Tag: Lake Living SC

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Test driving a Ferrari

Herlong Sotheby's International Realty

This blog original was published in the fantastic Greenville Journal. We appreciate all they do.


You can test drive a Ferrari pretty easily, as long as you provide a copy of your drivers license and proof of insurance. A Ferrari rep will also accompany you during your test drive — not because they worry you might boost their wheels. It’s surely just to make sure that you’re fully apprised of all the bells and whistles.

If you want to take the test drive on a closed track designed for that purpose, it’s also going to cost you a princely sum. It’s reportedly well worth the thrill, and often leads to a purchase on the spot.

Joan Herlong, owner and CEO of Herlong Sotheby’s International Realty notes: “We do not sell Ferraris, or any other luxury vehicles, but we understand and support the documentation required for a test drive. Viewing a luxury home is a similar experience.”

About 15 years ago, Herlong first began advising her high-end seller clients to require Verification of Funds (VOF) or a lender letter of pre-approval, before confirming a showing request. Outside agents initially objected, but now it’s become the norm for homes over $1.5 million in Greater Greenville.

Why?

Herlong explains: “For many of our seller-clients, their most valuable assets are time and privacy.  If you don’t require VOF up front, the seller is agreeing to let unqualified tire-kickers waste their time and invade their privacy. There’s no shortage of people who’d love to take on the aura of wealth by looking at homes beyond their comfort zone, and then posting it on social media.”

Has Herlong ever sold a home that includes a Ferrari?

“I’ve sold many homes that were fully or partially furnished, but have yet to strike a deal that includes a Ferrari.  I’m looking forward to that as a first.”

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Herlong Sotheby’s International Realty lists $10 million property

Herlong Sotheby's International Realty $10 million

A 16,000 square foot mansion on a 171-acre estate is being listed for $10 million by Pat McNamara of Joan Herlong & Associates Sotheby’s International Realty.

With eight bedrooms and 11-and-a-half baths, 822 Poplar Springs Road in Westminster features a luxurious swath of rolling land  (the property is known as Rolling Meadows and the name fits) tucked into the South Carolina foothills with easy access to the major metros along the Interstate 85 corridor.

A winding driveway with mountain views leads to a magnificent brick home where a beautiful fountain and crepe myrtle create a majestic entrance.

Once inside the double front doors, a fabulous Swarovski chandelier hangs just above double spiral staircases flanking marble floors. The formal living room is welcoming with a 30-foot-high stone fireplace, beautifully carved mantle and elegant bookcases. Large Palladian windows allow sun to flood the space with doors leading to a grilling patio spacious enough to entertain a crowd.

Located on the main level, the main bedroom suite with tray ceiling creates a luxurious ambiance with a separate sitting area featuring a gas fireplace. The bathroom suite includes heated marble flooring, steam shower, separate tub, double vanities, and beautiful Swarovski lighting. The second floor features four sizable bedrooms with en suites. A private in-law apartment is also located on the second floor and accessed by private stairs and an elevator. 

This house is made for entertaining as the chef’s kitchen dark wood cabinets is perfect for sipping wine with friends as the meal is prepped around two islands, a breakfast area, luxury appliances including double wall ovens, Bosch warming drawer, two dishwashers, six burner Jen Air cooktop and Sub-Zero refrigerator

Of course, why stop entertaining there when the bottom level has the ambiance of an English-style pub with a dark wood grand bar housing a dishwasher, refrigerator, and ice maker with enough space for a billiards table and more games. This floor also features home theatre as well as two bedrooms with en suites, and a gigantic walk-in storage area.

But it’s not all relaxing. The bottom level also features a home fitness room complete with a six to eight person sauna.

French doors allow private access from this level to the vast patio area, tranquility of the fountain, and hot tub with waterfall into the pool. Views of the stocked pond, rolling pastures and expansive barn surround the stately home and grounds.

And about that barn.

Equestrians dream of barns like this with its 11 stalls, air-conditioned office and tack room, laundry room, bathroom, and misting system. A full caretaker’s apartment is located on the second floor of the barn.

Finally, the estate offers generous parking with the home’s four car garage, and the barn’s three car garage equipped with a Tesla charger.