Estimate anchored to current list price of $725,000 and AVM ($727,462). Range reflects premium for acreage, newer construction (2022), finished basement and large shop; adjusted downward/upward for comparables and rural location farther from major metros. No live comparable sales search performed.
Modern 4BR Mountain Retreat on 5.35 Acres with 30x60 Shop
This thoughtfully built 2022 residence at 50 Kennedy Dr delivers modern comfort and genuine mountain character across approximately 2,650 finished square feet on ~5.35 acres. The main level provides comfortable everyday living with clear sightlines to covered porches that frame long-range mountain views. A custom pecan mantle from Oak Hill Iron Works anchors the living area with gas-log warmth and visual character. The home's layout emphasizes flexibility: the finished walk-out basement has a private entry—ideal for a guest suite, home office, in-law setup, or entertaining space.
Outdoor living is designed for enjoyment and utility. Covered front and back porches extend seasonal living and overlook a creek and mixed woodland/meadow areas. The property hosts established berry plantings and a dedicated fire pit area that make the yard instantly usable for gatherings. The standout utility asset is a 30x60 shop equipped with power and water—perfect for vehicles, woodworking, hobbyists, or storage and an exceptional functional amenity for this price tier.
Location strikes a rare balance between privacy and convenience: you’re minutes from Lake James (recreation, boating and trails) and a short drive to downtown Marion’s restaurants and services. There’s no HOA and no city taxes to restrict your use of the land or the shop. Recent construction means modern building systems and minimal immediate maintenance—making this property well-suited for buyers seeking a turnkey mountain-lifestyle home with workspace and room to roam.
Practical details: 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, main-level living plus finished basement with private entrance, covered porches, creek frontage, established plantings, and the oversized powered shop. Contact listing agent Jessica Barlow to schedule a showing and request permit/utility records. This is a rare offering for buyers who want acreage, a functional shop, and lake-adjacent recreation without sacrificing modern comforts.
A 2022 ranch on 5.35 acres.
Building
Site & utilities
Rural/wooded parcel near Lake James
Researched nearby locations
Location
50 Kennedy Dr, Marion, NC 28752
The property sits in a rural, low-density area outside of central Marion that blends wooded parcels and open meadows. Residents enjoy a slower pace, recreational access to Lake James, and proximity to downtown Marion for essential services. The neighborhood appeals to buyers seeking privacy, outdoor recreation, and functional outbuildings for hobbies or small-scale farming.
High recreation value: quick access to Lake James for boating and fishing, nearby hiking and scenic drives in the Blue Ridge foothills, and private trails/pasture on the property itself.
A factual market snapshot around 50 Kennedy Dr.
Marion and greater McDowell County are value-oriented yet selective markets. Median single-family prices countywide sit well below the list price for this home because this property targets a premium niche: lake-proximate acreage with a turnkey modern home and a sizable outbuilding. Inventory for comparable acreage and lake-area homes is relatively thin, which supports pricing when a property is turnkey and offers unique amenities (shop, finished basement, views). Expect a buyer pool of regional owner-occupiers (Charlotte/Hickory buyers willing to commute for lifestyle), second-home buyers seeking Lake James access, and trade-skilled buyers valuing the shop. Marketing should emphasize the 30x60 shop, recent construction (2022), finished basement with separate entry, and immediate proximity to Lake James. DOM in Marion can vary; well-priced, well-presented premium acreage homes often attract competitive and patient buyers.
Rural residential / county zoning likely permits single-family dwellings, accessory structures, and agricultural uses; specific code should be confirmed with county planning.
Zoning
Research-indicated uses
- Single Family Residence
- Accessory Buildings (Shop/Barn)
- Limited Agricultural/Hobby Farm Uses
What the research supports — and what is still worth verifying.
Key findings
- 4 bed / 3 bath, ~2,650 sqft built 2022; list price $725,000 (Price/SF ≈ $274)
- Lot ≈ 5.35 acres (233,045 sqft) — provides privacy and usable outbuilding area
- 30x60 shop with power & water included on property — significant functional asset
- AVM close to list ($~727,462) supporting current asking price
- Days on market low (2 DOM) — early-stage listing interest
What stands out about this property.
Interior Features
- 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms
- ~2,650 sqft finished living space
- Finished walk-out basement with private entry
- Custom pecan mantle with gas logs (Oak Hill Iron Works)
- Open, flexible floorplan for multi-use living
Exterior & Lot
- ~5.35 acres with creek and mixed meadow/woodland
- Covered front and rear porches
- Established berry bushes and fire pit area
- 30x60 detached shop with power and water
- Private driveway access; no HOA
Location & Neighborhood
- Minutes to Lake James recreation and boat ramps
- Short drive to downtown Marion for dining and services
- Rural, low-density surroundings with neighboring acreage parcels
- McDowell County jurisdiction
Walkability & Recreation
- Walkability Rating: 15/100
- Easy regional access to hiking, boating and fishing at Lake James
- Nearby scenic drives and mountain vistas
- Quiet rural roads ideal for biking and horseback
Sources & research confidence.
See where the property research came from and how confidence varies by field.