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Top Realtor Joan Herlong offers rare insights into real estate with first book

GREENVILLE, S.C. — The first book by Joan Herlong, one of the Upstate’s most respected and accomplished real estate professionals, will be published nationwide in September.
As Is: An Insider’s Guide to Real Estate by Joan Herlong will be on the shelves of retailers on Tuesday, September 26 via Forbes Books with pre-orders available now at www.joanherlong.com.
Herlong shares her insights on the changing world of real estate with her well-known wisdom and wit developed from her years as an award-winning humor columnist and with an eye for the funnier parts of the business world and life. The book is a must-read for buyers and sellers, any person looking to enter real estate, seasoned industry professionals or anyone looking to learn more about real estate.
“This book is my effort to raise the bar, hopefully inspiring more dedicated, full-time real estate professionals, who will treat this high-stakes business with the seriousness that buyers and sellers deserve,” she said. “Whether you’re a buyer, a seller, an agent, or aspiring agent, you’ll find insights and strategies that will help you become better informed, to get the most out of your experience. The consumer has the right to expect more, but first you have to know what more to expect.”
Here are some of the amazing endorsements of the book.
“If you are in real estate, buy this book. Joan Herlong is one of the greatest real estate minds around. You will learn a ton. Plus; her humor is fast, strong, and real. Her sales accomplishments are mind blowing. This book made feel like she is talking to me. It’s so authentic. These pages contain her straight approach to life. Plus, her wit is worth the price,” said Leighton Cubbage, Chairman & Co-Founder, Allie Capital, LLC.
“This book is awesome. I laughed out loud a few times and it was an easy read. I think she has a true knack for writing. It kept me amused which kept my attention. I think some of it could be the fact that I know her but I also think people will get a feel for her humor without knowing her which makes it fun,” said Jay McDonald, Production Manager, Prime Lending.
“I’ve known Joan for more than 20 years both personally and professionally. She is a consummate professional. I have seen her updating MLS listings on New Year’s Eve while at the beach and everyone else was watching bowl games. Her customers are raving fans, with good reason. She responds to all calls within 24 hours and her phone is never off. This book reflects her experience as well as her wit and savvy. I highly recommend this book to anyone in real estate as well as anyone thinking about getting into real estate,” said Jim Sobeck, Managing Member, New South Real Estate Partners, Sobeck Holdings, and Sobeck Investments.
“This book is exactly what agents need in order to survive and thrive in the world of real estate, and it’s long overdue. Joan’s no-nonsense style breaks down the industry basics and lays bare the areas agents, at all levels of the business, struggle with every day. With her insider expertise, she guides agents to cut out the noise, emotion, unnecessary work, and drama that derails their business and success. You will find yourself laughing out loud as you read about Joan’s real-life stories, mishaps and mistakes all while picking up invaluable strategies and knowledge that will enable you to excel in this ever changing and competitive business,” said Liz Bentley, President of Liz Bentley Associates.
Herlong moved to Greenville in 1989 and began selling real estate in 1993, always full time. After years as the top producing solo agent for a national brand, she started her own boutique agency in December 2011 – in the midst of the recession and housing slump. At the end of her first year on her own, she was the number one Realtor in the Greenville MLS by sales volume, and repeated this accomplishment numerous times since, including in 2022. She was the number one Realtor by volume for the entire decade of 2012-2021 with sales of over $388 million, which is 25% ($75 million) more than the next agent and even more than any team in the Greater Greenville MLS.
In 2017, she affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty and launched Joan Herlong & Associates Sotheby’s International Realty. The company has more than tripled in size since that time in sales volume and the number of Associates.
With a well-earned reputation for expertise, fairness, and advocacy, Herlong has often been called upon for advice by agents from other companies. She has served as an expert witness in real estate litigation and related hearings, and negotiated thousands of deals.
A two-time honoree as one of Greenville’s Most Influential, Herlong grew up in Winnetka, Illinois. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English Literature at the University of Virginia. She and her husband, William, have four adult children and six grandchildren.
More information on where she will be signing books will be coming soon, but people interested in having Herlong speak to their group or sign books can go to www.joanherlong.com.

About Joan Herlong & Associates Sotheby’s International Realty

Joan Herlong & Associates Sotheby’s International Realty is one of the leading and most trusted names in real estate in the Upstate of South Carolina. First founded by Owner/CEO Joan Herlong as AugustaRoad.com Realty in 2011, the firm has since handled thousands of properties in the Greenville and Upstate area. In 2017, the company affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, becoming Joan Herlong & Associates Sotheby’s International Realty. The company has more than tripled in agent count and production volume since that time. Learn more at www.jha-sothebysrealty.com. 

About Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC
Founded in 1976 to provide independent brokerages with a powerful marketing and referral program for luxury listings, the Sotheby’s International Realty network was designed to connect the finest independent real estate companies to the most prestigious clientele in the world. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC is a subsidiary of Realogy Holdings Corp. (NYSE: RLGY), a global leader in real estate franchising and provider of real estate brokerage, relocation, and settlement services. In February 2004, Realogy entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Sotheby’s, the operator of the auction house. The agreement provided for the licensing of the Sotheby’s International Realty name and the development of a full franchise system. Affiliations in the system are granted only to brokerages and individuals meeting strict qualifications. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC supports its affiliates with a host of operational, marketing, recruiting, educational, and business development resources. Franchise affiliates also benefit from an association with the venerable Sotheby’s auction house, established in 1744.

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Local Real Estate Legend gives industry insights with As-Is

The first book by Joan Herlong, one of the Upstate’s most respected and accomplished real estate professionals, will be published nationwide in September.
As Is: An Insider’s Guide to Real Estate by Joan Herlong will be on the shelves of retailers on Tuesday, September 26 via Forbes Books with pre-orders available now at www.joanherlong.com.
Herlong shares her insights on the changing world of real estate with her well-known wisdom and wit developed from her years as an award-winning humor columnist and with an eye for the funnier parts of the business world and life. The book is a must-read for buyers and sellers, any person looking to enter real estate, seasoned industry professionals or anyone looking to learn more about real estate.
“This book is my effort to raise the bar, hopefully inspiring more dedicated, full-time real estate professionals, who will treat this high-stakes business with the seriousness that buyers and sellers deserve,” she said. “Whether you’re a buyer, a seller, an agent, or aspiring agent, you’ll find insights and strategies that will help you become better informed, to get the most out of your experience. The consumer has the right to expect more, but first you have to know what more to expect.”
Here are some of the amazing endorsements of the book.
• “If you are in real estate, buy this book. Joan Herlong is one of the greatest real estate minds around. You will learn a ton. Plus; her humor is fast, strong, and real. Her sales accomplishments are mind blowing. This book made feel like she is talking to me. It’s so authentic. These pages contain her straight approach to life. Plus, her wit is worth the price,” said Leighton Cubbage, Chairman & Co-Founder, Allie Capital, LLC.
• “This book is awesome. I laughed out loud a few times and it was an easy read. I think she has a true knack for writing. It kept me amused which kept my attention. I think some of it could be the fact that I know her but I also think people will get a feel for her humor without knowing her which makes it fun,” said Jay McDonald, Production Manager, Prime Lending.
• “I’ve known Joan for more than 20 years both personally and professionally. She is a consummate professional. I have seen her updating MLS listings on New Year’s Eve while at the beach and everyone else was watching bowl games. Her customers are raving fans, with good reason. She responds to all calls within 24 hours and her phone is never off. This book reflects her experience as well as her wit and savvy. I highly recommend this book to anyone in real estate as well as anyone thinking about getting into real estate,” said Jim Sobeck, Managing Member, New South Real Estate Partners, Sobeck Holdings, and Sobeck Investments.
• “This book is exactly what agents need in order to survive and thrive in the world of real estate, and it’s long overdue. Joan’s no-nonsense style breaks down the industry basics and lays bare the areas agents, at all levels of the business, struggle with every day. With her insider expertise, she guides agents to cut out the noise, emotion, unnecessary work, and drama that derails their business and success. You will find yourself laughing out loud as you read about Joan’s real-life stories, mishaps and mistakes all while picking up invaluable strategies and knowledge that will enable you to excel in this ever changing and competitive business,” said Liz Bentley, President of Liz Bentley Associates.
Herlong moved to Greenville in 1989 and began selling real estate in 1993, always full time. After years as the top producing solo agent for a national brand, she started her own boutique agency in December 2011 – in the midst of the recession and housing slump. At the end of her first year on her own, she was the number one Realtor in the Greenville MLS by sales volume, and repeated this accomplishment numerous times since, including in 2022. She was the number one Realtor by volume for the entire decade of 2012-2021 with sales of over $388 million, which is 25% ($75 million) more than the next agent and even more than any team in the Greater Greenville MLS.
In 2017, she affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty and launched Joan Herlong & Associates Sotheby’s International Realty. The company has more than tripled in size since that time in sales volume and the number of Associates.
With a well-earned reputation for expertise, fairness, and advocacy, Herlong has often been called upon for advice by agents from other companies. She has served as an expert witness in real estate litigation and related hearings, and negotiated thousands of deals.
A two-time honoree as one of Greenville’s Most Influential, Herlong grew up in Winnetka, Illinois. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English Literature at the University of Virginia. She and her husband, William, have four adult children and six grandchildren.
More information on where she will be signing books will be coming soon, but people interested in having Herlong speak to their group or sign books can go to www.joanherlong.com.

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Sportsclub Fitness and Wellness teams up with The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research

For the next 30 days, one of the Upstate’s premier fitness clubs is inviting the community to “work out and give back,” offering 30 days of fitness while helping find a cure for Parkinson’s Disease.
Sportsclub Fitness and Wellness is raising money for Team Fox, the grassroots fundraising program of The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research (MJFF) – the largest nonprofit funder for Parkinson’s – for their 30 Days for $30 campaign. People who purchase a $30 pass between September 1 and September 30 will enjoy 30 days of unlimited group exercise classes, aquatics centers, state-of-the-art fitness floors, and so much more at Sportsclub Fitness and Wellness. 100% of every pass sold is donated directly to MJFF. Learn more here.
The MJFF focuses on building improved knowledge about the lives of people with Parkinson’s disease, finding an objective test for Parkinson’s, engaging patients in research, and supporting the development of new treatments and a cure.
In addition to the 30 Days for $30 campaign, Sportsclub will be hosting several events focused on supporting Parkinson’s Disease:
• A Tennis and Pickleball for Parkinson’s Social: This will be held on Sunday, September 10 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Sportsclub Greenville location on Congaree Road. It starts with a free clinic at 1 p.m. followed by a social and games at 2 p.m.
• Pedaling for Parkinson’s: This is a month-long September challenge for all members (this includes 30 for 30 members) to cumulatively pedal 30,000 miles. Each rider is asked to pledge or get donations for each mile ridden.
• Wellness Wednesdays: This is open to Parkinson’s patients from 12:15 to 1:15 p.m. at the Congaree Road location’s Balance Better Group Fitness Class. This class is led by group fitness professionals and physical therapists.
Sportclub’s campaign is part of a larger one being led by its parent company, acac Fitness & Wellness Centers, which has locations in Pennsylvania, Virginia and South Carolina. The 30 Days for $30 campaign was originally created in 2009 to celebrate the company’s 25th anniversary. Since then, acac has supported a variety of organizations including the American Heart Association, the Alzheimer’s Association, the American Red Cross, and more.

“This campaign is just one of many ways acac and Sportsclub help serve the community,” said Chris Craytor, CEO of acac and Sportsclub. “By giving back through time, energy, and resources in order to make a difference in the lives of others, we are committed to the people and organizations that help make each community a place they are proud to live.”

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Greenville business leaders help two families build new homes

GREENVILLE, S.C. – After helping more than 400 families move into new homes over the past four decades, Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County home dedications would seem to become standard practice.
They never do, and this week was no different. The McRae and Barksdale families moved into their homes in the Heritage Hills section of the Nicholtown community Tuesday, and this was a special and unique journey for both on their path to home ownership. Since work started on their homes in February, both families performed more than 200 hours of sweat equity in their houses and completed 25 hours of personal finance training, home maintenance, and safety classes.
They were aided in their path by the leaders and staff members of 33 Greenville businesses who took part in the 11th Habitat Greenville CEO Build.
“Our local business leaders have helped drive the phenomenal growth our county has experienced over the past several years,” said Jane Harrison Fisher, chairwoman of the 2023 CEO Build as well as Chief Operating Officer with Coldwell Banker Caine. “Now, they got to take that impact and localize it for two families.”
Monroe Free, President and CEO of Habitat, said while Greenville continues to grow and attract new businesses and residents, not everyone is able to take part in the success. Studies show that one in five Greenville County residents struggle to find affordable housing options.
CEO and companies taking part were: Rob Crowder of AFL; Scott Weaver of Carolina Foothills Federal Credit Union; Bob Morris of Community Foundation of Greenville; John Boyanoski of Complete PR; Stephen Davis of Davis and Floyd; Phil Howard of Ethox Chemicals; Chris Bailey of Greater Greenville Association of Realtors; Tommy Jenkins of Greenville Maintenance Services; Todd Mackin of the Greenville Swamp Rabbits; Dr. Keith Miller of Greenville Technical College; Randall Bentley of Lee & Associates; Seabrook Marchant of Marchant Real Estate; Todd Malo of Mavin Construction; Kerri Paulino of Meritage Homes; Andy Goldy of North American Rescue; Hank McCullough of Piedmont Natural Gas; Cathy Caldwell of Renewable Water Resources; Chris Heard of Sage Automotive Interiors; Josh Convington of QLM and Southern Harmony; Brian McKay of Spero Financial; Steve Spinks of Spinx; David Lominack of TD Bank; Randy Hunter of Terminix; Delisa English of The Blood Connection; Douglas Dietz of The Reynolds Company; Michelle Seaver of United Community Bank; Megan Barp of United Way of Greenville; Euleta Alston of US&S; Steve Magruder of Warehouse Services and Kirsten Zinkann of Kirsten Zinkann Real Estate.
“Stable and affordable housing has significant long-term impacts on the success and health of children, the ability for families to elevate their socioeconomic status, the investment returned to the community, and so much more,” Free said. “Thankfully, for the past 11 years, thoughtful and caring local leaders have stepped up to address this issue head-on through innovative efforts such as the CEO Build.”

About Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County:
Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County opened its doors in 1985 to bring families, community partners, and volunteers together to construct affordable, energy-efficient homes that help families build strength, stability, and self-reliance. As of May 2023, Habitat Greenville has completed the construction of 405 homes. Habitat Greenville received the 2017 Builder of the Year award from EarthCraft, and in recognition of financial health, accountability, and transparency, maintain a 4-Star Charity status by Charity Navigator. Habitat Greenville ReStores are located at 3033 Wade Hampton Boulevard in Taylors and 1818 Woodruff Rd., Greenville, SC 29607. Call 864-312-5016 for free donation pickups.
Learn more at www.habitatgreenville.org.

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Mayes, McCarroll, Norris and Riley to be honored Oct. 16 at Phillis Wheatley Community Center

The Phillis Wheatley Community Center in Greenville will induct Clyde Mayes, John McCarroll, Xanthene Norris and Richard W. Riley into the center’s Hall of Fame at a luncheon event on October 16. The Hall of Fame Champions were selected for their extraordinary leadership and contributions to the community over many years.

“Our community has faced challenges in its history, and we would not be where we are today without the hard work and dedication of these four leaders,” said Randy Jackson, executive director of Phillis Wheatley Community Center. “Each of them has left an indelible mark on our history.”

Clyde Mayes will be inducted as the Athletic Champion who led the newly integrated Wade Hampton High School basketball team to back-to-back state championships in the 1970s and later played basketball professionally in the NBA and Europe. Mayes’ leadership at Wade Hampton was the subject of the book The Mighty Generals: A Story of Basketball Championships and Racial Unity in the Deep South.

John McCarroll will be inducted as the Community Champion (posthumous) who served as executive director of the Phillis Wheatley Community Center for 30 years. Under his leadership, the center grew from a $60 budget when he started in 1970 to a $1.8 million budget when he retired in 2001.

Xanthene Norris will be inducted as the Education Champion who earned her master’s degree at Furman University where she was one of the first Black female students. She taught at Sterling High and Greenville High and tutored or mentored several of Greenville’s notable leaders. She was also a civil rights advocate and served for 25 years on the Greenville County Council after her retirement from teaching.

Richard W. Riley, former Governor of South Carolina and United States Secretary of Education, will be inducted as the Public Policy Champion. A staunch advocate for public education, Riley is known for leading the charge on the passage of the Education Improvement Act, one of the most consequential pieces of education reform legislation in South Carolina history.

WYFF News 4 anchor Jane Robelot will emcee the event. The luncheon is open to the public. Tickets are $75.00 each and may be purchased online at philliswheatleysc.org. Call 864-240-4242 for more information.

About Phillis Wheatley Community Center:
The Phillis Wheatley Community Center provides a wide variety of services and programs to youth, adults and seniors in Upstate South Carolina. Founded in 1919 by Hattie Logan Duckett, the center has been serving the community for more than a century. Learn more at philliswheatleysc.org.

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KDS Commercial Properties Names Rickey Heaton Broker-in-Charge (BIC)

(Greenville, S.C.) – September 5, 2023 – KDS Commercial Properties, LLC, a Greenville-based commercial real estate firm, names Rickey Heaton as Broker-in-Charge. Heaton, Senior Advisor and Land Specialist, has been with the company since 2021.

As Broker-in-Charge at KDS, Heaton uses his experience and education to supervise the management of office policy and company compliancy. He also regularly serves clients of all asset classes, working together with each individual to determine the best strategy to meet their specific real estate goals in the Upstate with a specialty in the sale and purchase of vacant commercial, agricultural/recreational and residential land.

KDS Commercial Properties is a full-service comprehensive commercial real estate firm located in Greenville, SC. Since 2001, KDS has provided the Upstate with a high level of brokerage, development, and advisory services through a team of experienced and highly qualified professionals.

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Caliber Real Estate’s Racquel Collier named 2023 Greenville Business Magazine’s Best & Brightest 35 and Under

GREENVILLE, S.C. — President of Caliber Real Estate, Racquel Collier, has been named among the Best & Brightest 35 and Under by Greenville Business Magazine.

Each year, Greenville Business Magazine recognizes the business and community leaders (35 and under) who are making an impact in our state. Among these young professionals include attorneys, medical professionals, architects, CEOs, nonprofit leaders, artists, bankers, and more.

An entrepreneur starting in college, Collier began looking for a career that allowed her to make a difference in people’s lives. In 2018, she began Clemson University’s Master’s in Real Estate Development program in Greenville and realized that multi-family development was her calling.
In the community, Collier is on the board of Ten at The Top and the vice chair of the Greenville Housing Authority. She is also a graduate of Leadership Greenville Class 49.
“It’s an honor to be included in this list, especially alongside so many talented individuals,” said Collier. “I hope to continue making a positive impact in the community and contribute to retaining talent in the great state of South Carolina.”

About Caliber Real Estate:
Caliber Real Estate is a development firm specializing in developing multifamily communities and land. They take a comprehensive approach to real estate development, combining their interests in art, food, media, music, and people to produce impactful projects. Learn more at www.calibersouthcarolina.com.

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Local author and life coach launches new podcast: “Rock Your Reinvention”

GREENVILLE, S.C. – Author and life coach, Karin Freeland, is launching a podcast called “Rock Your Reinvention.”
“Rock Your Reinvention” is a podcast for anyone looking to gain insights about what they really want out of life, redefine what success means to them, hear from like-minded women, who have reinvented their careers and relationships, and learn tangible tips for achieving professional and personal goals.

“I’m looking forward to connecting with as many like-minded women as possible and helping them ‘rock their reinvention,’” Freeland said. “Too many career women are sacrificing their goals because they feel trapped. This is another way to help empower women to make smarter decisions in their lives and careers.”

A New York native, Freeland began following her dreams of being an actress and professional dancer just after college. She quickly landed enough roles in movies to pursue acting full-time and live in New York City. However, she pivoted after a few years to a career working in the corporate sector.
Over the next 15 years, she oversaw the creation and launch of global brands through her roles as Chief of Staff to the President of Verizon Enterprise Solutions, Head of Demand Generation & Field Marketing for North America at Centrica Business Solutions, before making the leap to consulting as Vice President of Digital GTM and Learning at JS Group. She now runs Karin Freeland Coaching & Consulting LLC in Greenville.
The first episode of the new podcast goes live on September 7 and covers professional and personal burnout. People interested in being guests can click here. Those interested in tuning into “Rock Your Reinvention” can do so by clicking this link: https://rockyourreinvention.buzzsprout.com/

About Karin Freeland:
Karin Freeland is a certified Life Reinvention Coach focused on helping women transform their lives and achieve their dreams by using the lessons she learned in her 15 years in the corporate sector. She is an award-winning author, and was recognized by Entrepreneurs Herald as one of the Top 20 Life Coaches To Look Out For In 2021. Learn more about her and her company Karin Freeland Coaching & Consulting, LLC at www.karinfreeland.com.

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Retail development opportunity unveiled in downtown Central

A new retail development is in the works located downtown Central at 105 W Main Street, the former Helping Hands Building, and 100 Church Street, most recently a national bank branch. It is now available for pre-lease with the intent of transforming the corner of Main St. and Church St. into a unique community gathering space.

The two vacant buildings offer over 10,000 SF of combined space and are separated by almost 10,000 SF of greenspace, providing Central the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of surrounding upstate towns with the introduction of a social hub in the heart of downtown. Encouraged by the Town of Central’s livability, desirability, and leadership, local developers and business partners, Mike Babinicz and Dan Ritter envision the space incorporating a variety of culinary food and beverage options with ample outdoor seating and onsite parking perfect for accommodating families of the growing city and surrounding areas. Potential development tenants include retail, restaurants, beer garden, health, event space, and more. McMillan Pazdan Smith, the Greenville based architectural firm responsible for designing wildly successful projects in the Upstate such as Gather GVL, Fr8 Yard, and Yee Haw Brewing, have been engaged to bring this concept to fruition. “We are excited and looking forward to contributing to Central’s success and further contributing to the renaissance of downtown Central. This project will be another good reason to bring your family to downtown’s local community gathering destination”, local developer Mike Babinicz said.

Central native Daniel Sanders, leasing broker at Keller Williams Realtors has begun discussions with several potential tenants and has been amazed by the outpouring of interest in the properties and is excited about the prospect of attracting new businesses that will make downtown Central a destination for residents. “The Town of Central’s Main Street initiatives are bearing fruit”, stated Katherine Brooks, Central Main Street Program Director.

This new retail development is walking distance from Southern Wesleyan University, minutes from Clemson University, and on the Fare Free Catbus Public transportation route connecting Clemson and Seneca to Central. The development will service students and residents alike. Central has attracted new businesses to the area and has grown steadily in the last several years while preserving the charming, small-town feel that is known and loved. Project features a walkable design with high foot traffic and the Future Green Crescent Trail Connection with Main St. @ the Red Caboose. Central has been awarded over $1M in grant funding so far for the Green Crescent Trail connections between SWU to Main Street. The town’s commitment to revitalization initiatives and its focus on economic growth in Central will continue to positively impact the local community, said Katherine Brooks.

Some of Central’s new business growth and revitalization efforts include…. Carolina Juice Bar, Cross Fit Epoch, Central Sweets, Urban Central, Bee’s Knees, AnMed Health Central Family Practice, Tiger Valley Market, Collaboration Station, Revitalized Railroad Museum, Central Roller Mills Renovation Project, and more!

“We have been watching Central’s growth over the years and have confidence in the hard work and successes put forth by the town and its outstanding leadership”, said Mike Babinicz. No formal applications have yet been submitted to the city, but construction on the unnamed development is expected to start in 2024.

For further information, contact the leasing broker, Daniel Sanders, at DanielSanders@kw.com.

See first glimpse of Conceptual Plans……

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Joan Herlong & Associates Sotheby’s International Realty adds two

GREENVILLE, S.C. — Joan Herlong & Associates Sotheby’s International Realty has added two new Associates, including its first one focusing on the Lake Murray region.

Clemson alum Dixie Dulin was the president and co-owner of an interior design company for more than five years. Dulin has never met a stranger; she’s known for her infectious optimism and work ethics. She looks forward to offering the same level of service to her real estate clients. She has renovated multiple homes in Greenville that all were featured in TALK magazine. Her vision and expertise add value to her clients’ buying and selling experience.
While Dulin maintains work connections in Greenville, she and her family moved to Chapin SC a year ago. Their newly renovated home overlooks beautiful Lake Murray. Dulin is excited to show others what Lake Murray has to offer, and what lake life is all about. Dulin’s love for connecting people and community involvement has already been seen locally with her award as a nominee for Lexington School District 5 Volunteer of the Year.

Sijia Hughes is Broker Associate at the Greenville office. Originally from Dalian, China, Hughes moved to Europe (living in Budapest and Innsbruck) where she earned her law degree. In 2010, she and her husband moved to Greenville, and in 2013, she began her career in real estate. She has sold more than $20 million in residential and commercial real estate. She prides herself on her professionalism, client advocacy, negotiation skills, open communication, and integrity.
Also a Clemson alum, Hughes earned her Master of Business Administration (Magna Cum Laude) in 2014 while also working in the corporate sector as a Senior Buyer and Senior Supply Chain Specialist. Hughes herself is a real estate investor, personally managing her own rental properties since 2016. She is a problem-solver who takes great pride in helping her clients achieve their real estate goals.
“We’re thrilled to have Sijia and Dixie join us,” said Joan Herlong, CEO and founder of Joan Herlong & Associates Sotheby’s International Realty. “They bring amazing skills and enriched, varied backgrounds that make them extremely valuable to our clients.”

About Joan Herlong & Associates Sotheby’s International Realty

Joan Herlong & Associates Sotheby’s International Realty is one of the leading and most trusted names in real estate in the Upstate of South Carolina. First founded by Owner/CEO Joan Herlong as AugustaRoad.com Realty in 2011, the firm has since handled thousands of properties in the Greenville and Upstate area. In 2017, the company affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, becoming Joan Herlong & Associates Sotheby’s International Realty. The company has more than tripled in agent count and production volume since that time. Learn more at www.jha-sothebysrealty.com.  

About Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC
Founded in 1976 to provide independent brokerages with a powerful marketing and referral program for luxury listings, the Sotheby’s International Realty network was designed to connect the finest independent real estate companies to the most prestigious clientele in the world. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC is a subsidiary of Realogy Holdings Corp. (NYSE: RLGY), a global leader in real estate franchising and provider of real estate brokerage, relocation and settlement services. In February 2004, Realogy entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Sotheby’s, the operator of the auction house. The agreement provided for the licensing of the Sotheby’s International Realty name and the development of a full franchise system. Affiliations in the system are granted only to brokerages and individuals meeting strict qualifications. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC supports its affiliates with a host of operational, marketing, recruiting, educational and business development resources. Franchise affiliates also benefit from an association with the venerable Sotheby’s auction house, established in 1744.