Hi, I'm Gary R. Ward

Thirty-two years ago, Gary and his wife of 35 years, Susan, followed their love for nature to the North Georgia Mountains, seeking a life rooted in open spaces and tranquility. They claimed their piece of paradise 26 years ago when they purchased farmland in Hayesville, NC, where they raised two sons amid a small flock of sheep and rows of culinary mushrooms. Today, with their sons grown, Gary delights in sharing the joys of farm life with his two granddaughters, nurturing their curiosity about the land he cherishes. This deep connection to nature and family has shaped Gary’s outlook, filling him with an appreciation for the mountains that goes beyond their scenic beauty—it’s about the memories they hold and the life they sustain.

Inspired by this bond with the land, Gary embarked on a real estate career in 1999, determined to help others find their own haven in Western North Carolina and the North Georgia Mountains to call home. As a Realtor and Broker for Advantage Chatuge Realty, he’s earned a reputation as a top realtor with over a quarter of a century of expertise. Known as one of the best real estate agents in the region, Gary specializes in lakefront property, riverfront homes, and farmland, blending his intimate knowledge of the area with a commitment to personalized service. He believes a home—whether it’s a serene lakefront retreat, a riverfront escape, or sprawling farmland—is where families grow, dream, and thrive. Clients trust Gary, often calling him the best realtor for his skill and care in guiding them to mountain lakefront or riverfront retreats that match their vision. When he’s not working as a top real estate agent, you’ll find him hiking the Blue Ridge trails or tending the farm with Susan, sharing his passions with his granddaughters. Through every step—whether helping a client settle into their perfect home or savoring the mountain life he loves—Gary embodies the spirit of Western North Carolina.