High Ground Development is a locally-owned Real Estate Development company based in Charleston SC.
We are a boutique real estate development firm that specializes in value-add commercial and multifamily projects across the greater Charleston, South Carolina market. Our mission is to breathe new life into older properties by implementing innovative designs and creative enhancements while maintaining the integrity of the original structures. Focused primarily on distressed properties, we collaborate with local owners, financial institutions, equity partners, and other professionals to transform these spaces into attractive work environments and affordable housing opportunities. Our dedication to revitalizing neglected properties fuels our passion for smart development and positive transformation.
Our Projects
In addition to financing select investments internally, we also engage in strategic partnerships with equity investors for larger projects. Our strong network, cultivated with local contractors, banks, and other professionals, has yielded a dynamic portfolio valued at around $20 million in assets. We prioritize cultivating these relationships throughout each deal’s lifecycle, while providing investors a lucrative return on their investments. With a demonstrated track record, we approach each opportunity with confidence and expertise, leveraging innovative solutions to close deals successfully.
Explore our portfolio to see past projects we’ve closed over the last few years.
About Us
Taylor Blanks
High Ground Development | Partner
taylor@hgdevelopment.net
More About Taylor
A Lynchburg, Virginia native, Taylor relocated to Charleston in 2004 to pursue his education at the College of Charleston. His journey into real estate investment began in 2010, when he began steadily building a diverse portfolio of long-term residential rental units and overseeing small-scale residential development projects. Throughout his tenure as a real estate appraiser from 2013 to 2021, Taylor continued to expand his investment ventures, acquiring additional rental properties and exploring new development opportunities. Presently, Taylor’s portfolio encompasses a mix of long and short-term rental units spread across the Charleston area. In 2021, driven by his passion for real estate and entrepreneurship, Taylor transitioned from his role as an appraiser to co-found High Ground Development alongside fellow College of Charleston graduate, Smith Brownell.
Smith Brownell
High Ground Development | Partner
Smith@HGDevelopment.net
More About Smith
Born and raised in Greenville, SC, Smith ventured to Charleston to pursue his education at the College of Charleston from 2002-2006. Delving into the hospitality industry, he cultivated strong local networks before transitioning to real estate. Between 2012 and 2021, Smith made significant steps at RCB Development, honing his expertise in property and construction management while sourcing profitable investments for the company. During his tenure, he spearheaded transactions exceeding $25 million in value across multifamily and industrial sectors. In 2021, seizing an opportunity alongside his College of Charleston confidant, Taylor Blanks, Smith co-founded High Ground Development, marking the inception of a promising partnership.
Contact Us
937 Wappoo Road
Building 5
Charleston, SC 29407
Taylor Blanks
Taylor@hgdevelopment.net
Smith Brownell
Smith@hgdevelopment.net