From sweeping Blue Ridge Mountain views to quiet wooded settings, mountain homes offer options suited to a range of tastes and lifestyles. If you’re considering buying a home in the [...]
Thinking of tackling a home renovation? Whether you’re preparing to sell or simply want to make smart investments in your Asheville property, it’s important to remember that not every renovation delivers the same return on investment. The best home improvement projects increase both your home’s appeal and its market value, especially in Western North Carolina, where buyers often prioritize outdoor living, energy efficiency and move-in-ready homes.
If you’re wondering where to spend your renovation dollars, these 10 projects consistently offer some of the strongest returns on investment (ROI) in the Asheville real estate market.
Curb appeal is one of the biggest factors influencing buyers, and a fresh exterior instantly makes a home feel well-maintained. Updating faded paint, repairing damaged siding, or replacing worn trim can significantly increase buyer interest while protecting your home from the mountain climate.
Replacing an outdated front door is one of the simplest projects with an impressive payoff. Steel or fiberglass doors improve energy efficiency while creating a welcoming entrance. Even a new paint job can work wonders. A fresh front door paired with updated hardware and lighting can transform the entire look of your home.
You don’t necessarily need a luxury kitchen renovation to increase your home’s value. Minor updates often provide a better return than complete remodels.
Bathrooms are another area buyers scrutinize closely. Even modest improvements can make a home feel newer.
Outdoor living is a major selling point in Asheville and Western N.C. Buyers are drawn to homes that embrace mountain living. Projects worth considering include expanding a deck, adding a covered porch, and installing attractive yet functional outdoor lighting.
Taking out an old garage door not only improves your home’s appearance, it can transform the space behind it. New garage doors improve insulation and security, especially valuable in mountain communities where garages can serve as storage and workshop space.
Energy-efficient homes that reduce utility costs are always a draw. In Asheville’s varied climate, efficiency improvements provide year-round comfort while adding value.
Hardwood flooring remains one of the most desirable features among Asheville homebuyers. Rather than replacing existing wood floors, refinishing them can dramatically improve appearance at a relatively low cost. If your home has carpet covering hardwoods, uncovering and restoring the original flooring may provide an even greater return.
Because Western N.C. is known for its natural beauty, thoughtfully landscaped yards help buyers envision enjoying the outdoors. Landscaping doesn’t have to be elaborate to make an impact.
Today’s buyers increasingly appreciate homes equipped with convenient technology. These features can help your home feel current without requiring major renovations. Affordable upgrades include such things as smart locks, lighting and thermostats; video doorbells; and integrated security systems.
A major renovation mistake is making improvements beyond what the neighborhood can support. An expensive renovation may not significantly increase resale value if nearby homes sell within a lower price range.
Before investing in major upgrades, it’s worth consulting with a local real estate professional who understands current buyer preferences and neighborhood pricing. The right improvements can help your home stand out while maximizing your return when it’s time to sell.
At Mosaic Community Lifestyle Realty, our agents understand what buyers are looking for throughout Asheville and Western North Carolina. We’re happy to help you identify which improvements are most likely to increase your home’s value based on your neighborhood, price point and current market conditions. For more information, please contact us at Info@MyMosaicRealty.com, or call us anytime at 828-707-9556.
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Mosaic Community Lifestyle Realty is honored to announce that our office at 46 Orchard St. in Asheville, N.C., has received a prestigious Griffin Award for Rehabilitation from the Preservation Society of Asheville and Buncombe County (PSABC).
Presented during the 46th Annual Griffin Awards on May 21, the award recognizes outstanding efforts to preserve and rehabilitate historic properties throughout Buncombe County. The Griffin Awards celebrate projects and individuals whose work demonstrates exceptional craftsmanship, respect for historic character and materials, and a meaningful contribution to the community.
Constructed in 1923, the building at 46 Orchard St. (just north of downtown Asheville) was originally a residence built for Harriet and Claude Edwards. In the early 20th century, the Edwards family operated several apartment units from the property; the building continued serving as apartments until the 1990s.
When Mosaic purchased the property, the team was excited by the opportunity to rehabilitate a centrally located building filled with architectural character and abundant natural light. “Since the end of the pandemic we had been looking for a bigger home for Mosaic to provide more space for our growing team and a greater sense of community,” says Mosaic building manager Rachel Figura, who coordinated the renovation. “46 Orchard had great bones, ample parking, energy efficiency upgrades, and tons of natural light, so we knew at once it was the right fit for us.”
Equally intriguing were some of its mysteries, including the dual front doors and an unusual floor plan. “We learned that 46 Orchard St. was built with dual front doors – one for the [Edwards] family, and one for the tenants housed upstairs,” says Figura. “We discovered that an upstairs open-air sleeping porch had originally been part of the back of the house, partially enclosed in the 1940s, and fully enclosed during the 1970s. Harriet’s father, Jethro Miller, was a local carpenter, so it’s not hard to imagine that he had a large role in the construction.”
The property had endured decades of deferred maintenance and required extensive rehabilitation work. The rehabilitation warranted careful attention to both historic preservation and modern functionality. For example, when the original siding proved too deteriorated to restore, the project team invested in custom-milled 10-inch German lap siding that precisely matched the profile of the original material.
Another major issue was preserving the foundation. “Our largest renovation challenge was leveling the first floor without damaging the original brick foundation,” says Figura. “Repairing the mortar in the foundation was no small feat and required bringing in sand from Virginia Beach to match the color.”
A priority during the renovation was retaining as much of the home’s historic details while bringing the property into the 21st century. “We prioritized keeping the original trim and upstairs floors, sourcing historic heart of pine narrow plank floorboards to repair a damaged area of the upstairs floor and making trim to match the existing one for some places it was missing,” says Figura. “We installed historic crystal doorknobs, drawer pulls, hinges and mother of pearl push button light switches. We were able to keep two existing built-ins including retrofitting the grain bin in the kitchen to be a regular cabinet.”
The Griffin Award recognizes the many talented professionals who contributed to the successful rehabilitation of 46 Orchard St. Honorees include Asheville Flooring LLC, Astralwerks Architectural Finishes, CJE Roofing and Exterior, Greg Podlesney, JAG Construction, Jonathan Cervantes, Kacia Jurdi, Michael and Rachel Figura, Mr. Rooter Plumbing, Ryan Morin of Luxgrain, Volt Electric USA, and Willis Home Improvements.
The Griffin Awards recognize excellence across several categories, including adaptive reuse, rehabilitation, restoration, preservation, stewardship, research, education and compatible infill construction within historic districts.
Curious to see Mosaic’s new office in person? We invite clients, neighbors and community members to stop by and experience this beautifully restored piece of Asheville history for themselves. And for more information on real estate in Asheville or Western N.C., please contact us at Info@MyMosaicRealty.com, or call us anytime at 828-707-9556.
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Understanding the Western North Carolina real estate market takes more than a quick look at statewide statistics. Each mountain community has its own unique mix of pricing trends, inventory levels, buyer demand and market conditions. That’s why [...]
Meet Dana Brook, Mosaic Community Lifestyle Realty’s newest agent! We’re thrilled to welcome Dana and the varied professional skills he brings to the table to make your real estate journey a smooth and enjoyable one. Mosaic’s Christie Kafka caught up with Dana in a recent [...]
Eager to experience some exciting events and community opportunities in Asheville and Western North Carolina this July? Following are just a few of the many happenings about town, suited to a range of interests and lifestyles, and supported and curated by Mosaic Realty brokers!
Shindig on the Green (throughout July) – Presented by the Folk Heritage Committee, Shindig on the Green returns for its 60th season this summer, bringing free Appalachian music and dance performances to downtown Asheville’s Pack Square Park. This beloved Asheville tradition features bluegrass bands, clog dancers, storytellers and informal jams. Mosaic Realty is proud to sponsor this longstanding community tradition. Dates begin in July, but June is the perfect time to mark your calendar and plan summer evenings downtown.
West Asheville Tailgate Market (throughout July) – The West Asheville Tailgate Market continues every Tuesday (3:30-6:30 p.m.) from spring through Christmas, offering fresh produce, artisan foods, flowers, handmade goods, live music and family activities. A weekly gathering place for locals and visitors alike, the tailgate market showcases Asheville’s thriving local food and maker scene. Mosaic Realty and Ren Fridell are proud co-sponsors of the market this season.
“40 Views for 40 Years” (now through September) – “40 Views for 40 Years” at The North Carolina Arboretum celebrates the beauty, history and artistic inspiration of the Arboretum through the eyes of those closest to this popular Western N.C. destination. The photography exhibit delves deep into many facets of the Arboretum, offering visitors a uniquely intimate experience. Mosaic Realty is proud to sponsor this exhibit during the Arboretum’s milestone anniversary year.
Art in Bloom at Black Mountain Center for the Arts (June and July) – Art in Bloom returns to the Black Mountain Center for the Arts during June and July, blending floral installations with visual art exhibitions in one of the region’s most vibrant arts communities. Enjoy two gallery exhibits, live floral arrangements, and a local garden tour featuring working artists; afterward, take time to soak in the charming sights of downtown Black Mountain. Mosaic Realty and Shane Peters are proud co-sponsors of this summer event.
Groovin’ on Grovemont (July and August) – Groovin’ on Grovemont returns this season, bringing live music to Grovemont Park in Swannanoa. This free outdoor concert series benefiting The Friends of the Swannanoa Library and the Swannanoa Community Council offers family-friendly fun with local bands and food vendors. Mosaic Realty and Casey Conner are co-sponsors of the series for 2026.
Asheville Tourists Baseball (throughout July) – Summer evenings cheering on the Asheville Tourists baseball team are a classic warm-weather tradition in Asheville. Come enjoy themed nights, fireworks and special events throughout the summer, set against the breathtaking backdrop of historic McCormick Field.
Fourth of July Powwow (July 3-5) – This vibrant celebration in Cherokee, N.C., brings to life tradition and culture to honor indigenous heritage with lively dance performances and colorful regalia. Hosted within the Qualla Boundary of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, this annual event showcases performers’ skills in traditional competitions, storytelling, craft demonstrations and authentic cuisine.
Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands (July 16-19) – Held at Harrah's Cherokee Center in downtown Asheville, this celebration of Appalachian tradition and creativity features more than 100 juried regional artists across 12 media, including clay, fiber, leather and wood. Enjoy live demonstrations, hands-on craft education and the opportunity to shop handmade and meet the makers.
We hope to see you out in the community enjoying some of these exciting events! For information about lifestyles or real estate in Western N.C., please contact us at Info@MyMosaicRealty.com, or call us anytime at 828-707-9556.
Search: Asheville Area Homes
See The North Carolina Arboretum from the viewpoint of those most familiar with it!
From May 23 through Sept. 12 in the Baker Exhibit Hall, “The Arb in Focus: 40 Views for 40 Years” will offer visitors a uniquely candid view of the famed gardens through intimate images. Mosaic Community Lifestyle Realty, a longtime supporter of the [...]
Mosaic Community Lifestyle Realty’s Third Art Walk & Benefit was a major success, with the Asheville community coming out in full force to support our area’s nonprofit organizations and the arts. Hundreds of attendees descended on downtown Asheville for an exciting evening of camaraderie and art – in all raising a total $28,523 in donations [...]
If you’re buying or selling in Asheville or Buncombe County, the latest market numbers offer important insight into where the market is heading. The first quarter of 2026 showed a continued shift toward more balanced conditions, with some signs of increased buyer leverage. We spoke with Mosaic Realty owner [...]
If you’re thinking about moving to Asheville, N.C., chances are lifestyle has a lot to do with it. For health-minded residents and visitors alike, Asheville offers wellness-focused activities that have become an ingrained part of the culture. From mountain-view spas and holistic retreats to yoga studios, hiking trails and outdoor [...]
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