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What Are Common Inspection Issues in Older Asheville-Area Homes?

Common Inspection Issues

If you’ve fallen for the beauty of Asheville’s historic homes, you’re not alone. But before you begin your search for the perfect historic home for you, it’s important to understand the unique maintenance and inspection issues that may come with such a property. A thorough home inspection can help you understand a historic property’s condition and identify potential concerns before moving forward with a purchase in Western North Carolina.

Common Inspection IssuesFoundation and structural concerns

Older Asheville homes may have foundations made from stone, brick or other materials that differ from modern construction. A home inspection may reveal cracks, settling, deteriorated mortar, or evidence of previous repairs. Western N.C.’s hilly terrain can also affect structures. Homes built on slopes may have issues that affect foundations and crawl spaces. While some of these details don’t signal a major problem, it’s important to be aware of them in case further evaluation is necessary.

Moisture, drainage and crawl spaces

Water management is especially important for older homes in Asheville. Heavy rainfall, sloping lots, aging gutters, and inadequate grading can contribute to moisture problems. As a result, inspectors may look for damp crawl spaces, standing water, wood rot, and damaged insulation. Proper gutters, downspouts, grading and drainage can make a significant difference in protecting an older home from long-term damage.

Electrical systems

Electrical systems can vary considerably in Asheville’s older homes. Some have been completely rewired, while others have received piecemeal upgrades over several decades. An inspector can pinpoint outdated wiring, improperly installed modifications, and other issues. That way you can be aware of what fixes or updates may be needed.

Older Home Inspection IssuesPlumbing and sewer lines

A renovated kitchen or bathroom doesn’t necessarily mean all of a home’s plumbing has been replaced. Older pipes can remain hidden behind walls and under floors. An inspection may uncover things like aging supply lines, leaks or outdated plumbing materials. You may also want to consider a sewer scope, particularly if you’re looking in a neighborhood where underground sewer lines are decades old. A sewer scope, which is a video inspection of a home’s main underground sewer line using a specialized waterproof camera, can reveal things that aren’t visible during a standard inspection.

Roofs, chimneys and exterior materials

Don’t forget about examining exterior details when purchasing a historic Asheville home. Aging roofing materials, chimney mortar issues, wood rot or evidence of previous leaks are all things to look out for. Asheville’s weather can be particularly hard on exposed wood, especially around porches, decks and trim. Having a grasp on these details can help you anticipate maintenance and repair costs down the road.

Fireplace Inspections AshevilleHeating, cooling and environmental concerns

Many older Asheville homes have been renovated one system at a time, so it’s not unusual to find a combination of older and newer mechanical systems. Fireplaces and wood-burning stoves may also warrant additional inspection. Depending on a property’s age, buyers may also encounter potential issues involving things like lead-based paint and asbestos-containing materials.

Radon is another consideration throughout Western N.C. This naturally occurring gas can enter homes through foundations and crawl spaces, and testing is the best way to determine whether elevated levels are present.

If you’re searching for historic homes for sale in the Asheville area, Mosaic Community Lifestyle Realty can help put inspection findings into context. For more information on historic homes, or any 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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What Buyers First Notice When Touring a Home in Asheville

What Home Buyers Notice

Thinking of selling your Asheville-area home? When buyers walk through for the first time, they’ll be taking in much more than the number of bedrooms or the size of the kitchen. Almost from the start, they’ll be forming an impression of what it might feel like to live there. A home’s setting, natural light, layout, outdoor spaces and overall condition can all influence how buyers experience a property.

What Home Buyers Notice

Curb appeal and the first impression

The exterior of a home is the first thing a buyer will notice. The condition of the driveway, walkways, front door, roof and siding all contribute to that initial impression. A well-maintained exterior also gives buyers confidence that the home has been cared for.

In addition, a home’s yard and surroundings can be just as important as the structure itself. In Western N.C., mature trees, mountain views, lush gardens and inviting porches or patios can help make a property stand out.

How the home feels

What greets a buyer when they first walk through the front door goes a long way toward the overall feel. Stepping into the home, is it bright and welcoming? Open and spacious? Cozy and comfortable? With some de-cluttering, bright lighting and optimally placed furnishings, you can create an inviting home that will draw in buyers.

If you have the ability, maximize natural light wherever possible. It can make a significant difference in how your home feels. Large windows, skylights and thoughtfully designed spaces can help rooms feel larger and more inviting.

And because it’s Asheville, a home’s connection to the outdoors is often a boon. Windows that frame mountain views, wooded surroundings, gardens or other natural scenery can add to a home’s allure.

Preparing to Sell Home

A kitchen with all the right ingredients

Of all the rooms in a house, the kitchen is one of the most important when looking to impress a buyer. A kitchen doesn’t necessarily need a complete renovation to make a good impression. Clean surfaces, good lighting, functional storage, and a practical layout can go a long way.

If you’re preparing your Asheville home for sale, simple approaches such as decluttering countertops, paring down pantries, and replacing old light fixtures can help the kitchen feel fresher and more spacious. If your cabinets are dated, you can replace the doors rather than entire units; drawer pulls and faucets can also be easily replaced for an updated look.

A floor plan that flows

Buyers enter a home trying to visualize themselves in it, which is why it’s so important to create a floor plan that allows for everyday ease. Is there a natural flow between the kitchen, dining and living areas? Is there enough storage? Are there areas for guests and entertaining? For mountain homes in the Asheville area, parking, accessibility from the road, and a connection between indoor and outdoor living spaces are also considerations.

Home Sale Tips

Outdoor spaces and views

With Asheville’s vibrant seasons, outdoor living spaces can be one of your home’s most attractive features. To increase your home’s appeal, play up focal points like a deck, screened porch, patio, yard or surrounding environment. Even if your property doesn’t have a sweeping mountain view, a thoughtfully maintained yard, private wooded setting, or inviting porch can make a lasting impression. These spaces can feel like an extension of the home and provide places to relax, entertain and enjoy the area’s natural Blue Ridge beauty.

Signs of maintenance

It’s important that buyers know a home has been well-maintained. Fresh paint and clean floors are a given, but it’s also important to pay attention to things like water stains, worn flooring, aging fixtures, cracked caulk, or other signs of poor maintenance. And don’t forget about your home’s exterior: Repair or replace roofs and gutters where necessary, powerwash decks and patios, and spruce up surrounding trees and gardens as needed.

Curb Appeal Home Sale

The little details

Sometimes small details stay with buyers: Think original hardwood floors, architectural character, a cozy fireplace, a colorful garden, a functional mudroom, or a screened porch overlooking the trees. Make sure to spotlight some of these small but powerful details; you never know when one of them will resonate with a buyer.

Whether you're buying or selling a home in Asheville or Western N.C., working with an experienced local real estate professional can help you look beyond the obvious to focus on all the details. For more information on real estate in Asheville or anywhere in Western N.C., please contact us at Info@MyMosaicRealty.com, or call us anytime at 828-707-9556.

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Understanding Property Taxes in WNC: Asheville Area Homebuyer Guide

NC Property Taxes

If you’re buying a home in Asheville or Western North Carolina, property taxes are an important part of understanding the cost of homeownership. North Carolina’s system can seem confusing because a single tax bill may include charges from multiple local governments. The basic process, however, is straightforward once you know what to look for. 

NC Property Taxes

How property taxes work in North Carolina 

According to the North Carolina Department of Revenue, property taxes are assessed and collected locally rather than directly by the state. The N.C. Department of Revenue oversees the statewide system, while counties assess property values and collect taxes. 

The N.C. Department of Revenue describes the basic property tax calculation as: Assessed Property Value × Combined Tax Rate = Property Tax. The combined tax rate is affected by all sorts of variables tied to a home’s address. As a result, two properties with identical assessed values can have different tax bills based on their locations. 

What is the assessed value? 

Property taxes aren’t necessarily based on the price you paid for a home. N.C. counties periodically conduct reappraisals to update the assessed value of real property. Reappraisal schedules vary by county. The N.C. Department of Revenue provides schedules here

Because market values and tax assessments don't always change at the same time, a home’s purchase price may differ significantly from its assessed value. Buyers should review the current county tax record here; don’t assume the existing tax bill will remain unchanged after a sale or future reappraisal. 

Understanding NC Property Taxes

What is the combined tax rate? 

When evaluating an Asheville-area property, it's important to look beyond just the county tax rate. According to the Buncombe County Tax Department, a home may be subject to Buncombe County taxes, City of Asheville taxes, taxes from another municipality, special district charges, or school-related taxes. 

It’s also important to confirm whether the property is inside Asheville, Weaverville, Black Mountain, Hendersonville or another Western N.C. municipality, since location can affect the total bill. A home inside Asheville city limits may have a different total tax burden than a similar home just outside the city. Current rates should always be verified through official government sources because local governments update rates as part of their annual budgeting process.  

Additional considerations when buying an Asheville-area home 

N.C. offers property tax relief programs for certain elderly or disabled homeowners, disabled veterans, and other qualifying property owners. Eligibility requirements apply, and applications are generally handled through the county tax office

You can dispute an assessed value by contacting the county tax assessor and pursuing the state’s formal appeal process. Visit their website for more information. 

Other costs beyond property taxes 

Property taxes are only one part of the cost of owning a home in Western N.C. You should also budget for things like insurance, HOA fees, utilities, maintenance, private roads, steep lots, wells and septic systems. 

*We are real estate professionals, not financial advisors; always verify your specific tax situation with a licensed CPA

At Mosaic Community Lifestyle Realty, our experienced agents will help you understand the broader costs associated with purchasing a home here. 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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Explore Asheville Golf Course Communities With Mosaic Realty's New Online Search

Asheville Area Golf Communities

With the PGA Tour coming to Asheville this fall, golf is taking center stage in Western North Carolina. In anticipation of this exciting event, Mosaic Community Lifestyle Realty has created a new Golf Course Communities home search, making it easier for buyers to explore homes in and around some of the region’s most popular golf communities.

Asheville Area Golf Communities

The PGA Tour is coming to Asheville

From Sept. 17-20, Asheville will welcome the Biltmore Championship Asheville at The Cliffs at Walnut Cove. The PGA Tour event will showcase one of Western N.C.’s premier golf courses, shining a spotlight on Asheville’s spectacular mountain golf landscape.

For area home buyers, the tournament is a great reminder of what makes golf in Asheville so unique. Blue Ridge Mountain views, dramatic elevation changes, mature forests and four-season scenery are local hallmarks of the sport. For those who want to make golf part of their everyday lifestyle, there are plenty of communities to consider.

A new way to search homes in Asheville golf communities

To make finding the right golf community easier, Mosaic has launched a dedicated Golf Course Communities home search. Instead of searching for homes first and then trying to determine which properties are located near a golf course, the new search puts golf communities front and center. Whether you're looking for a luxury mountain home, a golf course view, a private wooded setting or a community with extensive amenities, Mosaic’s new search is a convenient place to begin exploring available properties.

WNC Golf Community

Golf communities across Western North Carolina

One of the advantages of searching for golf course real estate around Asheville is the variety. Golf communities can be found throughout the region and offer a range of lifestyles, locations and price points. Options include prestigious communities such as The Cliffs at Walnut Cove, as well as golf destinations like Biltmore Forest, Champion Hills, Connestee Falls, Mountain Air and Balsam Mountain Preserve.

Some communities offer resort-style amenities, wellness centers, hiking trails, tennis and active social calendars alongside golf. Others provide a quieter residential setting surrounded by mountain scenery. Such a variety allows buyers to prioritize what matters most, whether that’s golf, mountain views, privacy, proximity to downtown Asheville, community amenities or outdoor recreation.

WNC Asheville Golf Homes

More than just a golf course

For many Asheville home buyers, the appeal of a golf community extends well beyond the course. Golf communities throughout Western North Carolina can offer a built-in sense of community, beautiful natural surroundings and amenities that encourage an active lifestyle. Many are also located in scenic mountain settings, where homeowners can enjoy wooded lots, long-range views and easy access to hiking, cycling and other outdoor recreation.

Every golf community is different. Club memberships, fees, amenities, architectural requirements and ownership opportunities can vary considerably. Working with one of Mosaic’s knowledgeable real estate professionals can help you more easily compare your options. For more information about homes in golfing communities, or anywhere in Asheville or Western North Carolina, please contact us at info@MyMosaicRealty.com, or call us anytime at 828-707-9556.

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Sustainable Living Tips for Life in Asheville and Western North Carolina

Asheville Sustainable Homes

One of the best things about living in Western North Carolina is being surrounded by stunning mountain views, lush forests, and vibrant local communities. Whether you’re settling into a new home or looking to make your current one more eco-friendly, adopting sustainable habits can help protect that natural beauty and strong community. 

Sustainable Living in the Asheville Area

At Mosaic Community Lifestyle Realty, environmental stewardship has always been part of our foundation, and we’re proud to support a healthier, more sustainable future for our community. Following are some ways you can do the same.

Improve your Asheville home’s energy efficiency

One of the simplest ways to live more sustainably is by reducing your home’s energy use. Small upgrades can lower utility bills while making your home more comfortable year-round. Consider installing a smart thermostat, sealing air leaks, upgrading insulation, switching to LED lighting, or choosing Energy Star appliances when it’s time to replace older models. Not only do these improvements help the environment, but they also add to your home’s value.

Asheville Green Homes

Landscape with plants native to Western N.C.

Native plants thrive in Western N.C.’s climate, requiring less water and maintenance than many non-native species. They also provide valuable habitat for pollinators, birds and other wildlife while helping reduce erosion on sloped properties. Choosing native landscaping is an easy way to create a beautiful yard that works with the local ecosystem.

Conserve water and reduce waste

Simple everyday habits can make a big difference. Install low-flow fixtures, repair leaks promptly, water gardens during cooler parts of the day, and use mulch to help retain soil moisture. Composting food scraps, recycling properly and donating gently used household items are additional ways to reduce waste and lessen your environmental impact.

Asheville Live Sustainably

Support local in and around Asheville

Shopping locally supports the Asheville area’s economy while reducing transportation impacts. Visiting farmers’ markets, shopping at locally owned businesses, and purchasing products made in the region all help strengthen the community while promoting a more sustainable way of living.

Make thoughtful home improvements

If you're renovating, consider eco-friendly materials such as reclaimed wood, bamboo flooring, recycled-content products and low-VOC paints. These choices can improve indoor air quality, reduce waste and appeal to environmentally conscious homebuyers.

Asheville Sustainable Homes

Mosaic’s commitment to sustainability in Asheville

At Mosaic, sustainability is more than just talk, it’s the foundation of all we do. We proudly support local environmental organizations, community cleanups, native tree giveaways, and conservation initiatives throughout Asheville and Western N.C. 

Our commitment extends to preserving the character of our communities as well. For example, by restoring our historic Asheville office rather than replacing it, we took a sustainable approach that honored the building’s history while reducing environmental impact. 

Living green in Western N.C.

Whether you’re searching for an energy-efficient home, planning improvements, or exploring neighborhoods throughout Asheville and Western N.C., Mosaic can help. For more information, please contact us at Info@MyMosaicRealty.com, or call us anytime at 828-707-9556.

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Asheville Real Estate Market Update: Q&A on the 2nd Quarter 2026 Housing Market

Q2 2026 Asheville Housing Market Analysis

If you're buying or selling in Asheville or Buncombe County, the latest second-quarter market data provides valuable insight into where the Western North Carolina housing market is heading. The second quarter of 2026 continued the shift toward a more buyer-friendly market, with increased inventory, longer selling times, and modest price adjustments creating more opportunities for buyers than we’ve seen in several years.

Q2 2026 Asheville Housing Market Analysis

We spoke with Mosaic Realty owner Mike Figura to break down the latest trends and what they could mean for buyers and sellers moving forward.

Is Asheville officially a buyer’s market in the second quarter of 2026?

The Asheville and Buncombe County real estate market continued moving toward a buyer’s market during the second quarter of 2026, although most price ranges remain relatively balanced. A balanced market generally has about six months of housing inventory, enough supply to meet demand without giving either buyers or sellers a significant advantage.

Several higher-priced segments now exceed six months of inventory, while many lower- and mid-priced homes remain close to that benchmark. Overall, buyers have considerably more options than they did over the past several years and can often take more time evaluating homes before making an offer.

Asheville Housing Market Q2 2026

Are buyers gaining more negotiating power?

Yes. Three major indicators point to a market that is becoming increasingly favorable for buyers. First, Average Days on Market reached its highest second-quarter level since 2015 in both Asheville and Buncombe County, meaning homes are taking longer to sell. Second, inventory increased across nearly every price range compared with the previous four years, giving buyers more choices. Finally, the median price per square foot declined across most price categories, signaling that sellers are adjusting pricing to meet current demand.

For buyers relocating to Asheville or searching for a mountain home, these conditions provide greater flexibility and stronger negotiating opportunities than we’ve seen in recent years.

Are home prices declining in Asheville and Buncombe County?

Prices have generally softened during the second quarter, particularly when looking at median price per square foot across most price ranges. While values haven’t fallen dramatically, the market is adjusting as increased inventory gives buyers more leverage.

These modest price corrections appear to be encouraging more buyers to re-enter the market. Rather than signaling weakness, the pricing adjustments are helping bring buyers and sellers back into better alignment.

2026 Q2 Housing Market

Are more homes selling despite the softer market?

Interestingly, yes. The second quarter of 2026 recorded more home sales than any quarter since the third quarter of 2024, before Tropical Storm Helene impacted Western North Carolina. As prices have become more competitive, buyers have responded by purchasing homes at a stronger pace. This suggests the market is functioning as expected. Lower prices are increasing buyer activity while helping move inventory that may have lingered earlier in the year.

Is inventory still increasing?

Inventory continues to rise across most price categories compared to the second quarter of 2025, although there are early signs that growth may begin slowing.

Higher inventory has been one of the biggest drivers of today’s more balanced market. Buyers now have more homes to compare, while sellers face greater competition. However, recent seasonal trends suggest that fewer homeowners may be choosing to list as prices soften. If fewer new listings continue entering the market while buyer activity remains steady, inventory could begin declining over the coming months.

Asheville NC Housing Market 2026

What does this mean for Asheville buyers and sellers moving forward?

There are signs that the market may be approaching its most buyer-friendly point before beginning to stabilize. Lower prices have encouraged more buyers to purchase homes, while slightly slower listing activity may gradually reduce inventory and help stabilize pricing.

For buyers, this remains one of the strongest opportunities in several years to find more inventory, negotiate favorable terms, and avoid the intense competition that we saw in previous markets. For sellers, homes continue to sell, but success depends more than ever on strategic pricing, professional marketing, and presenting a home in its best possible light. Well-prepared, appropriately priced homes continue attracting buyers even as the market becomes more competitive.

Whether you’re relocating to Asheville, purchasing your first home, investing or preparing to sell, understanding local market conditions is essential. Local expertise can make all the difference, and that’s exactly what you’ll get from the experienced agents at Mosaic Realty. For more information about Asheville real estate or homes throughout Western North Carolina, contact Mosaic Realty at Info@MyMosaicRealty.com or call 828-707-9556.

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10 Home Improvement Projects with Great Return on Investment in Asheville

Asheville Home Projects Great ROI

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.

Asheville Home Projects Great ROI

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.

1. Refresh your exterior

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.

Asheville ROI Home Projects

2. Upgrade the front door

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.

3. Remodel the kitchen without going overboard

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.

Consider:

  • Painting cabinets
  • Replacing countertops
  • Installing new fixtures
  • Updating appliances
  • Adding a tile backsplash

Kitchen Upgrades Asheville

4. Modernize bathrooms

Bathrooms are another area buyers scrutinize closely. Even modest improvements can make a home feel newer.

Focus on:

  • Updated vanities
  • New mirrors and lighting
  • Fresh paint
  • Modern faucets
  • Refinished tubs or showers

5. Improve outdoor living spaces

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.

6. Replace garage doors

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.

Asheville Home Efficiency

7. Boost energy efficiency

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.

Popular upgrades include:

  • New windows
  • Additional attic insulation
  • Smart thermostats
  • Heat pump upgrades
  • Air sealing

8. Refinish hardwood floors

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.

Freshen Up Landscaping Asheville

9. Upgrade landscaping

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.

Whether professionally installed or done by you, consider:

  • Native plants
  • Fresh mulch
  • Defined walkways
  • Seasonal flowers
  • Tree trimming

10. Add smart home features

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.

Home Projects with Great ROI

Before you renovate, know your neighborhood

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 Realty's Historic Asheville Office Rehabilitation Earns Griffin Award

Griffin Award Mosaic Realty

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).

Griffin Award Mosaic Realty

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.

Griffin Award Mosaic Asheville

Breathing new life into historic Asheville landmark

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.”

Real Estate Asheville Griffin Award

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.” 

Mosaic Realty Historic Rehabilitation

Honoring the past through skilled craftsmanship at 46 Orchard Street

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.”

Historic Homes Asheville

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.”            

A collaborative achievement

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. 

Asheville Real Estate Griffin Award

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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