Words by Emily Davis
Photography by Courtney Snyder
Residents often choose to live on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau because they follow a vision, and a unique story represents each of those visions. Rick understands those stories well because his own life has followed a trajectory quite similar to many of his clients.
After establishing a bustling real estate career in Atlanta, Rick sought the solace of a mountain getaway in the early 2000s. Here, Rick and his family would unwind, reconnect with one another, and enjoy life on Lake Glenville. But what began as a vacation home quickly became a welcome detour for Rick’s professional life as he followed his passion for the mountain lifestyle. Like so many of our neighbors, Rick didn’t find the mountains; the mountains found him and his family.
A glance around Rick’s office reveals insight into his dedication to his family and college baseball. Memorabilia from the University of Tennessee and Auburn University is displayed prominently, reflecting the Jackson family’s involvement with both schools’ baseball programs. Rick’s straightforward demeanor reflects a confident personality that allows him to navigate complex real estate transactions, yet he softens when speaking proudly of his three children’s accomplishments.
Today, Rick works one-on-one with prospective buyers, helping them define their goals and locate the perfect property. From his warm and direct manner to his deep understanding of life on the Plateau, Rick possesses the ideal mix of skills to deliver his clients’ dreams. We recently caught up with Rick to gather his insights into local real estate and to gain a better understanding of how he uniquely approaches interactions with his clients.
How long have you been a real estate broker?
“I earned my real estate license 25 years ago and started in commercial real estate and large developments around the Atlanta area. Then, in 2008, I purchased a home on Lake Glenville. I fell in love with the Plateau and started buying and selling properties up here. That was an exciting time for real estate locally, so I decided to expand into this market."
Tell us about your background and what led you to work in real estate.
“I originally developed software using touch screen computing for data entry. I was utilizing touch screen computing back when the technology was in its infancy; in hindsight, I was probably a few years ahead of my time. After spending several years in development, I was ready to start another chapter of my life. For several months afterward, I didn’t know what I wanted to do next, but my wife, Lisa, told me to pick something and do it! I had friends in real estate, and that business intrigued me, so I started buying and selling commercial properties. One thing led to another, and I gradually transitioned into residential real estate. Residential feels much more personal, and you get to know each individual as you help them identify what’s important to them in a new home.”
Why did you choose to work with Silver Creek Real Estate Group?
“I had known Jochen (the owner of Silver Creek) for some time, and we often played golf together at the Country Club of Sapphire Valley. As my brokerage firm got busier, working together seemed like the natural next step. Silver Creek really sets the standard for real estate marketing in this region, and the brand that Jochen has created is very appealing to me. Silver Creek goes above and beyond expectations, and I wanted to get involved and move in the same direction.”
When you’re not selling real estate, how do you enjoy spending your time?
“On clear days, I spend a lot of time riding my motorcycle(s). You can’t beat mountain roads, and of course, the scenery is incredible. I also go shooting frequently, and I play a lot of golf. We have spectacular golf courses in this area.
Both my son and older daughter are involved in college baseball, so we’re at a baseball game nearly every weekend from February through June. Sara Elizabeth works for Auburn University’s baseball program, and Richard is an assistant coach at the University of Tennessee, where he also played. So, between the two of them, they’re almost always at a baseball stadium somewhere in the region on the weekends. We can head off in any direction and catch a game.
Lisa and I might be the only parents in the country whose son has two college World Series rings and whose daughter has one. Over the last 5 years, both Tennessee and Auburn have each been to the College World Series in Omaha twice. It seems we are in Omaha every year! I played baseball as well, at UT Martin in western Tennessee.”
Our third child, Parker, is a Junior at Southern Methodist University in Dallas and is looking to get into interior design when she graduates in 2025.
What goals are you working toward in 2024?
“I wouldn’t say I have one particular goal I hope to reach. The main things I strive to do are serve this community, educate clients about our area, and help buyers find the perfect property to match their wants and needs.
Whenever I sell a home, I end up becoming friends with the new owners. We go golfing together or meet up for dinner. I’ve developed many great relationships in this line of work, so it’s not just about buying and selling houses.
In that sense, I’m always reaching my goals every single day I work here. I want to continue providing that service for as many people as possible.”
What is your favorite season on the Plateau?
“I like it all! Every season on the Plateau has something special to offer. Winter is less busy, of course, so you get that cozy small-town feeling. Spring, summer, and fall are beautiful, and the weather allows you to spend time outdoors. Even though I live here most of the time anyway, I’d be thrilled to live here full-time, too.
I would say that the climate is our greatest resource. People feel drawn to the Plateau for the cooler summer temperatures and to escape the heat and humidity of places like Florida, Georgia, and Alabama. And everyone seems to love the fall season in particular because the leaves are changing color, and the views are amazing.”
What are your clients’ favorite things about life on the Plateau?
“Each person has their own reason for being here. Some people come up here primarily for the golf courses. Social people love Groovin’ on the Green on Friday nights in the summer or the Leaf Festival and the Highlands Food and Wine festival in the fall. For nature lovers who want a retreat away from the city — maybe they’re not here for events at all. They just want to wake up to a beautiful view of the mountains or look out onto one of our lakes. We truly have something for everyone.”
Outside of the Plateau, where is your favorite place to travel?
“My wife loves traveling and she goes all over, typically with a group of friends, and on occasion, I will accompany her on a trip. We’ve recently been to Europe and just returned from the Lake George area in Upstate New York. As for me, I typically prefer to stay here because I’m already living life on vacation. I get a taste of city life when I go down to Atlanta, but otherwise, I have everything I want to do right here on the Plateau.”
What advice would you give someone starting their search for a home on the Plateau?
“Come visit and spend three days or so in the area. Drive around, tour some neighborhoods, and let’s look at a variety of properties all over. You need to experience life here and see everything the area has to offer, and then we can hone in on what you specifically want. Some people aim for a golf course neighborhood with a country club, some want to live on Lake Glenville, and others prefer a more rustic cabin or even a luxury home tucked away in the woods.
I just helped a couple who love tennis, so they wanted to live near a racquet club. We found exactly what they were looking for. Many of my buyers tour several country club neighborhoods, and one in particular feels like home.
But let’s spend a few days together first so I can help you get acquainted with the area and discuss the type of life you want here. Once I get a solid idea of what matters to you, such as location and amenities, I can help you find the perfect property.”
What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned while working as a broker?
“The most important thing, to me as a broker, is to listen to what people say to you. When I start communicating with prospective buyers, they will tell me what they like. I can pick up subtle nuances regarding their tastes and lifestyle, such as the style of architecture they prefer or the activities they enjoy.
Often, my clients will send me a few listings that appeal to them, and I can put together a clear picture of what they’re looking for. Armed with that knowledge, I can often pinpoint several properties that fit their specifications. The most important thing is for me to understand what my clients value so that I can match them with the home of their dreams.”