Matt Phillips

In this episode of The Best of LKN Podcast, Jeff sits down with Matt Phillips, owner of Next Horizon Homes — one of Lake Norman’s most trusted renovation and custom-home builders. 

Matt shares his winding journey from Army flight medic to home-services entrepreneur, to now leading a Denver-based design-build firm known for transforming challenging lots, reimagining dated lake houses, and guiding clients through complex projects with clarity and confidence. 

He also dives into his new book, “Building Your Next Horizon,” a resource written specifically to help Lake Norman families understand the real math behind renovating vs. building new, what to look for in land, and how lifestyle should always drive design.

Jeff and Matt unpack the realities of land scarcity on Lake Norman, the rise of teardown opportunities, and why truly great builders start with vision long before they talk numbers. Matt also shares his passion for community — from coaching local baseball to raising his family in Denver — and the craftsmanship, transparency, and relationship-first process that has shaped Next Horizon Homes into a local favorite for both major renovations and custom builds. 

Whether you’re a homeowner, a real estate agent, or just fascinated by what it takes to build on one of the hottest lakes in the Southeast, this episode is filled with insight, great stories, and plenty of Lake Norman pride.

Next Horizon Homes

About the Host:

Jeff Hamm is the creator and producer of The Best of LKN. He’s a licensed real estate broker and accomplished digital marketing professional.

Since 2020, Jeff has been sharing the stories of Lake Norman’s most inspiring small businesses and nonprofits.

When he isn’t working, you can usually find Jeff boating, playing pickleball, cycling local greenways, and taking walks with his dogs Sam and Maisy.

Photo credit: LKN Images by Kathleen Martin