$362,500
517 Union Rd, Rutherfordton, NC 28139
4-Bed, 3-Bath Custom Home on 2.15 Acres — Unique Retro Kitchen
4 Bed · 3 Bath · 2,194 Sq Ft
Private acreage, long-range views, and vintage character near Rutherfordton
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,194
Sq Ft
1958
Built
2.15 acres
Lot
Attached carport; driveway parking
Garage
About 517 Union Rd
517 Union Rd is a character-rich, custom-built home sitting on 2.15 acres of mature hardwoods and gentle slopes — a rare combination of privacy, space and immediate access to Rutherfordton amenities. This single-level home delivers 4 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms across approximately 2,194 sq ft, plus an expansive covered front porch that runs the length of the façade and connects seamlessly to the attached carport. From the porch you can take in elevated long-range views to the west and enjoy comfortable outdoor living year-round.
Inside, the home preserves mid-century charm with a retro-style kitchen featuring vintage countertops and a built-in breakfast nook complete with a custom table — a standout feature that gives the property a distinctive personality. Generous common rooms and a thoughtful flow make the house functional for daily family life and hosting. Large rear-facing windows brighten the living spaces and frame the backyard vistas; there's room for a home office, hobby space, or guest suite depending on your needs.
The layout includes multiple flexible bedrooms and three well-proportioned bathrooms, making the property appealing to families or buyers seeking extra space. The lot itself is a major amenity: mature trees provide natural screening and the gently sloping terrain opens opportunities for landscaping, garden areas, or simple outdoor entertaining. The attached carport provides covered parking and easy access to the home, while the driveway offers additional parking for visitors.
Living at 517 Union Rd places you a short drive from downtown Rutherfordton — with local dining, shops and community services nearby — and within reasonable driving distance to regional recreation and attractions, including the TIEC complex and Asheville. The property is offered at $362,500 and represents a compelling opportunity for buyers who appreciate original character and want a spacious lot close to town. Schedule a showing to see the unique retro kitchen, wide porch, and sweeping yard in person.
Home Highlights
Property Features
Interior Features
- 4 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms
- Approximately 2,194 sq ft of living space
- Retro-style kitchen with vintage countertops
- Breakfast nook with custom built-in table
- Large rear windows with scenic views
- Flexible rooms suitable for home office or hobby spaces
Exterior & Lot
- 2.15-acre gently sloping lot with mature hardwoods
- Long covered front porch spanning the façade
- Attached carport and driveway parking
- Long-range western views and sunset vistas
- Room for garden, workshop or outdoor entertaining
Location & Neighborhood
- Semi-rural setting on the outskirts of Rutherfordton
- Short drive to downtown Rutherfordton for shopping and services
- Within driving distance to regional attractions (TIEC, Asheville)
- Neighborhood of single-family homes and acreage parcels
Walkability & Recreation
- Walkability Rating: 28/100
- Nearby outdoor options and scenic drives
- Easy access to regional recreation destinations
Neighborhood & Location
The property sits on the outskirts of Rutherfordton in a semi-rural neighborhood of larger residential lots and wooded parcels. The area offers a quiet, country feel with quick access to downtown Rutherfordton’s shops and services. Residents in this part of Rutherford County appreciate the balance of privacy and community amenities, with regional recreational destinations reachable by car.
Market Insights
Rutherford County and the broader Western NC region continue to attract buyers seeking affordability and outdoor access relative to Asheville proper. Inventory for larger-lot properties is comparatively limited, which often sustains interest and steadier pricing for acreage near town. Local median sale prices have grown modestly — single-family values up low-single digits year-over-year in recent periods — while homes that combine privacy and proximity to services tend to move more quickly. At a list price of $362,500, this property sits competitively for buyers trading up from entry-level homes or relocating from higher-cost regional hubs. For investors, expected days on market in this segment are moderate (several weeks to a couple months) depending on condition; for owner-occupants, the home’s lot and character create strong long-term appeal.
Nearby Schools
Rutherfordton Elementary School
Elementary · 2–4 mi
Rutherford County Middle School (area/regional)
Middle · 3–6 mi
Rutherford County High School / R-S Central
High · 3–7 mi
Walkability & Recreation
Strong access to outdoor recreation in Western North Carolina — wooded lot, scenic drives, and regional attractions (TIEC, hiking and mountain areas) within driving distance.
Investment Highlights
- Large private lot: **2.15 acres** with mature hardwoods and long-range views.
- Substantial living area: **2,194 sq ft**, **4 beds / 3 baths** — flexible floorplan for families or home office use.
- Character-rich interior: retro kitchen and breakfast nook offering unique aesthetic appeal.
- Convenient access: minutes to Rutherfordton services and within a reasonable drive to regional attractions (TIEC, Asheville).
- Attractive price anchor: list price **$362,500** positions this competitively given acreage.
Key Findings
- Built in 1958; likely solid structure but age suggests mechanical and envelope inspection recommended.
- Listed at **$362,500**; AVM at **$359,923** indicates alignment with automated valuations.
- Large lot (2.15 acres) is a primary value driver and distinguishes the property in this market.
- No enclosed garage — attached carport only; parking and storage considerations for some buyers.
- Interior includes retro/period materials that may appeal to buyers seeking character or limit full-price offers from those seeking turnkey modern finishes.
Things to Consider
- Age of home (1958) — potential for deferred maintenance on mechanical systems, roof, or foundation elements.
- Lack of detailed utility/sewer/water information — confirm public vs. well/septic connections.
- No enclosed garage may reduce appeal for buyers seeking protected vehicle storage in mixed climate.
- Potential for limited comps due to unique lot size and vintage styling; valuation sensitivity to buyer preferences.
Opportunity Analysis
Acquire a large-lot, character home near Rutherfordton at a price that captures both owner-occupant and investor demand. Value is driven by acreage and privacy — modest cosmetic updates can efficiently raise resale value in a market where buyers pay a premium for land close to town and regional recreation.
Potential Use Scenarios
- Owner-occupant: update kitchen surfaces and finishes while preserving retro elements; service HVAC and roof; stage the porch/living areas to emphasize views.
- Investor/flip: perform targeted remodel (kitchen modernization, bathroom refresh), ensure systems are brought up to modern codes, and market to buyers seeking acreage near Asheville.
- Rental: minimal updates and marketing to long-term renters preferring space and privacy; consider furnishing for short-term income if local regulations allow.
Risk Factors
- Mechanical or structural issues common to 1950s homes may require capital expenditure.
- Market sensitivity to cosmetic condition — buyer pool split between those who want turnkey vs. character.
- Potential septic/well constraints on larger lots — verify capacities for any intended expansion or additional structures.
Buyers should conduct independent due diligence before making any purchase decisions.
AI Valuation Estimate
Low
$345K
Midpoint
$363K
High
$380K
$165/SF estimated price per square foot
Estimate anchored to listed price and AVM; range accounts for age (1958), lot premium (2.15 acres), and need for cosmetic updating. No live comp pull available.
As of 2026-03-11
This is a computer-generated estimate for informational purposes only and is not an appraisal or professional valuation.
Market & Area Data
Market Trends
Demographics
Area is semi-rural with modest population growth; regional appeal from buyers seeking affordable homes within driving distance to Asheville and regional recreation.
Nearby Points of Interest
- Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC) (~30-40 min drive, noted in listing)
- Downtown Rutherfordton (~5–10 min drive)
Property sits on the outskirts of Rutherfordton with quick access to small-town shopping and services; recreational destinations and regional centers (Asheville) reachable by car.
School District
Market data is based on aggregated public records and may not reflect real-time conditions.
Property Details
Building Details
Lot & Site
Utilities
Zoning & Land Use
Allowed Uses
Tax & Sale History
Tax Assessment
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