McDowell County Real Estate

Welcome to McDowell County, North Carolina – a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains! Known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history, McDowell County offers a unique blend of small-town charm and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal place for families, retirees, and anyone seeking a serene lifestyle.

With its picturesque landscapes, McDowell County is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Enjoy hiking along the breathtaking trails of the Pisgah National Forest or explore the majestic waterfalls that dot the region. The county is also home to Lake James, a popular spot for boating, fishing, and picnicking, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the tranquil waters.

McDowell County boasts a vibrant community with a rich cultural heritage. The charming towns of Marion and Old Fort are filled with delightful shops, local eateries, and friendly faces. Throughout the year, the county hosts various festivals and events that celebrate its history and culture, providing residents and visitors with a sense of community and belonging.

For those considering a move, McDowell County offers a range of real estate options, from cozy cottages to spacious family homes, all surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the mountains. The cost of living is affordable, and the area is known for its excellent schools and healthcare facilities, making it a perfect place to call home.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, a peaceful retreat, or a welcoming community, McDowell County is the perfect destination to start your next chapter. Discover the charm and beauty of this remarkable region today!

Newest Listings in McDowell County

$40,000

4425010 MLS

Your Lake James-area dream starts here! This beautiful 2-acre, approximately 85% cleared lot offers gently rolling, elevated terrain in a scenic gated community. With both front and rear property access, this property provides plenty of open space and flexibility for your future home. Enjoy a peaceful setting with the community pool just a short walk away, while being conveniently located near the outdoor recreation and natural beauty of Lake James. Bring your vision and start planning the home you’ve been dreaming of!

91 Meadows Station Drive, Nebo

$22,500

4425100 MLS

Motivated Seller!! Perched up at the top of Forest Heights gated community on a cul-de-sac, this 2.79 acre homesite offers a rare blend of privacy, usability, and gorgeous mountain views as seen from the road in the photos. The property features both level and sloping terrain, giving you flexibility for home placement and outdoor living spaces. With selective tree clearing, you can open up the long range mountain views providing a stunning backdrop for your custom build. Enjoy paved road access and a setting that feels tucked away yet close to everything. A beautiful canvas ready for your vision in one of Marion’s most desirable gated communities. Located just minutes from Lake James and downtown Marion, 20 minutes to Morganton, and approximately 45 minutes to Asheville.

Lot 149 Big View Drive, Marion

$350,000

4423656 MLS

Discover the possibilities with this 0.71-acre parcel in the peaceful Nebo area of McDowell County. Located along High Trail Drive, this property offers a wooded and private setting with plenty of room to create your ideal homesite or explore other permitted uses. Enjoy the natural beauty and quiet surroundings while still being conveniently located near Lake James and the amenities of the surrounding area. Whether you're looking to build, invest, or secure a piece of land in the Nebo area, this property offers an opportunity to make your vision a reality.

1403 High Trail Drive, Nebo

$250,000

4422814 MLS

Views!! Views!! Two year-round flowing creeks and a waterfall. This private, unrestricted 12 acre tract adjoins Pisgah National Forest at Linville Gorge Wilderness. It has been known locally as The Island for generations due to most of the property being elevated between two creeks with stunning long range views of the Black Mountains, the highest elevation points in the Eastern United States. All photos of the views were taken standing on the ground at the build site. Clear more trees and you'll have sweeping 180 degree west facing views. A level and extensive gently sloping build site is already cleared for you to envision your home. This property gets more interesting….It is accessed on paved roads that meander through a gated community. The community takes care of the roads, you pay them an annual road maintenance fee of $450. Once you arrive at the property you are NOT subject to the gated community restrictions, it falls under the county no zoning area. A paved driveway leads you to the ridgetop build site and then continues across the property to two creek side off grid cabins that the owners enjoyed for many years. An above ground 1,000 gallon propane tank sits next to the cabins that can be powered by a generator. The cabins will need some updating and are being sold as is. Excellent for use as a hunting camp, homestead, private mountain getaway or vacation rental property. Seller would prefer a cash deal or partial seller financing. Centrally located between Boone (40 minutes) and Asheville (50 minutes), and only 30 minutes to the ski resorts in the high country, 25 minutes to Lake James, and 10 minutes to the Blue Ridge Parkway, Linville Falls, and Linville Falls Winery. Call today for your showing of this most unique land tract.

318 Sequoyah Circle, Marion

$200,000

1 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 4424103 MLS

OWNER FINANCING AVAILABLE! TURNKEY SHORT-TERM RENTAL NEAR LAKE JAMES! Looking for a Lake James investment property, turnkey short-term rental, tiny home, or private mountain getaway? This unique modern container home offers an opportunity to own 3.98 private acres near Lake James, NC, with no HOA and plenty of room to explore future possibilities. Designed for efficient, low-maintenance living, this approximately 320-square-foot container home is already set up for weekend getaways or short-term rental use. The thoughtfully designed interior includes a breakfast bar, electric cooktop, beverage refrigerator, ductless mini-split heating and cooling, and an easy-to-maintain layout. Nature is a major part of the property's appeal. A 30-foot hiking trail easement and an 80-foot creek-side park easement border the property, creating added privacy and outdoor appeal that can make a vacation rental especially attractive. Seasonal winter mountain views add to the setting. The nearly 4-acre unrestricted property with no HOA offers flexibility for buyers interested in a tiny home, homestead, recreational property, vacation rental, or future second home. The existing well and septic systems were strategically sited to accommodate the potential placement of a second home, providing an opportunity to expand the property's possibilities. Located just minutes from Lake James, one of North Carolina's premier recreational lakes, this property puts boating, fishing, hiking, swimming, and mountain recreation within easy reach. Whether you're looking for a Lake James vacation rental investment, tiny home retreat, mountain getaway, homestead property, or income-producing short-term rental, this property offers a rare combination of land, privacy, flexibility, and proximity to the lake. Owner financing is available, making this an opportunity worth exploring. Schedule your private tour today and discover what this unique Lake James property could become.

678 Forest Lake Heights Drive, Nebo

$270,000

4424725 MLS

Wow! Just over 5 acres of unrestricted land inside city limits level and ready to build!!! Zoned neighborhood residential, this site is a great opportunity for investors! The area has three (3) graded pads; each different in elevation for a terraced appearance. City water and sewer are available with manhole(s) onsite and drainage in place. Envision this location with townhomes or duplex units, a tiny home community, apartments, or even single-family homes. Subdividing is a possibility and seller will consider owner financing.

V/L Hoyle Street, Marion

$249,900

2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 4424785 MLS

Newly remodeled (est completion date 10/30) 2-bedroom, one-bath tucked between Old Fort and Marion, NC. Excellent investment opportunity for Airbnb or long-term rental, first-time home buyers, or downsizing. This cute and well-appointed home on 1.43 +/- acres is a great deal. New kitchen cabinets, appliances, central heating and cooling, a completely redone bathroom, and so much more add to this amazing property's original charm. Showings start 9/14

121 Old River Road, Marion

$3,000,000

1 Baths ⋅ 4424720 MLS

New Construction: 12-Unit New Construction Development in Downtown Old Fort, NC 73 W Mitchell Street offers an opportunity for investors or home buyers looking for housing that allows you to walk to all that Downtown Old Fort has to offer. This fully permitted, under-construction property comprises 12 individually designed units, each featuring a walk-in shower, stackable washer and dryer, full kitchen, private single bedroom, and personal deck, with dedicated front door parking. Old Fort is in the midst of a deliberate, well-funded transformation. The G5 Trail Collective, in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, is expanding the surrounding trail network toward a planned 42 miles, building on the momentum of Kitsuma, Catawba Falls, and the Gateway Trail System, and drawing hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians from across the region. That momentum shows up most clearly in Old Fort's dining and gathering spots, which have become a draw in their own right. Hillman Beer's downtown taproom offers creekside seating and a full food menu alongside its brews, while Foothills Watershed pairs house-brewed beer with a barbecue menu sourced from Foothills Butcher Shop across its 117-acre riverside bike park and recreation grounds. Whaley Farm Brewery brings European-style lagers and Appalachian-inspired ales just across the stream, and Euda Wine rounds out the beverage scene for visitors who prefer wine to beer. On the food and coffee side, Seeker Coffee has built a loyal following for its locally roasted drinks, Gogo's Cinnamon Rolls draws a steady stream of visitors downtown for its baked goods. Modern Alchemist, born from a passion for mixology and experimentation, blends tradition and boundary-pushing creativity from its on-site distillery and food offerings in an amazing space. Other local favorites include, The Davis Country Store & Cafe, Black Beary's Cafe, and 27 Main. For investors, the property's design offers meaningful flexibility. The unit configuration works equally well as short-term rentals for the rising tide of outdoor recreation visitors, or as long-term workforce housing to meet a documented local need as new businesses and residents continue arriving. With construction still underway, buyers have the added advantage of stepping in before completion, with the opportunity to influence remaining finish and design decisions. Units can be purchased as single units, multiple units or the entire development. Positioned just 25 miles east of Asheville, Old Fort offers access to the same regional demand drivers at a fraction of the cost of entry, making 73 W Mitchell Street a compelling opportunity to capture ground-floor value in a market with clear, sustained momentum.

73 W Mitchell Street, Old Fort

$275,000

1 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 4423074 MLS

New Construction: 12-Unit New Construction Development in Downtown Old Fort, NC 73 W Mitchell Street offers an opportunity for investors or home buyers looking for housing that allows you to walk to all that Downtown Old Fort has to offer. This fully permitted, under-construction property comprises 12 individually designed units, each featuring a walk-in shower, stackable washer and dryer, full kitchen, private single bedroom, and personal deck, with dedicated front door parking. Old Fort is in the midst of a deliberate, well-funded transformation. The G5 Trail Collective, in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, is expanding the surrounding trail network toward a planned 42 miles, building on the momentum of Kitsuma, Catawba Falls, and the Gateway Trail System, and drawing hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians from across the region. That momentum shows up most clearly in Old Fort's dining and gathering spots, which have become a draw in their own right. Hillman Beer's downtown taproom offers creekside seating and a full food menu alongside its brews, while Foothills Watershed pairs house-brewed beer with a barbecue menu sourced from Foothills Butcher Shop across its 117-acre riverside bike park and recreation grounds. Whaley Farm Brewery brings European-style lagers and Appalachian-inspired ales just across the stream, and Euda Wine rounds out the beverage scene for visitors who prefer wine to beer. On the food and coffee side, Seeker Coffee has built a loyal following for its locally roasted drinks, Gogo's Cinnamon Rolls draws a steady stream of visitors downtown for its baked goods. Modern Alchemist, born from a passion for mixology and experimentation, blends tradition and boundary-pushing creativity from its on-site distillery and food offerings in an amazing space. Other local favorites include, The Davis Country Store & Cafe, Black Beary's Cafe, and 27 Main. For investors, the property's design offers meaningful flexibility. The unit configuration works equally well as short-term rentals for the rising tide of outdoor recreation visitors, or as long-term workforce housing to meet a documented local need as new businesses and residents continue arriving. With construction still underway, buyers have the added advantage of stepping in before completion, with the opportunity to influence remaining finish and design decisions. Positioned just 25 miles east of Asheville, Old Fort offers access to the same regional demand drivers at a fraction of the cost of entry, making 73 W Mitchell Street a compelling opportunity to capture ground-floor value in a market with clear, sustained momentum.

73 W Mitchell Street, Old Fort

$110,000

4383986 MLS

Extraordinary opportunity in the upscale Creston gated community in Black Mountain! This serene mountain enclave offers well-maintained roads, extensive hiking trails, and an impressive clubhouse situated at the neighborhood's peak. Nestled amidst the protected lands of Pisgah National Forest and the Foothills Land Conservancy, Creston provides a natural haven for residents. This lot is perfect for a private home or rental investment. Enjoy ultimate privacy with protected land on three sides. This property is a rare find in a community where 50% of the land is dedicated to conservation. Amenities include a Community Center, Fitness Center, pocket parks, dog park, hiking trails, Triple Falls Sanctuary, paved roads, and high-speed internet.

153 Kestrel Lane Unit #T-64, Black Mountain

$175,000

4383989 MLS

Extraordinary opportunity in the upscale Creston gated community in Black Mountain! This serene mountain enclave offers well-maintained roads, extensive hiking trails, and an impressive clubhouse situated at the neighborhood's peak. Nestled amidst the protected lands of Pisgah National Forest and the Foothills Land Conservancy, Creston provides a natural haven for residents. This combined lot features up to 3 build pads, perfect for a private home, rental investment, or a family compound. Enjoy ultimate privacy with protected land on three sides. Priced together at $224,000, this property is a rare find in a community where 50% of the land is dedicated to conservation. Amenities include a Community Center, Fitness Center, pocket parks, dog park, hiking trails, Triple Falls Sanctuary, paved roads, and high-speed internet.

9999 Kestrel Lane, Black Mountain

$85,000

4383960 MLS

Extraordinary opportunity in the upscale Creston gated community in Black Mountain! This serene mountain enclave offer well-maintained roads, extensive hiking trails, and an impressive clubhouse situated at the neighborhood's peak. Nestled amidst the protected lands of Pisgah National Forest and the Foothills Land Conservancy, Creston provides a natural haven for residents. This lot is perfect for a private home or rental investment. Enjoy ultimate privacy with protected land on three sides. This property is a rare find in a community where 50% of the land is dedicated to conservation. Amenities include a Community Center, Fitness Center, pocket parks, dog park, hiking trails, Triple Falls Sanctuary, paved roads, and high-speed internet.

71 Kestrel Lane Unit #C-8, Black Mountain

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Listings provided courtesy of Triangle MLS, Inc. of NC, Internet Data Exchange Database. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. © 2026 Triangle MLS, Inc. of North Carolina. Data last updated .