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$315,000
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 4419435 MLS
Nearly a century of character, thoughtfully restored for the way we live today. Built in 1929, this charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath home has been a true labor of love, with the current owners spending the past five years carefully restoring and improving the property while honoring the craftsmanship and character of its era. Step inside and you'll immediately see details that simply aren't found in most newer homes—stunning original hardwood floors, substantial window and door casings, beautiful moldings and original fireplace surrounds that preserve the home's history. While the original fireplaces have been closed and are no longer in use, their craftsmanship remains an integral part of the home's character. One fireplace has been brought back to life with the addition of a wood stove, creating a wonderfully cozy gathering space. The kitchen was taken down to the studs and completely rebuilt, combining modern function with finishes thoughtfully selected to complement the home's age. Subway tile extends all the way to the ceiling, while butcher-block countertops on the island, gold-tone fixtures, custom-built pantry doors and replaced appliances create a space that feels fresh without feeling out of place in a 1929 home. That same attention to detail carries into both renovated bathrooms. Rather than simply installing contemporary finishes, the owners intentionally selected materials and fixtures that reference the home's original era. One bath features classic subway tile, rich color, traditional-style fixtures and a beautiful stained-glass transom above the door. Even the new bathtub was specifically selected for its vintage-inspired design, complemented by warm brass fixtures and carefully chosen finishes. These are renovations designed to belong in this house—not erase its history. An enclosed former porch was also completely transformed into a functional mudroom and laundry room. The floors were leveled and the space rebuilt to create an entirely new everyday-use area. And the improvements go well beyond cosmetics. Within the past five years, the owners have replaced the HVAC system, added a mini-split upstairs, upgraded the electrical, encapsulated the crawl space, installed new lighting, added new decking and provided a generator connection—with the generator conveying. A standing-seam metal roof adds another substantial improvement. Outside may be every bit as special as the interior. New pathways wind through thoughtfully created gardens filled with both ornamental plantings and an impressive collection of established edibles, including strawberries, asparagus, apples, cherries, figs, peaches, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries, along with raised garden beds and more. Relax on the deck, gather around the firepit, work in the garden or simply enjoy this tucked-away setting beneath the trees. Conveniently located near downtown and Lake James, this isn't simply an older home that has been remodeled. It is a 1929 home that has been carefully brought forward while allowing the craftsmanship, warmth and personality of its past to remain. From the gardens and outdoor spaces to the smallest interior details, the work here has been researched, considered and completed with care. Come appreciate the labor of love that's already been poured into this home—and add your own chapter to its nearly 100-year story.

55 Beaman Road, Marion

$1,700,000
3 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ 4418568 MLS
Check back soon for additional photos and a virtual tour! Experience lakefront living with expansive big-water views and a beautiful mountain backdrop from this spacious waterfront home designed to take full advantage of its exceptional setting. Multiple levels of outdoor living provide plenty of opportunities to relax, entertain and enjoy the scenery included a large screened deck, open deck areas, patio areas and direct access to the water on the boat dock. Whether boating, swimming, fishing or simply watching the sunset over the mountains, this property offers the lake lifestyle from your own backyard. Inside the home offers dramatic architectural details with numerous updates. The impressive great room features a soaring wood vaulting ceiling with exposed beams, a wall of windows showing the lake, fireplace with distinctive tile surround and built-in cabinetry and an open loft overlooking the living area. The updated kitchen offers an abundance of cabinetry, expansive countertops, stainless appliances, beverage refrigerator, large cooking area and eye-catching decorative tile accents with a gas stove cook top. Hardwood flooring and abundant natural light create a warm, inviting flow through the main living spaces. The beautifully updated primary ensuite bath offers a freestanding soaking tub, oversized tiled and glass shower, double vanity and contemporary finishes. The lower level provides flexible living and recreation space along with storage and workshop areas - ideal for accommodating the needs of full-time lake living or a weekend retreat. Additional flex bonus room potential - exercise, yoga and/or office. Owner currently have them staged as guest rooms. From the BIG-WATER and MOUNTAIN views to the privately owned dock, screened outdoor living areas and thoughtfully updated interior, this home offers an exceptional opportunity to enjoy the beauty and recreation of lakefront living.

501 Lake Club Drive, Nebo

$455,500
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 4403603 MLS
One or more photos has been virtually staged, AI generated or rendered. Architect-designed mountain homes on private 1- to 2-acre wooded homesites just eight minutes from downtown Marion and 45 minutes from Asheville. Welcome to Catatoga Trails, a thoughtfully designed mountain community where modern architecture, natural beauty and small-town charm come together just minutes from downtown Marion. On spacious 1- to 2-acre wooded homesites, Catatoga Trails offers the rare opportunity to enjoy architect-designed homes with privacy, mountain character and room to breathe, something increasingly difficult to find throughout Western North Carolina. Only eight minutes from downtown Marion, 45 minutes from Asheville and approximately two hours from Charlotte, residents enjoy convenient access to shopping, dining, healthcare and everyday essentials while remaining surrounded by some of the region's most celebrated outdoor destinations, including Lake James, Pisgah National Forest, Catawba Falls, Linville Falls, South Mountains State Park, Chimney Rock State Park and Blue Ridge Parkway. With low McDowell County taxes, simple HOA-maintained roads, short-term rentals permitted and collection of thoughtfully crafted mountain homes designed to complement the landscape, Catatoga Trails offers an exceptional lifestyle for full-time residents, second homeowners and those seeking a peaceful mountain retreat without sacrificing convenience. The Modern Cabin Getaway blends clean contemporary lines with rustic mountain warmth. Vaulted ceilings, expansive windows, and carefully selected finishes create a retreat that feels equally suited for full-time living or weekend escapes. Interior photo renderings courtesy of Alan Mascord Design Associates.

107 Catatoga Trail, Marion

$1,119,000
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 4404571 MLS
Developers, investors and mountain lovers, this is a property worth exploring. You've just found an unrestricted 18.99 acre mountain estate that has the potential to either be Old Fort's next great neighborhood, a very successful short term rental or a multi-generational legacy estate surrounded by nature. Located just 9 minutes from the breweries, shops, and the outdoor lifestyle that has Old Fort making headlines, this prime mountain property offers an extraordinary opportunity. Let's start with the development and subdivision potential. With over 1,000 feet of very buildable ridge line with no restrictions, the acreage is uniquely positioned for a multitude of homesites several of which could sit atop the ridge with potential views of Hickorynut Mountain. If you're not familiar, Hickorynut Mountain is a 12,000 acre piece of land that is currently in a private conservancy and is slated to be transferred to the state with two thirds of it to be made into a state park (read: indefinite pristine views.) As a developer, your costs will be reduced because a road to the ridge is already partially roughed-in while another road that runs the ridge's entire length is fully roughed-in. Whether you fancy a select number of larger homes or a neighborhood of tiny homes or something in between, your vision can become reality here. If you're thinking about short term rental potential you're in luck as this home bridges traditional log construction with contemporary refinement. Tucked away for total privacy at the end of a paved drive, it boasts many features desired by renters including over 800 square feet of deck space, vaulted ceilings with a soapstone wood burning stove and a floor to ceiling stone chimney, a 1 Gbps symmetrical fiber line and an office for remote work, plenty of nature and hiking trails in addition to great proximity to Old Fort, Asheville and Lake James. The custom-built nearly 2400 square foot log home also has massive windows that drench the space with natural light. Fine hickory flooring and cultured marble counter tops run throughout while 3 spacious bedrooms and 2.5 baths highlighted by a primary suite with a dedicated soaking tub will have everyone relaxing. The massive 990 square foot two car garage includes a dedicated workspace for outdoor gear and projects. Thoughtfully engineered, the stone chimney in the main floor extends directly down to this lower level providing the built-in infrastructure to easily add a second stove for a heated, year-round workshop. It's all about lifestyle here and outdoor living is central to the property's design. We recommend exploring the land during your showing to fully understand its uniqueness, potential and beauty. Whether it's enjoying quiet mornings enveloped by the lush privacy of your own forest, adding this property to your portfolio of short term rentals, or executing your vision for a multi-homesite development project, this property represents a rare and versatile acquisition in the Blue Ridge foothills that is unmatched.

3815 Bat Cave Road, Old Fort

$2,225,000
3 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 4393009 MLS
A masterful expression of mountain-modern luxury, this exceptional waterfront residence in The Arbor at Lake James was crafted with an uncompromising dedication to quality and detail. Sweeping lake and mountain vistas unfold from nearly every room, creating a seamless connection to the surrounding landscape. Soaring wood-plank ceilings, expansive walls of glass, wide-plank white oak flooring, custom alder cabinetry, live-edge white oak accents, artisan ironwork, and dramatic floor-to-ceiling stone fireplaces create a home that is both sophisticated and inviting. Perfectly positioned on 245± feet of private shoreline, this newer custom-built retreat seamlessly blends contemporary luxury with the natural beauty of waterfront living. The chef's kitchen is a showcase of exceptional design and function, featuring Bosch 800 Series appliances, quartzite countertops, a hidden walk-in pantry and a custom live-edge white oak island. The private primary suite offers a spa-inspired bath, premium finishes and a covered lakeside deck designed for peaceful mornings and stunning sunset views. Constructed with exceptional attention to detail and designed for both luxury and longevity, the residence features premium materials, advanced climate-control systems, a whole-home generator, integrated security, EV charging capability, and thoughtfully selected upgrades that provide comfort, efficiency, and peace of mind. Every element reflects an unwavering commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and enduring value. Outdoor living is equally impressive with a screened lakeside porch featuring a stone fireplace and built-in heater, an expansive entertaining deck, boulder fire pit, mature landscaping, and a gentle stone pathway leading to the water's edge. A deep-water double-deck dock with HydroHoist boat lift provides immediate access to the crystal-clear waters of Lake James. Offered fully furnished and including the boat, dock, and lift, this extraordinary turnkey property presents a rare opportunity to enjoy one of Lake James' finest waterfront lifestyles from the moment you arrive!

425 Dockside Drive, Nebo

$725,000
3 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 4352042 MLS
Aviator’s Paradise: Contemporary Luxury with Blue Ridge Views-Welcome to a truly one-of-a-kind estate where architectural elegance meets ultimate utility. Nestled on 14.5 private acres with breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this contemporary cedar-sided home offers a lifestyle of unparalleled freedom and sophistication. Designed to embrace its natural surroundings, the home features a stunning open great room defined by soaring cathedral ceilings and an abundance of natural light. At the heart of the main level sits a magnificent floor-to-ceiling, double-sided stone wood-burning fireplace, creating a warm and dramatic focal point for both relaxing and entertaining. The gourmet kitchen features a large center island with dedicated seating, gas cooktop and double wall ovens with a seamless flow into a bright breakfast area. Modern LVP flooring runs throughout the home, leading from the cozy den to a main level bedroom, bath and laundry. Upstairs you'll find a primary suite with a private ensuite bath, additional bedroom and don't miss the ladder to the "Tower". There is also a large enclosed unheated area on main level—perfect for pet enthusiasts or additional storage. The unfinished basement and garage area also has a unique walk-in gun safe room and private shooting range. This property is a sanctuary for hobbyists and nature lovers alike. The 14.5-acre expanse also includes fenced acreage ready for animals, a dedicated vegetable garden space, and complete privacy. The crown jewel for aviation enthusiasts is the massive 11,700 square foot airplane hangar, shop and storage area. This facility provides direct access to Marion’s Shiflet Field, allowing you to taxi directly from your property onto the 3,400-foot grass strip runway. Opportunity to make this one your own. Whether you are an avid pilot, a collector, or someone seeking a private mountain retreat with room to breathe, this property offers a rare combination of luxury, land, and literal flight at your doorstep.

2590 Airport Road, Marion

$550,000
2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 4327984 MLS
A RARE SECOND OPPORTUNITY. 1909 Linville Drive returns to the market after the previous buyer was unable to complete financing. Inspections are complete and title work is in progress — offering the next owner a refined and streamlined path to closing. Perched above North Cove Valley with incredible sweeping year-round views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this fully furnished and extensively updated mountain home offers true turnkey luxury. Nearly every surface has been improved, and the home conveys with a full suite of high-end Restoration Hardware furniture and curated décor. Inside, the great room welcomes you with vaulted ceilings, abundant natural light, and a striking poplar bark–wrapped, wood-burning fireplace—a rare Appalachian architectural detail that anchors the space with warmth and mountain character. The adjoining dining area features a Restoration Hardware dining table with custom RH chairs and a coordinating RH pendant. The kitchen includes new appliances, updated flooring, and modern lighting. Both bathrooms—upstairs and down—have been fully remodeled with clean, contemporary finishes. Additional upgrades include new entry doors, new storm doors, black-framed rear doors, new lighting throughout, new carpet in the main-level bedroom, and new flooring across the basement level. The lower level has been enhanced with new baseboard heaters, an added closet, and a reinforced deck engineered for a hot tub, creating the perfect setup for evening relaxation beneath the mountain sky. Outdoor living is exceptional: a poplar bark entryway, custom laurel branch railing, wraparound decking, new exterior lighting, and composite patio furniture complete the mountain lodge feel. The property also features two separate driveways, offering ample parking for residents and guests alike. This community does allow short-term rentals, making this an excellent opportunity for an Airbnb or vacation rental investment. With its panoramic views, designer interiors, and multiple parking areas, the layout is ideal for guests seeking the perfect Blue Ridge getaway. A premium furnishings package conveys, including RH living room, dining room, and bedroom pieces and a Crate & Barrel console table—creating a truly sophisticated, move-in-ready mountain retreat. Luxury, craftsmanship, and panoramic mountain views combine to make 1909 Linville Drive a rare offering—perfect as a full-time residence, second home, or high-performing short-term rental.

1909 Linville Drive, Marion

$1,495,000
5 Beds ⋅ 6 Baths ⋅ 4302955 MLS
Welcome to your mountain sanctuary—where panoramic views meet modern luxury. This custom-built three-story log home combines rustic charm with contemporary comfort, offering five bedrooms, six bathrooms, and an array of exceptional amenities. Whether you’re seeking a cozy retreat for two or the perfect gathering place for family and friends, this home delivers. The main level showcases an open-concept living room, dining area, and chef’s kitchen, anchored by a soaring twenty-four-foot stone fireplace and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame breathtaking mountain views. The kitchen is a dream, featuring granite countertops, abundant cabinetry, two pantries, a wine cooler, two full ovens, a gas cooktop with telescoping exhaust, two dishwashers, and a wet bar—ideal for both everyday living and effortless entertaining. The primary suite on the main floor offers stunning views, a spacious layout, and a spa-inspired en suite with a dual shower, multiple shower heads, and a jacuzzi bath with air jets perfectly positioned for soaking in the scenery. Upstairs, you’ll find two additional bedrooms with private or semi-private baths, along with a versatile loft space that works beautifully as a home office, playroom, or reading nook. The lower level features a full in-law suite with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living area, kitchen, and its own laundry—perfect for multi-generational living or long-term guests. Entertainment and relaxation continue throughout the home, with a dedicated theater and recreation room, warm wood walls that create a true lodge-like atmosphere, and multiple living areas designed for both intimate evenings and large celebrations. Outdoor living shines with a heated, screened-in deck, large fenced garden beds, and multiple covered seating areas. A wired, climate-controlled workshop with a man cave corner provides the perfect space for hobbies, projects, or unwinding, along with an additional workshop. Additional conveniences include dual laundry areas on the primary and lower levels, a garage, a carport, an EV charging port, an emergency generator hookup with a manual transfer switch, an outside connection for a hot tub, and abundant built-in cabinetry for storage throughout. For those seeking a seamless move, the home is also available furnished. Set within a private gated community, this property offers access to miles of nature trails, a stocked lake with a sandy beach, canoeing, swimming, and picnicking. It also features a pavilion with a large stone fireplace that serves as the heart of neighborhood events. This home is the perfect blend of intimate comfort, expansive entertainment, income potential, fantastic craftsmanship, and additional features that you must see in person to appreciate fully. Schedule your private showing today and experience mountain living at its finest.

334 Scenic Vista Drive, Nebo

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McDowell County, NC · Curated MLS Search

Contemporary Homes in McDowell County, NC

An editorially curated view of every active contemporary homes listing in McDowell County, NC. Updated in real time from the local MLS, presented without the noise.

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McDowell County, NC Market Snapshot

Inventory here shifts week to week. The listings on this page pull straight from the MLS, so what you see is what's actually for sale right now.

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