The Top 5 Questions to Ask When Buying A Mountain Home In The High Country

Brought to you by Boone Realty

The High Country of North Carolina is just a day’s drive from Tampa and consists of idyllic mountain towns such as Blowing Rock, Boone and Banner Elk. The area offers the highest elevations in North Carolina, the Blue Ridge Parkway, three ski resorts, and endless hiking trails and scenic waterfalls.

Living in the mountains can be magical. The views are unrivaled, and you’re surrounded by flora and fauna everywhere you turn.

But buying a mountain home is much different than buying a home in Tampa, on a flat half-acre lot with city water and sewage.

The views are just one reason to consider real estate in the North Carolina High Country

Here are my top 5 questions to consider:

Vacation Home, Vacation Rental, or Both?
Why are you buying? Some clients buy a mountain home to escape the heat and visit during the summer. Others want rental income properties, and with three ski resorts and an abundance of outdoor activities, these properties are in high demand. Many homes are both. I can help you decide what is best for you.
View, Water, Other Settings?
When flatlanders think about the mountains, they think about the views. Long-range, layered, pastoral, creek and river, are just some of the options. All come with different considerations such as access, Mother Nature, value, etc.
Proximity to Amenities?
How close would you like to be to restaurants, shopping, groceries, etc.? In The High Country, we speak in minutes instead of miles.
Septic Systems and Well Water?
“Should I be concerned that it is on a septic system and well water?” Absolutely not. Most High Country homes are on septic and well water. Best of all, no monthly bills! Once we find the home you like, let me help you through the inspection process to make sure both are working properly.
What are the HOA Fees (we call them POAs), Restrictive Covenants, Taxes, & Insurance?
Some of our homes have Property Owner Associations. However, most are relaxed and mainly in place to take care of road maintenance and common areas. I can help guide you through these, including the fees. Most flatlanders will be happy when they see the property taxes and insurance costs. We are pretty lucky up here!

Meet Stephen W. Keith, REALTOR®

My name is Stephen W. Keith, and I love The High Country. Let me rephrase…I REALLY love The High Country.

I’m originally a long time Tampa resident and Plant High graduate, as well as a University of Florida alumnus.

After earning my master’s degree from Appalachian State University in Boone, I returned to Tampa and excelled as a Real Estate Analyst for Publix Super Markets and for Cushman & Wakefield.

But the mountains were always calling me back.

Being an avid hiker and backpacker, I have come to know the area on a unique level and look forward to sharing my passion and knowledge with you. Let me be your guide to The High Country and its real estate opportunities.