Engel & Völkers Enters the Carolina Foothills with Three New Locations

Engel & Völkers announced today its expansion into the Carolina foothills with three locations opening across Morganton and Nebo. The new shops will be led by license partners Steve Leadbetter and Polly Leadbetter, who will also serve as managing broker. The Leadbetters opened Lake James Real Estate Brokerage in 2003 and have been serving communities throughout the Carolina foothills for almost two decades specializing in luxury homes, second homes, and lakefront properties. Now doing business as Engel & Völkers Foothills, Steve, Polly and their dedicated team of local real estate professionals will leverage the global brand’s reach, resources, and reputation to serve homebuyers and sellers in the Morganton, Marion, Nebo, Lake James, Old Fort, Hickory, Valdese, and Connelly Springs markets. 

“Our expansion in North Carolina is a strategic response to the market right now,” said Anthony Hitt, president and CEO, Engel & Völkers Americas. “Home prices are up significantly across the state compared to last year. As a result, home buyers are seeking out destinations like the Carolina foothills that can provide a slower pace of life with convenient access to larger cities like Charlotte and Asheville. We have full confidence in the Leadbetters and their team of advisors to continue Engel & Völkers’ success and expansion in North Carolina.” 

Engel & Völkers Foothills will comprise three real estate shop locations in the Carolina foothills region, two located in Morganton and one in Nebo. Morganton sits on the Catawba River in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is filled with scenic rural landscapes, a thriving downtown music scene, state-of-the-art theater, and abundant options for shopping and dining. Nebo is approximately 20 minutes northwest of Morganton and sits along the shores of picturesque Lake James, nestled into the eastern edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to the plethora of activities the Carolina foothills have to offer, and with Lake James and the Blue Ridge Mountains easily accessible throughout the region, endless opportunities are available for both adventure and tranquil relaxation.

“Engel & Völkers is known for its global network of real estate advisors possessing rich local expertise in markets around the world,” said Polly Leadbetter. “With homes in the Carolina foothills hitting multi-million dollar price points, joining forces with Engel & Völkers will help us gain the national and global exposure we’ve always wanted to bring to this area and our luxury properties. Our communities in this region are truly special places with amiable residents, Southern charm, and of course, a welcoming small-town feel throughout. We’re excited to bring our business to the next level with Engel & Völkers’ sophisticated, boutique-style approach to luxury real estate.” 

For more information, visit https://lakejamesrealestate.com.