Highlands, North Carolina
SperlingViews

Business Environment - 3/5/2011

I have run two businesses in Highlands. It is a very seasonal business trend. The rents are high and so is the cost of doing business, including labor cost, cost of goods, cost of repairs. To be successful in Highlands, you have to work your business daily and know the seasonal trends. Businesses are expected to support an over abundance of non-profits, they have taken the heart out of generosity. The client-el are upper crust and know the differences in quality. The town government enforces its ordinances based on a wink and nod politics. I was very successful here as are others. Several people come to town during peak periods and see a crowded main street and it looks like a no brainier. You need to come during the lengthy off season and really do your home work. Several good people have come and left in a year a two. It is a safe place to live and do business. The school is suspect. People are nice and the weather is great April thru November. The cost of living is high. Overall it is not for everyone but if you can it here you will have a great life.[more...]

Step up to the high roller's club - 4/15/2007

A beautiful mountain resort area with cool summers, Highlands has become the mecca for Southern High Roller to "summer". Restaurants, country clubs, elite shops, and expensive trophy homes abound. For people of money, this is a great playground from May through October. For the rest of us, it's a very expensive place to live year round, and secluded from mainstream commodities and affordability. Tough winters with not enough summer payback.[more...]