Greenwood Communities and Resorts

Background

Founded in 1978 by the Self family, Greenwood Communities and Resorts has established itself as a prominent developer and manager of resort, residential, and commercial communities across the southeastern United States. The company's mission is to create memorable places that foster meaningful and fulfilling lives, a philosophy that has guided its development of award-winning properties.

Key Strategic Focus

Greenwood's strategic focus centers on the development and management of high-quality resort and residential communities that harmonize with their natural surroundings. The company emphasizes sustainable land planning and intelligent design to enhance the living experiences of residents and guests. Its portfolio includes notable properties such as Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, and The Reserve at Lake Keowee in Sunset, South Carolina.

Financials and Funding

In 2019, Greenwood Communities and Resorts underwent a recapitalization of its senior debt with UBS Real Estate Securities, a move that strengthened the company's financial position and supported its ongoing development initiatives.

Pipeline Development

Greenwood continues to explore opportunities for developing new communities and enhancing existing properties. The acquisition of Dunes Marketing Group in 2019 expanded the company's real estate services on Hilton Head Island, enabling better integration with property owners and resort guests.

Technological Platform and Innovation

While specific proprietary technologies are not publicly disclosed, Greenwood Communities and Resorts employs advanced land planning and sustainable development practices to create communities that blend seamlessly with their environments. The company's commitment to innovation is evident in its thoughtful design and management of properties that offer unique lifestyle opportunities.

Leadership Team

Bubba Self: As CEO, Bubba Self has been instrumental in guiding Greenwood's strategic direction and overseeing its portfolio of communities and resorts.

Jay Nexsen: Serving as President, Jay Nexsen has played a key role in expanding Greenwood's services, including the acquisition of Dunes Marketing Group to enhance real estate offerings.

Soni Davis: As Vice President and Controller, Soni Davis oversees financial operations for Greenwood Communities and Palmetto Dunes Resort.

Cathy Anthony: Director of Corporate Marketing, responsible for overseeing marketing strategies across Greenwood's portfolio.

Art Fousek: IT Manager, managing the company's information technology infrastructure.

Laurie Sell: Commercial Property Manager and Project Manager, handling commercial property operations and project management.

Justin Foster: Property Manager, overseeing the management of specific properties within the company's portfolio.

Leadership Changes

In 2019, Greenwood Communities and Resorts acquired Dunes Marketing Group, with Bill Baldwin continuing as Director of Sales and Marketing and assuming the role of Broker-in-Charge.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The resort and residential community development industry in the southeastern United States is characterized by a competitive landscape with several key players. The market is driven by factors such as location desirability, quality of amenities, and sustainable development practices.

Competitor Analysis

Discovery Land Company: Founded in 1994, Discovery Land Company is a real estate development firm specializing in private residential communities and clubs across North America, the Caribbean, Europe, and the Middle East. The company focuses on creating luxury communities that offer a range of amenities and services.

Bluegreen Corporation: Bluegreen Corporation is a vacation ownership company that markets and sells vacation ownership interests (VOIs) in resorts and timeshares. The company operates a points-based system allowing owners to plan stays at various resorts.

Sun Communities: Sun Communities is a publicly traded real estate investment trust (REIT) that invests in manufactured housing communities and recreational vehicle communities. As of 2025, the company owned interests in 500 such properties in the United States, Canada, and the UK.

Rosewood Hotels & Resorts: Rosewood Hotels & Resorts is a luxury hotel and resort company operating properties worldwide. The company focuses on providing unique and luxurious experiences to its guests.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

In 2019, Greenwood Communities and Resorts acquired Dunes Marketing Group, a leading real estate firm on Hilton Head Island. This acquisition expanded Greenwood's services to include real estate sales, enhancing its ability to connect with property owners and resort guests.

Operational Insights

Greenwood's commitment to sustainable development and intelligent land planning sets it apart in the industry. The company's focus on creating communities that integrate seamlessly with their natural surroundings provides a competitive advantage in attracting residents and guests seeking unique lifestyle experiences.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Greenwood Communities and Resorts continues to explore opportunities for growth through the development of new communities and the enhancement of existing properties. The company's strong financial position, bolstered by strategic partnerships and acquisitions, positions it well to capitalize on emerging trends in the resort and residential community development industry.