Environmental Stewardship

At Chaffin/Light Associates, we know it's possible to create communities that have a minimal effect on the environment, yet have an immense effect on people's lives. Places that leave the land, air and water virtually unchanged, yet alter the way neighbors, friends and families live together forever.  We know it's possible, because it's what we do. What we've always done.

Conservation-based development has been the company's guiding principle for 30 years.  Large open spaces and trails protected by conservation easements and deed covenants mean future generations will live on the land much as the present generation does today.  The Preserve's Habitat Review Committee was created to review and approve the architectural design of every home, with the goal of ensuring that homes blend into the natural environment rather than overpower it.  In fact, there is no minimum square footage requirement here, allowing owners to design the proper home for their needs while maintaining a light footprint on the land.

The non-profit Balsam Mountain Trust, which acts as the steward of the 3,000 acre Preserve, was created by Chaffin/Light to ensure the land here is properly managed for current and future generations of residents.  The Trust is funded by real estate transfer fees which are payable each time a property is purchased, ensuring that a perpetual funding mechanism for the Trust is always in place.  Both the Trust and the Habitat Review Committee strongly promote green building practices.

" We have a spectacular lot at 4,500 feet with nearly 270 degree views.  We are part of a very small community of homes surrounded by 3,000 acres of protected land in a community of like-minded people who love nature and are interested in protecting it".

- John and Charlotte Curtis, Waynesville, North Carolina