Estimate anchored to list price ($2,275,000) and adjusted +/- ~10-12%. Price/ft uses an assumed finished area ~2,400 sqft (estimate only). No live comp pull; values informed by Highlands limited-inventory luxury market and the property's creek frontage and turnkey condition.
Riverside Cottage on Big Creek — Walk to Highlands Town
Known affectionately as “Tucked Inn,” 131 Big Creek Lane is a rare creekfront retreat located just minutes from Highlands’ shops and restaurants. The home is arranged for comfortable living and entertaining: enter into a vaulted great room anchored by a dramatic stone wood-burning fireplace and a custom iron chandelier. Shiplap walls, built-in bookcases and wide-plank hardwood floors give the main living spaces warmth and character, while thoughtful designer draperies and tailored bedding reflect the property’s turnkey presentation.
Step from the great room onto a generous screened porch that features a second fireplace and motorized roll-down panels — a season-extension feature that makes the porch usable most of the year. A deck and dedicated grilling area adjoin the porch for easy al fresco meals. The kitchen opens visually to the front yard and to the porch through a pass-through window — ideal for casual serving and social flow. The primary suite is conveniently located on the main floor with en-suite bath and easy access to the main living areas.
Upstairs, a flexible loft/sitting area with built-in bookcases separates two private bedroom suites, each providing privacy for family or guests. Outside, landscaped terraces and garden areas with winding trails step down through rhododendron to the creek; multiple seating platforms allow you to enjoy the sound of the waterfall and the creek’s year-round presence. A garden shed and maintained trails add practical and recreational value to the property.
This home has an excellent documented rental history and — per seller notes — no short-term rental restrictions. Its combination of creek frontage, proximity to town, and high-quality finishes make it attractive as a primary residence, second home, or investment property. Showings by appointment.
A 2006 cottage on 1.12 acres.
Building
Site & utilities
Big Creek / Highlands Residential
Researched nearby locations
Location
131 Big Creek Ln, Highlands, NC 28741
The Big Creek area is a quiet, residential enclave near central Highlands that offers a mix of year-round homes and seasonal retreats. Properties often enjoy mature rhododendron and hardwoods, short trails to streams and waterfalls, and quick access to Main Street. The community appeals to buyers seeking mountain privacy with convenient proximity to dining, galleries, and services.
Excellent outdoor access — short drives to hiking, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks; private trails and creek terraces on property enhance on-site recreation.
A factual market snapshot around 131 Big Creek Ln.
Highlands sits above much of Macon County as a limited-inventory resort market where well-appointed cottages and creekfront lots command premiums. The local market is seasonal; summer and fall months bring most buyer activity. Median sale prices across the Highlands area are significantly higher than county averages given the prevalence of second homes and mountain-lifestyle buyers. Inventory remains constrained, which supports quicker sales for uniquely sited homes — especially those with water features and turnkey condition. For buyers, this means competition for special properties; for sellers, a properly priced and well-marketed riverfront cottage often achieves strong offers during peak season. Verify current seasonal comps with your agent to time listing and outreach to vacation-home buyer lists.
Residential single-family (likely R-1 or equivalent) in a primarily residential and conservation-oriented mountain community
Zoning
Research-indicated uses
- Single Family Residence
- Accessory Structures (Sheds, Patios) Subject To Local Setbacks
- Short Term Rentals Allowed By Owner Notes But Verify With Town Rules
What the research supports — and what is still worth verifying.
Key findings
- List price: $2,275,000 (March 2026)
- 3 beds, 3.5 baths, built 2006; lot ~1.12 acres (48,787 sqft)
- Primary suite on main level; two private suites upstairs plus loft and bookcases
- Substantial creek frontage on Big Creek with trails and terraces to water
- No attached garage listed; parking likely driveway/turnout
What stands out about this property.
Interior Features
- Vaulted great room with stone wood-burning fireplace
- Shiplap walls and wide-plank hardwood floors
- Built-in bookcases throughout
- Primary bedroom on main level
- Loft/sitting area upstairs separating two private suites
- Custom draperies and designer finishes
Exterior & Lot
- Approximately 1.12-acre lot (48,787 sqft)
- Direct Big Creek frontage with small waterfall
- Multiple terraces and garden trails to the creek
- Screened porch with fireplace and automated roll-down panels
- Deck and separate grilling area
- Garden shed
Location & Neighborhood
- Short walk/drive to Highlands downtown shops and dining
- Quiet residential lane (Big Creek Ln)
- Close access to regional trails and scenic drives
- Macon County / Town of Highlands jurisdiction
Walkability & Recreation
- Walkability Rating: 70/100
- Easy walk to town amenities; excellent access to hiking, waterfalls and outdoor activities
- Nearby parks and scenic overlooks on the Highlands-Cashiers plateau
Sources & research confidence.
See where the property research came from and how confidence varies by field.