Our Story
We help people get away, relax, and become immersed in the lifestyle surrounding them. It started when our founder, Johnny, thoughtfully curated the first vacation retreat he built. He bet big, and it paid off. Renters came, they stayed, and they returned. Escaping the city life in an intentional space offered a break from the 9-5 grind. It also provided perspective and inspiration to return recharged like never before.
Hosting guests gave meaning to each home, and Johnny found that sharing his expertise in creating unique vacation havens helped other homeowners succeed. Shanti Mountain Properties opened its doors welcoming guests and homeowners in 2009. Since then, we’ve grown into a thriving short-term vacation rental and boutique property management agency.
Renting or owning a dream vacation home is easy…
We handle all the details so savvy travelers can send their worries packing. For homeowners, we care for their home like it’s our own, giving them more time to enjoy life.
Our People
Johnny Hairfield, Founder
Johnny, a graduate of Appalachian State with a degree in industrial technology and a concentration in sustainable technologies, has spent the last 14 years mastering the art of real estate investing, design, and property management, specifically vacation rental management. In 2009, he built his first short-term rental property with the goal of providing a sanctuary for people to recharge and reset from the everyday grind, thus launching Shanti Mountain Properties. With a keen sense of minimalist living and a love for travel, Johnny gradually grew the company to serve the greater Asheville community.
With a kind and humorous approach, Johnny now consults with homeowners on their investment properties, manages the SMP team and handles his executive duties with the company. He believes in living the lifestyle you want and having a meaningful career, “living what you do.”
When he isn’t overseeing Shanti Mountain Properties, Johnny spends time with his wife and three young daughters. He is proficient in Sil-Lum Kung Fu martial arts, an avid traditional archery enthusiast and a lover of music, playing the guitar and old-time Irish fiddle in his free time.
Sarah J. Burnham, CPA, Fractional CFO
Sarah is a native of Asheville and spent her summers in the northeast with her grandparents. She completed her bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in Thun, Switzerland. Sarah also holds a master’s in accounting from Appalachian State University. After college, Sarah began her accounting career as an auditor for KPMG Peat Marwick in Charlotte, NC. She then worked as an auditor for Deloitte & Touche and moved to Hickory, NC. After working in public accounting as an auditor, Sarah served as an in-house controller for a commercial real estate company. She later opened and managed her own consulting and fractional CFO practice for over 19 years. As part of the Shanti team, Sarah provides fractional CFO services, training on our accounting software, and more for clients.
When Sarah isn’t working with numbers, she enjoys hiking, traveling, reading a good book, walking through town, and visiting family all over the country. Sarah’s an animal lover at heart but especially loves dogs. NC CPA Certificate ##25889 | NC Firm #28563
Rebecca “Becky” Rice, Director of Operations & Financial Controller
Before joining our team, Becky held various retail and customer service positions. She came to Shanti Mt. Properties looking for a better work-life balance and future growth opportunities. Under the leadership and guidance of John, Becky quickly evolved in her role with Shanti. She loves what she does, and every day is an adventure, never a routine.
You’ll find Becky wearing many hats for Shanti, including managing inventory, hiring, managing housekeeping, communicating with customers, onboarding new clients, financial reporting, and more.
It isn’t uncommon for Becky to devour a 300-page book in one day in her spare time. She has a great love for animals and has two dogs, an 18-year-old poodle, and a 2-year-old shepherd mix.
Elizabeth “Libby” Watson, Quality Control
Libby helps ensure our standard of excellence for our guests and homeowners. Before joining our team, she worked in retail and performed small jobs. Libby also pursued some college courses. She’s excellent in an emergency because she’s trained in first aid and as a lifeguard. In her spare time, Libby enjoys hiking, outdoor activities, photographing nature, and traveling when she can.
John Tully,
Maintenance Technician/Groundskeeper
John is a highly skilled and experienced maintenance technician and groundskeeper with a strong background in property management. He has experience in the industry and has a proven track record of successfully maintaining and repairing a wide range of properties. He is also a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, where he gained valuable skills in leadership, organization, and attention to detail.
John is well-versed in all aspects of property maintenance. He is able to work efficiently and effectively, both independently and as part of a team. He is also able to troubleshoot and resolve problems quickly and effectively, ensuring that all properties under his care are well-maintained and in good condition.
In addition to his technical skills, John is known for his strong work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to work well under pressure. He is dedicated to providing excellent customer service and is always willing to go above and beyond to ensure that tenants are satisfied with the condition of their properties.
When he is not working, John enjoys staying active and spending time outdoors. He is also a dedicated supporter of veterans’ organizations and is actively involved in community outreach programs.
Overall, John is an asset to any property management team and his military background adds a unique set of skills and mindset that makes him a valuable asset.
Michael R Carter REAL ESTATE OPERATIONS & BROKER IN CHARGE
Michael is a native of Asheville and Western North Carolina.
During the friendship and sharing some common interest with our Founder, he joined the Shanti Mountain Properties team.
His background started by obtaining a Computer Science and Information Systems degree, he worked for a large North Carolina Bank managing computer systems related to banking operations.
During this time he also became a Commercial Insurance Agent specializing in Risk Management in the Insurance Industry.
These interests merged later and evolved to obtaining a North Carolina Real Estate Broker Certification.
His experience in Real Estate started as a Property Manager of large Homeowner Associations working with multiple Board of Directors and homeowners. Many issues relating to all facets of Real Property Management including relations with Directors, Owners, Contractors, Attorneys, Insurance firms, and many more were utilized at all times.
These insights and associations provided Michael the skill set to manage real estate operations, agents, and firms with Shanti Mountain Properties.
Michael spends time outdoors with his dogs, Aussie (Ellie) and Golden Retriever (Leo), Mountain Biking, Snow Skiing, Boating, Scuba Diving and just about all the great outdoors has for us.
Melanie Bradley, Field Manager
Melanie is an experienced and dedicated property manager with a deep understanding of the industry. She has a proven track record of effectively managing a wide range of properties, from small apartment buildings to large commercial properties. With her skills in leasing, maintenance, budgeting and her excellent hospitality experience, she is able to provide a warm and welcoming environment for tenants while also ensuring the properties under her management are well-maintained and profitable. Melanie’s strong communication skills, attention to detail, and her passion for providing top-notch customer service make her a valuable asset to any property management team. She is committed to going above and beyond for tenants and landlords alike, always striving to create a positive and seamless experience. When she is not working, Melanie enjoys horse riding, which she finds to be a great way to relax and unwind.
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Get in Touch
Vacation Home Rental & Corporate Housing Agency in Asheville, NC
(262) 922-8806
Monday – Friday: 8am – 5pm
