High Country Real Estate Guide 2023

REAL ESTATE GUIDE

Moving to a rural area: What you need to know

BY JONATHAN APOLINAR

In recent years, there has been a growing trend of individuals and families leaving cities for the peace and quiet of rural areas. According to a report by the Center on Rural Innovation, the COVID-19 pandemic has made remote work more common, with many people choosing to live in rural areas where they can enjoy the benefits of nature, lower cost of living and a slower pace of life. However, before making the move, it is important to consider both the advantages and disadvantages of living in a rural area.

One of the most signifi -

cant benefits of living in a rural area is the lower cost of housing. In many rural areas, the cost of homes is significantly lower than in urban areas, which makes it an appealing option for those looking to save money. Rural areas also tend to have a smaller population size, which means more space, cleaner air and less noise pollution compared to larger cities. When considering a move to a rural area, it is important to take into account the availability and quality of schooling. Rural areas may have fewer options for schools, and those that are available may be smaller and have fewer resources. This is not to be mistaken for

poor schooling, as some rural areas have excellent and award-winning schools, and in many cases smaller class sizes lead to better connections to students where students and teachers are able to form stronger connections, which can lead to improved attendance, grades

and engagement.

Another thing to consider when moving to a rural area is access to healthcare. Since rural areas tend to have a smaller population, they are likely to have fewer hospitals and medical facilities because of a lack of demand and fund -

ing. According to Urban Institute, “states provided 46 percent of health and hospital spending, while local governments provided 54 percent.”

Like any location, there are pros and cons to living in a rural area. On the positive side, rural areas offer a quieter, slower pace of

life and the opportunity to connect with nature. Rural areas also often have a strong sense of community with many organizations such as churches, clubs and town events. On the opposite end, rural areas may have fewer job opportunities and less amenities compared to urban areas.

Real Estate Index

Moving to a rural area has its share of benefits and has become a popular trend among homeowners in the pandemic-affected era of the past two to three years.

High Country Towns

See what each has to offer

COMPILED

BY

MOUNTAIN TIMES PUBLICATIONS STAFF

High Country towns are special in many ways. From Newland in Avery County, Blowing Rock in Watauga County and West Jefferson in Ashe County, there’s a little something for everyone.

Ashe County

Jefferson

Jefferson, the county seat of Ashe County, is home to roughly 1,600 residents within the town limits. The town was first founded in 1799 and was named after then Vice President, Thomas Jefferson. The town was originally called “Jeffersonton” for a short period of time and originally encompassed approximately 50 acres of land.

Now, Jefferson is home to the Ashe County Courthouse,

Ashe County Park, the Ashe County Law Enforcement Center as well as numerous restaurants, shops and stores. The town also has the restored 1904 Courthouse listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The old courthouse is currently home to the Museum of Ashe County History, right next door to the Jefferson Police Department.

West Jefferson

The bustling downtown area of West Jefferson is one of the most popular destinations in Ashe County. West Jefferson currently has around 1,300 residents

that live within the town limits and has a wide variety of shops, art galleries, local restaurants and much more that bring tourists to the area. The Ashe County Arts Council calls West Jefferson home, as does the Ashe County Cheese Plant, West Jefferson Park and the local office of the New River Conservancy.

West Jefferson was first incorporated in 1909 and originally saw much of its growth and popularity increase due to the Virginia Creeper Railroad that passed

COURTESY TOWN OF BOONE NORTH CAROLINA/TOWNNEWS.COM CONTENT EXCHANGE Downtown Boone.

PHOTO BY CHANDA RICHARDSON

During the holiday season, downtown West Jefferson thrives as residents and visitors make their way into local businesses.

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through downtown.

West Jefferson has numerous events in the downtown area that take place throughout the year. In addition to concerts throughout the spring and summer months, the Christmas in July festival and the Ole Time Antiques Fair in September are two of the largest annual events that take place in Ashe County.

Lansing

Lansing was the third and final town in Ashe County to officially be incorporated. The town of about 130 residents was first incorporated in 1928 and was another major stop along the Virginia Creeper railroad along with West Jefferson, Todd and the community of White Oak. The town has major historical significance to the area as there are currently five places in the town that are included in the National Register of Historic Places: The Old Lansing School, Perry-Shepherd Farm, Miller Homestead, Clark-Miller Mill and the Lansing Historical District. The population of Lansing within its town limits has dropped throughout the years after the railroad industry ceased in the county. The 1960 census showed 278 people lived in the town while the most recent census in 2020 showed just 126 town residents.

Glendale Springs

Located just off of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Glendale Springs is most well-known for the fresco painting at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church and the Glendale Springs Inn & Restaurant, where President Bill Clinton and Vice President Al Gore once dined after a visit to

NUMBERS OF NOTE

• Watauga County Sheriff’s Office

(828) 264-3761

• Boone Police Department

(828) 268-6900

• Blowing Rock Police Department

(828) 295-5210

• Appalachian Regional Healthcare System Police

(828) 262-4168

• Appalachian State University Police

(828) 262-8000

• Ashe County Sheriff’s Office

(336) 846-5600

• Jefferson Police Department

(336) 846-5529

• West Jefferson Police Department

(336) 246-9410

• Avery County Sheriff’s Office

(828) 733-2071

• Banner Elk Police Department

(828) 898-4300

• Elk Park Police Department (828) 733-9573

• Newland Police Department (828) 733-2023

• Seven Devils Police Department (828) 963-6760

• Sugar Mountain Police Department

(828) 898-4349

• Beech Mountain Police Department

(828) 387-2342

Ashe County in 1998. The Glendale Springs Inn was also added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. In addition to its easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway, Glendale Springs is near the New River and offers some beautiful opportunities for enjoying nature.

Fleetwood

Fleetwood is located between West Jefferson and

Deep Gap and is another of the many small communities in Ashe County that offer easy access to the New River. Whether you want to kayak, canoe or float down the river, areas between Fleetwood and Todd off of Railroad Grade Road are popular places to get into the water. Fleetwood is also home to brand new fire department right off of U.S. 221.

Grassy Creek

The community of Grassy Creek lies right on the state line between North Carolina and Virginia. Grassy Creek is home to The Old Store and features the Grassy Creek Historic District that is part of the National Register of Historic Places. The historic district was added to the registry in 1976. As you will notice driving through the area, much of the land in Grassy Creek is used for growing Christmas trees.

Creston

Creston township can be found in the northwest corner of Ashe County. It is home to Worth’s Chapel, a church that was constructed in the early 1900s and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. A drive through Creston brings

For more recent history, look to the Todd General Store. Before a devastating fire destroyed the store in 2021, Todd General Store was the oldest functional business in Ashe County. They sold local provisions and merchandise, and are currently on the path to rebuilding.

As for recreation, the New River — one of only a few rivers in the U.S. to flow North — is the main attraction in Todd, especially in the summer.

and countries. The old stone buildings, some of which are currently being renovated and restored, are nestled across campus to make for a photographer’s delight.

The town hosts numerous shops and restaurants and stays abuzz with activities and events.

you close to the Tennessee state line in one direction. Creston is also home to the Riverview Community Center which holds numerous community events throughout the year and is home to a local fish fry every other week.

Laurel Springs

The town of Laurel Springs is right on the border of Ashe, Alleghany and Wilkes counties. The town offers quick and easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway and is home to several family-owned businesses and the Thistle Meadow Winery that is open in the spring, summer and fall months. Thistle Meadow Winery offers tours and tasting events and an online store to order products if you live outside of the area.

Todd

Todd is a small town shared by Watauga and Ashe counties, nestled in a bend of the South Fork of the New River.

Todd is an area with a rich history, one dating back to nearly 6,000 years ago. According to the Todd Community Preservation Organization, that is when the earliest human activity in the area occurred.

Go fly fishing, kayaking or tubing with one of the several river outfitters in the Todd area, such as RiverGirl or Wahoo’s.

Anyone wanting to explore on their own should check out Green Valley Community Park. The park features playground equipment, playing fields, a paved walking track, a picnic shelter, restrooms, a canoe ramp, hiking trails and access to the New River.

Being one of the smaller towns in the High Country, Todd is a close-knit community. To connect with nature (and friendly locals), be sure to check it out.

Visitors can picnic or walk in the town park, hear live music in the town park during summer or within various venues in all seasons, enjoy exquisite shopping or simply relax by the Mill Pond and stay in one of the inns after dinner in a fine restaurant.

Banner Elk is in the heart of the High Country’s many attractions, and just a short drive will take you to numerous natural settings where you can relax and revel in nature’s beauty, from slopes to hiking trails to wineries and waterfalls.

Banner Elk also offers many cultural happenings, with a celebrated summer theater program by LeesMcRae College and numerous art festivals by some of the area’s many galleries and artisans.

Avery County Banner

Elk

The mountain town of Banner Elk lies between two major ski attractions, and has grown from a tiny hamlet to a town offering year-round amenities and memorable vacations for the entire family.

Banner Elk is home to Lees-McRae College, a small, private, four-year coeducational liberal arts college founded in 1900 and is affiliated with Presbyterian Church U.S.A., with more than 900 students from more than 20 states

Visitors are encouraged to return to Banner Elk in the fall each year for its Woolly Worm Festival, which attracts close to 20,000 people annually on every third weekend in October.

Cutting between the peaks of Sugar Mountain, Beech Mountain and Grandfather Mountain, the topography of the town provides natural definition and gentle undulation through the town’s boundaries.

For more information or a calendar of events, call Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce at (828) 898-8395, or

FILE PHOTO

Attendees flocked to Art on the Greene in downtown Banner Elk last year, and the event promises to be bigger and better in 2022 with four shows through the summer months.

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Beech Mountain

At 5,506 feet, Beech Mountain is the highest town in Eastern North America. That means two things: When winter comes, it’s a great place to ski, and, even on the hottest day of the summer, it’s cool atop the peaks of the mountain.

Even when it’s steamy in the “lowlands” of 3,000-plus feet, the temperature stays comfortable.

The rest of the world seems distant when you settle down on the front porch of a rental condominium and survey the magnificent view that is one of Beech Mountain’s trademarks.

Beech Mountain is a four-season resort, with

more than 5,000 beds available on top of the mountain. These range from rustic cabins to mountain chalets to luxury condominiums.

When it’s time to eat, you can enjoy anything from a deli sandwich to pizza to a gourmet meal by candlelight.

During the days, there are many specialty stores for shopping, a golf course, horseback riding, tennis, swimming and hiking. In warmer weather, there are nearby canoe and raft runs that are among the best offered in the Eastern United States, while in the cool of winter, there are skiing and snowboarding opportunities, as well as the town’s very own sledding hill near town hall. Nightlife is alive and well on the mountain.

Whatever your musical taste,

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you can find a spot to enjoy an after-hours scene.

There’s another good thing about Beech Mountain: The mountain is so large that much of it remains in a natural state, with rich forests dotted by rolling farmland. Not to mention it’s only a short drive from the “downtown” area to the country or resorts. Take your pick.

Our guess is if you spend some time in Beech Mountain, you’ll want to come back to do some real estate shopping, or at least book a slope-side condo for the ski season.

For more information, visit www.beechmtn.com.

Crossnore

Crossnore is a town steeped in educational history. The town is home to Marjorie Williams Academy, founded by doctors Eustace and Mary Martin Sloop.

The Sloops traveled the steep dirt trails in isolated mountain valleys to bring medicine to the people and convince farmers to let their children come to school. Because of poverty and distance, the Sloop school in Crossnore eventually took in boarders and built dormitories to accommodate them. It gained a national reputation for effectiveness in changing lives and in breaking the cycle of poverty, moonshine and child marriages of mountain families.

Mary Martin Sloop eventually put these tales to paper in her autobiography “Miracle in the Hills,” which has since been used as the basis for a drama of the same name that takes place each summer in present-day Crossnore.

The Sloops built a school,

hospital, dental clinic and, eventually, a boarding school to give children the basis for an improved life. They brought to Avery County the first electricity, telephones, paved road and boarding school. Through the Sloops’ advocacy, public schools flourished in Avery County.

Today, Williams Academy carries on the work of the original school and has reclaimed the educational foundation beneath its commitment to give hurting children a chance for a better life. The school’s teachers enable it to meet not only the special needs of Crossnore residents, but also the needs of area students who live at home and whose educational needs are best met at Crossnore.

The school is also home to Miracle Grounds Coffee

Cafe & Creamery, a working vocational classroom, featuring specialty coffee drinks, homemade snacks, sandwiches, milkshakes, ice cream, Wi-Fi and more.

Crossnore is famous for its Independence Day parade and celebration, and the town’s Meeting House is home to the Crossnore Jam, a series of gatherings and concerts by local musicians on the first Friday night through the summer and fall months.

For more information, visit www.crossnorenc.com.

Elk Park

The town of Elk Park borders the state of Tennessee and offers a unique visiting experience. From the oldtime feel of Brinkley’s Hardware Store to the additional Lower Street antique shops, and classic barbershop, Elk Park takes visitors back to a simpler time.

The town’s original thoroughfare, Lower Street, and many businesses originated when Elk Park hosted a train depot for the old East Ten-

killed by Cherokees in 1766.

East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad passed through the community from 1916 through 1940, when a major flood washed away the tracks. The old rail route later became N.C. 105 in 1956.

Linville has three country clubs in the area: Eseeola, Grandfather Golf and Country Club and Linville Ridge, all open late spring to early fall.

A number of local tourist areas within a short drive share the Linville name, including the Linville River and majestic Linville Falls, Linville Caverns on U.S. 221 and the Linville Gorge wilderness area.

The highest county seat east of the Mississippi River at 3,589 feet, the town of Newland was incorporated in 1913 as the county seat of the newly formed Avery County. Its original name was “Old Fields of Toe,” because it is located in a broad flat valley and is at the headwaters of the Toe River.

Newland was a mustering place for Civil War troops. Toe is short for “Estatoe,” an Indian chief’s daughter who drowned herself in the river in despair because she could not marry a brave from another tribe.

nessee and Western North Carolina Railroad, better known as Tweetsie. Elk Park thrived due to the industry and remained vibrant after the trains stopped running through town.

In 2013, Elk Park opened its new town hall facility to the public adjacent to its town park named after longtime former mayor Lucille Winters.

Elk Park is also the home of Trosly Farm and The Liar’s Table Restaurant. Owners Amos and Kaci Nidiffer were named 2020 North Carolina Small Farmers of the Year by NC A&T State University Cooperative Extension. For more information, call Elk Park Town Hall at (828) 733-9573.

Linville

The community of Linville is located just south of the intersection of U.S. 221 and N.C. 105 in Avery County. The community was founded in 1883, designed by Samuel T. Kelsey of Kansas and named for William and John Linville, who were reportedly

For visitors considering making Linville a part- or full-time home, they can visit Linville Land Harbor, where units are available for sale or rent in a cozy community featuring its own golf course, tennis and pickleball courts and amenities.

A number of residents reside at Land Harbor part time, while others stay yearround to enjoy the beauty of the area’s four seasons.

During the winter months, Linville is only a short drive to nearby ski slopes at Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain, popular skiing and snow-tubing destinations.

Perhaps the most popular tourist attraction housed in Linville is Grandfather Mountain.

The Grandfather Mountain attraction offers picturesque views during all four seasons, animal habitats and the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge.

Grandfather Mountain State Park offers hiking trails and backcountry camping opportunities.

Newland

A town of approximately 700 residents, Newland succeeded over three other areas for the honor of county seat. The recently renovated courthouse, originally constructed in 1913, overlooks a classic town square, bordered by shops and churches and complete with a memorial to Avery County veterans.

Adjacent to the courthouse building is the original jail, which has been converted into the Avery County Historical Museum. Exhibits in the museum, which is free to visit, include the original jail cells, numerous artifacts and information about the history of Avery County.

During the autumn and fall months, visitors can check out the farmers’ market that meets on Saturday mornings outside of Newland Elementary School, and visitors traveling out of town can picnic or hike at Waterfalls Park, a unique recreation spot sponsored by Newland Volunteer Fire Department. Just outside of Newland is Mountain Glen Golf Club. The club consists of the 18hole golf course, clubhouse with large upstairs dining

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PHOTO BY HENRY VOLK

An elk statue greets visitors passing through the town of Elk Park on Highway 19E. Elk Park is one of two Avery County towns, along with Banner Elk, that commemorates the presence of elk in the area during the founding years of the towns in the 19th century.

PHOTO COURTESY OF WWW.SEVENDEVILS.NET Otter Falls is one of many attractions to the not-so-scary resort town of Seven Devils.

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facility for special events or occasions, pro shop, snack bar, driving range, golf shed and putting green. Another popular location near town is Heritage Park, which houses the Avery County Cooperative Extension’s office and community building and hosts everything from rodeo events on weekends during the summer to concerts and functions. The location also serves as the permanent home for the county’s annual Agriculture and Heritage Fair each September.

Newland hosts an annual Christmas parade through downtown, with decorations adorning the town reflecting the area’s rich Christmas tree industry.

With a number of restaurants and boutiques downtown, Newland is a prime destination for dining and shopping, or just to stop in on a visit to nearby Roan Mountain, Tenn., or Grandfather Mountain. For more information, visit www. townofnewland.com.

Sugar Mountain

If outdoor activity is your thing, look no further than the village of Sugar Mountain.

Offering more than just great skiing, Sugar Mountain also provides its visitors with an array of ways to get outside and enjoy the beauty of the High Country.

The Village of Sugar Mountain provides plenty of outdoor adventure and relaxation for family summer trips, whether it’s a day or a week. Located at 5,300 feet elevation, enjoy cool breezes and spectacular views from a variety of vacation rentals, ranging from mountaintop

condos to log cabins.

Their public golf and tennis club, owned and operated by the village, is a local’s favorite. Voted the No. 2 short course in the USA, the 18-hole golf course has immaculate greens and plenty of mountain views. Green fees start at just $15. The friendly pro shop and Caddyshack Café rounds out the perfect golf day.

Next door, play on six tennis courts, meticulously maintained of fast-dry, Hartru clay. Men’s, women’s, and mixed play “friendly’s’’ can be found every day of the week. Tennis lessons are available.

Another local’s favorite is the annual summer music series, Grillin’ & Chillin’. Enjoy live bands every Wednesday evening while watching the sunset over the Blue Ridge. The free concerts take place on the big outdoor deck at the village’s golf and tennis club with food available from the Caddyshack Cafe.

At Sugar Mountain Resort, the ski slopes become home to a network of downhill mountain bike trails and scenic lift rides. On most summer weekends (Friday-Sun-

day, Memorial Day Weekend and July through Labor Day Weekend), ride the lift up to the summit and race down 1,200 feet in elevation to the lodge. For a more relaxing option, take a leisurely round trip scenic chairlift ride to the top for panoramic views.

On the Fourth of July, ride the lift for a birds-eye view of the fireworks. Earlier in the day, join the fun with the challenging Summit Crawl. Another popular event is the Fine Art & Master Crafts Festival on two weekends (July 14-16 and Aug. 11-13, 2023). Located adjacent to Grandfather Mountain and surrounded by Pisgah National Forest, the village of Sugar Mountain provides plenty of other adventures including the alpine coaster, gem mining, whitewater rafting and hiking. Unwind at 25 restaurants within 5 miles, along with plenty of galleries and boutiques to browse. Whether you come for a day or stay in one of the many comfortable lodgings the village has to offer, Sugar Mountain will soon become your destination for great outdoor fun.

For more information, visit

Mountain Brewery, Booneshine, and Lost Province Brewing Co. are a few local favorites for a brew and a bite to eat.

The Jones House, a historic home turned local cultural center in downtown Boone, also hosts live music on weekends. They feature musicians of all genres, spanning from jazz to bluegrass and everything in between. In June of 2022, the Jones House was one of three stages set up for the inaugural Boonerang Music Festival.

float back up, almost like a boomerang.

Anyone wishing to experience the phenomenon and learn some the rich Indigenous history of the town can visit the attraction located on The Rock Road.

The small portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway that falls into the town’s limits include beautiful hikes and views like those at Moses Cone Manor and Julian Price Park. Visitors can find the same beauty off of the Parkway at Bass Lake Trail and Broyhill Park.

www.seesugar.com.

Watauga County

Boone

Boone is the county seat of Watauga County and is affectionately known as “The Heart of the High Country.”

Boone is the hometown of Appalachian State University, the sixth-largest school in the NC public university system with more than 20,000 students. With the mix of students, tourists and easy-going locals, there’s something for everyone in Boone.

Downtown Boone hosts a unique collection of local boutiques and businesses. For funky handpicked second-hand clothes, head over to Anna Bananas on King Street. For a unique shopping experience at a family owned and operated business since 1924, check out The Shoppes at Farmers. There, you can find anything from jewelry, to art, toys and more.

Tired of shopping? Kick back at one of Boone’s many breweries, many of which host live music and events in the evenings. Appalachian

The weekend-long, free event attracted thousands of people downtown to enjoy music, art, food and beer all provided by people with ties to the town of Boone. The festival will again take place this June.

For those interested in Boone’s bluegrass traditions, check out the Doc Watson “Man of the People” statue located on King Street. Doc Watson was a famous guitarist and bluegrass musician local to Boone. Watson won seven Grammy awards and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement award during his active years. Though he passed away in 2012, his celebrity and spirit is alive and well in Boone.

For shopping, good food, good music, and definitely good times, Boone is the place to be. For more information, visit www.townofboone.net.

Blowing Rock

Don’t be fooled by the small size of Blowing Rock — there’s enough natural beauty for a lifetime in the just three-square mile town.

The town’s name comes from the rocky cliff overlooking Johns River Gorge where it is said the winds blow in such a way that light objects falling from the rock

For those seeking educational enrichment, the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum is a year-round museum that houses exhibitions and programs celebrating and remembering the culture, history and traditions of the Appalachian region displayed throughout time in the High Country. The museum is just moments away from the bustling sidewalks of downtown Blowing Rock.

Numerous shops, restaurants and hotels line the picturesque sidewalks with options ranging from casual to high-end available for all accommodations.

From hiking to gallery viewing to enjoying a spa day at the hotel, Blowing Rock crams a lot into its small stature. For more information, visit www.blowingrock.com.

Seven Devils

Seven Devils sits between Banner Elk and Boone. Moments away from Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk and Valle Crucis, it is the perfect place to stop and rest amidst the mountains.

How did it get its name?

According to the Seven Devils website, “The founders wanted a catchy, unique name that would bring

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PHOTO COURTESY FOOTHILLS CONSERVANCY

The view from the Blowing Rock attraction.

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attention to the mountain. They noticed the repeated appearance of the number seven, including the seven predominant rocky peaks surrounding Valley Creek, as well as the many coincidental references to ‘devils.’ ‘Seven Devils’ seemed to suggest a frivolous, mischievous resort where people could experience the temptation of Seven Devils.”

Sugar Mountain, Grandfather Mountain, and Beech Mountain surround the elevated town. For those looking to adventure, take a trek to Otter Falls. The trail is a 0.6-mile hike to the falls, in total the hike is 1.2 miles, including the way back. The trail encourages those going to the falls to bring furry

friends to hike alongside. The town is growing with new additions such as plans for a new community center, and trails. The new trail would connect existing trails, Otter Falls and Peak Mountain Trail, and would end near the Seven Devils Resort Club. Separate plans

to create a trail that connects Bear Paw State Preserve to the town and bike trails are in the works too.

The town of Seven Devils was established in the 1960s, the town has continued to adapt and grow while maintaining a commitment to their community.

For more information, visit www.sevendevils.net/.

Valle Crucis

Just off N.C. 105 south of Boone, Valle Crucis offers simplicity and serenity in a pastoral riverside community. The valley contains the site of the only known Native American village in the immediate area. The first European settler of Watauga County, Samuel Hicks, also built a fort in the area during the American Revolution. Today, the community offers several historic inns, restaurants, art galleries, farms and churches that provide service and comfort to all who enter. The Episcopal Church has played a role throughout the community’s history. An Episcopal bishop entered the community in 1842 and provided its name, which is Latin for “Vale of the Cross.”

The Valle Crucis Conference Center, on the National Register of Historic Places, stays busy with retreats for numerous groups, and Crab Orchard Falls is a short hike from the conference center. The original Mast General Store provides a central gathering space in the community, as it has since 1883. Just down the road is the Mast Store Annex, which opened about 25 years later. Behind the annex is a gravel road to the Valle Crucis Park, a recreational area with walking paths, riverfront, picnic areas, sports fields and live music during the summer. For more information, visit www.vallecrucis.com.

Foscoe

Tucked between Boone and Banner Elk is the unincorporated community of Foscoe. Although small, the community is packed with

opportunities to shop, dine and explore.

Shopping includes antiques at Front Porch Antique Marker, souvenirs and sundry at Bear Creek Traders, ceramics and porcelain at Maggie Black Pottery and custom blades at Winkler Knives. Interested in outdoor fun? Check out Foscoe Fishing Company, or pan for gold with the Greater Foscoe Mining Company. Soups, sandwiches, sweets and more are on offer at The Dog House Cafe, while at Country Retreat Family Billiards burgers and shooting pool is on the menu. Foscoe is also home to some of the most gorgeous mountain scenery in the High Country, including the famous profile views of Grandfather Mountain.

For more information, visit www.foscoenc.com.

FILE PHOTO 2016

Valle Crucis Community Park began charging to off-set park maintenance on July 24. This crowd photo was taken during a Music in the Valle concert from 2016.

Whether it’sskiing down the powdered snow on Sugar Mountain in the winter or spending those last sweet moments of summertime apple picking at the orchard, Banner Elk always has the best activities. At Engel &Volkers, we don’tjust work here-webuild our lives here. We love our hometown, and it’sour passion to help you find your dream life nestled in the mountains, too. From beautiful custom-built homes sitting on acres of land to moder n and luxurious condominiums just minutes from downtown, we aresuretohave your perfect fit. Contact us today to discuss all your real estate needs.

HIGH COUNTRY REAL ESTATE GUIDE

High Country realtors sell more than $1.3 billion in 2022

HIGH COUNTRY — REALTORS® in the High Country MLS sold a total of 2,681 residential listings worth $1.38 billion by 2022’s year end. During 2022, prices were still increasing but began to decrease a bit late in the year and into January of 2023, according to the

High Country Association of Realtors.

A notable statistic recorded by the Federal Housing Finance Agency stated that in 2021 into 2022, the increase

in house prices accounted for the largest annual home price increase in the history of the agency’s house price index.

Here are the High Country Association of Realtors stats for 2022:

• Watauga County: There were 1,153 residential sales totaling $710.1 million for

2022. The median sales price was $500,000.

• Ashe County: There were 484 residential home sales in Ashe County totaling $185.7 million in 2022. The median sales price was $335,750.

• Avery County: There were 537 residential sales totaling $300.2 million for the year.

The median sales price was $361,000.

• Alleghany County: During the year there were 207 residential home sales in Alleghany totaling $68.8 million. The median sales price was $302,000.

Disclaimer: Figures are based on information from

High Country Multiple Listing Service. Data is for informational purposes only and may not be completely accurate due to MLS reporting processes. This data reflects a specific point in time and cannot be used in perpetuity due to the fluctuating nature of markets.

Comprehensive guide for first-time buyers and sellers

BY GRACE FICARA

Mountain Times Publications sat down with Terri Boyer from Mountain Life Realty of Keller Williams High Country to discuss steps needed when looking to buy a home in the High Country for the very first time.

Step One: Get pre-approved. Boyer said it’s imperative for a buyer to know the difference between being pre-qualified and being pre-approved. Pre-approval is the more comprehensive of the two and is the first step. Reach out to a lender through your bank or trusted realtor. Once you get approved, then you can begin to have further conversations with your realtor about what you are looking for. Boyer said it’s important to know how much you can afford before making next steps into buying a home. That way, you don’t have to worry about becoming attached to a home you cannot realistically purchase. Boyer also suggested chatting with multiple lenders in order to find a financial program that works best for you.

“We wear many hats, us realtors, and therapist is actually one of them. Buying a home can be stressful for anybody,

but for first-time home buyers it can feel even more stressful,” Boyer said.

Step Two: Know your market. Right now, the High Country is having an inventory shortage, this means that the current market is a seller’s market. In simple terms, there are more buyers than there are houses on the market. In a buyers market, those roles would be reversed.

“You have to be ready to go, which is why you want that pre-approval. So that if you do find the house, you can make an offer quickly,” Boyer said. Boyer also said although you might be hearing a shift in other parts of the country that prices are leveling out, those trends do not apply in the High Country because of lack of inventory.

Step Three: Beware of “Buyer Beware” market. North Carolina is a “Buyer Beware” market, which essentially means there aren’t many protections for buyers when it comes to real estate. You will pay a “due diligence” fee to the seller that is typically non-refundable in order for the seller to take the house off the market during the inspection period. The “earnest money” deposit will be refunded as long as you walk away within 30 days before closing. Boyer said when looking to buy a new home it is important to take into account what will need to be fixed that the seller will cover in your closing contract and what you as a first-time buyer will have to pay out-ofpocket. Boyer said buyers can

request a “due diligence” form in order to request repairs, but because the High Country has so few vendors it can be hard to get workers to the property on time. If that is the case, buyers can request a concession, which is essentially credit off the top of the closing fee toward repairs.

Step Four: Be smart with your money. Once you’ve signed your contract, you’ll have about 45 days before closing with the seller. Boyer stresses the importance of knowing that until the close is final, neither is the loan. This means don’t spend all your money on new furniture and decor before you have closed, loaner’s see that kind of behavior as a red flag and then will subsequently pull your loan. If you are able once you buy your home, supplementing your mortgage with roommates is also a great way to help pay it off, a term Boyer describes as “house-hacking.” Boyer will always recommend purchasing a home-warranty as a first time home buyer, which is something you can ask the seller for or purchase through a separate company.

Step Five: Communicate with your agent. Boyer said that it’s very important to tell your agent how you are

feeling. Buying real estate can be an “emotional” experience for everyone. If the seller is being firm about not wanting to give the buyer something they really want, hash that out with your realtor. They can help you make decisions about walking away or pushing through to close.

“It’s okay to walk away. It’s okay. That’s what I’m here for. I’m here to help you and walk you through and talk you through ‘what are you okay with’ and ‘what are you not okay with,’ ” Boyer said.

Step Six: Hopefully you find your forever home, but life happens. First-time sellers can call Boyer in order to discuss any upgrades or changes in order to list the home at an accurate price. Boyer will gather comparables based on the home’s location, size, upgrades and condition. Boyer warns both buyers and sellers against looking at homes or comparing house prices on Zillow. Make sure to remove as many personal photographs as possible before pictures or showings because it is hard for people to picture themselves in a house decorated with other families and memories.

“As long as we have priced you appropriately, we should

be active. However if in the first two weeks, we have not had any showings, any phone calls, that is the market telling us we have over-priced your home,” Boyer said. “Even though the comparative market analysis said we should price you here, that’s the market saying they think that we’ve overpriced your home.”

As for the best advice Boyer could give, she wants all first-timers to know not to be scared. Sometimes lenders recommend saving a bit more money before you are pre-approved. Boyer said it happens more often than one might think, and not to feel uncomfortable reaching out to the right realtor anyway.

“Ultimately what it comes down to is making the best decision for you as the buyer; what’s best for you. It’s not what’s for everybody else, it’s what’s best for you and your situation,” Boyer said. “And that’s the number one important thing.”

For more information, contact Terri Boyer at terriboyer@kw.com or call (828)7199483. For the full recorded interview, interested parties can go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qInInWG0qs4.

PHOTO COURTESY NC MOUNTAIN LIFE REALTY Terri Boyer of Mountain Life Realty.

The appeal of attracting new residents to the High Country

BY CARLI JOHNSON

HIGH COUNTRY — Cool temperatures, a rural atmosphere and beautiful vistas are just some of the many reasons why people choose to move to the High Country. Whether searching for a permanent home or a vacation spot, the High Country has everything you need.

In the summertime, the lush green forests and the cool, refreshing rivers welcome visitors and locals to enjoy the Appalachia’s natural beauty. From hiking to whitewater rafting to cruising the Parkway, spending a summer in the High Country is a unique experience.

Along with the winter, the barren mountains are powdered with snow and the

resorts are ready for skiers and snowboarders alike. If visitors are ready to bear the cold, winter hikes offer empty trails and one-of-a-kind views. The High Country offers enough activities to keep folks busy year round.

The open mountains draw folks in from the city to experience a slower pace of life.

Mike Lacey of Lacey Realty notes that most people buying homes travel from the piedmont region of North Carolina, specifically Charlotte, with other buyers often traveling from Florida, South Carolina or Georgia.

According to Lacey, the past two-and-a-half years have been very busy for the real estate business. With COVID-19, many people were looking to find places to live outside

the city to get away from the dense populations. Now that people could work from home, they were looking to find their hideaway in the mountains. This brought in a new market of homebuyers from New York and New Jersey.

The housing market has since slowed back down to its normal pace, said Lacey. But the High Country remains a desirable place to live. From Blowing Rock to Boone, Valle Crucis to Banner Elk, Newland to Crossnore, there is no wrong choice.

“You’ve got the urban amenities tucked into the rural atmosphere,” Lacey said. This area offers both ample access to restaurants and activities as well as the seclusion most folks are looking for coming up to the mountains.

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Outdoor activities like trail hiking are a drawing factor to homeowners wishing to move to the High Country region.

Momentum, change for Watauga Housing Forum

Progress seen a year after start of sessions

BY JILLYAN MOBLEY JILLYAN.MOBLEY@ MOUNTAINTIMES.COM

WATAUGA — In the year since the start of the Watauga Housing Forum, community momentum has led to movement in the fight for fair housing solutions.

The Watauga County Housing Forum started with four free community-wide sessions held at the Watauga Community Recreation Center on safety, accessibility, affordability and solutions. Each of the three sessions covering housing concerns included video interviews from “vulnerable” community members who talked about their experiences with issues related to housing, conversations with local organization representations, a question-and-answer segment, and roundtable group discussions.

According to the North Carolina Housing Coalition’s 2023 Housing Needs Assessment, 64% of renters and 21% of homeowners have difficulty affording their homes in Watauga County. The minimum wage in North Carolina is $7.25 an hour, while the wage needed to afford a fair market rent apartment in Watauga County is $20, according to the report.

The final forum session was a brainstorming ses-

sion, which also included information about existing housing solutions underway in North Carolina and around the country. The Watauga Housing Council was formed following the last forum to continue the effort to solve housing issues in Watauga.

Kellie Reed Ashcraft, social worker and Housing Forum and Council chair, said while other groups have formed in the past, the community’s involvement in the Forum and Council has her hopeful for change.

“I feel really good that we’ll be able to go further

than we’ve been able to go before because we’re not putting our eggs in one basket,” Ashcraft said. “You know, we’ve recognized that there will be different barriers. Some barriers we can overcome that will just take time, and other barriers — the political climate — may not be right away, but I’m still very hopeful, very confident. I just don’t see the community pressure or the focus going away.”

The council’s vision to see “all people in Watauga County have secure and

SEE FORUM ON PAGE 21

PHOTO BY MATTY STASKEL

Kellie Reed Ashcraft, Co-facilitator of the Watauga Housing Forum, opening the forum by speaking on the reasons for hosting it for the community.

PHOTO BY MATTARAE STASKEL Kellie Reed Ashcraft and the three panelists, Danyelle Smith, Yolanda Adams and Melissa Soto discussed housing issues from their point of view as members of local organizations that assist people with housing.

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High

Tips before you buy a vacation home

STAFF REPORT

Looking forward to a much-needed and relaxing vacation is important for all. Who doesn’t looking forward

to a vacation? But what if you could stay in a place that fits all of your wants and needs? That’s the upside of

SEE VACATION ON PAGE 22

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stable housing” through “partnerships and systemic change” started with planning.

The Housing Council began hosting meetings in the summer of 2022 and began the strategic planning process using the Results-Based Accountability Framework. Three committees — the WHC Structure & Fiscal/Sustainability Committee, the Housing Solutions Committee and the Community Outreach Committee — were formed to allow for more focused conversations.

The Outreach Committee conducted its first targeted community conversation at a church in Meat Camp in November and began distributing a housing survey, which had been completed by 89 people at the time of publication.

In December, the group

received its first grant from the Boone Sunrise Rotary Club to support outreach through social media and website development. The same month, the council voted to form a 501c3 to increase opportunities.

The council is currently working to plan additional community conversations, develop plans for workforce housing with key employers, apply for grants, launch its social media and website, and submit paperwork to incorporate as a nonprofit.

Ashcraft said while housing impacts the community, the solutions are found within.

“One of the things that has been so much fun for me is that there are people with such different strengths and skills that have been involved,” Ashcraft said. “It’s going to take multiple people in multiple sectors to make things happen.”

PHOTO BY MATTARAE STASKEL

Kellie Reed Ashcraft, facilitator of the Watauga Housing Forum, said that the goals for the forum are to inform the community of the issues with housing, create a space where the issues can be talked about and develop steps to further address these issues.

Getting that second place comes with its own important considerations

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Vacation homes are popular in the High Country.

HIGH COUNTRY REAL ESTATE GUIDE

Fair Housing in the High Country

Q&A with advocate Dalton George

BY EMMA SHEW

Boone Town Council

Member Dalton George has advocated for fair housing in the High Country since 2019. He created the Boone Fair Housing Task Force, an advocacy group that focuses on protecting and educating renters on their rights when he was a student at App State.

George has now served as a Boone Town Council Member for two years, and continues to focus his work on the housing crisis in the Boone and the High Country.

What led you to focus on fair housing in Boone?

VACATION

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a second home.

The High Country is home to many second homes as people from all over visit and fall in love. Here are some tips on what to look for if buying a vacation home is for you.

MARKET FORCES

What you’ll pay for a vacation home depends on what type of home you’re buying,

I’m in office, I like to say, because of fair housing. As a student at App State, I started a group called Boone Fair Housing back in 2019. I was going to the town council and asking them to expand protections and do things that would benefit people like me. Some of it worked and some of it didn’t, but it gained enough notoriety and trust from people in the community that it ended up with me serving on the town council.

What are some of the biggest concerns regarding housing in Boone?

Availability and affordability are huge. Something that isn’t talked about enough is adequate and safe housing. Housing stock that is up-to-date, modern, and has necessary renovations and maintenance performed that actually corresponds with the rent that’s being charged. Obviously, there are geographic constraints as well which limit housing stock and availabil-

ity. There’s also a general power imbalance between the people that own a lot of these properties to rent, and the folks that rent.

In your opinion, what has caused the housing crisis in Boone?

There isn’t really any one answer. This is a national issue that’s happening, and Boone has a lot of unique problems that create a local housing dynamic, even though the housing crisis is something we’re seeing in towns across the nation. University growth is kind of the elephant in the room. I don’t think it’s as simple as students versus community though, because oftentimes, the students living here are also impacted by this. They also have to deal with finding available and safe housing.

Obviously, we have a tourism economy. Folks are coming here from all over. There are folks buying second homes and using housing stock that could be used for working class fam-

ilies to create Airbnbs, especially out in the county. I learned recently that 38% of homes in Watauga County are seasonal, which means they’re either second homes or Airbnbs. That’s over a third of the housing stock in this whole county that’s not being used for people who work and live here. That’s a problem.

How does the tourism industry in Boone affect the housing market?

Airbnbs are a problem because what the market is doing is incentivizing people to remove long-term renters from their homes. You can charge $200 or $300 a night for something that would’ve been housing stock for someone who lives here all the time.

The market isn’t acting in the way the market should. A lot of people say, ‘Oh, housing will be solved by the market.’ But I really don’t believe that because we’re seeing it in real time. This is when government regulation is a necessity.

I’m really proud of the Airbnb regulation we’ve done in town. It’s coming in effect in either June or July this year, and I think we’ll see an impact.

What are some of the resources available to folks who are in need of fair housing in Watauga County?

We have a Legal Aid clinic here that we’re really lucky to have. Boone has a minimum housing code that I’m really proud of. I’m working to expand that both as an activist and someone on the town council. Boone’s minimum housing code is the only one in North Carolina that mentions mold growth in apartments. If you’re living in a unit that has mold in the town of Boone, you can get help. You can file a complaint, they’ll send an inspector out, and the inspector will cite a person if they’re not making the repair.

There are standards that local governments can enact that protect people.

Boone’s done a good job at continually exploring ways to do more.

What can the average renter do about the housing crisis?

Educating themselves and their neighbors is really important. Folks have more power when they talk to each other. If you live in an apartment complex, and you’re having issues, chances are your neighbor is, too. Talking to your neighbors is one of the most powerful things you can do as a renter.

Building community, getting to know people who are in similar situations as yourself is the first step to creating a healthier community that’s more responsible for each other.

The unfortunate reality though, is that if you’re working full time and trying to stay head-above-water to pay rent, you probably don’t have time to crack open the town of Boone’s minimum housing code to do some light reading.

including condo, townhome or single-family dwelling, and the current market conditions. The majority of those buying second homes purchase a single-family property, according to the National Association of Realtors. Longterm return on investment may be less important, in this instance, than having a space to enjoy time away in a place you love.

SAVINGS AND COSTS

There can be savings

involved if you travel often, depending on how expensive your hotel and restaurant dining choices typically are. You’ll also enjoy more privacy, and the opportunity to spend time in a place that’s decorated and designed to your specific tastes. But there are also significant costs involved, potentially including another mortgage with higher interest rates, insurance and maintenance. You may have to furnish and decorate the space as well. Decide how often you’ll

legitimately travel there before buying, factoring in the cost of getting there. Most second homes are around 170 miles away from a primary residence. If your second residence is further away, it might not make financial sense.

RENTAL INCOME

You may also choose to offset some of these new expenses by renting out your vacation property when you are back home. Check

homeowner’s association regulations before purchasing, since some ban shortterm rentals. The National Association of Realtors also recommends talking to lenders and insurance agents about tax consequences and other rules regarding second homes.

BEFORE YOU BUY

Consider making an extended visit to any potential vacation home or a similar place before you

buy, so you can determine for yourself if fantasy meets reality. That will also give you a chance to explore the area to learn more about proximity to restaurants, attractions, clubs, parks and shopping. This might prove a deciding factor in buying, and in how well the space might rent, if you choose to go that route. Be aware that prices will go up if you’re looking for a place with attached amenities like a pool, spa or shared luxury entertainment spaces.

Dalton George

Frequently asked questions when buying a home

Real estate transactions can seem more complicated than they really are if you don’t understand how they work. There are lots of decision to be made, and lots of paperwork to read and sign. But in he end, your closing will come down to a few critical elements that are somewhat complex, but very common:

INTEREST RATES

You will be provided with two numbers from a lending institutions when you secure a loan: an interest rate and an annual percentage rate, commonly referred to as an APR. The interest rate is the amount you pay annually in order to borrow. The APR is everything else that added to your principal, including points and mortgage broker fees, among other things. Buying points allows a buyer to pay more upfront in order to get a better interest rate, and thus lower their monthly payments.

TITLE COMPANY

The title company works as an intermediary between the seller and the buyer, gathering legal documents and recording them to ensure that the property

title has no easements or liens. They also hold escrow money, file the deed with local government officials and oversee the signing of everything by both parties.

CLOSING COSTS

Closing costs run about 3 to 5% of the property’s

total cost, along with fees charged by the assessor and lender appraiser. The cost also include title-service fees, that account for title search, title insurance-policy premiums, and other title company costs. The final total also includes processing fees for the lender, prepayment of insurance,

property tax and mortgage insurance, homeowner association fees, any charges for credit reports, and any other additional processing fees. These costs are typically paid at closing, though prospective buyers can negotiate for the seller to pay. Just be aware that the overall cost of the purchase

may increase.

MORTGAGE INSURANCE

Private mortgage insurance, or PMI, helps lower a lender’s risk when a potential homeowner puts down less than 20% for their down payment. Those who

can’t afford to meet the full down payment are considered higher-risk borrowers. Rates for this insurance are set based on credit scores and the down-payment amount, but the number is a percentage of your loan. The bill comes due monthly. PMI is typically required for USDA and FHA loans.

It doesn’t have to be a confusing jumble of terms and jargon