Record Sale at The Cliffs at Walnut Cove: $9.5 Million Estate Sets Community Benchmark

ARDEN, N.C. (March 30, 2026) — A contemporary mountain estate in The Cliffs at Walnut Cove has sold for $9,500,000, setting a new record for the highest residential sale within the community. The property at 515 Cloud Top Way was represented by Mark Zilbert, global real estate advisor with Premier Sotheby’s International Realty’s Asheville office. Positioned along a ridgeline at elevations between 2,500 and 3,000 feet, the residence spans 7,362 square feet across two levels on 2.46 acres, offering long-range Blue Ridge Mountain views and direct adjacency to protected forest land. Designed by Young and Young Architects and completed in 2022, the home blends contemporary architecture with natural materials, incorporating stone, wood, steel and expansive glass to frame the surrounding landscape. The six-bedroom residence includes open-concept living and entertaining spaces, a chef’s kitchen with premium appliances, a dedicated bar room and a professional-grade fitness center. Floor-to-ceiling windows maximize light and views throughout the home. Outdoor living is centered around an infinity-edge pool and spa, complemented by a cabana with motorized screens, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor experience designed for year-round use. The property also integrates advanced systems and sustainability features, including geothermal heating and cooling, solar panels, Tesla Powerwall, whole-home audio, Lutron lighting controls and a comprehensive security system. Located within one of Western North Carolina’s premier private communities, The Cliffs at Walnut Cove offers access to a Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, clubhouse, wellness facilities and extensive outdoor amenities. Quotes: “Record-setting sales within private club communities are becoming an increasingly important indicator of pricing strength across the region’s luxury housing market.” “This sale reflects continued demand for architecturally significant homes within established luxury communities like The Cliffs at Walnut Cove. Inventory at this level remains limited, particularly for properties offering this combination of design, privacy and long-range views.” Mark Zilbert, Global Real Estate Advisor, Premier Sotheby’s International Realty, Asheville office   About Premier Sotheby’s International Realty Headquartered in Naples, Florida, Premier Sotheby’s International Realty has over 1,200 real estate professionals in 40 locations throughout Florida and North Carolina. Premier Sotheby’s International Realty also benefits from an association with the storied Sotheby's auction house, established in 1744. The brokerage was founded by The Lutgert Companies, a prominent member of Southwest Florida’s business community since 1964, and is proudly associated with Peerage Realty Partners. For more information, visit premiersothebysrealty.com.