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Elegant Columbus Mansion Sold to Happy Buyer

 

A spectacularly beautiful spring afternoon in the genteel city of Columbus, Georgia saw a thrilled local resident acquire the home of his dreams. On April 16th, Grand Estates Auction conducted an absolute auction of a historic Greek Revival mansion located just across the street from the exclusive Country Club of Columbus.

An aggressive marketing and publicity campaign in the eight weeks leading up to the auction attracted 124 inquiries and, on the day of the auction itself, seven highly motivated buyers gathered to compete for the opportunity to purchase this stunning home. By the auction's completion, a happy Columbus family had purchased this beautifully designed and recently updated property.

Built in 1938 by this Southern city's mayor for his family, the classic Southern mansion has 6 bedrooms, 6.5 bathrooms and was totally renovated in 2006. The home's spacious rooms have high ceilings, heart pine and oak flooring, exquisite crown moulding, marble fireplace surrounds and other elegant details. The home's kitchen was renovated to reflect contemporary tastes and conveniences, with stainless steel, chef's quality appliances, custom cabinetry, and a bright, open feeling. The home's luxurious master suite features two separate his-and-hers en suite master baths and an oak-floored sitting room for quiet and privacy.

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The home's design is ideal for grand entertaining, and indeed, it has been the site of numerous exclusive social events and charity balls throughout the decades. The living room and dining room are ideal settings for formal receptions and dinner parties, with high ceilings and exquisite detailing. A unique theatre with stage can be used for small plays for a group of treasured guests. On the main floor, the home's unique sun room is particularly spectacular; Slate flooring, high ceilings, and banks of windows that fill the space with sunlight and allow sweeping views of the magnificently landscaped gardens. 

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The property's 4.3 acres of meticulously tended grounds include lush magnolias and pine trees, velvety green lawns and a variety of flowering shrubs. There is a traditional English garden ample enough for a lively game of croquet, a saltwater swimming pool, and a lighted badminton court for family and friends to enjoy on sunny afternoons. A quaint gazebo at the end of the garden lawn evokes the leisurely pace of life in the Old South.

Columbus is a dynamic city with a small-town charm, home to leading corporations like AFLAC and Synovus, as well as major military training facilities. Columbus was named one of Georgia’s “Top Renaissance Cities” by Georgia Trend Magazine in 2013. The city's cultural offerings include the picturesque RiverWalk, the River Center for the Performing Arts, the National Infantry Museum and the Columbus Museum. The city offers many fine country clubs with excellent golf and tennis facilities, as well as a wholesome, family-friendly lifestyle. With temperate weather year-round, Columbus is a wonderful place to enjoy outdoor activities like biking, gardening, boating or jogging.

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For this historic 1938 mansion, a new family will write the next chapter of happy memories, family gatherings and social events to take place within its beautiful rooms and on its lush lawns. For them and the city of Columbus, the future is bright and sunny. Perhaps this gazebo will be the site of a garden wedding someday?

Genteel Columbus: Three Things to Do

 

Georgia is known for its rich history, year-round sporting opportunities, and lush, green countryside. On Tuesday, April 16, Grand Estates Auction Company is hosting an absolute auction of a magnificent and historic Greek Revival property in Columbus, Ga. This Southern city was named one of the state's "Top Renaissance Cities" by Georgia Trend magazine in 2013. Why? Because Columbus has a vibrant, growing business community. It is the corporate headquarters of insurance giant AFLAC and other major companies. The city also offers excellent cultural and recreational amenities, and is even developing the world’s largest urban whitewater course by opening dams to create a 2.4-mile stretch of rapids for whitewater rafting excitement.

So while you're visiting genteel Columbus on April 12-16 to preview this luxurious 1938 Southern mansion located just across the street from the Country Club of Columbus, take some time to explore this inviting corner of Georgia and all it has to offer.

Salute Military History. Columbus residents are incredibly proud of the city's military heritage, including having the U.S. Army's Fort Benning located nearby. You can learn more about the experiences of our country's servicemen by visiting the The National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center, a first-class museum located on the city's Legacy Way, just outside Fort Benning's Maneuver Center for Excellence. The 190,000 sq. ft. museum features exhibits about the experiences of U.S. Infantrymen from the American Revolution to the battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan. The museum also has a state-of-the-art IMAX theatre and galleries filled with inspiring memorabilia. Visitors may also test their skills on the EST 2000 rifle simulator range. For more information, visit the museum's website.

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Photo courtesy of Z. F. Hanner, Director, National Infantry Museum, Fort Benning, Georgia

Catch a Concert. Go from Benning to Broadway to experience beautiful classical music or hits of the American stage at Columbus' top-notch River Center for the Performing Arts. Located at Broadway and Tenth Street, the River Center is the home of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, and hosts touring acts and theatrical productions. On April 14, the CSO performs the works of Russian composer Dmitri Shostakovich, and on April 16-17, the River Center stage hosts a touring production of the passionate Broadway hit show Dreamgirls. For more information, call the River Center box office at (706) 256-3612.

Bicycles and Butterflies. One of Georgia's treasures is just a short drive from Columbus in the town of Pine Mountain. Callaway Gardens is a 14,000-acre nature preserve and resort founded by Cason J. Callaway and his wife, Virginia, as a way to protect the rare beauty of this part of Georgia. Callaway offers numerous attractions for either active visitors or those who just want to relax amid incredible scenery. Take a bike ride or walk on the winding trails to enjoy the varied flora in full, stunning springtime bloom. The gardens include one of the region's most extensive azalea plantings, so April is a perfect time to visit. Or step inside Callaway's renowned butterfly conservatory, one of North America's largest, glass-enclosed facilities for studying these beautiful creatures. Active families can zip-line over the lush Georgia landscape or get a watery workout at Robin Lake's Aqua Island obstacle course. For more information, call (800) 225-5292.

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Photo credit: Cyndy Sims Parr

So enjoy a getaway in historic, welcoming West Georgia while visiting Columbus for the auction of this unique and elegant Southern mansion. For more information about the area, visit the region's official website.

 

Naples Estate Sold, Doubling Value in Two Years

 

On Tuesday, March 26, Grand Estates Auction Company made a beautifully sunny day in Naples, Florida, even brighter for a property owner who sold her elegant equestrian estate at an absolute auction, doubling her money in just two years.

Grand Estates is the industry leader in luxury real estate auctions and generated intense interest in this magnificent five-acre ranch and three-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath home. Over the preview period leading up to the live auction, Grand Estates hosted more than 60 groups of potential buyers from 25 U.S. states and Canada. This unique home was thoroughly renovated in 2012, with a flowing open floor plan, high ceilings and exquisitely appointed rooms inside. The home features desirable elements like a gourmet chef's kitchen, enormous master suite with a 4X6 spa shower, and hurricane glass throughout to withstand brisk Florida storms. Its exterior architecture evokes coastal elegance.

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The estate not only features a screened-in lanai and saltwater pool perfect for relaxed Florida afternoons, but is also a fully-equipped, fully-fenced horseman's paradise. The six-stall horse barn is customized with automatic waterers, a hay room and tack room, and deluxe padded flooring for comfort. The property also is one of only two homes in the area with riding access to exclusive Picayune State Strand Forest, a highly desirable riding trail area. Interest in the auction was high, as buyers were eager to explore a rare opportunity to acquire a property with this combination of elegant architecture, beautiful grounds and equestrian amenities.

The backdrop for the auction was the estate's incredible stable, a luxurious home in itself for any horse enthusiast's treasured steeds. At 2 p.m., eight registered bidders, all willing and able to close within thirty days with no contingencies, gathered for the private sale, and in a whirlwind live auction event, the beautiful Naples property was sold. The seller was overjoyed to double her investment on the unique estate in just two years. She credited the aggressive, targeted marketing campaign of Grand Estates Auction Company for generating interest from serious potential buyers for the success of this live auction event.

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The new owner of this chic equestrian's paradise seized a rare opportunity to own a property with access to the Picayune State Strand Forest, as well as featuring a spectacular, 3,780 sq. ft. tropical estate home with this level of architectural beauty. In addition, the property is only twelve miles from downtown Naples, a vibrant city on the Gulf of Mexico with world-class beaches, dining, golfing, entertainment and shopping. Naples is one of the most desirable locations for purchasing either primary residences or vacation property today. Naples combines contemporary sophistication with a relaxed charm that evokes its Mediterranean namesake city.

So Tuesday, March 26, was a happy day in sunny Naples for both the seller, who doubled her investment, and the buyer, who acquired a uniquely beautiful property. For more information on Grand Estates Auction Company or selling real estate through auction, go to the Grand Estates Auction website or call 1-800-552-8120.

Three Must-Dos in Sunny Naples

 

If you're planning to visit beautiful Naples, Florida for Grand Estates Auction Company's auction of this incredible Equestrian Estate property on Tuesday, March 26, why not explore some of the splendor of this jewel of Florida's West Coast?

Naples is an elegant, relaxed city located on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, renowned for its sugary-sand beaches, champion golf courses, gourmet dining, and world-class cultural centers. Unlike the congested resort towns in the rest of the state, Naples evokes the ease of its Italian namesake city on the Mediterranean. Here are three suggestions for having a wonderful experience as you relax in sunny Naples. 

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Image credit: Mark Averette

Chill With Chihuly: Naples boasts one of the finest art museums in the Southeast, the Patty and Jay Baker Naples Museum of Art. Explore the galleries of fine paintings, sculpture, and drawings, as well as the museum's unique sculptural and architectural treasures. These include a glass dome conservatory, entrance gates designed by the renowned metal artist Albert Paley, and a huge outdoor sculpture by famed Tel Aviv artist Yaacov Agam. Inside the museum, look up and be awestruck by the dazzling colors of the glass sculpture created by world-famous artist Dale Chihuly, entitled Persian Ceiling.

Part of "The Phil," Naples' sophisticated, yet inviting cultural arts center, the Naples Museum of Art, also holds a free after-hours cocktail event on the last Wednesday evening of each month. The Phil is also the home of the Naples Philharmonic Orchestra, which performs classical programs regularly, and welcomes legendary guest artists like sopranos Renee Fleming and Kathleen Battle. Call (800) 597-1900 for schedule information.

Table by the Water: While in Naples, fresh seafood prepared by world-class chefs is a must. And why not dine with a view of azure blue waters? M Waterfront Grille is one of Naples' most desirable dining options, located on tony Gulf Shore Boulevard in the Village on Venetian Bay. Chef Adam Nardis prepares contemporary continental cuisine featuring fresh shellfish, seafood pastas, and perfectly grilled steaks. The restaurant and bar offer unique and inspiring views of the bay from one of five different dining rooms. On Sunday mornings, this elegant, yet relaxed restaurant offers Mimosas, Bloody Marys, and what's been called "the best brunch in Naples." Call (239) 263-4421 for reservations or information.

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Image credit: Chensiyuan/Gallery

Work on Your Swing, or Just Check Out: Naples is known for its luxurious, exclusive golf resorts. One of the most popular is the magnificent Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, a Mediterranean-style villa with 295 rooms and suites. The Ritz boasts two extremely challenging, beautiful Greg Norman-designed golf courses and the Tiburon Golf Club. In addition, this oasis of relaxation offers a 51,000 sq. ft. spa, where you can rejuvenate with a full range of services, including massages, facials, body scrubs, sauna, yoga with a personal trainer, or a soak in an outdoor mineral pool. After exploring the sumptuous golf links and enjoying a refreshing spa treatment, the hotel's shuttle can whisk you to their nearby beach property for a saltwater stroll. For information on this incredible golf and spa destination resort, call (239) 598-3300.

So enjoy a few days by the crystalline waters, sip wine in a soft sea breeze, and explore this evocative Mediterranean-style city that is one of America's treasures. Naples awaits you and its charming residents are sure to welcome you with a smile.

Elegance, Southern Style

 

This April, agents and buyers will gather in genteel Columbus, Georgia to bid on a spectacular Southern mansion surrounded by manicured European gardens. Constructed in 1938 by the city's mayor and beautifully restored in 2006, this columned jewel features 8,400 sq. ft. of living and entertaining space and 4.3 acres of lush grounds. It features 6 bedrooms and 6.5 bathrooms.

Grand Estates Auction Company, the industry leader in auctions of luxury real estate, will conduct an absolute auction of this Iconic Greek Revival home at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, April 16. Located across from exclusive Country Club of Columbus, this property has been the site of many charity events and society parties throughout the years. With soaring ceilings over 10 ft. inside the home, and extensive covered slate patio and brick-lined pool decks outside, the home is the perfect setting for stylish entertaining.

This home's elegant facade evokes the gentility of the Deep South, with high Corinthian columns, a portico and a Juliet balcony off the second floor's master suite. Inside, a grand entrance hall and spiral staircase welcomes guests. Just off the entrance hall is the spacious living room, beautifully finished with exquisite dentil crown molding, chair rail and heart pine floors. Fabulous luxury home features include floor-to-ceiling windows and several gas fireplaces with marble hearths.

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Also on the home's main floor is a formal dining room, which features warm heart pine floors, ceilings of nearly 11' in height, and intricate crown molding. Again, floor-to-ceiling windows offer beautiful views of the surrounding trees and English-style gardens. Adjacent to the dining room is the gourmet chef's kitchen, spectacularly updated with a six-burner Viking cooktop, stainless steel appliances, two sinks and refrigerators, granite countertops, custom cabinetry, a marble central island and a walk-in butler's pantry. Next to the kitchen is the bright and airy breakfast nook, an inviting spot for more casual family meals.

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Upstairs, the estate's master suite is a luxurious oasis. The enormous room features a 10' ceiling, oak floors and elegant grasscloth wallcovering. For privacy and convenience, the en suite master bath features two separate walk-in closets, dressing cabinets, pedestal sinks, showers and toilets. There is also a soaking tub with a marble surround, and extensive storage for linens and toiletries. The guest bedroom suites include a private suite on the first floor and four bedrooms and baths upstairs ideal for children or guests.

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The elegance of traditional Southern architecture is personified in the home's magnificent sunroom, located on the back of the house. This glass-lined room has slate floors and is an ideal spot for entertaining or relaxing with family. Just off the sunroom is a slate-lined covered patio that seats up to 80 dinner guests, and overlooks the brick-lined patio and newly renovated saltwater pool. The estate also offers several acres of European-style gardens, with manicured boxwood hedges, gazebo and lighted badminton court. The gardens would be a glorious setting for a family wedding or casual family relaxation. There is also an outdoor grill and cooking area for barbecues.

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Columbus, Georgia is one of the New South's most dynamic small cities. This warm community offers many renowned cultural institutions like the River Center for the Performing Arts, where the Columbus Symphony Orchestra performs regularly. The Columbus Museum houses a collection of fine artworks and traveling exhibits. Columbus has several excellent private golf courses, include the Country Club of Columbus across the street from the home, and is the headquarters of leading companies like AFLAC. In 2010, Columbus was named One of the Top 100 Places to Live by RelocateAmerica.com.

Don't miss this opportunity to own this magnificent Southern estate in genteel Columbus, Georgia! Learn more about this exciting auction event, which includes previews from April 12-16. Come Prepared to Bid and Buy!™

The auction of the property will begin promptly at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, April 16. Previews of the property will begin at 11 a.m. on April 12 and continue through the morning of the auction. Buyers may contact Grand Estates Auction Company’s auction information office to schedule an appointment during one of the preview times by calling

Equestrian’s Paradise for Absolute Auction

 

Later this month, discerning horse owners will have a rare opportunity to purchase an exclusive, five-acre estate in beautiful Naples, Florida, with extensive stables and riding access to magnificent Picayune Strand Forest State park – one of only two properties in Collier County with this desirable amenity.

Grand Estates Auction Company, the industry leader in auctions of luxury real estate, will conduct an absolute auction of this beautiful tropical estate at 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 26. A jewel acquisition for any serious equestrian, the main house is 3,780 square feet under roof including the garage, with 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and recently redesigned in 2012.

The home’s elegant interior, with a contemporary open floor plan, soaring vaulted ceilings and exquisite design details, is perfect for entertaining guests. The chef’s kitchen is outfitted with granite countertops, rich pine cabinetry and new, stainless steel appliances of the finest quality.

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Each of the bedrooms is its own complete private suite, with luxurious en suite baths and extensive closets. The master suite includes an enormous 4X6 glassed shower practically a separate room outfitted in stone tile and featuring five shower heads, including a tropical rain shower overhead. Another suite may be closed off from the rest of the home for complete privacy.

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Yet the most remarkable features of the property lay beyond the walls of the spacious main house. State-of-the-art stables contain six stalls for your favorite horses, and can be easily expanded to accommodate up to ten stalls. This unique complex is an equestrian’s – and a horse’s – dream, complete with upgraded padded flooring, automatic waterers, fans, and hay racks. There is a fully-appointed tack room and wash area with two wash racks, along with runways leading to the quarter-mile exercise ring around the property’s private pond. The property has low taxes and is zoned agricultural, allowing for up to ten horses, a uniquely desirable feature. 

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This Naples estate also offers a saltwater pool and in-ground spa in the screened lanai, along with an outdoor shower and bath, and meticulously landscaped grounds. Each window and door is designed to the highest hurricane codes, with hurricane glass throughout. The property is fully gated, features a 3.5 car attached garage with storage and attic, a 12-kilowatt generator, and is located within a few miles of the elegant shopping and dining of downtown Naples’ Fifth Avenue, the sugary sand beaches of the Gulf of Mexico, and the exclusive golf and country clubs of this splendid enclave city in southwest Florida.

Don’t miss this opportunity to own this rare equestrian estate property in beautiful Naples! Learn more about this exciting auction event, which includes six previews from March 16-26. Come Prepared to Bid and Buy!™

 

The auction of the property will begin promptly at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, March 26th. Previews of the property begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 16th, continuing through the morning of the auction. Buyers may contact Grand Estates Auction Company’s auction information office to schedule an appointment during one of the preview times by calling (877)-427-6735 or (704)-697-1811.

3 Unique Ways to See Steamboat

 

Everyone knows Steamboat is great for skiing and horseback riding. But what if riding and skiing aren’t your thing? Steamboat is far too beautiful to spend your time sitting inside a ski lodge watching everyone else have a good time. So, grab your camera (and a jacket!), and enjoy Steamboat your way. Here are three of our favorite ways to take in the ‘Boat.

Hot Air Ballooning

What better way to see the majestic mountains than from above? Plan a morning with Wild West Ballooning taking in the breathtaking Flat Top Mountain and the inactive volcano, Hahn’s Peak, while you nibble on breakfast. Upon touch down, sip on some champagne at the post-flight champagne celebration. The views are guaranteed to be unparalleled.

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Snowmobiling & Jeep Tours

Hot air ballooning a little too slow for your tastes? Not a problem. Head over to Elkhorn Snomobile Adventures. Whether you choose snowmobiling or a Jeep tour, your heart is sure to be racing. With access to over 100 miles of trails and 100,000 acres of fields to ride in, half and full day excursions, meals available, and free tubing for all guests, you may never want to leave!

Elkhorn Snomobile

 

Luxury Dude Ranch

Or, perhaps you’re looking to spend more than just a day taking in Steamboat. If that’s the case, Vista Verde may be the perfect place for you. This all-inclusive guest ranch has it all – indoor riding arena, swimming pool, cross-country skiing, sleigh rides, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, hot tubs, wood burning fireplaces, gourmet meals, yoga, massage – the list is endless.

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Whatever you decide, dress warm, bring a camera, and show us your photos!

 

Photo Credits:

Wild West Ballooning

Elkhorn Snomobile Adventures

Vista Verde Guest Ranch

 

 

Top 5 favorite things to do in Bozeman, MT

 

We’ve all heard of those mythical places that are off the radar and are known by only a few people. It’s a vacation place where only the upper crust - the “people in the know” - head to. Well, Bozeman, Montana is one of those places and for good reason. Also known as, “The Gem of Big Sky Country”, Bozeman is almost too good to be true.

 

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But please, keep this a secret…

Though there are hundreds of amazing and delicious destinations to visit in Bozeman, we have narrowed it down to five; five places you have to check out. We suggest you open another browser whilst reading and plan your flight!

 

Cosmic Pizza

Not all pizza is created equal. When walking into this tiny restaurant, the first thing that you experience is the smell. The aroma that fills the air is warm, delicious, and will make your mouth water. Cosmic Pizza opened in 2002 on W. Main, and has people all over the world raving about their intergalactic pies. Thin crust, thick crust, wheat, hand-tossed, or gluten free, they have something for everyone.  Customers have rated this dive a 5 out of 5 on Yelp and have more positive comments than any other pizza place in the county.  We recommend The Mother Earth pizza. It has roasted broccoli, asparagus, cucumber, tomatoes, their savory sauce, and we added pepperoni. However, they suggest The Super Nova Combo and The Star Gazer. Please let us know what you think, but not with your mouthful!

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Your life might not be complete until you have had a Cosmic Pizza! Also, you can collect the letters on your boxes. If you spell COSMIC PIZZA, you get a free medium pizza of your choice, including the specialty pizzas.

 

Lone Mountain Ranch

Ranking #1 for lodging in the area, Lone Mountain Ranch is a place like no other. This Dude ranch is in a league of its own. With unbelievable scenery and location, your breath will be taken away. What separates Lone Mountain Ranch from the others is their exceptional wait staff, a broad selection of first class wines, and scrumptious gourmet creations from Chef Johnny. Their high ranking is not a surprise. If you’re looking to get outdoors, their activity staff is superb, knowledgeable, accommodating, and caring. Activities from horseback riding, fly fishing, white water rafting, hiking, and mountain biking are just a few sporty interests they have in store for the adventurous.

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During the winter season, Lone Mountain Ranch features horse-drawn sleighs to their remote North Fork cabin for a very special dinner cooked on an old fashioned wood-fired cook stove, and also features dogsled adventure from Spirit of the North at Moonlight Basin. Guests have access to stunning landscape normally closed to the public and a truly unique form of winter travel. If you would like a little more adventure, try your hand at driving the sled.

 

Norris Hot Springs

Just outside of Bozeman lays a local landmark and geothermal wonder. Discover an exclusive place for relaxation, rejuvenation, and inspiration all year round. Dip yourself and lay back in the 105 degree pools (temperature slightly dropping in the summer). There are a series of artesian springs pools that populate the area filled with hot mineral water, flowing at a constant 60 gallons per minute.

MT Bozeman Norris Hot Springs

Relaxation is just the beginning, benefits from hot mineral springs include: increased blood circulation and cell oxygenation, helps dissolve and eliminate toxins from the body, increases the flow of oxygen-rich blood throughout the body, bringing improved nourishment to vital organs and tissues, and increases body metabolism. The direct application of mineralized thermal waters can have a therapeutic effect on the skin and also help the healing of wounds and other skin injuries. Norris Hot Springs is known for its healing and tranquil properties. This natural spa is open to the few that are privy to its existence.

 

Moonlight Basin

Located in Big Sky, skiers and snowboarders of every level enjoy the perfectly groomed runs, deep powder moguls, and great trails. Their expert team has a wide variety of lessons designed for beginners to experts and those that just need a refresher course. Moonlight Basin has numerous lodging options for you to choose from, including beautiful chalets, luxury cabins, and custom homes.

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Amenities include full service spa, workout facilities, full bar, and a Jack Nicklaus signature golf course. Also, Moonlight Basin offers many activities - hikes, tours, horseback riding, rock climbing, and much more. The most impressive feature of this world-class resort is the activities all year round.

 

Yellowstone National Park

Established as America's very first national park in 1872, Yellowstone stretches through Montana into two other states – Wyoming and Idaho. Yellowstone National Park is the site of many of the world’s most extraordinary geysers and hot springs, including the famed Old Faithful. There is no park like Yellowstone on the planet.

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In this large park you might see Grizzlies, Big Horn Sheep, Moose, Elk, Deer, Pronghorn, Coyotes, Black Bear, and of course, Buffalo. Venture to the beautiful Yellowstone Basin were you can see the giant, active, volcanic caldera. Besides the remarkable geologic activity, you can witness geysers (yes, Old Faithful, too), mud pots, and thermal pools everywhere. We recommend staying in West Yellowstone, which is conveniently located a few blocks away from the North Entrance. This area has plenty of lodging, supplies, and restaurants, and the North Entrance is open all year round to vehicles.  One hint: Bring your camera; it isn’t every day you explore Yellowstone, and you will regret a visit with under 101 pictures.

Bozeman, Montana - who knew? Well, now you do! Enjoy and safe travels.

 

Image Credits:

http://www.cosmispizza.net

http://www.lonemountainranch.com/

http://scubadoo.wordpress.com/hot-springs/

http://www.moonlightbasin.com/

http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/

 

Happy New Year!

 

Now that the hustle and bustle of the holidays is over and everyone is settling back into their normal routines, we wanted to take a moment to wish everyone a happy and prosperous new year. We hope you’ve had time over the last few weeks to relax, spend time with your loved ones, and recharge - it’s time to get this new year off to an amazing start! Here’s a sneak peak of what Grand Estates has in store:

 

Steamboat Springs, CO – February 20, 2013

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First up is this beautiful mountain estate in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Aside from the obvious mountain views and nearby skiing, Steamboat Springs also offers fishing, rafting, tubing, kayaking, hiking, and the century-old Steamboat Springs Winter Carnival – one of National Geographic’s world’s 10 best winter carnivals – along with numerous other dining, entertainment, and sporting activities.

The property itself rests on 53+/- horse-friendly acres and is loaded with amenities – everything from the private gated drive to the theater room to the heated indoor pool. Nothing has been overlooked in this veritable modern-day castle.

 

Bozeman, MT – February 26, 2013

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Next up is this picturesque Bozeman, Montana estate. The 20+/- acre lot affords all the privacy one could want while still retaining the convenience of being just 4 miles outside town. Nestled in the Gallatin Valley of the Western Rocky Mountains, Bozeman enjoys a respite from the extreme climate changes known throughout other parts of Montana, making it ideal for year-round recreation – cultural festivals, skiing, hiking, biking, golf, dining, fishing, hunting, and so much more.

Whether you’re planning a long day hiking through Yellowstone or a quiet night of movies by the fire, this 8 bedroom, 6.5 bath Western Contemporary estate provides the perfect family getaway. 

Key West, FL – February 27, 2013

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Last but not least, we have something a bit warmer – a spectacular turn-of-the-century Victorian estate in Key West, Florida. Nestled on a 14,000+/- square foot lot within walking distance of shopping, dining, and entertainment destinations, the home features 4 bedrooms and 4.5 baths, plus a 3 bedroom, 3 bath guest house.

Whether you’re sipping cocktails on the wrap-around porch, entertaining in the semi-formal dining room, taking a dip in the pool, or relaxing in the spa, we’re sure you’ll love this lush, tropical retreat.

 

Click here for more details & to order brochures.

Lake Lanier Estate Sold for $2.1 Million

 

Grand Estates, the industry leader for luxury real estate auctions, is proud to announce the auction of our Lake Lanier estate for $2.1 million on Thursday, December 13th at absolute auction. The 8,175 square-foot home featuring an additional 3,000 square feet of outdoor living space generated more than 4,300 website visits, 250 inquiries from 24 states and Canada, 64 preview appointments, and 11 registered bidders on auction day.

“Absolute auctions expedite the real estate process to the mutual benefit of buyers and sellers,” stated Stacy Kirk Reich, president of Charlotte-based Grand Estates Auction Company.  “A Grand Estates absolute auction combines one-of-a-kind properties, extensive marketing, thorough due diligence, and the air of excitement that only live auction can create.”

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Absolute auctions are truly unique because they require no minimum bid or reserve price, and they are growing in popularity with buyers and sellers of luxury real estate throughout the world due to their timeliness and transparency. There are no contingencies, no lengthy negotiations, and timelines for closing are already set up. The winning bidder of the Lake Lanier property flew in by helicopter the morning of the auction to preview the estate situated on 4.72 acres of forested land including two floating docks on 402 feet of shoreline, after learning of it just one day prior. He registered as a bidder and purchased the property that same day. Closing will take place within 30 days.

“Although it may seem that learning of the property less than 24 hours prior to the scheduled auction would make it nearly impossible for a buyer to participate, the professionals at Grand Estates were committed to bringing all interested parties to the scheduled auction,” stated Ken George, the seller of the lakeside estate.  “I had total confidence in my team and the absolute auction process.”

The new owner, a commercial real estate executive from South Florida, is excited to begin enjoying his lakeside oasis at its fullest in charming Dawsonville, just outside Atlanta. With luxury residential real estate prices increasing slightly in key luxury markets and inventory showing signs of leveling over the last few months, he understood that now is the time to buy a luxury property. The absolute auction process ensured the property was sold at true market value at a time when economic indicators are still fluctuating and open to some interpretation.

“The Grand Estates team was extremely professional and expertly managed a successful auction sales and marketing campaign,” continued George.  “The absolute auction process generated tremendous interest that far surpassed the activity level of a traditional listing and resulted in obtaining true market value for the property.”

This is the second successful sale for Grand Estates Auction Company in Georgia this year.  This summer, Grand Estates successfully sold the Athens-area lake retreat of legendary country singer Kenny Rogers, resulting in the highest sales price in a two-county area in two years.

Following this success, we look forward to our next two endeavors: Steamboat Springs, Colorado and Bozeman, Montana. These luxury homes will be sold at absolute auction on February 20th & February 26th, respectively. To learn more about Grand Estates, click here!

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