New Community in Clayton Blends Nature With Upscale Living

Equestrian Center and riding trails just part of what makes Portofino a unique lifestyle for Johnston County

(Clayton, NC) July 12, 2007 – The Walthom Group of Clayton has announced the creation of Portofino, a unique and extraordinary blend of the natural beauty Johnston County offers coupled with a luxury lifestyle. The 300-acre site located off NC 42 East will be a gated community featuring wooded lots, access to the Neuse River and breathtaking elevations and terrain.

The Walthom Group has gone to great lengths to make Portofino a one-of-a-kind community for Johnston County. Each home will be outfitted with state-of-the-art high-speed fiber optic communications and the amenities will include some of the finest recreation facilities in the area.

Residents of Portofino will enjoy several unique amenities including walking and riding nature trails, elevated bridges, canoe and kayak drop-ins, and tennis courts. In addition, Portofino’s swim club will provide residents with a spa-like experience with a newly-designed beach-entry pool and spacious private club house.

What really makes Portofino stand out is that it will be the first Johnston County community to offer its own fully-staffed horse stable and indoor riding arena. Residents will be able to board their horses at the facility; and the indoor riding facility will provide a unique venue for shows and other events.

“In addition to the exceptional quality of life that the amenities will provide to residents of Portofino, the Equestrian Center will be the crown jewel of the community,” said Norwood Thompson of the Walthom Group. “This modern horse facility will allow horse enthusiasts to keep their horses close-by and at the same time offer an indoor riding arena that won’t be found anywhere else in this area.”

Portofino will feature 267 large private lots for traditional and contemporary single family homes designed and built by 10 local builders specifically chosen for the community. Home prices will start at $360,000, with river lot homes starting at $1,000,000.

Although Portofino offers a relaxed place to call home, the community is located off Highway 42 near downtown Clayton, which is 15 minutes from Raleigh and 30 minutes from the Research Triangle Park (RTP).

Sales of Portofino will be handled by HomeTowne Realty of Clayton. The on-site Sales Center is scheduled to open in Fall 2007.

About Portofino

Portofino is a 300-acre upscale community located on NC 42 East in Johnston County. The community has 267 breathtaking lots with a choice of 10 local custom builders. Bordered by the Neuse River, Portofino offers an exceptional luxury lifestyle with convenience to Raleigh and the Research Triangle Park. Its swim club, clubhouse and fully-staffed stables and equestrian center make Portofino a one-of-a-kind community for Johnston County. For more information, call 919-553-3785 or visit www.portofinonc.com.