473 Middlefork RoadBrevard, NC 28712Price: $650,000

The beautiful, pastoral approach to this signature mountain property is simple yet dramatic: rows of trees define an open meadow stretching to the Middle Fork of the French Broad River, carefully hiding the tidy home from view; a shady, tree-lined lane makes a welcoming approach to a wooden bridge across the river; and the home itself, neat and well-kept, rests at the foot of an upland Appalachian forest. With just over four acres of open meadow, suitable for horses, row crops, hay or wildflowers, this property is perfect for a “mini-farm” or any number of agricultural, homesteading, or recreational uses. The bold Middle Fork of the French Broad River flows for over 700 feet directly through the middle of the tract, separating the level, even pasture area from the upland forest. Set just back from the banks of the river, the comfortable home features a two-story stone fireplace aside large, stacked windows, allowing plenty of light into the living and dining areas. The large, family-sized dining room opens onto a generous, screened sunroom where the river can be heard tumbling nearby. Ready for easy living or suitable for renovation, the home is well-tended and maintained. Whether you are looking for a first home in the mountains, a chance to homestead or farm on a smaller scale, a simple but comfortable vacation home, or a chance to renovate an existing house into a country showplace, this property has everything you need.