HINSDALE TO THE CLIFFS

Hinsdale native, Roy Hawthorne of Justin Winter and Associates, Forbes Global Properties is taking his real estate expertise to new heights at the stunning Cliffs Communities in the Western Carolinas. With more than 30 years of selling luxury real estate in Chicago and the Western Suburbs, Hawthorne now guides Illinois residents to the place he’s come to love.

Hawthorne and his wife find it hard to pinpoint just one reason why the Western Carolinas are so captivating. “For me, it’s the seven award-winning private golf courses, and for my wife, it’s the endless mountain trails for hiking and biking,” he says. “For others, it might be the stunning beauty of Lake Keowee, or the vibrant cultural scene in Greenville.” The change of scenery has been both refreshing and inspiring. “I feel reinvigorated—I truly believe I’ve found the perfect place to live and work,” he says.

Hawthorne splits his time between Hinsdale and South Carolina, offering a personalized approach to introducing clients to Greenville. He starts by visiting clients at their homes in the Chicago area to discuss everything Greenville and the Cliffs have to offer. After that, he coordinates and leads tailored real estate tours in South Carolina, allowing them to experience it firsthand. “I’ll take them to all of the Cliffs Communities showing them the golf courses, clubhouses, marinas, wellness centers, and, depending on what’s right for the client, we’ll look at available homes and homesites,” he says. “Watching them experience the lifestyle, the climate, and the amenities is really gratifying.”

With extensive real estate expertise, Hawthorne brings hands-on experience as the owner of two successful companies: one that has built dozens of new construction homes and condos, and another that has rehabbed and flipped properties. This dual background enhances his skill set. “I have a deep understanding of real estate not just as an investment but also of home construction, allowing me to spot issues in homes that other agents might overlook,” he says. “Like my clients, I started as a buyer. I’ve researched the area, interviewed the builders, and experienced the Cliffs lifestyle firsthand, so I can provide genuine and informed advice”.

Hawthorne is dedicated to helping clients find their ideal home—whether it’s a piece of land for a custom build, a fixer-up-per ready for remodeling, or a move-in-ready property. He draws on his own experience of discovering and falling in love with the Western Carolinas to guide them. Clients appreciate not only his expertise but also his extensive network of referrals for architects, builders, and tradespeople, ensuring they have access to top-tier resources at every stage of the process.

South Carolina’s Upstate region is a hidden gem, boasting breathtaking landscapes, a mild climate, and endless opportunities for an active outdoor lifestyle. With the right guidance, finding the perfect property here can be an exciting and seamless journey. It’s no wonder Hawthorne believes Greenville and the Cliffs make a lasting impression. “I’ve yet to meet anyone who didn’t fall in love with Greenville and the Cliffs,” he says.

Justin Winter and Associates, Forbes Global Properties, 773-531-0311, justinwinter.com, royhawthorne.com.