$675,000
4 Bed · 5 Bath · 2,582 Sq Ft
Versatile multi-unit property steps from Pisgah National Forest trails
4
Beds
5
Baths
2,582
Sq Ft
1972
Built
0.26 acres
Lot
1-car attached
Garage
What makes 36 Auburndale Drive unmistakable is the backyard — a level, privately set lot with direct access onto Pisgah National Forest trails. This ranch-style property delivers a rare combination: a roomy main residence with main-level living, a finished basement apartment with its own entrance and kitchen, and a detached one-bedroom cottage (constructed 2019) designed for independent use.
Inside the main house you’ll find 3 bedrooms and 2 baths on the main level, arranged for comfortable single-story living. The lower level functions as a full, separate living unit with a kitchenette and private ingress that could serve as a multi-generational wing, long-term rental, or short-term stay (verify local zoning and permitting). The detached cottage adds further flexibility — built in 2019 with level entry and its own bath — creating clear income potential or private guest quarters.
Practical systems and solid bones: the home is a 1972 frame construction with composition shingle roof, hot-air heating, municipal water and sewer, and a 1-car attached garage plus driveway parking for approximately three vehicles. The lot is approximately 0.26 acres and level, with standard residential frontage on Auburndale Drive and immediate access to miles of hiking and mountain biking within the Bent Creek/Pisgah network.
From an investment and lifestyle perspective this property stands apart. The assessed value (2024) is $464,400 while recent local sales and an adjusted valuation analysis place market value in the $650–700K range, reflecting premiums paid for detached cottages and trail-adjacent parcels. Buyers should note the audit and broker notes: confirm permits for the 2019 cottage, verify zoning for rental uses, and schedule a full inspection to assess the condition of both the original house and newer cottage.
36 Auburndale suits an active household that values outdoor access without sacrificing separate living spaces — ideal for multigenerational families, owners seeking rental offsets, or buyers who want direct entry to the region’s best trails while remaining minutes from Biltmore Park Town Square and the North Carolina Arboretum.
Bent Creek offers an outdoor-first lifestyle while remaining within easy reach of Asheville’s amenities. The neighborhood is prized for immediate access to Pisgah National Forest and Bent Creek Experimental Forest trails, with the North Carolina Arboretum a short drive away. Residents enjoy a mix of suburban calm and recreational opportunity — from mountain biking and hiking to nearby shopping at Biltmore Park Town Square. Schools in the Buncombe County system are rated average to above average, and the area attracts buyers who prioritize nature access without sacrificing convenience.
Bent Creek is currently a balanced market with a modest lean toward sellers for standout properties. Inventory sits around 2.5 months — below a neutral six-month supply and consistent with a market where well-located, unique homes move more quickly. Average days on market in the area is about 45 days, and recent one-year appreciation is roughly 5% with a five-year gain near 25%. Median sale price for the broader area hovers near $550,000, but properties with direct trail access and accessory dwelling units command premiums. Comparable sales within a half-mile closed between $500K and $645K in the past six months; when adjusted for the detached 2019 cottage and finished basement apartment, a valuation midpoint of $675,000 is reasonable.
For buyers: financing and inspection contingencies remain important given the 1972 main structure and recent cottage addition; verify permits and utility configurations. For sellers: market demand favors properties that offer flexibility (separate suites, rental potential) and outdoor access. With limited inventory, well-presented homes with verified permitting and clear rental/legal documentation generally see stronger offers. Given local trends, now is a strategic time to market or to lock in a purchase for those seeking both lifestyle and income upside.
Enka High
High
Enka Middle
Middle
Hominy Valley Elementary
Elementary
Exceptional outdoor access with direct trailhead to Pisgah National Forest, Bent Creek trails 0.5 miles away, and the North Carolina Arboretum within 2 miles—ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and nature outings.
Unique property offering versatile living arrangements and direct access to Pisgah National Forest trails, with potential for rental income from detached cottage and basement apartment. Located in a desirable community with steady appreciation trends.
Buyers should conduct independent due diligence before making any purchase decisions.
Low
$650K
Midpoint
$675K
High
$700K
$261/SF estimated price per square foot
Sales comparison approach using 3 comparable sales within 0.5 miles sold in last 6 months. Adjusted for additional detached cottage and direct trail access to Pisgah National Forest.
As of 2026-03-06
This is a computer-generated estimate for informational purposes only and is not an appraisal or professional valuation.
Bent Creek area has seen steady appreciation due to proximity to outdoor amenities and Asheville's growing popularity. Walkability Rating estimate: 35/100.
Direct access to Pisgah National Forest trails from backyard; proximity to Bent Creek Experimental Forest and North Carolina Arboretum offers extensive outdoor recreation opportunities.
Market data is based on aggregated public records and may not reflect real-time conditions.
Allowed Uses
$97/SF
Arm's length transaction
$92/SF
Arm's length transaction
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