McDowell Homes with Waterfront Lot Features

McDowell Homes with Waterfront Lot Features

Located in the state of North Carolina, McDowell County offers a picturesque setting for those seeking a peaceful and serene lifestyle. Nestled amidst the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, this county is known for its natural beauty and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities.

One of the standout features of McDowell County is its homes with waterfront lot features. True to its name, these properties offer the unique advantage of being situated on the water's edge, whether it be a serene lake, a tranquil river, or a babbling creek. Imagine waking up to the soothing sounds of water and being able to enjoy various water activities right at your doorstep.

These waterfront homes in McDowell County provide not only breathtaking views but also a sense of tranquility and exclusivity. Whether you are an avid angler, a water sports enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the calming effect of water, these properties are sure to satisfy your desires.

In addition to the stunning natural surroundings, McDowell County also boasts a vibrant community and a rich cultural heritage. Residents can enjoy a wide range of amenities, including local shops, restaurants, and recreational facilities. The county is also home to a thriving arts scene, with galleries and studios showcasing the talents of local artists.

If you are looking for a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in nature's beauty, McDowell County is the perfect destination. With its homes featuring waterfront lots, you can enjoy the best of both worlds - a peaceful retreat and a vibrant community.

Newest McDowell Homes with Waterfront Lot Features

$299,000
4408615 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE Status
Come see one of the last opportunities to build your dream lakefront retreat on Lake James with this exceptional, dockable waterfront lot in Waterglyn. Ideally located just minutes from I-40 and downtown Marion, Waterglyn is a welcoming community of beautifully crafted homes with low HOA fees and sensible building standards. A natural trail from the road offers a glimpse of where your future driveway could lead, gently descending toward the water. Picture relaxing on your back deck or screened porch, taking in peaceful lake views and the surrounding natural beauty. Continue along the gentle path to the shoreline, where your private dock can become the gateway to life on the lake. Perfectly positioned just outside a quiet cove, this homesite enjoys expansive open-water views, creating an ideal setting for peaceful mornings, unforgettable sunsets, and endless days on the lake.

178 Lentz Landing Lane, Nebo

Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Unified. fletcher@lakejames.com
$425,000
4405889 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE Status
Lot 3 Clayton Island | 1.46 Acres | Lake James NC Build your dream home on this beautiful 1.46 acre lot on Clayton Island at Lake James. Offering long range lake views and scenic island views, this property provides the perfect setting for a private mountain and lake retreat. With no HOA dues and only a few deed restrictions, you'll enjoy the flexibility to design and build a home that fits your lifestyle while preserving the character of the community. Lot 3 may be eligible to apply for a private boat dock permit through Duke Energy, subject to Duke Energy approval. Located just minutes from Bear Cliff Marina, you'll have convenient access to boating, fishing, and all that Lake James has to offer. The nearby town of Marion provides shopping, dining, medical facilities, and everyday conveniences, making this an ideal location for both full time living and vacation getaways. If you're looking for a spacious homesite with beautiful views, privacy, and convenient access to the water, Lot 3 is an outstanding opportunity.

802 Marina Drive Unit #3, Nebo

Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Unified. bryan@lakejames.com
$2,100,000
4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 4394395 MLS ⋅ 3,745 SqFt. ⋅ ACTIVE Status
Experience the ease of one-level living in this exceptional lakefront retreat, perfectly positioned in a private cove designed for relaxation, recreation, and unforgettable entertaining. Exterior is charming with Old Carolina brick, Hardisiding and stone accents. A welcoming covered front porch sets the tone for the warm and inviting interior. Inside, the spacious great room showcases soaring beamed ceilings and flows seamlessly into the chef's kitchen, creating an ideal gathering space for family and friends. Just beyond the kitchen, a quiet reading nook or breakfast room offers the perfect place to enjoy morning coffee while taking in peaceful views. The open dining area completes the heart of the home, providing generous space for everyday living and special occasions. There is also a built in bar and entertainment area with a distinctive bourbon barrel stave accent wall that creates the ultimate gathering spot. Designed to embrace indoor-outdoor living, expansive doors open to a spectacular flagstone patio featuring a stunning wood-burning stone fireplace and an entertainer's dream outdoor kitchen complete with a gas grill & electric smoker. The thoughtfully designed main level includes a spacious primary suite with a private bath, a second bedroom that also serves perfectly as a home office, an additional guest bedroom, and a well-appointed hall bath. A large laundry and mudroom offers exceptional functionality and connects to the oversized three-car garage, complete with utility sink, freezer, and abundant storage. Upstairs, guests and family will appreciate the finished recreation room, additional bedroom, full bath, and convenient kitchenette, creating an ideal private retreat or multi-generational living space. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the included Hurricane deck boat and utility Gator, making lake adventures and property access even more convenient. Take the easy path to the two slip floating dock with lift. With incredible storage throughout, premium outdoor amenities, and a layout that blends everyday comfort with luxury entertaining all on one level, this lakefront property offers an extraordinary lifestyle where every day feels like a vacation.

1313 High Trail Drive, Nebo

Listing courtesy of Engel & Volkers Foothills Lake James. polly.leadbetter@evrealestate.com
$1,490,000
2 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 4399763 MLS ⋅ 3,060 SqFt. ⋅ ACTIVE Status
Deeded boat slip, private dock with lift, and 0.49 acres of level, cleared shoreline on Lake James — in the Marion Lake Club community, where waterfront rarely comes available. The outdoor living is the reason to buy this house. Weather-resistant IPE decks wrap the lake side. A full outdoor kitchen and a covered rear porch face the sunrise. A finished gazebo with electricity sits between the lawn and the water, and the private dock carries a lift sized for a triple pontoon, a swim ladder, and a sun deck. Inside, 3,060 square feet arranged as two complete living levels. Rather than dividing that space into small rooms, the home gives you two private primary suites — one on each floor — with generous shared living between them. The main level opens to tinted lake-side glass that frames the water without the glare, with hickory hardwood floors, custom hickory cabinetry, quartz counters, plantation shutters, and gas logs for cool mountain evenings. The walk-out lower basement level is a second private suite in its own right: daylight throughout, its own primary bedroom, two full baths, a generous game room, and direct access out to the dock path. It works equally well for guests, for family, or as a fully separate retreat. Three and a half baths in all. Brown metal roofs on the house, gazebo, and dock. An exterior wrapped entirely in rock and brick in 2008, a brand-new electrical panel, and City of Marion water just installed. A two-bedroom lake home built for the way lake houses actually get used — room to gather, privacy for two couples, and no wasted square footage. Lake James State Park, the Fonta FloraState Trail, and Marion Lake Club dining and golf are all minutes away. Asheville is under an hour; Charlotte under two.

831 Lake Club Drive, Nebo

Listing courtesy of ERA Live Moore. jacquerealestate@yahoo.com
$2,795,000
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 4395600 MLS ⋅ 3,606 SqFt. ⋅ ACTIVE Status
Experience ultimate luxury in this custom-built ranch home located within the gated community of The Peninsula at Lake James. From the moment you enter through the double French doors, you are greeted by breathtaking, expansive lake views that frame the home from nearly every window. Situated on a rare, nearly one-acre level waterfront lot, this property offers unparalleled access and comfort. The thoughtful split-bedroom floor plan ensures privacy, featuring two expansive primary suites on opposite sides of the home, each boasting luxurious ensuite bathrooms complete with soaker tubs and one has a steam shower. A third bedroom offers generous space with adjacent full bathroom access. The heart of the home is the welcoming great room, anchored by a gourmet kitchen featuring a massive island and an airy dining area perfect for entertaining. Beyond the main living areas, the home offers several versatile bonus spaces ideal for a home office, gym, or potential additional bedrooms. Outdoor living is equally impressive with a fully fenced backyard featuring durable aluminum fencing and convenient double-gate access on all sides. A covered deck and patio space allows for grilling and social time. Enjoy easy access to the community pool or relax in your private, conveying jacuzzi/hot tub. For the car or boating enthusiast, the massive 1,000+ sq. ft. tandem garage provides ample space for four vehicles or safe winter boat storage. Additional peace of mind is provided by the included backup whole house generator. This remarkable waterfront home truly offers it all. Key Property Features: * Waterfront Living: Rare, level, nearly one-acre lot with expansive views from every room. * Primary Suites: Two private primary bedrooms with luxury ensuite bathrooms (soaker tubs and steam shower). * Gourmet Kitchen: Large island with open-concept dining and living areas. * Versatile Spaces: Multiple bonus rooms for home office, exercise studio, or extra bedrooms. * Garage & Storage: 1,000+ sq. ft. tandem garage with capacity for four cars or boat storage. * Outdoor Amenities: Fully fenced yard, private hot tub, and community pool access. * Added Value: Whole-home generator conveys with the property. * Prime Location: Situated in the well known, gated community of the Peninsula at Lake James.

95 Linville View Drive, Nebo

Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Unified. realfaria20@gmail.com
$325,000
4392686 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE UNDER CONTRACT Status
Discover one of the best waterfront values currently available in The Peninsula at Lake James. This exceptional 0.8 acre homesite offers the rare combination of expansive long range lake and mountain views, a highly desirable level building area, and 102 feet of shoreline along the crystal clear waters of Lake James. Whether you are dreaming of a full time residence or a private mountain lake retreat, this property provides an outstanding canvas for bringing your vision to life. Positioned to capture stunning views across the lake, the homesite features a gently situated building envelope that makes planning and construction easier while maximizing both privacy and scenery. Imagine waking each morning to sparkling water views and ending your evenings with colorful sunsets reflected across the lake and surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. The Peninsula is one of Lake James’ most sought after waterfront communities, known for its natural beauty, upscale homes, and peaceful setting. This lot offers direct waterfront access and is considered dockable, providing the potential for convenient boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding right from your property. A pier permit has not yet been issued and will need to be obtained through Duke Energy, allowing future owners the opportunity to pursue dock approval based on their plans and specifications. The shoreline descends steeply from the homesite to the water, creating elevated views that enhance the property's dramatic lakefront setting. The walk to the shoreline is steep, but the reward is direct access to one of North Carolina’s most beautiful lakes and the opportunity to enjoy everything Lake James has to offer. Waterfront opportunities at this price point are exceptionally rare on Lake James. Over the past 12 months, only four dockable waterfront lots have sold for less than $325,000. With 102 feet of shoreline, breathtaking long range lake views, a level building area, and dock potential pending Duke Energy approval, this property presents a unique opportunity to secure a coveted waterfront homesite before inventory becomes even more limited. Located just minutes from Lake James State Park, Fonta Flora Trail, downtown Morganton, and Marion, this property combines the serenity of mountain lake living with convenient access to dining, shopping, breweries, hiking trails, and outdoor recreation. Spend your days boating on more than 6,800 acres of pristine water, exploring miles of nearby trails, or simply relaxing and taking in the incredible scenery from your future deck. Please note that no septic permit has been issued for this lot. Buyers are encouraged to complete their own due diligence regarding septic evaluation, pier permitting, and building plans. Opportunities to find a waterfront homesite with long range views, a level building area, generous shoreline frontage, and dock potential in The Peninsula are increasingly rare. Whether you envision a luxury lakefront estate, a weekend getaway, or a legacy property to enjoy for generations, this homesite offers the location, views, and potential to create something truly special on Lake James.

311 Crest View S Drive Unit #92, Nebo

Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Unified. bryan@lakejames.com
$1,619,000
4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 4391693 MLS ⋅ 3,262 SqFt. ⋅ ACTIVE Status
Exceptional waterfront living awaits at 23 Anchor Dr. in The Arbor at Lake James, where luxury, comfort and effortless lake living come together in one remarkable turnkey package. Built in 2025 and meticulously maintained, this like-new home has been a highly successful short-term rental while offering an ideal design for full-time living. The thoughtfully crafted main-level floor plan features a spacious primary suite and secondary bedroom, each with private en-suite baths. The open-concept living area showcases a gas fireplace, granite countertops, upgraded stainless steel smart appliances with Wi-Fi connectivity, abundant natural light and seamless flow for relaxing and entertaining. The finished walkout lower level offers 2 additional bedrooms, full bath, wet bar area and second gas fireplace, creating exceptional space for family and guests. Outside, enjoy the best of Lake James from your private waterfront setting featuring over 100 feet of shoreline and tucked within a peaceful cove known for fishing and calm waters. The impressive two-tier dock features a boat lift, upper-level lounging area and diving platform, providing the perfect place to swim, relax, entertain and take in the lake views. Offered fully furnished and including the dock, boat lift, pontoon boat and jet ski, this turnkey waterfront retreat is ready to enjoy from day one. Located within the desirable gated Arbor community with walking trails, community pavilion and boat/RV storage, all that's missing-is you!

23 Anchor Drive, Nebo

Listing courtesy of Howard Hanna Beverly-Hanks Asheville-Biltmore Park. 828-702-2879
$1,208,000
3 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 4389867 MLS ⋅ 2,434 SqFt. ⋅ ACTIVE UNDER CONTRACT Status
Welcome to lakefront living in this beautifully maintained 3 bedroom, 3.5-bath home nestled on a waterfront lot in a quiet cul-de-sac. Offering the perfect blend of comfort, functionality, and outdoor enjoyment, this property is designed to make the most of its stunning lake setting. The main level features a spacious primary suite, providing convenient one-level living, along with warm hardwood floors that flow throughout the living areas. The living room centers around a gas log fireplace, creating a cozy gathering space year-round. The kitchen is thoughtfully designed with an island for meal preparation, the adjacent dining area is perfect for casual dining, while the nearby laundry room adds everyday convenience. Step outside to the covered rear porch and enjoy peaceful mornings overlooking the water or unwind in the evening as the sun sets across the lake. Upstairs, you'll find two additional bedrooms, a hall bath, and a versatile loft area perfect for a home office, reading nook, or additional living space. The finished lower level expands the home's functionality with vinyl plank flooring, a spacious family room featuring a wood-burning stove, a full bath, and a fourth room ideal for guests. A one-car garage with workshop area provides ample space for hobbies, storage, and lake gear. Outdoor living is where this property truly shines. Enjoy lake views from the lower-level deck, gather around the fire pit with custom railings or head down to your private. 2 slip (one covered, one uncovered) dock for boating, fishing, and endless days on the water. The concrete driveway offers easy access and low-maintenance convenience. additional home features include whole house generator, both tank and on demand water heaters and security system. Located in a desirable gated community with amenities including a picnic pavilion and walking trails, this home offers a peaceful retreat while remaining just 15 minutes from downtown Marion's dining, shopping, and conveniences. Whether you're seeking a full-time residence or a weekend getaway, this waterfront property delivers the lake lifestyle you've been dreaming of.

590 Larkhaven Drive, Nebo

Listing courtesy of Engel & Volkers Foothills Lake James. polly.leadbetter@evrealestate.com
$785,000
2 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 4388812 MLS ⋅ 2,007 SqFt. ⋅ ACTIVE UNDER CONTRACT Status
Escape to this private Lake James waterfront retreat on a wooded 1.07-acre lot surrounded by mature trees and rhododendrons. Enjoy direct access to the 6,800-acre lake and its 150 miles of shoreline, along with fabulous outdoor spaces—including a covered wraparound deck, a fire pit, a canoe dock, and a boat shed. The property is located in a gated neighborhood with low HOA dues just 15 minutes from downtown Marion’s restaurants, shops, and everyday conveniences. Approximately 40 minutes from Black Mountain, 50 minutes from Asheville, and less than two hours from Charlotte. Built in 2023, this all-electric home features multiple living spaces, hickory floors, clear pine trim and solid pine doors, a wood-burning Jotul stove, and abundant natural light. The kitchen offers tile countertops, stainless steel appliances, open shelving, and a breakfast bar. A private well with a filtration system, a metal roof, LP SmartSide siding, and a copper awning complete this exceptional mountain lake getaway. Come visit this unique construction to see the charm in person!

378 Dobson View Drive, Nebo

Listing courtesy of Mosaic Community Lifestyle Realty. megan@mymosaicrealty.com
$265,000
3 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 4384646 MLS ⋅ 1,238 SqFt. ⋅ ACTIVE Status
Creekside Mountain Retreat with Views, Dual Decks & Flexible Living Space Tucked into the peaceful valley, sounded by mountain views, this charming creekside cottage offers the kind of quiet that’s hard to find anymore. Wake up to the sound of rushing water, sip coffee beside the creek, and spend your evenings under the stars at your creekside fire pit. Large windows throughout the home bring in abundant natural light and create a seamless connection to the outdoors. Enjoy a deep connection to nature that you feel at sunrise looking at the Mountain View while experiencing the waterfall spill over the rocks into the creek. The cozy retreat features 3 bedrooms, 1 full bath. Cascade the charming spiral staircase to the upstairs two rooms: the second bedroom could also served as a versatile bonus room with closet—ideal for a home office, guest space, or creative studio. Though it feels worlds away, you’re just 15 minutes from Marion and less than 15 minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway, set to reopen later this year. Whether you're looking for a full-time home, weekend escape, or vacation rental opportunity, this property captures the simple magic of mountain living — peaceful mornings, cool creekside afternoons, and the feeling of truly getting away from it all. Furniture and Lawn equipment negotiable.

227 Locust Cove Road, Marion

Listing courtesy of NorthGroup Real Estate LLC. kathrynrudisillrealty@gmail.com
$799,000
2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 4380380 MLS ⋅ 855 SqFt. ⋅ ACTIVE Status
A rare Lake James opportunity in the sought-after Old Wildlife Club community—159 Osprey Roost Drive offers 1.25 acres of pristine waterfront living, a deeded boat slip a short walk away through the community, and the infrastructure already in place for future expansion. Originally built as a temporary lake retreat with the intention of later converting the structure into a garage once the main home was built, this charming cabin now offers comfortable turnkey living with endless potential. The property includes a 5-bedroom septic permit/system, creating a valuable head start for those dreaming of building a full-size custom lake home. The existing cabin features one bedroom and one full bath upstairs, as well as an upstairs loft, plus an additional bedroom and half bath downstairs. Two screened porches invite you to slow down and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, while professionally designed landscaping by Appalachian Hardscapes adds thoughtful beauty to the setting. Additional features include a 30-amp RV hookup with hot tub service already in place, radon mitigation system, monitored alarm system, and an active termite bond for added peace of mind. Sold turnkey and including both indoor and outdoor furnishings, this property is ready to enjoy immediately—whether as a private lake escape, future dream home site, or investment opportunity. Adding to the privacy, the adjacent 4-acre parcel belongs to the Old Wildlife Club community, helping preserve the natural buffer and giving the property a tucked-away feel. Ownership also includes membership access to Camp Lake James, offering resort-style amenities including swimming pool, fitness center, pickleball courts, paddling access, gathering spaces, and on-site dining options exclusively available to community members and guests. This is a truly unique chance to secure pristine Lake James waterfront property with valuable infrastructure, privacy, amenities, and future potential already in place. **Also Listed as Land - See MLS# 4388744 **

159 Osprey Roost Drive, Nebo

Listing courtesy of EXP Realty LLC. hometeamheidi@gmail.com
$175,000
4380049 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE UNDER CONTRACT Status
They don't make land like this any more! I am excited to offer up such an exceptional 3.82 ACRE TRACT on one of the most beautiful stretches of CROOKED CREEK! OVER 800 FEET of DIRECT FRONTAGE and with a road right down to the water's edge! Plenty of nice buildable ground that sits out of the reach of floodwaters. The opposite bank of the creek makes for a great view, with a vertical rock face and steep woods. It lends to a very private setting. This side is definitely the one you want though, easily walkable along the entire length of the creek with sandy beeches and areas of beautiful river rock and boulders. It's also hard to beat the location. Only a 5 minute drive to hop on I-40, so you could quickly be in Black Mountain or Asheville to enjoy a tasty dinner out. That is if you ever want to leave. I didn't. I spent way too much time at this place while I was taking pictures, and really wished I had brought a lawn chair to plop down in out in the water. The sound of a rushing creek just soothes the soul. Check out the video to hear it for yourself. Power is on site, and this place is ready to be enjoyed, so get out and take a look. You'll be hard pressed to find anything like it. It truly is a gem!

000 Kings Glen Road, Old Fort

Listing courtesy of Teresa B Brown. zacklowe@teresabbrown.com
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