View All McDowell County NC Homes near Top Schools Listings

$835,000
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 4427994 MLS
Nestled within The Arbor, Lake James' premier 643-acre gated enclave, this custom built 2025 home with deeded boat slip is ready for immediate occupancy. Enjoy year-round panoramic mountain views framed by lush, secluded forest. This is a mountain retreat with absolute attention to detail and sophisticated modern refinement throughout. Abundant natural light floods the interior through floor-to-ceiling Pella windows, 8ft. glass entryways, and soaring 10ft. ceilings that dissolve boundaries between indoors and nature. The expansive great room centers around an imposing Biltmore-style stone hearth, while 12 ft.Pella sliders open to connect seamlessly with wraparound deck. Three additional levels of outdoor terraces extend living space outward, one pre-plumbed for hot tub installation. Wide plank Chesapeake oak floors, Medallion cabinetry, and luxurious leathered quartz with Kohler fixtures give this home a bright and polished feel that’s modern yet cozy. Upgraded Allure siding and top tier Sherwin Williams paint indoor and out ensures long lasting weather resistant performance. Thoughtful outdoor amenities surround the property including extra large manicured lawn, fire pit, grilling station, and several shaded picnic spaces ideal for gatherings. The chef's kitchen commands sweeping mountain panoramas and includes upscale appliances such as a dedicated baking oven, under counter microwave and butlers pantry with wine cooler, sink and extra large cabinetry storage. The primary suite sanctuary features clean recessed ceilings, an exclusive terrace access, and bespoke wardrobe storage anchored by a custom window bench. A luxurious spa bath surrounds relaxation with triple-shower configuration balancing performance and pampering. Secondary bedrooms offer substantial built-in storage, deep hanging space, and individual balcony connections.

217 Sycamore Drive, Nebo

$279,500
2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 4418440 MLS
NEW EXCEPTIONAL OFFERING! $279,900 in downtown Marion, N.C. Welcome to this beautifully upgraded two bedroom, two full bathroom CHARMER in the heart of town. Enjoy the best of small town living with easy access to town amenities. Accessible location close to shops, restaurants as well as local events. All just minutes from your front door! This CORNER LOT home presents all of the attributes of being like new. Impressive list of recent and professionally engineered refurbishments include: NEW architectural shingle ROOF with factory warranty, all NEW GUTTER SYSTEM with down spouts, attractive vinyl siding, freshly painted exterior trim work, new exterior doors, newly painted brick foundation, 2026 HVAC SYSTEM, 2026 NEW 50g HOT WATER SYSTEM, electrical upgrades through entire home, upgraded PVC Plumbing. Travel inside to find gorgeous 2026 upgraded LVP flooring through out, an inviting and bright living room featuring a beautiful decorative period fireplace, to the left a very spacious and sun filled dining room or second living space of your choice, flowing into a beautifully updated kitchen with beautiful designed cabinets and quartz countertops, new appliances and fixtures. The kitchen connects to a very convenient laundry room/pantry space which has an access door to covered left carport bay. Interior hallway leads you to two bedrooms. Primary with private full bathroom, second bedroom to side of another full bath. Both bathroom floors feature beautiful ceramic tiles. Interior hallway features a HUGE period craftsman style CEDAR CLOSET. The interior hallway also offers a storage or linen shelved storage closet. All flows in a very livable layout. Outside, relax on a spacious front porch perfect for rockers and swings, or enjoy one of the two oversized COVERED carports, one of which could be converted by a new owner to a beautiful outdoor covered living area or fun cooking pavilion. Additionally, the large private, and manicured back yard lends itself to gardening, pets, or family play. Ample storage in partial walk in basement. This newly renovated top to bottom home is move in ready and yearning for the love of a new owner. Don’t miss this truly special opportunity in Marion!

346 Park Avenue, 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

$1,200,000
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 4403456 MLS
Whether you are searching for a full-time residence or a weekend escape, this charming cottage awaits you! Tucked into the woods for privacy and perched high above majestic Lake James with year-round mountain and lake views, this custom-built 3 bedroom/2.5 bath home has so many details. You are welcomed with a circular drive, beautiful stone walkway and whimsical gas lanterns onto the covered front porch. Enter into the great room with cathedral beamed ceilings and a view facing the lake. This room also features a gas fireplace showcasing antique tiles. With an open floor plan this room encompasses the dining and kitchen area with unique granite countertops, a breakfast bar, tiled backsplash, gas range and SS appliances. The butler's pantry is conveniently located off the kitchen. Relax in the cozy den with an electric fireplace surrounded with beautiful hand-worked shelving and a private 1/2 bath featuring a copper sink. Or enjoy the breeze off the lake while relaxing on the screened porch or by the pool area. With trek decking and stone pavers, the heated and cooled 6’ pool features a sitting ledge, has a retractable pool cover and can be enjoyed all year while overlooking the lake. The primary en-suite is located on the main level and includes 2 walk-in closets and the laundry area. The luxurious bath features a double vanity, tiled steam shower and water closet. Easy access to the finished basement via elevator or oak steps with carpet runners and iron spindles. This finished area offers flex space and can be used as a family room or gym area. This level also has a bedroom and full bath displaying a Victorian dresser with marble top as the vanity. An extra bedroom or study area is also available on this level. The mechanical room, storage room and UTV or golf cart garage area is accessible as well. This property includes Boatslip #1 and a hydrolic lift is already installed. No short-term rentals allowed. Propane tank is buried and serviced by Blue Ridge Energies. Termite bond is transferrable. Starlink internet. Duke Energy. Surround sound. On demand HW heater. 2 HP w/ 5 zones. Ring doorbell w/cameras (need to be installed). Cummings generator. All furnishings (excluding artwork) are negotiable.

111 Lookout Point, Nebo

$837,500
4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 4396073 MLS
Steeped in history yet beautifully reimagined for today's lifestyle, this iconic homestead is a truly rare offering. Lovingly restored from top to bottom in 2020, every detail has been thoughtfully updated while preserving the timeless character and charm that make this home so special. If walls could talk, they would tell generations of stories filled with love, laughter, and exceptional care. Nestled on an impressive 4.47 acres of gorgeous, level, usable land, the property enjoys the extraordinary privilege of Buck Creek meandering along the back property line—offering incredibly easy access to the water and creating a peaceful setting that few properties can claim. It's a one-of-a-kind retreat where history, nature, and modern comfort come together. Inside, you'll find spacious, beautifully appointed living areas including a generous living room, elegant formal dining room, an incredible kitchen designed for gathering, and a relaxing owner's suite. Three additional bedrooms, a full bath, and additional kitchen and dining space provide exceptional flexibility for family or guests. Beautiful craftsmanship continues with the stunning staircase leading to the attic, adding yet another touch of the home's timeless character. The fully renovated basement expands the home's possibilities even further, featuring its own kitchenette, living area, dining space, two bedrooms, and a full bath—ideal for multigenerational living, extended guests, private accommodations, or even potential income opportunities. Outdoor living is just as impressive. Both the upper and lower rear decks are plumbed for gas grills, making entertaining effortless, while the automatic Sunsetter awning provides welcome shade for relaxing afternoons overlooking the peaceful creek. Whether enjoying morning coffee or hosting family and friends, this outdoor space is designed to be enjoyed year-round. Modern conveniences have been thoughtfully incorporated throughout, including a hardwired 24KW Generac whole-house generator for peace of mind, Starlink high-speed internet, and premium window treatments backed by a lifetime warranty. Properties like this rarely become available. Rich in history, completely updated, surrounded by breathtaking acreage, and graced by the beauty of Buck Creek, this is far more than a home—it's a legacy waiting for its next chapter.

768 Lake Tahoma Road, Marion

$194,858
2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 4395618 MLS
Life here has a simple rhythm, morning hikes, afternoons on the lake, a dip in the pool before a sunset dinner drinks and live music. Lake James access and the Clayton Homes Cumberland Park Model come together to create a rare low-maintenance retreat in one of Western North Carolina’s most desirable locations. The Cumberland Model is designed to feel larger than its footprint, offering approximately 398 sq ft, sleeping space for up to 4 and a flexible layout that makes the most of every inch. Natural light fills the home through oversized clerestory windows, high vaulted ceilings, shiplap accent walls and elegant wood molding. Available options include engineered hardwood flooring, a four-burner smooth-top range, over-the-range microwave and stainless steel apron sink. The dining area can even be converted into additional sleeping space with room for a queen-size bed, making this layout more versatile for guests during lake trips and weekend getaways. The Reserve at Barefoot Landing offers a private gated-community with 2,800 ft of shoreline, 142 lots and 113 private boat slip dock, which is hard to find. Through our sister-community, there’s even shared access to a pool, basketball court and a common area. From The Reserve, you can enjoy the day boating, fishing, biking or hiking. Then just 3 miles away you’ll find historic downtown Marion. Living in Marion gives you small-town charm along with endless adventures on the Fonta Flora State Trail, Linville Gorge, Catawba Falls, Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Did I mention, this is one the few neighborhoods in the area that’s rental friendly! Not in the love with this property, there’s RV lots and 7 other Tiny Home models available to choose from, with boat access remaining one of the most limited amenities around Lake James, opportunities like this don’t come around often!

#132 Blue Hill Parkway, Marion

$625,000
3 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 4385852 MLS
Welcome to your mountain top retreat, where rustic charm meets modern convenience in the heart of the Blue Ridge foothills. This stunning 3 bedroom, 2 full bath, 2 half bath home offers 2,185 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space that truly delivers on every level! Step inside to discover gorgeous hardwood floors flowing throughout, anchored by a striking rock fireplace in the living room that practically begs for cozy evenings. The kitchen impresses with solid wood cabinetry, granite and Corian countertops, and newer appliances including the refrigerator and dishwasher. Main level living shines with a spacious primary bedroom featuring a cedar lined closet, plus convenient laundry room with the washer and dryer included. Head upstairs to find two generous bedrooms, a full bathroom, and a large loft perfect for a home office, playroom, or creative studio. Below, a half-finished full basement offers tremendous potential for additional living space or storage. Outside, the freshly cleaned and restained exterior gleams against the backdrop of beautiful winter mountain views. A two car detached garage, whole house generator, and an impressively deep well (over 1,200 feet with 700 feet of water ) ensure worry free living. Gardening enthusiasts will love the rainwater collection systems already in place for outdoor plants. Newer heating and cooling systems installed in 2021 and 2022 keep comfort consistent year round. Enjoy abundant privacy while remaining just minutes from town. This mountain gem won't last long. Schedule your private showing today and come see what home feels like.

545 Mountain Crest S Drive, Marion

$749,500
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 4372077 MLS
Luxurious Post & Beam Retreat in Grandview Peaks. Discover the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern sophistication in this custom-built cedar masterpiece, located within the prestigious gated community of Grandview Peaks. Situated on over 6 acres of pristine mountain land, this home captures breathtaking, year-round long-range views from nearly every vantage point. Offered fully furnished (with a few exceptions), this residence is truly turnkey and ready for its next chapter as a primary home or high-end vacation rental. The interior showcases impeccable craftsmanship, featuring solid antique doors, gleaming hardwood floors, and exquisite stonework. The open-concept great room, anchored by a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, flows seamlessly into the kitchen equipped with premium granite countertops and high-quality cabinetry. Retreat to the main-level primary suite, which offers a private sanctuary with a walk-in closet and custom walk-in tile shower. The upper level features a versatile loft space at the top of the stairs, perfect for a quiet sitting area or home office. This leads into a private, light-filled bedroom complete with its own En-suite bathroom. Entertaining is effortless in the fully finished basement, featuring a wood-burning stove that keeps the space cozy during mountain winters. This lower level is complete with a spacious den, pool table, foosball, an additional bedroom, and custom built-in bunk beds. Above the two-car garage, you'll find a versatile finished bonus room—ideal for a home office or extra sleeping quarters. Large barn type shed offers a dedicated workshop for hobbies or storage. Life in Grandview Peaks offers an unparalleled lifestyle. The HOA provides access to enjoy maintained community Nature Trails. Spend your days at the community lake, which features a white sand beach and a host of recreational activities. Whether you are looking for a proven investment property or a private mountain escape, this home is a rare find.

965 Grandview Peaks Drive, Nebo

$1,845,000
3 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 4350199 MLS
Nestled on 19.89 acres of pristine land, this breathtaking 3-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom mountain modern home offers unparalleled and spectacular multi layered Blue Ridge Mountain and sunset views. Set against a serene wildflower meadow, the property also includes a private walking trail leading to a tranquil creek. Open the front door to a spacious great room with unbelievable mountain views. Large windows invite natural light to flood the space, creating a perfect spot to unwind while watching the sunset paint the sky. The seamless flow between the great room and kitchen allows for easy entertaining, with the chef-inspired kitchen featuring a large island, stainless steel appliances and a glass induction cooktop with restaurant-grade exhaust fan for the serious cook. Off the kitchen you'll find room for an office or theater room offering sound blocking walls and speaker wiring to ensuring a quiet and immersive environment for work or play. The main level also includes a primary suite with breathtaking mountain views, a walk-in closet with built-in closet system and a luxurious en-suite bathroom. Indulge yourself with a zero-entry tiled shower, soaking tub with a mountain vista, double sinks, and heated floors to keep you cozy all year round. The lower level boasts 2 additional bedrooms with en-suite baths, laundry room, exercise room and 2-car heated and cooled garage with plenty of additional space for storage. The home has battery backup with automatic sub-second cutover in case of grid power failure for zero downtime. Equipped with a radon mitigation system, EV charger, and pre-wiring for audio, wifi and cameras throughout the home for the tech savvy buyer. For outdoor living, there is a deck with metal railings and composite decking, lower level patio for a fire pit or hot tub providing ideal spaces for enjoying the fresh mountain air while taking in the stunning views. With its modern design, top-tier finishes, and tech features, this home offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and luxury. Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity to own a piece of this private mountain paradise.

463 Summit Trail, Nebo

$225,000
2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 4341542 MLS
Completely renovated and full of charm, this adorable country cottage is move-in ready and beautifully updated from top to bottom. Every major system has been replaced, offering peace of mind for years to come — including a brand-new roof, new siding, new window, new doors, new HVAC system, new hot water heater, all new electrical, and all new plumbing. Extensive insulation has been added throughout the home — including all interior and exterior walls, attic, and basement — along with a newly installed vapor barrier, creating improved comfort and efficiency. Inside, the original hardwood floors have been beautifully refinished, blending timeless character with modern updates. The spacious, open-concept kitchen flows seamlessly into the living room, creating an inviting space for everyday living and entertaining. The fully renovated bathroom features all new fixtures and finishes. The fireplace adds charming ambiance (non-operational). Enjoy quiet mornings on the beautiful covered front porch large, mostly level half-acre lot. A storage building provides additional flexibility for tools or hobbies. Adjacent to picturesque pastoral property, the setting offers peaceful country views while still being just minutes to downtown Marion and offering easy access to the interstate. A rare opportunity to own a fully renovated cottage in a serene yet convenient location — this one is truly a charmer. Owner is licensed real estate agent.

246 Marion Street, Marion

$975,000
4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 4342398 MLS
INCREDIBLE long-range mountain views take center stage at this beautiful home in the gated Grandview Peaks community. Perched along the ridge, the property showcases year-round views of Linville Gorge, Shortoff Mountain, Table Rock and Hawksbill—with Sugar Top visible in the distance on a clear day. Designed to make the most of the setting, the dramatic two-story great room features a wall of windows that fills the home with natural light and keeps those mountain views front and center. Multiple covered porches—including front, rear, side and wrap-around spaces—create plenty of room to relax, entertain and enjoy the scenery in every season. With approximately 3,667 finished square feet across three levels, the home offers a spacious and flexible floor plan. The main level features an open kitchen and dining area, great room with gas log fireplace, primary suite, laundry and half bath—providing comfortable main-level living. Upstairs, a loft overlooking the great room makes a perfect office, reading nook or additional gathering space, along with two bedrooms and a full bath. The walk-out lower level expands the possibilities with a fourth bedroom, full bath, den/recreation room, bonus room and generous storage. A detached two-car garage provides additional space for vehicles, mountain gear or a workshop. Built in 2018 and situated on 2.28 wooded acres, additional features include a tankless water heater, wine refrigerator and generator hookup. Short-term rentals are permitted, offering flexibility for use as a full-time residence, mountain getaway or investment property. Grandview Peaks offers exceptional community amenities including a stocked lake with sandy beach, walking trails, recreation area and covered pavilion with fireplace and outdoor kitchen. Enjoy peaceful gated mountain living with convenient access to Marion, Morganton and Rutherfordton.

623 Mountain Vista Drive, Nebo

$437,500
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 4322653 MLS
Pristine 2007 Ranch Home on 1.79 +/- Acres with Mount Mitchell Views & Nix Creek Frontage – Minutes to Asheville! Absolutely move-in ready and impeccably maintained, this like-new 2007 ranch sits high on a private ridge with breathtaking long-range mountain views that stretch all the way to Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. The seasons change over the Blue Ridge Mountains from your expansive maintenance-free composite deck – the perfect spot for morning coffee or evening meals while the vista changes. Main Level – True One-Level Living at its Finest with 3 spacious bedrooms & 2 full baths, including a tranquil owner’s suite. It is an Open-concept great room with cozy gas-log fireplace that flows seamlessly into the dining area and out to the rear deck. It offers a Bright, fully equipped kitchen with ample cabinetry and bar area. This main level has abundant natural light throughout. The laundry room is convenient on this level. Need More Space?... Incredible Lower Level with Endless Possibilities, it features a massive open room plus an attached full bathroom. This level is Perfect for: Guest quarters, Home theater & game room, Gym + home office, Workshop or hobby space. Oversized 2-Car Garage on the lower level with extra depth and width – plenty of room for trucks, small boats, or a workshop. The Land – 1.79 Acres of Pure Western NC Beauty Perched high for maximum views and privacy, yet the lower portion of the property drops gently to bold Nix Creek – a beautiful mountain stream that feeds directly into the Catawba River. Enjoy the soothing sound of water while being just minutes from the Catawba River Greenway and River Park (kayaking, fishing, walking trails, picnic areas). Prime Location --- approx 10 minutes to downtown Marion, 30 minutes to charming Black Mountain, and 50 minutes to vibrant Asheville. Quiet ridge-top setting, yet incredibly convenient to shopping, dining, breweries, hiking, and everything WNC has to offer. This is that rare find: a modern, like-new (hardwood flooring, new carpet, new paint) ranch with stunning views, creek frontage, expansion potential, and an unbeatable location. Homes like this don’t last long in today’s market.

89 Bobcat Path, Marion

$700,000
4313753 MLS
WANTED: A Dream Builder with Vision and Grit This one is for the dreamers, the doers, and the ones who can see potential where others just see overgrowth. Sitting on 103 acres, this property is full of character and waiting for someone ready to bring it back to life. Once home to a cozy farmhouse, you will still find two original stone fireplaces standing proud as a nod to what once was. There is a creek that winds through in several spots, a few natural caves tucked away, and plenty of open areas just waiting to be cleared for a homesite, garden, or maybe a few four-legged friends. The old barn still stands, weathered but strong, and the former home site has power access, a well, and a septic system. The condition of those is unknown, but the potential is there. The property is bordered by conservation land at the top and along one side, giving you peace, privacy, and room to roam. You will see the original photos marked to show where everything once was, so you can imagine how easily, with a bush hog and a little vision, this land could be transformed back to its well-manicured glory. Possible Uses Include: A private homestead or family retreat A small farm or hobby ranch A hunting or recreational getaway An off-grid or eco-friendly community project A campground or glamping site with creekside charm If you are ready to roll up your sleeves and build something special, this land is ready to meet its match. Bring your boots, your imagination, and your vision. The dream is waiting.

8361 Old Fort Sugar Hill Road, Marion

$498,000
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 4258253 MLS
**MOTIVATED SELLERS – NEW PRICE!** Don't miss this exceptional opportunity to own a beautifully crafted custom home offering over-the-top versatility, quality craftsmanship, and room to grow. Situated on **0.60 acres**, this thoughtfully designed home features an open-concept floor plan with a spacious family room anchored by a stunning floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, showcasing **KraftMaid cabinetry**, a large center island, quartz countertops, tile backsplash, and stainless steel appliances. The luxurious primary suite serves as a private retreat with a spa-inspired bath featuring a freestanding soaking tub, custom-tiled walk-in shower, and elegant finishes throughout. A well-appointed mudroom and laundry room offer quartz countertops and abundant storage for everyday convenience. The fully finished lower level provides incredible flexibility with **2 additional bedrooms, 2 bonus rooms, a full bath, kitchenette, and a spacious recreation area**, making it ideal for multi-generational living, guest accommodations, a home office, fitness room, or entertaining. Step outside to enjoy the covered back porch overlooking the fenced backyard—perfect for relaxing or hosting family and friends. **An adjoining lot is also available**, offering the opportunity to expand the property to approximately **1.41 acres**. **Motivated sellers have priced this home to sell. Schedule your private showing today and bring your offer!**

78 Grace Estates Drive, Marion

Start Your Search

“The data relating to real estate on this website derive in part from the Internet Data Exchange program. Brokers make an effort to deliver accurate information, but buyers should independently verify any information on which they will rely in a transaction. All properties are subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal. Neither Real Estate Company nor any listing broker shall be responsible for any typographical errors, misinformation, or misprints, and they shall be held totally harmless from any damages arising from reliance upon this data. This data is provided exclusively for consumers’ personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties they may be interested in purchasing. © 2026 Carolina Multiple Listing Services, Inc.”

McDowell County, NC · Curated MLS Search

Homes near Top Schools in McDowell County, NC

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

Browse Active Listings

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.

Next Steps in McDowell County, NC