Macdonald Highlands

The expression “high roller,” meaning extravagant spender or big-bet gambler, has been around since 1881, long before the miracle city of the 20th century was even a twinkle in its daddy’s eye. However, Las Vegas can be credited with inventing the indulgent accommodations integral to the high roller lifestyle: it is the home of the luxury community where multi-million dollar residences are surrounded by every pleasure.

“Vegas is such a unique animal,” said Chat Winn of Centex Destination Properties. “It’s kind of like the new Hollywood. It’s really hard to match it with anything else out there.”

According to Paula Jones, real estate broker with Prudential Americana Group and record holder for selling the most expensive home in Las Vegas in 2004, the upscale market is growing at an astounding rate. “As little as three years ago, only a handful of properties in Las Vegas sold over $1 million and in just the first six months of 2005, there have been almost 500 homes sold over $1 million. I find that no other real estate market in the world can offer what Las Vegas does,” Jones said.

MACDONALD HIGHLANDS
An incredible influx of new residents has resulted in new communities springing up all over the Valley. First the city spread to the east and then to the north. Now the latest boom is moving to the south.

MacDonald Highlands, an exclusive gated community, is one of the newer prestigious communities covering 1,200 acres of hillside nestled in the McCullough Mountains to the south of the city.

The community offers four special features: stunning luxury homes, eye-popping panoramas of the city, close proximity to McCarran International Airport, and the 18-hole championship golf course – DragonRidge Country Club, designed by Jay Morrish and David Druzisky – that meanders through the valleys at the base of the McCullough Mountains and is quickly becoming known as one of the best in the west.The community is divided into three neighborhoods with custom home sites that range from a half an acre to over five. Homebuyers can choose from a city view, a mountain view or a view of the country club. Some sites are tucked into quiet canyons while others sit on cliffs or mesas. Each neighborhood has its own 10-acre park that features tennis, basketball and volleyball courts along with play and picnic areas. Plans include hiking and walking trails that lead into the surrounding mountains.