential buyers was considerable and relates to her ability to arrange the many moving parts needed to complete a successful sale. Additionally her understanding of the real estate sales contracts and forms as well as proper referrals for legal questions for closings provided a welcome comfort during the sale and closing process. This is all to say that our experience with Linda on our sale of our longtime Chattooga home was an excellent one and based upon her considerable experience, sales knowledge, and awareness of the current market conditions Cannot imagine selling our home without her help and guidance. 5 Stars/Excellent”

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.

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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.

C HU C K

SELF 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

“My wife and I have been coming to Cashiers and Highlands for about 10 years now and decided it was time to find our own place in the area. During a short trip, we did online research to try to find a realtor. When we first called Chuck’s office, we spoke with his assistant Riva (she’s fantastic) who was very diligent in learning a bit more about us and our wants and then getting us in touch with Chuck. That weekend, Chuck spent the better part of a full day with us looking at several different types of options to help us better understand the range of inventory. With as hot as the market has been it took us a year to finally land our home with several close calls and almosts along the way. But it worked out exactly as it should have and we couldn’t be happier with the home and setting we ended up with. Chuck is deeply knowledgeable about the area and is clearly well connected to a variety of helpful resources as well. He and Riva (she was absolutely integral to our process) were patient, a pleasure to work with and operated with utmost integrity. Look no further...you won’t be sorry.”

- MIKE ERNST & LYNETTE GILLIS, BRENTWOOD, TN 9 2 S ILVE R C R EEK R E A L E STAT E G R O U P

ME R RY

SOELLNER “Robert and I were very impressed with the marketing material you produced to sell our home and with the photo presence you created of our property online. We would have bought the house all over again, based on your presentation of it if we had not truly had to part with it! We loved working with you, Merry, and were pleased that Jochen took the time to come out and go through our house on the first day when we listed it. The marketing materials and methods used by Silver Creek are head-and-shoulders above those of the competition in the area and even above those we know of in the Atlanta area. We were thrilled to have a contract in less than three weeks that resulted in a closing and impressed that you continued working for our interest throughout the due diligence period by cultivating the interest other buyers expressed in the house as a possible backup contract. The level of communication with Merry was superb - just enough without being too much - and very effective. Merry also very effectively conveyed our negotiation style and wishes to the buyer.

A broker since 2007, Merry serves the entire HighlandsCashiers Plateau and has consistently been among the top sales leaders in the area since 2015. She is wellknown for her honesty, integrity, and dependability. She brings a profound enthusiasm for listening to clients’ needs and for achieving their goals. She places a high value on ensuring that she exceeds the expectations of her buyers and sellers during their experience with Silver Creek Real Estate Group. A native Texan, Merry is an active member of Good Shepherd Episcopal Church where she sings in the choir, participates on various church committees, and serves on the vestry. In her free time, she enjoys reading, nature walks, and plant-based cooking.

Silver Creek both met and exceeded our expectations and ultimately gave us exactly what we needed, the right sale, at the right time, and the right price!”

- LISA AND ROBERT

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TA F T “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

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 Highlands-Cashiers 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, Taft 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 ministration 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. When he’s not working, Ken spends time with his three champion Portuguese Water Dogs and new puppy in training. He participates in water sport 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.

BROKER | 828-200-1464 | KENTAF T.NCLIVING.COM 9 4 S ILVE R C R EEK R E A L E STAT E G R O U P

R AY

T RIN E

Coupled with his dedicated community involvement, Ray’s background in accounting, property development, and real estate sales has provided him with priceless insights into this unique area. Ray is the quintessential guide to the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, offering personal experience, countless and fascinating local narratives, and seemingly limitless knowledge of mountain living. Ray is licensed in both North Carolina and South Carolina. Ray is a seasoned professional who brings enthusiasm, vision, and over 45 years of experience to the team at Silver Creek Real Estate Group.

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With such a large family, community involvement was also important to Ray. He has been president of the Blue Ridge School PTA, 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.

- WILLIAM MONIE

Once ensconced in the mountains, Ray wasted no time earning his North Carolina Broker’s license. He went to work for one of the oldest real estate firms in the area, V.C. Smith Real Estate, which he bought outright two years later. He soon made his mark as the No. 1 real estate office in sales and listings in the Cashiers area for many years running. Ray proceeded to shape the area with his active involvement in the sale of land tracts, as well as the development of many residential communities such as Bald Rock, Summer Hill, Glenshore, Trillium Links and Lake Club, Bear Lake Reserve, Bridge Creek, Glen Laurel, and Glen Pointe.

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“My wife and I have moved many times in the last 30 years and dealt with a lot of agents. We have now dealt with Ray on many transactions and believe strongly that he is by far the best. His integrity, professionalism, and knowledge of the mountain market are unparalleled. We are glad we found him and more so appreciate his warm smile and good nature. He is the very best. If you are looking for a superior real estate agent in the mountains... he’s your guy.”

By 1982, the Trine family included five children, five dogs, and four cats. His quest for a better quality of life brought him to the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, where he immediately recognized what an idyllic existence it would provide. He packed up his entire menagerie and moved from an oceanfront home in Atlantic Beach, FL, to his newly acquired farm in Glenville, NC. His family continued to grow, expanding to include llamas, donkeys, cows, goats, sheep, turkeys and chickens. Now with seven children and thirteen grandchildren, he knows he made the right choice!

B R O K E R

Ray Trine’s passion for all things real estate blossomed early in his life. After graduating with an accounting degree from the University of North Florida in 1971, he immediately launched his real estate career. Initially employed by Florida National Bank’s holding company, he later became CFO of American Federal Savings and Loan, financing homes and commercial properties and working on building and development projects. He quickly learned that he belonged out in the field making things happen, rather than crunching numbers in an office.

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WHITNEY

spending every day in the beautiful outdoors helping his clients find their next dream property.

After growing up in Brentwood, Tennessee, Rob Whitney moved to Knoxville to attend the University of Tennessee. During college, Rob worked for GNC (General Nutrition Center), eventually becoming a franchisee of two store locations.

Rob’s clients looking to build or renovate a home can draw from his wife’s 24 years of experience to make informed decisions. Rob enjoys working with both buyers and sellers and understands that communication is the key to success. He can be reached by his clients seven days a week from 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. via phone call, text message, or email and they will always get a response.

While on vacation at Lake Glenville, he met the woman who would become his future wife, Susanne Moore. Susanne has been a general contractor since 1997, when she moved to the area where her mother had been a real estate broker for some time. After only a week, Rob knew she was “the one.” A year later, he sold his stores, moved to the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, and married Susanne on Snowbird Mountain. Rob knew he wanted to be a part of the family business in some manner; so, in 2005, he earned his real estate license. Since then, Rob has become a full-time, practicing, and skilled expert in the area’s real estate market. Rob’s retail background aids him in his real estate career, but he loves no longer being confined to a small store, instead

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ROB

“Rob Whitney is the best realtor we have ever had! My husband and I were searching for the perfect place in North Carolina as a vacation home for ourselves, but also as a vacation rental for others to enjoy. We found Rob when we called him about a home listed on Trulia for which he was the listing agent. Rob immediately responded to our call and made himself available without hesitation to show us various properties. During our search for the perfect home, Rob was the consummate professional. He was responsive, extremely knowledge, patient and honest every step of the way. Beginning with our property search, continuing through the inspection process and the closing, and even after we closed, Rob did not hesitate to assist us and was even proactive in helping us find the right people to put our unique and personal touches on the property. He also assisted us in lining up individuals to assist with our vacation rentals. We cannot say enough about how amazing Rob is and we will not hesitate to use him again and recommend him to others!”

- MARY L. AND DAVE B.

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WE ' RE

S OCIAL Every listing is given equal screen time on our active, highlyfollowed social media channels.

Silver Creek’s social: facebook.com/silvercreekreg instagram.com/silvercreekrealestate

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a d v i c e b r o k e r

The Silver Creek team of real estate professionals are known for giving an exceptional experience to our clients. We asked Broker Parker Anderson to share a piece of advice. Here’s what he had to say:

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a n d e r s o n

For real estate buyers and sellers, simply put: Your representation matters. A broker can work in a specific market for five years or 50; at the end of the day, it comes down to how ethical, knowledgeable, and attentive he or she is to the client's needs and desires. Even in this accelerated market, it is still important for sellers to have the highest quality marketing strategies, tools, and representation to assist them in showcasing their home and orchestrating a seamless transaction. Today’s real estate buyer is usually represented within a fast-paced environment. This is when client representation truly matters. Buyers need the right support and knowledge to know how to navigate the intense market and successfully acquire their dream home. Read more about Parker on page 82.

words by nora howe

EVEN AS ECOMMERCE GROWS, NOTHING BEATS THE CHARM OF STROLLING PAST STORES ALONG SOME OF THE WORLD’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS SHOPPING BOULEVARDS

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The world’s most iconic fashion districts still offer ultra-luxury experiences that are worth the trip for shoppers. To many consumers, nothing can top the ritual of strolling along wide avenues or under bright city lights while stepping in and out of boutiques surrounded by stylish people. From New York and London to Paris and Hong Kong, shopping districts still attract international visitors for memorable luxury experiences. “For luxury brands, being on the world’s most prestigious streets is a marketing and customer acquisition strategy as well as a retail strategy,” says Marie Driscoll, managing director of luxury and fashion at New York-based Coresight Research. “Personalization and localization are key and luxury brands are adapting via onsite monogramming, regional exclusives and local collaborations that anchor relevancy in local culture.” “You don’t have to go to Paris to buy Dior or New York to buy Ralph Lauren,” she says. “In a world of access, luxury brands need to create a sense of familial belonging, that you are visiting a friend.” NC L IVI NG S PR I NG 2022 99

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N E W YO R K - F I F T H AV E N U E

While Manhattan’s SoHo neighborhood is now home to a number of luxury brands, Fifth Avenue has historically offered the classic high-shopping experience. A major element of the allure of Fifth Avenue is its history. With iconic flagship department stores such as Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman, this shopping district brings visitors back to old New York. “New York alone has at least four leading shopping districts: Fifth Avenue, Madison Avenue, SoHo and the Lower East Side’s Orchard Street, each with their own personality and portfolio of brands,” Ms. Driscoll says.

enchanting look at how Parisians shopped 200 years ago,” she says. “It is where I discovered the most amazing florist and Wolff et Descourtis, specialists in artisan silk, silk and cashmere and velvet shawls since 1875, and both offer online shopping.” A stroll through Place Vendôme may bring visitors to Coco Chanel’s neighborhood at Rue Cambon, where the original Chanel boutique and couture atelier sat below her apartment. In addition to offering some of the world’s most wellknown fashion brands, Paris is also home to some of the largest flea markets.

“New York’s SoHo is home to many street brands that are changing or influencing luxury trends, while a trip to Dover Street Market is the chance to see the unique cultural and fashion point of view of Comme des Garçon’s founder, Rei Kawakubo.”

Located in the northern part of the city, Les Puces Paris features more than 3,000 boutiques, shops and other pop-ups selling anything from 19th-century furniture and porcelain to vintage clothing and jewelry.

“Of course, New York has the global luxury brands of Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton and is home to Ralph Lauren, with its two flagship mansions flanking Madison Avenue at 72nd Street.”

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New York Fashion Week has also attracted luxury fashion connoisseurs to the city since 1943 and, for the first time, Fifth Avenue hosted the globally renowned fashion event in 2020. In addition to its flagship Tiffany & Co. and department stores, Fifth Avenue is home to luxury boutiques from Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Van Cleef & Arpels, Prada, Giorgio Armani, Cartier, Chanel, Salvatore Ferragamo, Bulgari and Versace. PA R I S - C H A M P S - É LY S É E S

When people think of Paris, they think chic, and for those wanting the comprehensive high-fashion experience in the City of Lights, they should look no further than Avenue Montaigne, Champs-Élysées and Rue Cambon. This iconic fashion junction hosts the flagships of some of the industry’s most influential maisons such as Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior and Chanel. “Avenue Montaigne is the height of elegance and where one should shop Dior as well as Chanel, Valentino, Versace and more, yet about a mile away on the Champs-Élysées, north of the Louis Vuitton flagship approaching l’Arc de Triomphe, Dior is constructing an immense flagship,” Ms. Driscoll says. “The specialty shops in the Galerie Vivienne, built in 1823 as a covered passage in the 2nd Arrondissement, is an

Shoppers may find themselves in what was, at one point, considered the fashion capital of the world — Milan. “When you think ‘luxury leather goods,’ Italy is top of mind,” says Michelle Kluz, partner of the consumer practice at consulting firm Kearney in Chicago. “As a headquarters for so many leading luxury brands, Milan makes the Via Monte Napoleone a great destination.” From apparel houses such as Gucci, Prada and Valentino to renowned leather goods makers Fendi, Bottega Veneta and Salvatore Ferragamo, Via Monte Napoleone emphasizes Italy’s dedication to craft and design. “Located in the center of the city, shoppers are at Milan’s famed Duomo Square, which is pulsating with activity and high-quality restaurants — a high-energy shopping experience,” Ms. Kluz says. Via Monte Napoleone, Via Alessandro Manzoni, Corso Venezia and Via della Spiga all intersect to form what has been dubbed the “Quadrilatero della Moda,” which literally translates to fashion square. Here, shoppers are completely engulfed in the world of luxury goods. “What also makes this district special is that the high-end shops are so nicely integrated with less-exclusive, yet uber stylish, boutiques,” Ms. Kluz says. L O N D O N - B O N D S T R E E T A N D M AY FA I R

Finishing out the “Big Four” fashion cities is London. The Oxford Street district welcomes fashion lovers from around the world with stores such as Primark and H&M, but it is Bond Street that attracts the wealthy.

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“This more balanced focus earns London a spot among the world’s best shopping districts,” Ms. Kluz says. From Chanel, Prada and Dior to British natives Burberry, Alexander McQueen and Stella McCartney, Bond Street is lined with recognizable names for shoppers f r o m a r o u n d the world. “However, visitors from non-E.U. countries that make up an important part of the London shopping scene may be less attracted now that taxfree shopping, the VATrefund scheme, ended in 2021,” Ms. Kluz says. In between Bond Street and Hyde Park sits Mayfair, a neighborhood often mentioned in high-fashion and luxury discourse. Here, visitors may find the home in which RollsRoyce co-founder Charles Stewart Rolls was born. Like Fifth Avenue, Bond Street is a historic retail landmark and can be found in a number of cultural and literary references, such as Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility and Virginia Woolf’s Mrs. Dalloway. HONG KONG - CENTRAL

When it comes to an immersive

luxury experience, Hong Kong has it covered. “Hong Kong has it all,” Ms. Kluz says. “As a major international financial center and a shopping destination for many mainland Chinese consumers, many brands have flagships here.” Situated at the heart of the city’s busy financial district, the Central shopping district provides more than a place to buy clothes — it has become a luxury lifestyle experience. “In addition to every major brand you can think of, there are also many interesting local designers interspersed and more exciting dining options than almost anywhere else — from fabulous literal holes-inthe-wall that focus on a narrow menu to Michelin-starred dining,” Ms. Kluz says. “It’s tough to beat the density of Hong Kong’s Central shopping district, but Tsim Sha Tsui probably has more diversity overall.” The Central district, or Landmark district, is made up of four main retail buildings that are interlinked by covered walkways: Atrium, Alexandra, Chater and Prince’s. An array of luxury shops and restaurants is spread across these locations, including storied fashion houses such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel as well as smaller, more independent labels. Since Hong Kong is known as an international hub, the Central lifestyle district is truly a onestop-shop, as it features retail, dining, hospitality and other lifestyle services. SINGAPORE ORCHARD ROAD

Located in Central City

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spanning nearly 1.5 miles, Orchard Road is the city state’s extensive tree-lined high street accompanied by malls and hotels. The boulevard features more than 8.6 million square feet of shops and restaurants, with inclusive offerings to appeal to all customers. From fashion brands such as Prada to fast-food restaurants, the district is one of Singapore’s busiest spots and it attracts a wide range of clientele. ION Orchard, a multi-use space with residences, art galleries and a shopping mall, elevated Orchard Road’s cool factor significantly when it opened in 2009. One of Orchard Road’s better-known shopping malls, Orchard Central, stands out from its counterparts due to its distinct architectural design and exterior digital art installation by a local artist. Exhibitions by international artists are publicly on display inside the shopping center as well. “Singapore’s Orchard Road, which, with ION Orchard, has an experiential multi-use space,” Kearney’s Ms. Kluz says, “and Japan’s Ginza district, where multiple upscale department stores with excellent food halls sit alongside brand flagships and Japan’s uberconscious fashion scene, is on full display.”

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DUBAI - MALL OF THE EMIRATES

Dubai’s Mall of the Emirates is notorious for elevating luxury to new heights. “While you’re inside a mall for most luxury shopping in Dubai, the sheer excitement of these contained ‘bubbles’ stands out,” Ms. Kluz says. “Besides almost every luxury brand in the world, you can visit aquariums, go skiing and dine like a royal, all while dropping serious coin.”

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Opened in 2005, Ski Dubai offers snowboarding and ski lessons, as well as a children’s playground, café and penguin encounters. It is home to the world’s larest indoor snow park.

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Named one of Dubai’s top five shopping malls by Forbes in 2017, Mall of the Emirates features more than 1,200 retail stores, 160 food and beverage outlets, entertainment centers, a five-star hotel and an indoor ski slope.

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THE PROCESS OF BUILDING A HOME FROM SCRATCH REQUIRES ORGANIZATION words by christopher pollack Creating a custom home from scratch can be a daunting experience and requires a lot of guidance along the way. A trustworthy project manager and developer is key to making sure the process of building your dream home does not turn into a nightmare. My firm has been providing just such a service for more than 20 years. We work with clients in three distinct ways: as private developers, project managers and master builders. The model I have developed has allowed us to facilitate increasingly specialized upscale projects. We are often brought in from the very start as project managers to serve as the client’s representative and a third-party objective overseer. Or we come in as private developers, acting as both the project manager and master builder to supervise and execute the project. TEAM SPIRIT

The first step in developing a residential property is to assemble the right team, which is created according to the client’s vision, objectives and parameters. The architect, interior designer, builder, landscape architect and any specialty contractors are typically selected after a vetting process and based on past experiences, previous relationships or reputations. Assembling the proper design-build team is nuanced because each member needs to contribute individually and as part of the larger team. It is a collaborative process. Great results

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can only be achieved if each piece of the puzzle properly fits, which is supported by streamlined communication and planning. The pre-vetting process allows for the right team to come into place and communication ensures that they stay in place. Once the team is selected, we review and negotiate contracts for the best possible financial arrangement. Permit and local ordinance laws are navigated and any potential issues are troubleshot in advance. While projects are under development, our process includes pre-constructing a sample portion of the project to anticipate any challenges that might arise and communicate the design intent visually by displaying material selections. The client, architect and designer can see, touch and interact with the model to ensure that plans are properly understood, approved and realized. Guessing games do not have a place in multimillion-dollar projects. TECH THAT

The needs and tastes of clients vary, and so do their requests and completed homes. The various project professionals consider how each decision will support the client’s unique lifestyles. Bigger decisions, such as assessing if an open versus closed floor plan is best, are carefully considered, as are the more minute, but no less important, details such as selecting the best security and safety system appropriate for a client’s extensive art collection.

ensures that it is protected against snow and storms. Technology is also being incorporated into the infrastructure of luxury custom homes. Trends include water filtration systems controlled via Bluetooth, outdoor heating in the ground and ceiling to avoid clunky and inefficient outdoor heating lamps, LED lighting for pools and spa areas that change colors, and phantom screens that can be rolled up or down using an app, making outdoor living accessible, no matter what the season. We have also received more than a few unusual requests that were realized through technology, such as creating a miniature golf course that is chilled in the winter and converted into an iceskating rink. The focus of each custom real estate project is to create a home that reflects those that inhabit it. Over the past three years, we have all spent more time at home than ever before, which makes it even more important that people love where they live and find comfort in their sanctuaries, whether they feature a convertible ice-skating rink/golf course or not. PROJECT PARTNERS must truly respect and understand the needs of their clients, maybe even better than the clients themselves, to properly bring the vision to life.

We also need to consider which materials will allow the property to efficiently function once it is actually built.

As a leader on my projects, I want my clients to enjoy and find excitement in the process so all systems are orchestrated smoothly, quickly and efficiently. We have been honored to work on homes from Anguilla to the Catskills, London to the Hamptons, and my favorite projects are those where everyone is happy with the process and the finished project.

For example, we recently worked on a New England beachside property that features cement siding, metal windows and a zinc roof to create a low-maintenance exterior. Large windows allow for the coastal views to remain unobstructed, while the structure’s sturdiness

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the focus of each custom real estate project is to create a home that reflects those that

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LOCK IT IN AT

Delilah LAS VEGAS

words by mickey alam khan

HOW ABOUT A DAZZLING SUPPER CLUB AS A STEAKHOUSE WITHOUT QUITE AS MANY STEAKS OFFERED? LET THE SEDUCTION BEGIN Las Vegas is known for its card tables, entertainment and sumptuous food to keep the other two going. Now a new supper club called Delilah at the Wynn Las Vegas hotel has set hearts afire, making it the hottest ticket in town with reservations booked solid months out. With an interior that borrows heavily from an African safari theme with Fifties vibes, Delilah targets high-rollers seeking swish entertainment and a steakhouse unlike anything that Vegas has ever seen. We sat down with Delilah executive chef Joshua Smith to discuss this new restaurant and the motivations behind the cuisine, décor, entertainment and what it brings to the Entertainment Capital of the World. WHAT IS THE THINKING BEHIND DELILAH IN LAS VEGAS?

The h. wood group had already experienced great success with the Delilah concept in Los

Angeles. Wynn had been looking to develop a supper club with a strong nightlife component for affluent 30-40-somethings who weren’t looking for the usual megaclub experience. Delilah is the perfect night out. It’s exclusive, there’s first-class entertainment, a gorgeous space, retro-inspired fare and delicious cocktails. THE CITY IS KNOWN FOR ITS RESTAURANTS AND SUMP TUOUS FARE. BUT DELILAH CHANNELS A C O M P L E T E LY D I F F E R E N T VIBE, RIGHT?

Delilah definitely brings something that can’t be found anywhere else in the city. It’s easy to try to compare us to a few other new concepts in town, but once you experience them for yourself you immediately notice the nuances that separate us from our competition. WHAT DO YOU BRING TO DELILAH, BASED ON YOUR EXPERIENCE ACROSS DIFFERENT MARKETS?

My background is mostly seafood and French cuisine, but Delilah opens the door for me to be much more playful. I think of a supper club as a steakhouse without quite as many steaks offered. The cultural influence of our menu is a melting pot of Americana with twists of Mexican, Peruvian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, etc. It’s a diverse menu that I think really encapsulates the company’s origin in Los Angeles, as well as our exotic and tropical room design by Todd-Avery Lenahan.

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TALK TO US ABOUT THE FURNITURE, FIXTURES, CHINA AND DÉCOR THAT WENT INTO CREATING THIS AIR OF ELEGANCE IN THE RESTAURANT.

My favorite part of this story is that the room was influenced and inspired by a safari that Todd went on in Africa. There are lots of animal prints and tropical plants featured in wallpaper, fabrics and even our larger-than-life golden palm trees that flank the dancing platform that is front and center of our room. But the overall sense is that you have just stepped back in time to a fabulous Vegas supper club of the Fifties. AND THE ENTERTAINMENT HOW DOES THAT SUPP ORT THE OVERALL THEME?

Our entertainment is like the best ambient backdrop to a fantastic evening you could possibly curate. That’s the whole idea really, it’s not meant to be a “show.” The guests are the show, and the entertainment is just amplification for the overall experience that Delilah provides. H OW H AV E YO U D E S I G N E D THE MENU KEEPING IN MIND THE CLIENTELE YOU WISH TO AT TRACT ?

WHAT WOULD YOU RECOMMEND A F I R ST-T I M E V I S I TO R TO D E L I L A H TO ORDER?

Our chicken tenders really are incredible, but there’s no wrong way to order at Delilah. I love to talk about how our most popular appetizers are chicken tenders, Ossetra Caviar and chilled shellfish. I think that, in itself, encapsulates the total vibe of Delilah. Also, our classic Los Angeles-style burger is the best around, no contest. W H AT D O E S T O DAY ' S C U S T O M E R OF FINE DINING EXPECT FROM THE RESTAURANT EXPERIENCE?

I think Delilah is so much more than a finedining restaurant. Our guests expect an amazing time. It needs to be about the food, because it’s the Wynn and we’re on the Las Vegas Strip, but our guests expect so much more than great food at Delilah. WHAT ARE YOUR EXPECTATIONS FOR DELILAH AMONG THE PANTHEON OF GREAT RESTAURANTS NOT JUST IN LAS VEGAS, BUT ALSO ON THE WEST COAST?

Delilah is off to such an incredible start. I think we will continue to be the hardest reservation to get in the city. The vibe really does outshine the hype.

I very much try to write my menus with the guest in mind.

I’m really proud of the team in front and back at Delilah Las Vegas.

Our guests are the most important component of our brand that make Delilah such a great time.

I’d love to see some attention from [honors such as] James Beard, The World’s 50 Best Restaurants and OAD [Opinionated About Dining], among others.

Our food definitely has a diversity and playfulness to it that I find inspiration for directly from our clientele. WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR SIGNATURE DISHES?

Macaroni and mimolette gratin with black truffle, King Crab and endive Caesar salad, Beef Wellington for two, Dover sole fish and chips, scallop and short rib surf and turf, and the “grasshopper” baked Alaska.

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I truly believe my food at Delilah is better than any other restaurant I’ve helmed, and is therefore deserving of equal or greater critical acclaim.

Recipe CARROT SOUFFLÉ

C A R R O T S O U F F L É Makes 4 Soufflés 4¾ CUPS 1 CUP

CARROTS, PEELED AND SLICED WA L N U T S , C H O P P E D

¾ CUP

BROWN SUGAR

¾ CUP

SUGAR

½ TSP 5 1 CUP

GROUND CINNAMON WHOLE EGGS, LARGE U N S A LT E D B U T T E R , M E LT E D

¼ CUP

FLOUR

½ TSP

P U R E VA N I L L A E X T R A C T

Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Beat the eggs and sugar on mediumhigh speed for about 5 minutes in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment until pale yellow and the mixture falls in ribbons from the beater. Melt the butter in a heavy-bottom saucepan. Add the flour and stir vigorously to create a roux that should appear like a thick paste. Cook for 1 or 2 minutes until any raw flour flavor is gone. C A N D I E D C O R N F L A K E S For the Carrot Soufflé 2 CUPS

BROWN SUGAR

½ CUP

WAT E R

2 TBSP

CORN SYRUP

½ BAG

CORN FLAKES

Place the carrots in a medium saucepan and cover with water. Cook for about 10 minutes over mediumhigh heat until they are very tender. You may need to add more water, should it evaporate. Add the walnuts to the hot carrot cooking liquid for the last 5 minutes. Drain the carrots and walnuts, and reserve both the liquid and solid. Purée the carrots and walnuts in a food processor or blender until very smooth. Try not to add any of the reserved liquid. Only add a few drops, if necessary. Add the the egg

roux and the carrot-walnut mixture to and butter mixture. Mix to combine.

Generously butter four 10oz soufflé ramekins using room-temperature unsalted butter. Coat the buttered ramekins with sugar, tilting each dish to distribute the sugar evenly. Lightly tap out the excess and set aside. Pipe the mix into the individual 10oz ramekins and flatten the tops with an offset spatula. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 35 minutes. Do not open the oven door until finished. Garnish with candied cornflakes and a pinch of crunchy sea salt such as Maldon.

medium-heavy bottom saucepan. Cook on medium heat until the sugar is dissolved. Pour cornflakes into a large heat-proof bowl. Pour the hot syrup over the flakes and toss with two spoons and a light touch to make sure the flakes are evenly coated.

Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Once the flakes are coated, spread them evenly on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper.

Combine the brown sugar, water and corn syrup in a

Bake for 5 minutes. Allow to cool.

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EXCLUSIVE LAND OFFERINGS by Silver Creek Real Estate Group

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Bald Rock Spectacular opportunity to build your mountain dream home on this gently sloping 10+ acre estate lot located in the prestigious community of Bald Rock. This lot borders the National Forest and equestrian trails allowing easy access to trail ride, hike or mountain bike. Bald Rock community features waterfalls, wooden bridges and streams throughout plus an equestrian center and a pavilion with 2 fireplaces and full kitchen. Ownership also comes with Sapphire Valley amenities that give you access to the golf course, tennis courts, rec center, fitness center, indoor/outdoor pools, community center, ski slope, zip line and more. MLS# 98246 | Offered at $399,000 | Sapphire Nestled within the Bald Rock neighborhood in Sapphire Valley, this spacious lot has over 6 acres to allow you to pick out the ideal homesite of your dreams with the potential of beautiful long range views by clearing of some trees. This prime location also offers a direct access to hiking trails that are within Panthertown Valley, often referred to as the Yosemite of the East. Bald Rock community also features an equestrian center, with nearby trails that are equestrian friendly, as well as waterfalls, streams, and a pavilion with 2 fireplaces and a full kitchen. Being a part of this community gives you access to fast, high speed internet with fiber optics. Ownership of this lot entails club membership to Sapphire Valley, therefore grants access to their numerous amenities: golfing, tennis, fitness center, picnic areas, swimming, water activities with Fairfield lake access, and skiing in winter. Also with this lot being less than 15 minutes away from Cashiers, fine dining and shopping are just a quick stop away from this top-tier lot. MLS# 98591 | Offered at $300,000 | Sapphire

Big Ridge 11.23 acres of beautiful rolling pasture land with exceptional mountain views and all situated above 4,000 ft. elevation! Equestrian lover's will delight at the thought of riding in this heavenly setting, but anyone who wants to enjoy long range mountain views in a peaceful and serene setting will appreciate this land. The perfect building knoll sits just a tad higher than the rest of the acreage providing great sight lines in all directions. Lot faces west for remarkable sunset views! Located in the Big Ridge area, approximately 10 miles from town, it's far enough out to be private yet close enough to go to town to go to the grocery store or enjoy one of the many fine shoppes or restaurants in the area. Cashiers offers many free local events to enjoy as well such as Groovin' on the Green concerts every Friday night in the summertime. Call to schedule a private showing of this property! MLS# 98548 | Offered at $399,000 | Glenville

This is what true mountain living is all about. Offering unmatched solitude and privacy, this five-acre parcel in the Big Ridge subdivision is awaiting your dream home. Build near the small stream or on the hillside; either way, you'll be surrounded by old-growth hardwoods, birdsong, and the unique flora and wildlife of the Southern Appalachians. With a bit of trimming and cutting, you'll enjoy exceptional, longrange mountain views from more than 4,000 feet elevation. The land is gently rolling and usable, with community water. Only 20 minutes from pristine Lake Glenville - perfect for boating, kayaking, swimming, and fishing - and Happ's Place, one of the area's newest and most popular spots, it's only about eight more minutes from there to dining and shopping in the Village of Cashiers. Your haven is bordered by the Chinquapin land conservancy on one side. This is an incredibly unique opportunity to create your private, mountain haven. Why wait? MLS# 98285 | Offered at $75,000 | Glenville

Bridge Creek An easy building site, this flat, 2.4-acre lot boasts a longrange mountain view. Located in the gated community of Bridge Creek, it offers a fishing/swimming pond, a fire pit, a chimney garden, and more. Bridge Creek features a community water system and underground power. Seldom can you find a lot this level - so easy to build upon - with this kind of view! Located only five miles from the center of Cashiers, this property feels as though you’re in the country. MLS# 97610 | Offered at $250,000 | Cullowhee 0.50 acre lot at 3,900 feet elevation with tucked away views of Lake Glenville. Located in the low density neighborhood of Bridge Creek, just a short scenic drive to Cashiers and 25 minutes to Highlands. Cross over the charming covered bridge spanning the trout waters of Norton Creek to enter the quaint community of Bridge Creek which offers a community pond, picnic area, outdoor chimney garden and hiking trails. There is a new 4 bedroom septic permit on file. MLS# 91223 | Offered at $26,100 | Cullowhee

Buck Creek Road 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

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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. MLS# 98450 | Offered at $315,000 | Highlands Proximity and privacy! This 8.91-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, long-range 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 - MLS# 98450 - the total becomes 16.52 acres). MLS# 98452 | Offered at $185,000 | Highlands Waterfalls along an active stream bisect this large property just 10 minutes from downtown Highlands, NC await your dream home. Several potential homesites on the 7.5 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 - MLS# 98450 - the total becomes 16.52 acres). MLS# 98453 | Offered at $165,000 | Highlands

Burlingame Country Club The most spectacular property available in Burlingame! Over 5 buildable acres, right on Miller Falls! These 2 lots are being sold together so that you can have a driveway access from lot 4 to a home on lot 5, right on top of this major waterfall. Where is your favorite fly fishing spot? Right in your own backyard! MLS# 96858 | Offered at $660,000 | Sapphire Enjoy all that Burlingame has to offer with complete privacy on your 5+ acres on the designated “Wild and Scenic” Horsepasture River. MLS# 96872 | Offered at $595,000 | Sapphire Great opportunity to own over 4 acres with golf course and Horsepasture River views in Burlingame Country Club. Build your dream home in this amazing community. Must see to appreciate. MLS# 96498 | Offered at $399,000 | Sapphire

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Cashiers On the market for the first time, the historic Waddell/Hanks House estate sits in the heart of the highly desirable Highway 107 South corridor in Cashiers, North Carolina. The estate overlooks a gently meandering Fowler Creek and Wade Hampton Golf Club’s beautiful 7th and 8th holes. This section of the corridor boasts an impressive concentration of luxury homes, a central location, situated among three prestigious private clubs. 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. MLS# 94760 | Offered at $3,700,000 | Cashiers This in-town, road-level commercial property is off Highway 64 West. The 2.34 ± acres include two parcels. It offers easy access off Highway 64 West, with great visibility from this main thoroughfare between Cashiers and Highlands. A well and septic system is on the property. MLS# 97094 | Offered at $649,000 | Cashiers

Cedar Creek Cliffs Huge views form this large lot in the Glenville area. The bottom of the lot falls away from a very level building site, making it easy to open up the view. South facing, so plenty of year-round sunshine. Convenient to Lake Glenville and Cashiers. Community water system. At nearly 4,400 feet elevation, you are guaranteed a cool summer. Compare to other easy build view lots, this lot is a great opportunity. MLS# 94470 | Offered at $75,000 | Glenville

Cedar Hill This prime estate lot is located within the gated community of Cedar Hill. Its 1.48 acres features stunning, rock face views and the gorgeous long range mountains beyond. For those seeking easy, year-round access to Cashiers and Sapphire, N.C. - as well as shops, restaurants, country clubs, and other amenities - Cedar Hill is a perfect place to call home. This is a great time to build your dream home! MLS# 98515 | Offered at $260,000 | Cashiers Streams, streams, and streams! There are 3 streams that pass through the property and 2 that intersect at one point! Easy to walk property with trails and walking planks over the streams that go in every direction. Gentle home site with nearly flat access off the main road. Expired 4 septic permit on file and private community water available. Pretty setting with some short range mountain views possible as well.

Cedar Hill is a highly desirable gated community located only minutes from the Cashiers Crossroads. Sapphire Valley Resort amenities are optional with a $500 initiation fee and annual fees of $858/yr (2021), upon membership application and approval. 2,800 square foot minimum building requirement. Under Contract. MLS# 95571 | Offered at $125,000 | Cashiers

these. Being mere minutes from the center of the village of Cashiers allows you to easily enjoy plenty of shopping, dining and a wide variety of additional activities this area has to offer. Build your luxurious Cashiers dream home upon this in-town gem! Private gated access to Chattooga Cliffs is via Timber Ridge. MLS# 98584 | Offered at $249,000 | Cashiers

Cedar Ridge Estates

Chattooga Club

Build your mountain home alongside a tall majestic waterfall and also overlooking Horsepasture River! This large 2.47 acre lot is what dreams are made of with a private waterfall and approximately 180 feet of Horsepasture River frontage that is only a 5 minute drive or less to the Cashiers Crossroads. Easy to find and view with a lot marker sign and a trail cut into the lot to allow you to walk around the potential home site area. Ideal home site positions your back deck overlooking the waterfall and river below. Expired 4 bedroom septic permit on file and there is an existing water system to hook onto so no well drilling needed. Electricity is accessible at the road and Northland Cable or Frontier DSL are your options for Internet/cable TV within this community. New trails just cut in to the lot so it’s easy to walk and check out! Call today for a private showing. MLS# 96402 | Offered at $130,000 | Cashiers

Enjoy privacy from this 4.26 acre 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 the pink survey markers along the edge of the small stream to the building knoll at the top of the lot shown on the 4 expired septic permit. Cedar Ridge Estates is a beautifully maintained community with mountain views and streams throughout. Walk just down the road from this lot to see a lovely waterfall and Horsepasture River from the newly built bridge. Existing water system is available to hook up to so no well drilling needed. Electricity is accessible at the road and Northland Cable or Frontier DSL are your options for Internet/cable TV within this community. Low homeowner association fees and no club memberships required however; owners may also apply for membership at the nearby Cedar Creek Racquet Club or another club in the area. MLS# 96955 | Offered at $110,000 | Cashiers

Chattooga Cliffs Located within the Chattooga Cliffs community, this 2.33 acre parcel boasts breathtaking views of Whiteside Mountain and Devil's Courthouse. Even though this lot is perched at over 3,700 feet elevation, you're still able to forget the steep, winding roads normally required for views such as

Beautiful virgin forest land in this idyllic setting in the well established gated community of The Chattooga Club. Gentle building site with Fowler Creek, which flows into The Chattooga River, runs alongside this property with view of mountain range. Lot is surrounded by beautiful hardwoods, and indigenous plants including rhododendrons, mountain laurels. Great spot for someone to build their perfect summer or year round mountain home! MLS# 96849 | Offered at $950,000 | Cashiers Beautiful virgin forest land in this idyllic setting in the well established gated community of The Chattooga Club. Gentle building site with Fowler Creek, which flows into The Chattooga River, runs alongside this property with view of mountain range. Lot is surrounded by beautiful hardwoods, and indigenous plants including rhododendrons, mountain laurels. Great spot for someone to build their perfect summer or year round mountain home! MLS# 96847 | Offered at $900,000 | Cashiers Located in The Chattooga Club, this beautiful 3.2-acre 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. Don’t miss this opportunity to build your dream mountain home! Club membership is by invitation-only. MLS# 97078 | Offered at $750,000 | Cashiers Beautiful lot on corner of Club Drive and Gorge Trail in the well-established Chattooga Club community. Beautiful waterfall on the property with lots of hardwoods and indigenous plants including Rhododendrons and Mountain

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Laurels. Club membership by invitation only. MLS# 96442 | Offered at $595,000 | Cashiers Don’t miss one of the few lots still available in this established, exclusive, and gated community. This gentle building site in The Chattooga Club has potential for a year-round view. Beautiful hardwoods and indigenous plants rest on its 1.4 acres, including rhododendron and mountain laurels. With a commitment to culinary excellence and wellness, The Chattooga Club offers an array of family activities, including croquet, tennis, pickleball, bocce, swimming and a private lake. Membership to The Chattooga Club is by invitation. MLS# 97868 | Offered at $385,000 | Cashiers

Chinquapin Lot D17 offers amazing panoramic long-range views, a flat building site and privacy unlike any other lot offered within the gates of Chinquapin. Chinquapin is a 2,000-acre, private 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 brand new pickleball courts! Chinquapin offers fiber to the home for great connectivity and a community water system. Don't miss this opportunity for a unique and exceptional private lot within a gated community. MLS# 98691 | Offered at $679,000 | Glenville Envision your dream home on this lot with spectacular longrange mountain views located in Chinquapin’s exclusive Double Knob section, privately gated within the main gates of the community. Cool summers will be yours, as the almost 1.5-acre lot sits at more than 4,000 feet elevation. Chinquapin is a 2,000-acre, private 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 coming summer 2021! Chinquapin is one of the few communities in the area that offers fiber to the home for great connectivity. Don’t miss this opportunity for exceptional mountain living. MLS# 97219 | Offered at $329,000 | Glenville Located within the gates of beautiful Chinquapin, Lot 20 is the largest, most private lot available in the community! Offering flat land for an easy build of your dream house, this lot comes with the sounds of a trickling stream that borders both of its sides. Only minutes from Cashiers, N.C., Chinquapin is a 2,000-acre private community that offers park-like living with outdoor adventure amenities. Enjoy lake and stream fishing, canoeing, a disc golf course, a

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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! MLS# 98338 | Offered at $285,000 | Glenville Located on a cul-de-sac in Chinquapin, this lot offers amazing, long-range views - perhaps the best in this private community! Lot 32 offers more than three acres of gentlyrolling and partially-cleared land. Chinquapin is a 2,000acre, 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 coming fall 2021! Chinquapin is one of the few communities in the Cashiers, NC area that offers fiber to the home for great connectivity. MLS# 97407 | Offered at $249,900 | Glenville Located within the gates of beautiful Chinquapin, Lot 35 is a large, private lot that is perched above the road for maximum privacy. If you are looking for a private lot within a gated community, this one will allow you to tuck away a beautiful mountain home that won't be visible from the road. Only minutes from Cashiers, N.C., Chinquapin is a 2,000acre, private 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 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! MLS# 98472 | Offered at $224,900 | Glenville Create your dream mountain home on this easy-build, twoplus-acre lot in Chinquapin and enjoy the long-range view from your back porch! Located in the desirable Cedar Creek/ Breedlove area near Cashiers, NC, Chinquapin is a 2,000acre, 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, and new pickleball courts! Chinquapin is one of the few communities in the area that offers fiber to the home for great connectivity. MLS# 97805 | Offered at $224,900 | Glenville Located within the gates of beautiful Chinquapin, Lot 41 is flat and level, and partially cleared with a wonderful mountain view. Chinquapin is a 2,000-acre, private 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 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! MLS# 98394 | Offered at $199,900 | Glenville Building your mountain dream home is made easier on this near-level lot in beautiful Chinquapin. Lot 19 is a flat lot with a private, wooded setting. It will have a long driveway, leading down a remarkable rock face view with the sounds of the creek down below. Located in the desirable Cedar Creek/ Breedlove area, 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 coming Fall 2021! Chinquapin is one of the few communities in the area that offers fiber to the home for great connectivity. MLS# 97429 | Offered at $199,000 | Glenville Lot 38 is perched above the road with a flat build site and both long and short range views. Located in the desirable Cedar Creek/Breedlove area, 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! Chinquapin offers fiber to the home for great connectivity as well as a community well water system to each lot. MLS# 98582 | Offered at $199,000 | Glenville Welcome to Chinquapin, a 2,000-acre private, gated community that blends in perfectly with the natural beauty of our Western North Carolina mountains. Perched at just over 3,700 feet elevation, this 2.65-acre parcel boasts a very level build site, beautiful local flora, and clear streams running through its northern and western ends. Build your dream home upon this private setting within the Chinquapin community, just minutes from Cashiers and loaded with adventure amenities that include but are not limited to fishing, ATV trails, disc golf, hiking, canoeing, and pickleball courts. Fiber optic Internet is an option for those wanting that remote mountain feel but need to "plug in" at times for modern convenience. Don't miss this opportunity! MLS# 98275 | Offered at $195,000 | Glenville Building your mountain dream home is made easier on this near-level lot in beautiful Chinquapin. Lot 45 has a private, wooded setting with a short-range mountain view. Located in the desirable Cedar Creek/Breedlove area near Cashiers, N.C., 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 coming Fall 2021! Chinquapin is one of the few communities in the area that offers fiber to the home for great connectivity. Under Contract. MLS# 97877 | Offered at $169,900 | Glenville Located within the gates of beautiful Chinquapin, Lot 24 offers a private, mountain view and two possible build sites. Only minutes from Cashiers, N.C., Chinquapin is a 2,000acre private community that offers park-like living with outdoor adventure amenities. 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! MLS# 98273 | Offered at $169,000 | Glenville Gorgeous mountain view lot with a very gentle home site sitting above 3,800 ft. 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 currently under construction, on your way to this home site. 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. Many common areas to enjoy including Logan’s Overlook, a lovely covered pavilion for a small gathering and a porch swing where you can see and enjoy the peaceful majestic long range views. Other amenities include disc golf, an activity field, helipad, electric bike rentals, a band stage and more! MLS# 96950 | Offered at $149,000 | Glenville Located within the gates of beautiful Chinquapin, Lot 73 offers a private, mountain view and is just steps away from the Natures Walk trail and community clubhouse. Only minutes from Cashiers, N.C., Chinquapin is a 2,000acre private community that offers park-like living with outdoor adventure amenities. 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 high season and a fitness room, as well as new pickleball courts coming soon! Chinquapin is one of the few communities in the area that offers fiber to the home for great connectivity. Don't miss this one! Pending. MLS# 98182 | Offered at $145,000 | Glenville This "no fuss," nearly-level lot in desirable Chinquapin

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features a beautiful stream running along its entire right side! It includes a complimentary transfer of the septic permit - good through Dec. 2026. This building site has easy, paved access from either of the nearby gated entrances as well as the Outpost Clubhouse. Just minutes from downtown Cashiers, N.C., 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! Chinquapin is one of the few communities in the area that offers fiber Internet to the home for great connectivity. MLS# 98266 | Offered at $145,000 | Glenville Enjoy almost four acres with a private site for your mountain dream home! Located in the highly-desirable, gated community of Chinquapin, Lot 17 is surrounded by beautiful, native mountain laurel. Just minutes from Cashiers, N.C., Chinquapin is a 2,000-acre private community that offers park-like living with outdoor adventure amenities. 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 season and a fitness room, as well as new pickleball courts coming soon! Chinquapin is one of the few communities in the area that offers fiber to the home for great connectivity. MLS# 98099 | Offered at $139,900 | Glenville Lot now has newly obtained 4 bedroom septic permit! This large 3.46 acre gentle lot offers a nice northerly facing short range mountain view along with a nature lover’s paradise literally right outside your back door! Located at the end of a circular cul-de-sac with a community trail that leads you into the property and eventually crosses Lot 97 and leads you to the Chinquapin Wilderness common areas including a bold stream and fishing shack situated on 230+ acres of conservatory land. Just across the stream you will see one of several Wilderness Cabins that are available for property owners and their guests to reserve and enjoy. The back right side of this lot has approximately 400 feet of bold Robinson Creek frontage. Walk down the black trail to the purple trail and turn right to cross through the middle of the lot and eventually crosses over to Lot 99 to arrive at Ian’s Bridge, a beautiful area overlooking the stream. There’s an abundance of natural flora covering the property including beautiful ferns, moss cover rocks, mountain laurel and rhododendrons. Chinquapin has 13 different trails, some for UTV/ATV’s, hiking and mountain biking. The purple trail is a walking trail only. Take off from your home in any direction and it will lead to one of the many waterfalls in the area. The Chinquapin community is truly is a nature lover’s paradise! The black trail that leads you into the lot would be ideal to be the start of the driveway into Lot 96 with the home-site

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just past the Lot 96 marker. Many common areas to enjoy including Logan’s Overlook, a lovely covered pavilion for a small gathering and a porch swing where you can see and enjoy the peaceful majestic long range views. You will notice that there are several beautiful homes that have just recently been built, or currently under construction, on you way to this home site. MLS# 96793 | Offered at $139,000 | Glenville Chinquapin is a 2,000-acre private gated community that offers park-like living with outdoor adventure amenities. Outdoor amenities include lake & stream fishing, canoeing, disk golf course, driving range, miles of hiking & biking trails, Outpost Clubhouse with fitness room, live music at the Outpost Clubhouse during season as well as new pickleball courts coming summer 2021! Chinquapin is one of the few communities in the area that offers fiber to the home for great connectivity. Lot 70 has a flat build site with a great mountain view for the perfect mountain home. Under Contract. MLS# 96876 | Offered at $99,900 | Glenville Introducing Lot 72, within the gates of beautiful Chinquapin and a great value for your perfect mountain home. At 2.52 acres, this lot has great view potential. Just minutes from Cashiers, N.C., 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 disk golf course, a driving range, miles of hiking and biking trails, an Outpost Clubhouse featuring live music during season and a fitness room, as well as new pickleball courts coming soon! Chinquapin is one of the few communities in the area that offers fiber to the home for great connectivity. Don’t miss this one. Under Contract. MLS# 97933 | Offered at $99,000 | Glenville

Cross Creek Preserve Cashiers Amazing long range mountain views can be seen from this lot that sits at 4,200 ft. elevation! Cross Creek Preserve is a small prestigious gated community featuring only 24 estate sized home sites. As you enter the community through the charming covered bridge you will see that this is a very well maintained neighborhood with nice common areas including a trout fishing pond with waterfall and a huge field and fire pit for owners to enjoy. Nearby Trillium Links & Lake Club can be seen from this north facing lot. Surrounded by several upscale neighborhoods, Cross Creek is also close to Mountaintop Golf & Lake Club and Old Edwards Club. Conveniently situated between Highlands and Cashiers for quick trips to town for shopping and dining. Seller already has a complete set of ready to build custom house plans

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designed specifically for this lot for a 3-4 bedroom, 3.5 bath home. Contact listing agent for more details! MLS# 98193 | Offered at $189,500 | Cashiers

Cullasaja Club Build your dream home on this wonderful parcel within the upscale, gated community of Cullasaja Club! At just under one acre, this gently-rolling property boasts gratifying potential for a build site that, with some trimming, could open up a beautiful view. Located in desirable Highlands, Cullasaja Club combines luxury living and the ultimate in leisure, for a true, one-of-a-kind Western North Carolina mountain community. At the heart of this exclusive, gated enclave lies a par 72, 18-hole Arnold Palmer golf course as well as a clubhouse with mixed grill and formal dining options. Cullasaja Club also boasts one hard surface and five lighted, clay tennis courts, a state-of-the-art, fullystaffed fitness and activity center, and canoeing, kayaking, or fishing on fully-stocked Lake Ravenel. There aren't many of these opportunities left! MLS# 98229 | Offered at $115,000 | Highlands

Cullowhee Are you ready to own the entire top of a beautiful mountain? This 72+-acre parcel near Cashiers offers inspired views in every direction. With gated entry from paved Cullowhee Mountain Road, the tract sits just above pristine Lake Glenville; the boat ramp is only one-fourth of a mile away. A well and extensive gravel road system has been installed. Level on top, the land gently slopes in every direction, making for a wonderful, future private estate or a multi-lot development. Three buildings are on site that could have multiple uses. Centrally located to Cashiers, Cullowhee, and Franklin, this is a special and rare opportunity! MLS# 98311 | Offered at $3,100,000 | Cullowhee

Cullowhee River Club Incredibly light filled home-site located at the end of a cul de sac and situated above the Tuckasegee River with Blue Ridge Mountain views. Sounds of the rushing river abound on this gentle sloping, largely cleared lot with short and some potential long range mountain views. Cullowhee River Club includes a common green space area, pavilion, fire pit, and fireplace. It is conveniently located minutes to Western Carolina University and a short scenic drive to the HighlandsCashiers Plateau. Both the Asheville airport and Harrah’s Casino are an hour’s drive. Public sewer is available. MLS# 96237 | Offered at $95,000 | Cullowhee

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Falcon Ridge Spectacular long range southwesterly views from this 2.42 acre home site. Great Chimney Top, Rock and Whiteside Mountain views extending all the way east to Rainy Knobs and beyond. Community water system and electricity are accessible at road. Located in the desirable neighborhood of Falcon Ridge, this lot sits at a cool 4,000+ feet elevation and has astonishing layered views into South Carolina. This home site has paved access and sits far enough away from Tower Road to provide quiet tranquility. This is the perfect spot to build your mountain getaway! Falcon Ridge has a community common area with a pavilion and a bonfire ring and is a wonderful place to enjoy with friends, family and neighbors. Panthertown Valley, a 6,300 acre wilderness area, is right around the corner making hiking and waterfall sightseeing very convenient. Ownership also comes with Sapphire Valley Resort amenities where you can enjoy golf, tennis, indoor/outdoor swimming pools, fitness center, carpet golf, community center, ski slope, zip line, Lake Fairfield access and more. MLS# 96606 | Offered at $75,000 | Sapphire Enjoy long-range, southwesterly views from this 7.32acre gently-rolling home-site! Located in the desirable neighborhood of Falcon Ridge in Sapphire, N.C., this lot sits at a cool 4,000+ feet elevation and boasts astonishing, layered, mountain views into South Carolina. This homesite has paved access and sits far enough away from Tower Road to provide quiet tranquility. Walk onto the lot to the partially cleared potential building site to see the gorgeous views! There is also a stream that runs through the lower portion of this property. A four-bedroom septic system permit and a brand new survey on record. This is the perfect spot to build your mountain getaway! Falcon Ridge has a community common area with a pavilion and a bonfire ring and is a wonderful place to enjoy with friends, family and neighbors. Panthertown Valley, a 6,300-acre wilderness area, is right around the corner, making hiking and waterfall sightseeing very convenient. Ownership also comes with Sapphire Valley Resort amenities, so you may enjoy golf, tennis, indoor/outdoor swimming pools, a fitness center, carpet golf, a community center, a ski resort, a zip line, Lake Fairfield access and more! MLS# 98004 | Offered at $74,900 | Sapphire

Foxfire Here's a lot that has it all - big mountain views, including the iconic Whiteside Mountain in the gated community of Foxfire. Take in the tremendous, long-range mountain views from almost four acres while being very close to the center of Cashiers! This expansive lot affords both privacy and

convenience, as you will be only minutes away from fine dining and shopping. The relatively-level lot is perched at almost 4,000 feet elevation, and the building site is mostly southeast-facing. An expired, five bedroom septic permit is on file with the county. Your mountain dream home awaits on this beautiful, easy-to-build on lot. Under Contract. MLS# 98077 | Offered at $300,000 | Cashiers

Glen Laurel Huge views of Lake Glenville and mountains. Access to Lake Glenville with shared dock. Paved roads and community water. Underground utilities. Frontage on 2 community roads. Lot is very close, 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........ MLS# 95547 | Offered at $45,000 | Cullowhee

Glen Pointe This lakefront lot offers stunning panoramic views of Lake Glenville and the mountain range beyond. This lot faces north down the length of the lake and is a zero set-back lot, which allows you to build closer to the water. By comparison, most Lake Glenville lots have a 50 foot set-back. Located in the small, gated community of Glen Pointe, with only 14 homesites, it offers paved access, underground utilities and a tennis court. Although this subdivision is tucked away, it's still only 10 minutes into Cashiers. MLS# 98662 | Offered at $495,000 | Cullowhee

Greycliff This lot has it all. Perched at an elevation of approximately 4,000 feet, this 3.19 acre home-site in a gated community 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 lot and shared boat dock for property owners to enjoy. Don't let this opportunity slip by, as it's getting more difficult to find these types of view lots around Lake Glenville with lake and dock access. MLS# 98194 | Offered at $187,000 | Cullowhee

High Springs It doesn't get much better than this! Waiting for your mountain dream home is this gentle, 1.8+/- acre building lot with easy driveway access and a house site that has

already been partially cleared. Located in the High Springs neighborhood at the end of a cul-de-sac that is only shared with two other owners, this home-site assures privacy. The lot line extends all the way down to Birch Creek Trail, so it would be easy to open up the view with a little tree trimming to take in the long-range mountain vistas throughout the year. Enjoy southwesterly, panoramic views of Whiteside Mountain, Satulah Mountain, Yellow Mountain, Black Rock Mountain, and more! Just minutes from downtown Cashiers, it's convenient to the grocery store, shops, hiking, dining, and beautiful Lake Glenville. These two lots were combined into one, so there is only one $1,000 POA fee per year and it includes water usage. High Springs only requires a 1,400 minimum square foot building requirement. An expired, three-bedroom septic permit is on file. Don't wait! MLS# 98298 | Offered at $125,000 | Cashiers Looking for a building lot close to Cashiers with easy access from N.C. 107? This is it! At just more than two acres, 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! MLS# 97911 | Offered at $60,000 | Cashiers

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 1.43 ± acre 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. MLS# 97948 | Offered at $125,000 | Highlands

Hogback Creek Estate Well priced adjoining lakefront lots totaling over an acre with gorgeous views of the lake and mountains beyond. Hogback Lake is great for canoes, kayaks, sails, pontoons, fishing boats with trolling motors and swimming. There is an expired septic improvement permit for a three bedroom dwelling from 2002 (would need to be updated with Jackson County). Sapphire Valley amenities are available if desired but not mandatory. MLS# 94633 | Offered at $70,000 | Sapphire

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Hogback Lake Great opportunity to own a lake front lot with minimal fees! Enjoy beautiful views of Hogback Lake and Hogback Mountain from this half acre lot. Drop a canoe or fishing line in right from your own property! Located at the south end of the lake near the dam with easy access off Highway 64. Current 4 bedroom septic permit on file. No HOA fees and Sapphire Valley Resort membership is optional with a onetime $500 initiation fee. MLS# 96045 | Offered at $60,000 | Sapphire

Holly Forest Welcome to Lot 136 in Holly Forest, in the heart of beautiful Sapphire Valley. 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. Spend your days and nights listening to the gentle, flowing creek as you gaze against a backdrop of protected, mountain woodlands. It doesn’t get more peaceful than this! A current and valid septic evaluation for a three-bedroom home is on file with Jackson County and expires on 2/21/2022. MLS# 97540 | Offered at $35,000 | Sapphire Great location just off of Trays Island Road, Easy access to Route 64. Enjoy Sapphire amenities. MLS# 96874 | Offered at $29,999 | Sapphire Gentle sloping lot in Holly Forest VI with long range views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and a cascading stream trickles through the property. White pines, ferns and rhododendrons adorn this beautiful wooded lot that offers a fairly level building site. Located a short drive to all the Sapphire Valley Master Association (SVMA) amenities, a ten minute drive to Cashiers and less than an hour to the Asheville airport. Ownership comes with all of the SVMA amenities including golf, tennis, swimming, skiing, tubing, miniature golf, outdoor hiking trails and canoeing or kayaking at the breathtaking Fairfield Lake. Mountain dreams do come true and this unique and inviting lot is waiting for you! MLS# 95850 | Offered at $9,750 | Sapphire Located within the popular Holly Forest community of Sapphire Valley, this untouched wooded lot could be your affordable opportunity for building your very own getaway here in the mountains of Western North Carolina. The location of this parcel offers easy access to the center of Cashiers for creature comforts such as a grocery store, restaurants and shopping. Ownership of this parcel includes

access to the Sapphire Valley Master Association amenities which include but are not limited to golf, tennis, indoor/ outdoor pools, a fitness center, a community center, trails and lake access. MLS# 98272 | Offered at $7,000 | Sapphire Located in a peaceful section of Holly Forest, this wooded lot has a gentle sloping area for possible house placement. There are potential short range Dobson Mountain views with trimming. The property backs up to part of a 106 acre green area. Underground utilities are in place. There is paved access to the lot. Coming with ownership are the Sapphire Valley Master Association amenities. Enjoy the indoor and outdoor pools, fitness center, putt-putt, playground, Fairfield Lake, and more! MLS# 97751 | Offered at $7,000 | Sapphire This affordable, 0.43-acre lot in Holly Forest, is close to the wonderful amenities of Sapphire Valley Master Association. Build your mountain dream home close to Sapphire and Cashiers, N.C. or simply enjoy the golf course, tennis courts, swimming pool, ski resort, playground, community center and much more! MLS# 98151 | Offered at $2,900 | Sapphire

Lake Toxaway Estates This beautiful, wooded lot is located in the premier, private community of Lake Toxaway Estates. The 1.37-acre property 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 modern-day story of Lake Toxaway, a retreat with a history of drawing some of America’s most prestigious guests! MLS# 97207 | Offered at $200,000 | Lake Toxaway

Laurel Falls - Cashiers 8.99 acre parcel available at 3,700 feet elevation in the gated and private community of Laurel Falls! Great winter mountain views too! Listen to the sounds of the rushing stream located on the lot directly across the street from this property. A perfect building shelf runs along the entire middle section of the property. Enter into the far right side of the lot and walk across through the middle level portion to reach one of the best potential home sites. The Laurel Falls community is adjacent to and has a private trail into the 6,300 acre Panthertown National Forest where nature enthusiasts enjoy hiking, biking and horseback riding. Low POA fees and only 1,000 sq. ft. minimum building requirement. This lot can be subdivided one time according

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to the most recent covenants and restrictions. No mobile homes or modular homes allowed in Laurel Falls. Only about a 20 minute drive from Cashiers where shopping, dining and activities are abundant! MLS# 96059 | Offered at $79,000 | Glenville

Mountain Vista Estates Here is your chance at roughly 2.83 acres of virgin land with minimal restrictions that is truly only limited by your imagination. Combining two lots together, this parcel grants you the peace and privacy of mountain life away from the hustle and bustle of the city while at the same time located within 7 minutes to the Pine Creek Recreation area on Lake Glenville and 20 minutes to the center of Cashiers. Lake Glenville is the largest, highest elevation lake east of the Mississippi River and presents a perfect opportunity for a day on the water whether it be a boating, kayak, or sailboat adventure These gentle sloping lots are south facing, and would allow for wonderful sun exposure during the winter months and, with a little bit of tree clearing, could offer wonderful long-range mountain views. For those RV and camper trailer lovers, this lot is picture perfect for storing your RV while you take a break from the road before your next adventure. MLS# 97329 | Offered at $58,900 | Cullowhee

Mountain Waterfall E. Glistening Lake Glenville is just minutes away from this 1.52-acre lot with Cedar Creek frontage. This gently sloping and wooded lot is in a serene and desirable area, close to the quaint mountain towns of Cashiers, Highlands, and Sapphire, N.C. and all of the water activities that Lake Glenville has to offer. Build your mountain dream home in this quiet neighborhood, a short drive to popular Happ's Place. MLS# 97878 | Offered at $105,000 | Glenville

Overlook at Sapphire Welcome to Overlook at Sapphire! Formerly known as Oriel, this wonderful, gently-rolling parcel measuring in at 3.84 acres offers spectacular long-range views all the way to South Carolina. Surrounded by Nantahala National Forest, this community is perfect for the nature lover wanting true peace and quiet here in the mountains of Western North Carolina. With the National Forest as your boundary neighbor, your long range views of Gorges State Park and on into South Carolina are protected. Build your dream home at over 3,600 feet elevation and begin enjoying everything our

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wonderful mountains have to offer! MLS# 97907 | Offered at $149,000 | Sapphire Welcome to the Overlook at Sapphire, a secluded and peaceful community perched above 3,600 feet elevation. This wonderful, 1.65-acre parcel is ready for you to build your dream mountain getaway upon it. Coined Windy Gap Overlook,” this lot offers fantastic, long-range mountain views from a community filled with local flora and surrounded by Nantahala National Forest. With the added peace and quiet in the cool, crisp mountain air, this area is a nature lover’s dream. Benefits of this location include 35-mile proximity to Asheville Regional airport for easy commutes in and out, and a 15-minute drive to Cashiers. A trail has been roughed through the property, so the future owner may fully envision his or her perfect mountain retreat. MLS# 97051 | Offered at $115,000 | Sapphire

Pilots Knob The communities finest big view lots handpicked for ease of build and their fantastic long range views! Pilots Knob is a thriving gated, mountain top community with high elevation lots rising above 4,100 feet. The community offers paved roads, green space, beautiful landscaping, a community pond, fire pit and refreshingly low HOA fees. With recent home sales, numerous lot sales, custom spec builds and privately owned builds underway, Pilots Knob is quickly becoming a bustling mountain community! While manicured and elegant, Pilots Knob’s beauty remains unspoiled and the wildlife is abundant. Conveniently located just minutes from Lake Glenville, the areas premier lake, with access to boating, hiking, a public lake front park, a waterfall hike and a whitewater kayaking boat launch is all just around the corner. Pilots Knob is a scenic drive from Cashiers or Highlands and allows for easy access to restaurants, shopping and groceries while providing a true mountain escape! Pictures and words don’t do this property justice. MLS# 96519 | Offered at $98,000 | Glenville The communities finest big view lots handpicked for ease of build and their fantastic long range views! Pilots Knob is a thriving gated, mountain top community with high elevation lots rising above 4,100 feet. The community offers paved roads, green space, beautiful landscaping, a community pond, fire pit and refreshingly low HOA fees. With recent home sales, numerous lot sales, custom spec builds and privately owned builds are underway, Pilots Knob is quickly becoming a bustling mountain community! While manicured and elegant, Pilots Knob’s beauty remains unspoiled and the wildlife is abundant. Conveniently located just minutes from Lake Glenville, the areas premier lake, with access to boating, hiking, a public lake front park, a waterfall hike and a whitewater kayaking boat launch is all just

around the corner. Pilots Knob is a scenic drive from Cashiers or Highlands and allows for easy access to restaurants, shopping and groceries while providing a true mountain escape! Pictures and words don’t do this property justice. Pick your lot and or floor plan today! MLS# 96524 | Offered at $94,000 | Glenville 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 and common fire pit common area where owners enjoy long range mountain range views and also a charming Christmas tree farm. 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 elevation! Only a 1,000 sq. ft. building minimum requirement. MLS# 96272 | Offered at $42,000 | Glenville

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 0.64acre lot yours! MLS# 97739 | Offered at $25,900 | Cullowhee 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, at well below the tax value. The motivated seller is ready to make this lot yours. MLS# 98124 | Offered at $15,900 | Cullowhee

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 have the privilege to enjoy the beautiful Lake Osage, a 17 acre lake, along with a covered pavilion and grilling area. Sitting at approximately 3,700 feet elevation, this is the perfect area to escape the heat of lower elevations. Not far from the Sky Valley Tubing Outdoor Center where they have summer and winter tubing, ice skating, gem mining, trout fishing, a market and Annie’s Cafe. Only 10-15 minutes into downtown Highlands too! MLS# 95238 | Offered at $55,000 | Scaly Mountain

Sapphire Gently rolling 75+/- acres with large fenced pasture and tractor shed. There’s a one bedroom tiny house that would make a great guest cottage or rental. Site for the main house has a long southern view overlooking the pasture area and distant mountains. 65 acres in a conservation easement. 10 remaining acres can be subdivided. Paved entry directly from Highway 64. Walking trails with creeks and falls adjacent to property. MLS# 96262 | Offered at $1,995,000 | Sapphire

Sapphire High Looking for 9+ acres in the heart of Sapphire Valley with all the amenities Sapphire Valley has to offer. This property would make for a great private retreat. Can be subdivided three times. MLS# 96287 | Offered at $175,000 | Sapphire

Sassafras Ridge This large lot features beautiful panoramic views over the Sapphire Valley, including Bald Rock and the Balsam Mountains beyond. Located on the ridge at over 4,100’ of elevation so that you can enjoy the cool summer temperatures. Centrally located, Sassafras Ridge offers easy access to the numerous amenities of both Cashiers and Sapphire. MLS# 97815 | Offered at $495,000 | Sapphire An idyllic setting for a family estate, this luxurious, 9.48-acre parcel is rich with indigenous plantings and wildlife galore. Sassafras Ridge is a newer development that features larger, estate-sized parcels, underground utilities and is gated for privacy. (Membership to the Country Club of Sapphire Valley is by invitation only.) Your mountain haven will be conveniently located to the Village of Cashiers for shopping, restaurants, and events. MLS# 98279 | Offered at $300,000 | Sapphire

Sims Valley Truly an awesome lot! Paved driveway already in place leading to the perfectly flat building site with 360 views. Long or short range mountain views in any direction you look! This private home site adjoins another 22+ acre tract that is privately owned with road access from the opposite end of the property providing this home site ultimate privacy. Sims Valley is a beautiful gated community with paved access, community water and underground utilities. Owners also enjoy use of the clubhouse, swimming pool, pavilion, pond

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& fitness center. Located only 10-15 minutes from the Lake Glenville public boat ramp and beach swimming area. MLS# 95454 | Offered at $119,000 | Glenville

the property. MLS# 98154 | Offered at $29,900 | Glenville

Make awe-inspiring, long and short range mountain and rock face views on this gently sloping, one acre Sims Valley lot. The easy build site has been partially cleared and a few trees have been trimmed to show off the view that awaits. The adjoining lot 33 is also available for sale and is a great option for those wanting additional privacy. This scenic and welcoming community is a gated neighborhood offering paved roads, large community green-spaces, trout ponds, streams, walking trails, a log cabin shelter with outdoor picnic space, and a beautiful clubhouse with pool, multiple decks and fireplaces, restroom, and a caterer’s kitchen. Located only 10 minutes from Lake Glenville and its amenities, and a short drive from shopping and dining in the CashiersHighlands area. MLS# 96843 | Offered at $75,000 | Glenville

Stonefly

Make awe-inspiring, long and short range mountain and rock face views on this gently sloping, one plus acre Sims Valley lot. The easy build site has been partially cleared and a few trees have been trimmed to show off the view that awaits. The adjoining lot 9 is also available for sale and is a great option for those wanting additional privacy. This scenic and welcoming community is a gated neighborhood offering paved roads, large community green-spaces, trout ponds, streams, walking trails, a log cabin shelter with outdoor picnic space, and a beautiful clubhouse with pool, multiple decks and fireplaces, restroom, and a caterer’s kitchen. Located only 10 minutes from Lake Glenville and its amenities, and a short drive from shopping and dining in the Cashiers-Highlands area. MLS# 96844 | Offered at $75,000 | Glenville Extremely desirable building 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. MLS# 85846 | Offered at $66,000 | Glenville Build your dream home on this gently rolling, 1.58-acre, easy build lot with stream frontage in the gated Sims Valley subdivision. This lot sits adjacent to a community pond and is within short walking distance to a community pavilion that boasts long-range mountain views. Sims Valley is a stunning, low-density neighborhood located within minutes of Cashiers, Glenville, and Sapphire Valley, N.C. This highly-desirable, hidden gem comes with easy access to

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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. If you have someone who is interested in sending their kids to the Summit Charter School, it’s a short walk away. MLS# 98317 | Offered at $395,000 | Cashiers In-town lot with 460 feet of stream frontage. Headwaters of the Chattooga River runs down 2 boundaries. Easy build, easy access. Located in gated community only minutes from shopping and restaurants. The whole community is very gentle lying, so very walkable. MLS# 98318 | Offered at $295,000 | Cashiers 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, 1.1 acre gentle lot with gradual slope from the paved entry road down to the stream. Gated community with paved roads and underground utilities. The community is very walkable. If you love the sound of cascading water and you want the convenience of being close to everything, then this could be your property! MLS# 98319 | Offered at $245,000 | Cashiers If you are looking for an easy build lot, close to town, in a gated community and with a stream that is part of the headwaters of the Chattooga River, this is your lot. Stonefly is only a little over a mile from the Cashiers crossroads. Convenient to shopping and restaurants, this lot has a gentle slope from the paved entry road down to the stream. The lot is a little over 1 acre and wooded with beautiful deciduous trees. The house site is so gentle that there would be plenty of room for parking, driveway and easy in and out. MLS# 98320 | Offered at $239,000 | Cashiers A wonderful easy build lot in-town. 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. Short drive to all the restaurants and shopping in the center of Cashiers. The community lies very gentle and so is very walkable. Foundation, driveway and parking would all be very easy since this lot is so gentle. Many possible home sites on this 1.38 acre property. MLS# 98321 | Offered at $230,000 | Cashiers

Stonecreek Estates Location is key and this lot is in the heart of the Sapphire Valley Resort area! Enjoy the convenience of being 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) and several amazing restaurants, including the Library Kitchen + Bar, Mica's Restaurant & Pub, and Slopeside Tavern. This extremely gentle-laying 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 and sewer are also available. Don't miss this special opportunity! MLS# 98317 | Offered at $395,000 | Cashiers

Strawberry Hill With a view of Lake Glenville and the mountains, this generously-sized lot is in a great location - the wellestablished Strawberry Hill. Only minutes from the Village of Cashiers, this community offers a tennis court and easy access to the lake for family fun. Strawberry Hill is also convenient to Glenville and Highlands, which offer events, restaurants and shopping. MLS# 97892 | Offered at $39,900 | Cullowhee

Summer Hill Summer Hill is a preferred, higher-end, gated community with generous-sized home sites. Lot 24 is a private, almost two-acre parcel with high elevation and great, year-round mountain and sunset views. Conveniently located on the west side of Lake Glenville between Cashiers and Highlands, N.C., Summer Hill residents enjoy access to the pristine lake with a boat dock, a sandy beach, a boat ramp, and a large picnic shelter with a fireplace. MLS# 98471 | Offered at $59,000 | Cullowhee

Tahala Shores Hard to find in this current market, an affordable lot, with low minimum square footage building requirements, 1 ± acre lake front lot with 180 ± feet of lake frontage. MLS# 96879 | Offered at $299,000 | Cullowhee

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 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. MLS# 96047 | Offered at $185,000 | Cullowhee

The Preserve at Rock Creek Enjoy amazing mountain views all year long from your future dream home on this five-acre lot that offers expansive longrange mountain views, and beautiful sunsets. Very level driveway and build site that will let you put all your money into your home. The Preserve at Rock Creek offers expansive lots that provide the utmost privacy, yet convenience to the beautiful Sapphire Valley and Lake Toxaway. More than 2/3 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. Beginning at the lot marker, a trail has been cut allowing access to a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains. Don't miss your chance to own a piece of paradise! MLS# 98076 | Offered at $450,000 | Sapphire If long range layered mountain views are what you're after, look no further. This amazing southerly facing lot offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains and multiple lakes located in South Carolina! From the build site, you'll be hard-pressed to determine which direction to turn to take in the best views. The Preserve at Rock Creek offers expansive lots that provide the utmost in privacy, yet convenience to beautiful Sapphire Valley and Lake Toxaway. Enjoy amazing mountain views all year long from your future dream home on this five-acre lot. More than 2/3 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. Beginning at the lot marker, a trail has been cut, that will lead you all the way to the build site. Don't miss your chance to own a piece of paradise! MLS# 98075 | Offered at $450,000 | Sapphire

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Tuckasegee Sitting in the middle of this beautiful mountain lake, Bear Lake Heaven Island is truly a unique opportunity. Bear Lake is a pristine lake at 2,600 feet elevation located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. With 22 miles of shoreline, much of which is National Forest, Bear Lake is perfect for enjoying all the water sports or simply a slow evening cruise. There’s no need to hop in a boat to reach this island, because there’s a causeway for easy access to your property. The island has underground power, a 12 GPM well, an installed 12-bedroom septic system, high-speed Internet, two large docks, and 1,500 feet of shoreline. Unlike most property on the lake, which requires a building set-back, your property line ends at the water’s edge. Take in spectacular lake and mountain views in every direction. Three-fourths of the island has been cleared and leveled; a trail, wide enough for a vehicle, circles the perimeter of the island. The entire lake frontage has been fortified with a rock wall to prevent any erosion. The property could be subdivided, making it a great site for a lodge, or it could be the most private of estate sites. Having a helicopter is no problem with the easy approach and a great landing site. This is a once-in-a-lifetime property. MLS# 97761 | Offered at $3,300,000 | Tuckasegee Enjoy serenity and privacy on more than 60 remote acres of gently rolling and wooded mountain land, rich with wildlife and offering fantastic views. A mountain adventurer's dream at more than 3,500 feet elevation, you'll find several hiking and UTV/ATV trails on the property, which includes a small c. 1920s farmhouse with electricity and spring-fed water, currently in use and sold as is. With numerous, easilyaccessible building sites, partially-cleared parcels and a stream, this would make a perfect multi-family compound or hunting retreat. The Little Canada area is one of the last undiscovered natural areas of Jackson County. It is difficult to find this much unspoiled land at this price. Water recreation awaits, with a short drive to Bear Lake, Wolf Lake, Paradise Falls, Lake Glenville and Tuckasegee River access. Within 30 minutes of Sylva and Cullowhee, you'll have it all. MLS# 98386 | Offered at $350,000 | Tuckasegee

Whisper Lake Wonderful opportunity to own land within the peaceful and conveniently located Whisper Lake subdivision in Sapphire, NC! This over one acre size lot is perfectly situated with one corner of the lot having access to Whisper Lake and the southern boundary of the property bordered almost entirely by green space which will afford the new owners extensive privacy. Additionally, the new lot owners will have access to underground utilities to include electric, water, and newly installed fiber optic Internet. An expired three bedroom septic permit is on file with the county and shows just one

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of the many suitable and easy buildable home sites situated on the lot. Whisper Lake amenities include both those of the subdivision itself and the Sapphire Valley Master Association amenities which include a community center, gym, ski slope, golf, tennis and access additional lake activities on Fairfield Lake. MLS# 97335 | Offered at $185,000 | Sapphire

Whitewater Ridge Your chance to own an extraordinary 4.86 acre lot with multiple build sites that will allow to create the most expansive, long range views in the Sapphire area. This lot is located in the private, quiet subdivision of Whitewater Ridge and sits on the south side of the road, allowing the new owners to build their home in the highly desirable section for incredible views deep into South Carolina. Sitting at an elevation over 3,700 feet, the back portion of the property drops off to allow for wonderful southern exposure and no obstacles to impede your view. Whitewater Ridge is a low cost HOA community with gated entrance, pond, community green space and pavilion for use by property owners. For those looking to join a nearby country club, Burlingame CC is a few minutes’ drive away offering club amenities, which include three dining rooms and two lounges, as well as a 24hour fitness center, a top-ranked championship 18-hole golf course, four Har-Tru tennis courts, heated swimming pool, leash-free dog park and more. Under Contract. MLS# 96153 | Offered at $275,000 | Sapphire Enjoy exceptional, long-range mountain and lake views from this lot that overlooks two states! The exclusive and private gated community of Whitewater Ridge offers spectacular views. This home-site offers someone the ability to build their mountain dream home on more than 4.7 acres. Don't miss the opportunity to purchase this lot and create years of memories in your mountain cottage or estate home. MLS# 98236 | Offered at $250,000 | Sapphire

Wild Turkey 16 acres of rolling property with good mountain views. MLS# 96616 | Offered at $195,000 | Cullowhee

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BILLION s o l d

Be a part of the next billion. Silver Creek Real Estate Group has sold over $1 billion in real estate on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau since our inception.

C A L L T O D AY T O L E A R N M O R E A B O U T S I LV E R C R E E K R E A L E S TAT E G R O U P A N D O U R T E A M . N C L I V I N G . C O M | C A S H I E R S / L A K E G L E N V I L L E : 8 2 8 - 74 3 - 1 9 9 9 | H I G H L A N D S : 8 2 8 - 5 2 6 - 2 9 9 9

FOR THE RECORD

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entrust the marketing and sale of your p r o p e rt y to t h e f i r m t h at s e t s r e c o r d s !

This magnificent Spring Forest Estate set the highest sale price for a home in Sapphire Valley as of April 17, 2022.

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words by ellen jones

With its row-upon-row of palatial mansions, flashy resorts, and Insta-worthy beaches, Palm Beach has been long-known as a billionaire’s playground. But dives beyond the glitz and glamor and you’ll discover a destination ripe with compelling cultural landmarks, as well as all the chic shopping destinations and alluring restaurants you expect. Aligning pristine talcum powder beaches with graceful charm, Palm Beach has sophistication in spades. Although, if you’re in search of a more genteel Palm Beach County experience, the pretty village of Wellington is just a 30-minute drive away.

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All rolling green pastures, polo clubs, and paradisical parks, Wellington is the equine epicenter of the world. Each year from January through April Wellington welcomes elite international riders to the Winter Equestrian Festival for 12 weeks of show jumping, hunter, and dressage championships. A true billionaire’s paradise; you’re just as likely to find Steve Jobs and Bill Gates’ offspring competing in Wellington as you are top Olympians. From where to stay, shop, and dine to how to immerse yourself in the area’s rich equestrian scene, here are the places and happenings to know in Wellington and Palm Beach.

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HOSPITALITY

With a slew of new luxurious, contemporary hotel arrivals, Palm Beach is slowly but surely courting a new generation of trendconscious visitors. Built in 1924 but freshly reimagined for the 21st century, White Elephant retains its timeless Spanish-style elegance, but imbued with modern glamor. This landmark hotel oozes sophistication with striking artworks, twinkling chandeliers, and exceptional service. Each sleekly decorated room and suite feels like its own private residence, while White Elephant’s palm-lined pool is seriously dip-worthy. Downtown’s only waterfront hotel, the lavish The Ben draws inspiration from adventurer, Byrd Spilman Dewey’s Ben Trovato Estate. With its marriage of contemporary and antique décor, this splendid new hotel exudes its namesake’s grandeur. During equestrian season Wellington is the place to be, so book in advance if you’re planning you visit during this period. Close to the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center and the International Polo Club Palm Beach, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Wellington-West Palm Beach is a contemporary retreat and right at the heart of the action. C U LT U R E

With heavyweight cultural hotspots, Palm Beach invites serious exploration. For almost 100 years, the Norton Museum of Art in neighboring West Palm Beach has been home to distinguished international works from the 19th century to today. Founded in 1941 by local collector Ralph Hubbard Norton to house his sizable art collection, since then Norton has grown to become Florida’s largest art museum. With noteworthy pieces in its permanent collection and regular landmark exhibitions, you can expect to see pieces from Rembrandt to Rothko at the Norton Museum of Art. Art collector Ralph Norton’s second wife Ann was an artist herself. Her eponymous Ann Norton Sculpture Garden is an urban sanctuary blooming with flowers and scattered with her incredible sculpted forms. Palm Beach has a thriving performing arts community and scene. For thrilling after-

dark entertainment, look no further than the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. Showcasing Broadway-league performances, opera, and comedy this is Palm Beach’s premier entertainment destination. Although equestrianism is deeply embedded in Wellington’s soul, the quaint village has plenty more to offer visitors. A serious hub for nature conservation, Wellington boasts many reserves and sanctuaries. With 30-acres of manmade wetlands, Peaceful Waters Sanctuary is a magnet for birds and birdwatchers alike. Stroll along its 1,500-foot broad-walk and keep watch for spoonbills, pelicans, and even alligators. FASHION

From world-class boutiques to antique-laden Aladdin’s caves, Palm Beach is a shopper’s dream. Worth Avenue is to Palm Beach what Rodeo Drive is to LA. Just steps from the ocean, this palm-strewn street drips with style. Shop the new season’s collections at Chanel, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton. Add to your art collection at the Robert Fontaine Gallery. Or enhance your neckline at Tiffany & Co. and Van Cleef & Arpels.

Presenting an upscale take on comforting Italian dishes, Sant Ambroeus in the Royal Poinciana Plaza is a perfect lunch location. Think; luscious linguine cacio e pepe, veal alla Milanese and indulgent tiramisù. With an impressive cocktail menu too, complement your lunch with one of Sant Ambroeus’ delicious negronis. With armfuls of awards to its name, Chef Julien Gremaud’s Avocado Grill is always buzzing. Championing farm-to-table dining, his small plates burst with local flavor and color. Just steps from the intracoastal waterway, Avocado Grill enjoys a super-scenic location to match its joyful food. SPORT

Whether you’re partial to saddling up for some horsing action or just enjoy witnessing the thrill of equestrian shows, Wellington is everything a horse lover could wish for. The nucleus of the town’s equestrian circuit is the world-famous Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. This 500-acre, 18-arena showground is not only home to the Winter Equestrian Festival but open all year round for equestrian competitions.

Whether you’re a collector, a connoisseur or just curious, no visit to Palm Beach would be complete without witnessing the treasures of Antique Row. A cluster of 40 antique shops in West Palm Beach, this charming district is where you can unearth anything from Art Deco jewelry to vintage lampshades or Persian rugs.

If you fancy picking up a mallet and practicing your swing, the International Polo Club Palm Beach offers lessons for beginners and experienced riders. To watch the pros in all their glory (and be at the heart of the equestrian social scene), don’t miss Sunday brunch at the club during polo season which runs concurrently to the Winter Equestrian Festival.

You’d be forgiven for thinking you were in Madrid as you peruse The Square. This smart retail neighborhood radiates Spanish vibes and is home to over 50 shops and restaurants. Shop wellness, fashion, and home accessories at the likes of Anthropologie, lululemon, and Restoration Hardware.

To explore the beauty of Palm Beach County’s lush green plains and scenic lakes on horseback, visit Pink Flamingo Stables in nearby Lake Worth. Their trail riding experiences will let you trot along at a leisurely pace while you drink in the sights, sounds and smells of nature.

CULINARY

Nowhere does French finesse quite like Café Boulud. Located in the Brazilian Court Hotel, just moments from Worth Avenue, this swish eatery is where anyone-who’s-anyone dines in Palm Beach. Chef Daniel Boulud’s French-American-inspired menu showcases the best of locally-caught Florida stone crab alongside organic Amish chicken – all with a side order of je ne sais quoi.

WELLNESS

Nowhere invites relaxation and rejuvenation quite like Palm Beach. Its sandy shores framed by swaying palms make the perfect backdrop for sun salutations on the beach. An abundance of worldclass spas helps too, of course. Palm Beach’s iconic Breakers resort does glamor on a grand, Mediterranean-inspired scale. The Spa at The Breakers is equally breath-taking. Serene treatment rooms are the perfect spot to decompress

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with a restorative massage or facial. If you have a big night out planned, you can even get your glam on at The Spa with a blow-dry or manicure. In north West Palm Beach, the 40,000-squarefoot Spa at PGA National has just undergone a show-stopping refurbishment, as part of the hotel’s $100 million transformation. Opening April 2022, the revamped spa offers a tempting array of over 100 treatments, while it takes thalassotherapy to the next level with its ‘Waters of the World’ mineral pool collection, f e a t u r i n g imported salts. Find your flow on the beach with Kula Yoga Shala. Just north of Palm Beach in Jupiter, this yoga studio hosts Sunday morning sessions where you can practice your asanas on the soft pebbled sands. Slowly inhale and exhale the warm breeze as the sounds of the sea gently lap at the shore. SOCIAL

Palm Beach has a culture calendar rich with events to satisfy the delectations of every discerning traveler, all year round. Thespians will adore the annual Shakespeare by the Sea festival. Held at the Seabreeze Amphitheater, this summer tradition brings the bard’s greatest hits to the great outdoors. A little down the road in Boca Raton, the Festival of the Arts BOCA unites acclaimed classical musicians, authors and ballet dancers for a ten-day extravaganza of music, dance and spoken word. Palm Beach is not shy in showing off its gastronomic highlights. There’s nowhere better to experience local flavors than at

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Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival. This four-day foodie affair showcases gourmet adventures at a selection of the city’s finest eateries, many of which hosted by renowned celebrity chefs. Uniting two locally-loved delicacies, Wellington’s legendary Bacon & Bourbon Festival presents over 30 artisanal bourbons and whisky alongside a menu of baconinfused delights. It goes without saying that Wellington’s Winter Equestrian Festival is the hottest date on the horsing calendar, but under this umbrella festival, other equine events take place. The world’s largest dressage circuit, the Adequan Global Dressage Festival sees international riders strap on their Hermès saddles and show off their finest maneuvers. Over at the International Polo Club Palm Beach, it’s Palm Beach International Polo Season. Here, star players from all over the world ride it out each Sunday to take the cup. Drawing a crowd of stylish spectators and horsing enthusiasts alike, polo season is one event not to be missed.

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DOWNTOWN CASHIERS 341 Highway 64 West Cashiers, NC 28717 828-743-1999

LAKE GLENVILLE DISCOVERY CENTER 4312 Highway 107 N Glenville, NC 28736 828-743-1999

DOWNTOWN HIGHLANDS 537 Main Street Highlands, NC 28741 828-526-2999

* According to 2021 Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® Website Quality Certification Results and 2021 Real Trends® Website Rankings

and Nationally Ranked by Leading Real Estate Companies of the World and Real Trends*

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