America. Land of the free, home of the brave. Such a simple statement, but one with so much meaning behind it. As Americans, we can easily get caught up in our day to day routine and sometimes lose sight on the true meaning. We live in the greatest country in the world, yet we tend to forget that our freedom was, by no means, free.
This Memorial Day, I challenge you to take a moment of reflection and gratitude. Reflect on the principles and values this country was founded on, the men and women who fought for this freedom and made the ultimate sacrifice to make it possible. If you know someone who had a family member who never returned home, honor them. If you know active service members or veterans who served in the past, thank them. Without them we could never fully understand how blessed we are to live in the greatest country on earth.
I would also like to thank the REALTORS® who make our publication possible. The agents in this guide will help provide the knowledge and expertise you’re looking for in your next home buying or selling journey. Whether you’re looking for your forever home here in the mountains or to relocate, our agents will walk you through every step of the process.
So when you find your dream home, be sure and tell them you found it in The Real Estate Buyer’s Guide! And, as always, take time to remember how blessed we are to live in the land of the free BECAUSE of the brave!
With great pleasure (& some awe), “the geode house” is on the market. Franklin is the gemstone capital of the world & this custom home is truly one of its hidden gems. From the moment you turn onto the gentle, view filled mountain road, the only sound you hear is the bold, rushing creek all the way up. The Geode House enjoys 240 ft of creek frontage & backs up to National Forest for excellent privacy. The extraordinary glass surround sunroom overlooks the singing water & is the perfect spot for morning coffee & hummingbird watching. Inside, this 3BR/4BA home offers a spacious layout full of character, warmth & custom details. The bright, open design creates an elegant, private space for hosting or simply unwinding by the creek. Motivated seller invites you to come experience this one of a kind mountain retreat. MLS
Rare mountain property with 21.44 surveyed acres adjoining U.S. Forest Service land, just across from Fontana Lake. Multiple build sites across rolling terrain, with level drive-in access via dirt road. Lower sections offer open ground for primary builds, upper ridges provide lake views and additional building potential. A log cabin remains on site. Unrestricted use allows RVs, short-term rentals, and multiple structures. The survey clarifies exactly where to build, removing guesswork and opening up true potential. USFS as permanent southern neighbor guarantees privacy and forest setting. Ideal for buyers seeking an off-grid cabin, lake getaway, or development flexibility. MLS 26042944. $329,000
Mountain cabin on 6+ acres in the Nantahala area of Macon County, offering winter mountain views and plenty of privacy. Two bedrooms, two full baths, wood and tile flooring, wood ceilings and walls, and a propane gas fireplace. The cabin sits at roughly 2,745 feet with a covered front porch and rear deck to enjoy the setting. This is an estate sale being sold as-is. Access is via a steep gravel road and AWD or 4WD is strongly recommended. Great location near Nantahala Lake, with easy access to outdoor adventures at Nantahala Outdoor Center and nearby lakes Santeetlah and Fontana, and roughly 30 minutes to Bryson City and Murphy for dining and amenities. MLS 26046889. $275,000
home, big potential. Tucked in Bear Pen Cove with a year round creek along the edge and no homes across the water, this spot feels surprisingly private and quiet. Metal roof with solar keeps the power bill low while the efficient layout gives you a loft plus a separate bedroom, full bath, and a bright main living space with clean finishes. Outside, you get a wired shed, front deck for
UNDER CONTRACT SOLD
26046540. $668,500
Tiny
This 1.01+/- acre lot that sits just across the road from the beautiful Little Tennessee River & just off of the scenic drive of 28 N from Franklin could be all yours to build your dream house on! Only about 20 minutes from downtown. $19,900. MLS 26042569
A beautiful laying, private & nearly flat lot with access from 2 sides of the property. If you are looking for a place in the mountains to build your dream home, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to get this one. It’s easy to see the possibilities with this one! $20,000. MLS 26039251
Embark on a picturesque journey through the Clarks Chapel community & find this exquisite 1.04+/- acre parcel, offering the promise of breathtaking vistas w/ selective tree trimming. The land features undulating terrain, adorned w/ partial woodland, culminating in an idyllic summit perfect for your dream home. Protective covenants stipulate a min. of 900 SF for construction. $16,500. MLS 26040839
Affordable mountain acreage convenient to Franklin, Sylva & Cullowhee NC! Two lots combined into one totaling 1.97 +/- acres w/ a generous-sized HOUSE PAD in place & SEPTIC installed, just waiting for you to come and build your mountain getaway. $34,900 MLS 26040239.
Welcome to Watauga Vista - a gated community w/ amenities focused on enjoying the natural mountain surroundings. Enjoy hiking trails, creekside picnic benches, a clubhouse & Lake Tippacanoe! The lot is 1.06 (+/-) acres of wooded land has a gentle grade on the lower portion, lowering your prep costs when you go to build. $11,900. MLS 26042111
quiet road, this property offers both easy access & a peaceful setting. $45,000. MLS 26043201
This beautiful 7.12-acre property consisting of 3 parcels offers a rare combination of space, flexibility & location. Situated in a nice, well-kept subdivision, the land provides multiple options for building sites. With thoughtful placement, the property offers the potential for year-round views. Two expired septic permits for lots 4 & 5 are on file, providing a helpful starting point for future development. $79,900. MLS 26043074.
Van Bergen
Serene mountain property w/ exceptional privacy & backing directly to U.S.F. Land. The 1.75± acre parcel consists of 2 lots & features very light restrictions. Extensive improvements have already been completed, saving you both time & money. Also included is a 7’ x 14’ converted enclosed trailer, currently used for camping on the property. $85,000. MLS 26045324
FULCHER VISTAS SEQUOYAH
This stunning, unrestricted 10.57 +/- acre parcel
& plenty of outdoor activities. $55,000 MLS 26042222
Two lots combined for an estate-sized lot, nearly 5 acres, in beautiful Sequoyah subdivision. A driveway & house pad have been situated to set the home in the center of the 2 lots to allow for privacy & water is available via shared community well. Long range view can be expanded w/ trimming. Restrictions in place to protect your investment. $89,900 MLS 26042612
call your own. This raw acreage located deep in the historic Cowee Valley area of Franklin is perfect for those adventurers looking to get away from it all. With a new survey & perc test on file, & overhead electric in the area, you’ve got the makings of a quiet mountain getaway. $45,000 MLS 26046559
Beautifully updated 3 Bedroom 3 Bath VIEW home in awesome location, near downtown Franklin and just above PARKER MEADOWS popular Community Park with CREEK and paths for family and pets. You’ll love the upstairs/main level living space and screened porch. New LVP flooring and stylish fixtures installed; plus a newly remodeled bathroom with the primary ensuite. Downstairs discover additional living space with a third bedroom or family room, wet bar, second fireplace, and a third full bath. This home has a big winter view of the extraordinary Wayah Bald and so much more! Come enjoy the great outdoors at any time of year from your beautiful new home! Added bonus: Water use is included in the POA dues! FIBER OPTICS H.S. internet now available in Parker Farm!! MLS 26045374 $415,000.
Relax on your deck, listen to the Creek, Fish for trout, enjoy our luxurious 6 Person Hot Tub. Gather at the Fire Pit or Picnic area. Well maintained and very clean log cabin with 3 Satellite TV, WiFi, and Rock Fireplace along with fun games (like outside Jenga). Open the windows and enjoy Mountain breezes and the pleasant sound of Jones Creek, whether you are inside or outdoors. Imagine your morning coffee or evening chats in this most restful and inviting cool Mountain setting. https://www.vrbo.com/3565407
Hiking, gem mining, rafting and more. Be inspired by big views from your private deck, expansive green space and long range mountains. https://www.vrbo.com/VRBO#866650; VRBO#1683878.
TRAIL ACRES
5 Bedroom 4 bath Creek-Front Chalet, next to a HIKERS PARADISE where you’ll discover the renowned Bartram Trail. Cascading waterfall is within a 5 minute walk of our 4 acres of privacy. Large open yard for family and pets, a firepit for marshmallow roasts and a gazebo picnic area with a gas grill for cookouts. Gorgeous home carefully decorated with the discriminating Guest in mind and lots of room for everyone. Comfortable and inviting for a small family but large enough for several families. https://www.vrbo.com/2821393
Looking for a bigger backyard?
Explore your options in
MLS#26044217
1 BD/1 BA CONDO IN MILL CREEK SUBDIVISION with a porch, easy access, and paved driveway. This unit is a handyman special and is ready for remodeling, offering a great chance to add value and make it your own. Ideal for a summer retreat, rental potential, or affordable living just 10 minutes from town. Call Larry for more information 9828-371-2150. MLS#26045288 $155,900 WELCOME HOME to this well-maintained 3 BD/2BA double-wide in an upscale
$299,900
A RARE OPPORTUNITY to own Classic Cleaners, a highly successful & well-established dry-cleaning business located right in the heart of Sylva, NC. As the only dry cleaner in town, Classic Cleaners has built a loyal customer base & a strong reputation for quality & reliability. The business holds several major commercial accounts, including WCU surrounding school systems & Harrah’s Cherokee Casino, providing consistent & dependable revenue. With its prime location & essential role in the community, this turn-key operation offers immediate profitability & significant growth potential. Whether you’re looking to invest in a stable business or become a hands-on owner-operator, Classic Cleaners is a smart choice w/ a proven track record. Call Larry 828-371-2150. MLS#26042379
WELCOME TO IDEAL ACRES, a charming & well-positioned subdivision in the heart of Otto, NC, where mountain living meets convenience. Offering multiple buildable lots priced from just $23,500 to $69,900, this is a rare opportunity for builders, investors, or anyone ready to bring their mountain dream to life. Perfectly situated just minutes from Franklin & Highlands, NC, as well as Clayton & Dillard, GA, Ideal Acres places you in the center of it all. Spend your mornings exploring downtown Highlands, enjoy shopping & dining in Franklin, or take a quick drive to Clayton or Dillard for even more restaurants, boutiques & outdoor adventure. Hiking, waterfalls, fishing & scenic drives are all right at your doorstep. The community offers buildable lots w/ community water & underground utilities, making the building process smoother & more streamlined. With its peaceful mountain setting & easy paved access, Ideal Acres delivers the ideal balance of privacy & accessibility. Whether you’re envisioning a fulltime residence, a relaxing vacation getaway, or a smart investment property, Ideal Acres offers location, value & the kind of mountain lifestyle people move here for. Don’t miss your chance to claim your spot in one of the area’s most conveniently located communities.
$619,000
WELCOME to this well-crafted 3BR/2.5BA mountain home offering long-range views of Graham & Swain Counties. Thoughtfully built w/ quality materials & excellent insulation, the home provides efficient year-round living. Interior features include wormy maple & T&G ceilings sourced from the property, custom cabinetry, granite c-tops, Bosch oven & functional pull-out storage. The main living area offers Brazilian mahogany engineered flooring, a gas FP, & an add’l concealed wood-burning FP. Enjoy outdoor living on the expansive deck w/ both screened & open-air sections, complete w/ a motorized awning to take in the mountain & lake views. The walk-out basement includes a large workshop, laundry area, add’l refrigerator, ample storage & a secure vault room. A detached two-car garage w/ separate metering & upper-level space provides flexibility for storage, office, or studio use. Add’l highlights include central HVAC, Starlink internet, metal roof, updated drainage, & short-term rental potential. Conveniently located near the Tail of the Dragon, offering easy access to one of the region’s most popular scenic drives. MLS# 26046708
$569,900
natural setting. Call Larry for more information 828-371-2150. MLS# 26042131
$439,900
IF YOUR DREAM IS AN OFF-GRID PRIVATE CABIN, nested on almost 10 acres of unrestricted land bordering thousands of acres of Forest Service in the Appalachian Mountains, your dream has just come true! Very private w/ no neighbors. The owners have continually upgraded the hydro-electric & spring water so it is an elaborate system that is fully functional. This home sits between two creeks in a green valley w/ lots of flowers & medicinal plants growing from the temperate rainforest. The cabin has HW floors, woodstove & propane heat, hard line telephone service & Starlink internet. Waterfront, w/ views of MANY small waterfalls from the home & decks. There is also a small pond w/ the clearest water for possible trout raising. Mountain views year-round! There is an organic garden that is fenced to keep deer out. There are 40+ blueberry bushes & 3 organic fruit trees. Above at Garden there is a sleeping cabin & beautiful views of mystical mountains. The owner will train you how to use the hydro-electrical system, so no worries if it is your first time. No drive-bys please. Call Larry 828-371-2150. MLS#26046710
$177,500
CHARMING TINY HOME on a beautiful lot in the gated community of Hawk Ridge Landing. Just 5 minutes from downtown Murphy, NC. Enjoy low maintenance living w/ city water & sewer already in place. This home offers comfortable, efficient living in a peaceful mountain setting w/ easy access to shopping, dining & outdoor recreation. Roads within the subdivision are scheduled to be paved once development is complete. This property is designated for tiny homes only & provides the perfect opportunity for full-time living, a vacation getaway or an investment rental. Call Larry 828-371-2150. MLS# 26042645
to Forestry land for privacy & recreational access. Ideal for mini-farm development, equestrian estate, or investment property. Gently rolling terrain, no HOA & minimal restrictions. Ready to build or subdivide. Call Lisa 239-462-1500. MLS#26042484
$542,500
NESTLED JUST MINUTES from the charm & dining of downtown Highlands, this beautifully maintained 2BR/2BA home offers the perfect blend of comfort, privacy & modern updates. Set on 1.8 acres of unrestricted land, the property features a lush, manicured lawn & a peaceful setting. Inside, the inviting living area showcases a stunning vaulted ceiling & a striking stone FP. The recently renovated primary suite is a true highlight, featuring a thoughtfully redesigned BA along w/ separate “his” & “her’s” closets. Significant upgrades provide peace of mind, including a new septic system & updated plumbing (2022). In 2023, a wraparound deck was added, offering exceptional indooroutdoor living. Additional features include a detached 2-car carport that also serves as excellent storage space. With its prime location, quality updates, & serene acreage, this property is a rare find in the Highlands area. Call Zayra 828-332-0483. MLS#26046909
Ideal Acres Subdivision – Otto, NC $875,000
ENJOY MODERN LIVING in this newer 3BR/2BA w/ stunning mountain views. Bright, open-concept design, sleek finishes & large windows bring the outdoors in. With paved access & an attached garage, convenience meets comfort. Perfect for relaxing or entertaining in a beautiful
Crystal Mountain Paradise
• We have a few Elevated Knoll Lots w/ Great Views.
• If you like Cascading Waters, Lot 7 & 8 Produce Great Serenades Near Trail Leading Into Forest Lands. 2.38 Acres. Lots of Parking for Your Guests. Room For 2 Homes Maybe 3. - $165,000
• 1.2 Acres Cascading Creek - Water/Electric On Site. Septic Permit - $65,500
• We Have Other Lots Close By w/ Water & Electric On Site - From $ 35,000 • Lot With Spring Pond - $57,500
Spring in the Mountains is Calling
Whether you’re dreaming of a vacation cabin, mountain retreat, or investment property, the Smoky Mountains offer something truly special.
✔ Scenic mountain views
✔ Cooler summers & four beautiful seasons
✔ Hiking, waterfalls & outdoor adventure
✔ Peaceful small-town lifestyle
✔ Strong demand for vacation homes & second residences
Spring is one of the best times to secure property before the summer buying rush.
Work With a Local REALTOR®
Mountain real estate is very different from city real estate. Road access, elevation, views, restrictions, water sources, and usability all matter.
With 14+ years of experience, I help out-of-state buyers navigate these details with confidence.
Visit us at 150 N Gemstone Ave, Franklin, NC Call us at 828.200.4168 or Email us at Sales@GemstoneVillageNC.com
• Primary 13.6’ x 13.5’ with Walk-in Closet • 2nd Bedroom 13.3’ x 10.5’
Exterior
• Paved Driveway • 14’W x 28’ Carport/Shed • 18’W x 8’D Covered Porch
Amenities
• Fully Equipped Clubhouse • Two Pickleball Courts • Putting Green w/5 Holes & Chipping Island • 850’ Nature Trail • Full Sized ½ Court Basketball Court • 3300 SF Park for Small Dogs
•
Buying and selling a home can be stressful. You need an agent who is a REALTOR®, a member of the National Association of REALTORS®, by your side. Here’s why:
1 3 5 7 2 4 6 GET THE INSIDE SCOOP.
Real estate professionals have access to exclusive neighborhood and property information to make you a smarter buyer or seller.
NAVIGATE A COMPLEX PROCESS .
A real estate professional can guide you on forms, disclosures, and the lending process to help you avoid costly mistakes and delays.
SIMPLIFY YOUR SEARCH.
An agent can educate you on current market conditions and help you find homes that match your criteria using local broker marketplaces—known in the business as multiple listing services. NEGOTIATE LIKE A PRO.
An agent has the expertise to negotiate terms, from price to repairs, on your behalf. BE
You may have bought or sold a home before, but markets and transaction processes are always changing.
DO THE RIGHT THING.
Make sure your agent is a REALTOR®. REALTORS® are bound by a strict Code of Ethics based on professionalism, consumer protection, and the golden rule. HAVE A TRUSTED ALLY.
Your agent can talk you through the pros and cons behind big decisions and share their network of trusted home inspectors, lenders, remodelers, and more.
