The Heritage

LLakefront living at The Heritage will be unmatched on Lake Martin, and if market indications continue their current course, it soon could be an opportunity lost for those who hesitate. Last year, 90 percent of the 52 lots in the initial release of the lake’s most exclusive neighborhood sold in about half the time that availability was expected to last, said Russell Lands Vice President of Real Estate Sales Steve Arnberg.

“Given that level of response, we expect that 18 to 20 of the 27 Phase 2 lots will be sold by summer’s end,” Arnberg said.

Price lists for Phase 2 lots were released July 7, and Phase 3, with 30 to 35 lakefront lots, could be released as early as next year. No information about availability of water-access lots throughout the prop- erty has yet been released.

“We thought Phase I would be a two-year supply and that all three phases would last five-and-a-half or six years,” Arnberg explained. “Now, we realize it could all be sold in three to three-and-a-half years.”

Eleven lots in Phase 1 are now under construction. Five have been through the architectural board approval process, and another five lot owners have submitted plans for approval, Arnberg said.

Bobby McAlpine, Ross Piper, Mitch Ginn, David Smeltzer, Jim Mancell, Adams Gerndt, Bill Moore, Chris Reebals and other approved architects are drawing up plans for the exclusive neighborhood, and more homes in this newest and most exclusive neighborhood are being designed as full-time residences.

“The home designs we are seeing are as beautiful as we have seen on the lake,” Arnberg said.

Like the level of luxury at Wicker Point Golf Club, the Coore & Crenshaw-designed golf course nestled in this premium Lake Martin peninsula, The Heritage will be second to none. Amenities include The Benjamin Lake Club with two saline swimming pools, a tennis pro shop with eight tennis courts and eight dedicated pickleball courts, covered pavilions with a modern grill facility, a private beach, fire pits and a community dock complex.

“The resort pool area will include two tiers of lounge chairs – one tier facing the pool and the outer lower level looking at the lake,” Arnberg said. “The second pool will be ideal for active users with swim lanes, so owners and their guests can exercise or socialize in that area.”

The pool complex will include a snack bar with architecture to match The Benjamin clubhouse, which was designed by renowned Atlanta-based Cooper

Carry. The two-story multi-use clubhouse will offer an owner’s bar and catering kitchen, fitness center, aerobic/yoga room, locker rooms and meeting and event spaces that will blend indoor activities with outdoor recreation. Finishes are purported to be world class.

The Benjamin Lake Club is expected to open in late spring of 2025.

The gated neighborhood will enjoy a high level of privacy, as most lots approach or exceed a full acre. A marina is planned, based on demand, for a 2027 or 2028 opening, Arnberg said.

“The Heritage is accessible to Russell Crossroads, where Russell Lands opened the Fanny Goldmine Diner this spring,” he added.

A variety of entertainment options at Russell Crossroads is just a short drive away from The Heritage. Fridays On The Green, occasional theatrical productions, juried art shows, wildlife presentations and seasonal festivals are among the activities held on The Town Green. In addition, Russell Crossroads is home to Catherine’s Market, a boutique grocery with an impressive inventory of fine wines, quality meats and organic produce. The lake’s finest dining is offered at SpringHouse, and The Stables – a picturesque working equestrian center and popular wedding venue – is nestled at the bottom of the hill.

Arnberg said enthusiastic cooperation with Alexander City officials has had a positive impact on the progression of the Wicker Point facilities, and more is soon to come from the city.

“When Publix is built in Alexander City, that also will make a huge difference for people who want to be at the lake full time,” he said.

Publix will be an anchor for the new shopping center, The Gateway at Lake Martin, which is expected to start construction this month at the intersection of U.S. Route 280 and State Route 63. It is one of several new construction projects that is expected to enhance lake life for residents and visitors alike.

But Arnberg doesn’t expect the abundance of construction in the area to hinder progress at The Heritage.

“We work with approved contractors who are known for the quality of their projects and their ability to complete projects in a timely manner. We’re getting things done,” he said.

And that means homes at The Heritage will grace the neighborhood’s 12 miles of waterfront in the proverbial blink of an eye. Visit russelllands.com/theheritage for more information.

The Heritage and Wicker Point Golf Club will adorn 12 miles of Lake Martin shoreline, blending with the natural elements on lots that approach or exceed 1 acre.