Need a MODERN place in the MOUNTAINS on the INEXPENSIVE side? Need BREATHTAKING VIEWS at a VALUE? 
Need Paved Road, Drive, Parking and EASY LOWER LEVEL ENTRY?

LOOK NO FURTHER!  

We are pleased to present a rare turn-key opportunity to own a Fairway Villa Condominium at the former Mt. Mitchell Golf Course. 

This fully furnished ground level home is a corner unit that has views that will never quit!  Featuring 2⎯bedrooms, 2⎯Baths, easy open split bedroom floor plan with laundry on the main, and a view/entertainment deck that will be the center of activity for family and guests.  There is a cozy gas log unit that will keep you toasty on those colder nights, and central air for the rare humid days of heat here in paradise.    

Imagine if this was a small two-bedroom house with this kind of view.  You’d be looking at $500K- $600K minimum.  Here is your chance to have a nice home, without the headaches of property maintenance, mowing, landscaping, painting the outside, repairing the roof, etc. right here at the top of the world with a magnificent view for nearly half the price!   

Mt. Mitchell and the Burnsville area are approximately mid-way between New York and Florida, and is easily one days drive from 60% of the entire US population— New York, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., New England, Florida and the Mid-west.

No matter the road you take, to or from here, it’s always the “scenic route!”

You are just 20 minutes away from downtown Burnsville, downtown Little Switzerland; 5 minutes to the Blue Ridge Parkway; 35 minutes aways from the famous Penland School of Crafts; 50 minutes to Asheville, NC; This condominium is two and a half hours from Charlotte, NC.

Burnsville

You don’t normally think about seaborne pirates here, deep in the Appalachian Mountains, but someone certainly was over a century ago when they erected a statue to the “privateer” Otway Burns, in the square of this Southern Appalachian town here in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. 

Burnsville started out as a timber town, with some mining, but mostly surrounded agriculture throughout Yancey County— product being Big Burley Tobacco.  Today the town is a revitalized destination for folks throughout the region with several good eateries and a burgeoning nightlife.  It has quickly become a very popular bedroom community for those making the commute to work in bigger towns such as Asheville or Johnson City, TN.

Yancey County was formed in 1833, and the town emerged around the same time, in the early 19th century, as a quiet county seat, drawing settlers to its fertile valleys and nearby resources long before modern roads connected the region.

Known as the gateway to Mount Mitchell—the highest peak east of the Rocky Mountains and West of the Pyrenees—Burnsville is the quintessential Southern town, with a picturesque town square, and friendly charm that will keep you begging for more.  The town has a population of about 1,626 (2024 estimate) (18,470 for the entire county).  It's a haven for creators, with one of the highest per capita concentrations of artists in America, and a perfect base for those seeking inspiration from ancient mountains and starry skies.

Located roughly 35 miles northeast of Asheville, Burnsville is an inviting spot for a serene, affordable lifestyle with proximity to world-class outdoor and cultural experiences.  Here’s why this artistic mountain gem is a wonderful place to live:

A Rich Historical Tapestry

Burnsville's roots trace back to Cherokee lands, followed by European settlers attracted to the fertile valleys and mineral riches.  Founded on March 6, 1834, from land donated by John "Yellow Jacket" Bailey, the town was named after Captain Otway Burns, a heroic privateer from the War of 1812.  A statue of him still stands proudly on the town square.

The arrival of railroads like the Black Mountain Railway (predecessor to the Yancey Railroad) in the early 20th century boosted growth, hauling mica, feldspar, timber, and farm goods. Mining for mica and feldspar played a key role, supporting insulators and other industries.  Though the short-line Yancey Railroad ceased in the 1980s, the legacy endures in the town's industrious past.  Downtown's historic charm and nearby sites reflect this blend of pioneer spirit and resource-driven growth.

Remarkably Low Crime

Safety defines Burnsville.  The town ranks safer than most U.S. communities, with very low overall crime rates—far below national averages.  Violent crime is almost unheard of, and property crime is rare, thanks to the close-knit, rural community where neighbors look out for one another.  This peaceful setting makes it ideal for families and retirees seeking tranquility.

The Weather

Four distinct seasons grace the area without harsh extremes.  Mild summers, colorful falls, gentle springs, and winters with occasional snow at higher elevations offer year-round comfort, though altitude can bring crisp, refreshing days perfect for mountain living.

Tax Savings and Affordability

Burnsville offers real savings compared to nearby Asheville or larger areas.  Yancey County's property tax rate is around 0.54%—one of the lower rates in the state.  For a $350,000 home, that means roughly $1,890 annually, significantly less than in many neighboring counties.

The cost of living here is below the national average, enhanced by no state income tax on Social Security and a flat rate on other income. It's a budget-friendly choice for commuters to Asheville (about 45 minutes away) or retirees enjoying the slower pace.

Demographics at a Glance

Burnsville’s ~1,626 residents (2024 estimate) have a median age around 43, with a mix of families and retirees.  The population is predominantly White, with modest diversity.  Median household income is approximately $51,000, reflecting a community with economic variety and a rural, welcoming feel.

Population density remains low, providing space and closeness in equal measure—ideal for those who value community without crowds.

Major Employers and Healthcare

Key sectors include tourism, arts, retail, and hospitality, with healthcare as a vital anchor. Mountain Community Health Partnership's Burnsville Health Center provides primary care, preventive services, and wellness as a Federally Qualified Health Center.  Nearby opportunities in education, public services, and small manufacturing support the area.  Tourism and crafts bolster jobs, while proximity to Asheville expands options.  Quality care is accessible locally, with larger facilities in Asheville for specialized needs.

Education and Craft Opportunities

Mayland Community College, with nearby campuses, offers associate degrees, certificates, and programs in arts, crafts, and more—affordable and recognized for quality.

Burnsville shines as an arts hub, with a high concentration of artists and studios throughout Yancey County. The Parkway Playhouse, the oldest continually operating summer theater in North Carolina, adds cultural depth with performances and community events.

Nearby Appalachian State University and UNC-Asheville (about 30 min. away)) provide further higher education access.

Unmatched Natural and Cultural Beauty

At around 2,825 feet elevation, Burnsville is cradled by the Black Mountains and Pisgah National Forest. Mount Mitchell State Park offers summit drives and hikes to 6,684 feet, with panoramic views spanning up to 85 miles on clear days.

The Blue Ridge Parkway winds nearby, featuring iconic spots like Crabtree Falls, Roaring Fork Falls, and Setrock Creek Falls—perfect for hiking, photography, and picnics.

Downtown's walkable Town Square features independent shops, galleries, murals, a brewery, and quaint dining, all infused with artistic energy. The North Toe River and surrounding streams offer excellent fly-fishing for trout.

The Mayland Earth to Sky Park's Bare Dark Sky Observatory—the Southeast's first certified dark sky park—delivers stunning stargazing with the region's largest public telescope.

Festivals That Celebrate Community

Burnsville comes alive with events honoring its creative and outdoor spirit. The Mount Mitchell Crafts Fair in August draws over 200 juried artisans to the Town Square with handmade crafts, demonstrations, music, and food.

The Old Timey Fall Festival in September showcases traditional heritage crafts like basket-making, quilting, and more. Other seasonal events highlight bluegrass, local arts, and mountain traditions, fostering community connections.

Why Burnsville is a Great Place to Live

Burnsville, NC, truly is a gateway to the highest mountains in the East, blending small-town charm with endless adventure. Its affordability—low taxes, reasonable homes, and below-average cost of living—pairs beautifully with majestic surroundings, from peak hikes to waterfall trails and dark skies.

Low crime offers peace, while the arts scene, theater, and festivals bring vibrancy and inspiration. Healthcare and education options support all ages, with Asheville's amenities just a short drive away.

People come here to escape the rush, drawn to pristine nature, clear waters, and starry nights. The friendly community, outdoor pursuits, and slower rhythm deliver a fulfilling life at a great value. It's a mountain town where history, creativity, and wilderness converge—an unbeatable place to call home.

So… the only thing left for you to do is reach out to Peter Franklin at Foxfire Real Estate (828) 766-7221, and start the conversation on finding your perfect spot in this special place!

 

Otway Burns (c. 1775 – October 25, 1850) 

Burns was a notable figure in North Carolina history, best known as a daring privateer (a legalized pirate-like raider) during the War of 1812, a shipbuilder, and a long-serving state legislator.

Born near Swansboro in Onslow County (or sometimes listed near Queen's Creek), Burns went to sea early in life with limited formal education. He gained fame commanding the privateer schooner Snap Dragon, which captured numerous British prizes (over 40, valued at millions in today's terms), making him one of North Carolina's most celebrated naval heroes of the war. 

After the war, he returned to shipbuilding and business ventures in areas like Beaufort.

Politically, Burns represented Carteret County in the North Carolina House of Commons (serving multiple terms starting in 1821) and later in the State Senate. He was known for his independent streak. His key connection to western North Carolina came in the early 1830s: as a senator, he cast a decisive tie-breaking vote in favor of legislation allowing the formation of new western counties, including Yancey County (established in 1833). This vote alienated his eastern constituents and cost him political support there, but it earned him gratitude from western residents.

As a result, when the county seat of Yancey County was established in 1834 (from land donated by John "Yellow Jacket" Bailey), the town was named Burnsville in his honor—despite Burns never visiting the area. A statue of him stands in Burnsville's town square (unveiled in 1909), and his legacy is commemorated there as a gesture of appreciation for enabling western growth and representation.

Burns later fell on hard times financially, ending his days as keeper of a lighthouse at Portsmouth, NC, where he died in 1850. Other honors include a statue in Swansboro and the nearby community of Otway named after him.