Information about the local area

  • 1. What relocation-related questions do you hear most often from families moving to Western NC?

    Common Topics:

    Families often ask about healthcare availability, schools, and safety. While I have limitations on providing direct advice (as governed by the National Association of Realtors and the NC Real Estate Commission), I can share helpful resources and websites for their research.

    Funny Example:

    A client once had many questions about bugs, so I connected them with the NC State Entomology Department.

    Other Questions:

    Extracurricular activities for kids (e.g., sports, arts) or retirees (e.g., senior centers, gyms).

    Services like moving companies, storage, estate sales, cleaning, plumbing, electrical, and pest control.

    For services, I provide three options and links for clients to choose from, ensuring legal compliance.

  • 2. Can you walk us through the key steps families should take when researching neighborhoods?

    Tips for Neighborhood Research:

    Evaluate curb appeal by walking or driving around after a showing.

    Check county restrictions and zoning to ensure they meet the family’s needs.

    What I Provide:

    Comprehensive research, including:

    Seller disclosures

    Tax information

    County permits

    Septic records

    Land contours and hydrology


Personal Experience and Community Highlights

1. Success Stories from Recent Clients

Investor in Land and Lake Properties:
I met a client interested in land investment. Over time, I helped her and her family with multiple purchases:

  • A lot near Lake Lure, followed by an adjacent lot.
  • Selling her lake property in Henderson County.
  • Purchasing a river property for her husband to fly fish.
  • Acquiring additional land for a driveway.
  • Finding a home for her father-in-law near Lake Lure.
  • Purchasing nearby land behind their property.

We’ve become great friends, and we continue exploring opportunities together.


Charlotte Client’s Retreat:
A client from Charlotte bought land near Lake Lure but later purchased a cabin in Chimney Rock as a getaway. We are now discussing further possibilities for his Lake Lure property.


Seattle Family Relocation:
A family in Seattle wanted to move to the area but couldn’t travel to view homes. I conducted numerous virtual tours via FaceTime.

  • They first bought a home near downtown Shelby.
  • Later, they found their dream home in Rutherfordton with woods and a creek after a year-long search.
  • I spent so much time with them during the process that I missed our weekly house-hunting after they settled in.


Team Approach and Education:
I emphasize teamwork with my clients, educating them about real estate laws, “red flags,” and “material facts.” Every house has disclosures, and I guide buyers through the due diligence process to ensure their protection.


Local Events and Activities

Music and Entertainment:

Free live music (Americana, Funk R&B, Bluegrass) is available most nights.

Earl Scruggs Festival: Held on Labor Day weekend, celebrating Bluegrass heritage.

Saturday Night Lights: Family events at Tryon International Equestrian Center.

PoPs Pavilion Park (Forest City): Amphitheater, splash pads, concerts, and movie nights.

Food, Art, and Brew (Rutherfordton): A street festival from May to October.


Community Enhancements:

13-mile walking and biking trail.

The Purple Martin Trail and upcoming additions, like a soccer complex in Spindale, a skate park, and a new park in Ellenboro.


Unique Facts About Western NC

Thermal Belt Climate: Offers a unique and mild weather pattern.

Welcoming Community: It's easy to feel at home and integrate into the community.

Stunning Beauty of the Foothills:

Unlike the mountains, the foothills provide expansive views of the mountain ranges on the horizon.


Exploring the Charm of Lake Lure

Top Activities and Attractions for New Residents

Scenic Trails:

Lake Lure features 10 trails for hikers, cyclists, paddlers, and more.

Buffalo Creek Park: Offers 1,527 acres of trails for hiking and cycling.

Canopy Ridge Adventure Park: Ziplining and UTV tours for adventure seekers.

Riverside Riding Stables: Horseback riding in the Bills Creek Community.

Lake Activities and Beaches:
Enjoy the lake’s beauty in the summer with family-friendly beach outings.

Golf:
Rumbling Bald Resort features stunning golf courses for enthusiasts.


Personal Memory of Lake Lure

I’ve cherished memories of visiting the 1927 Lake Lure Inn, which is steeped in history with its original antiques and artwork.

The Inn offers dining at The Veranda and Moose & Goose Lounge, as well as spa services at Irongate Spa.

My family often gathers there for Thanksgiving dinners—a tradition I treasure.

Another highlight is the Lodge at Lake Lure, a beautifully refurbished former State Police Retreat, ideal for a relaxing meal with breathtaking lake views.


Natural Beauty and Its Impact

The majestic mountains surrounding Lake Lure create a stunning scenic backdrop, making it an ideal destination for anyone considering relocation.

Many eateries in the area are designed to showcase these views, offering a picturesque dining experience.


Sharon Logan Kelly’s Areas of Coverage and Notable Neighborhoods

Counties Covered

Henderson, Polk, Rutherford, Cleveland, McDowell, and Burke Counties.


Favorite Neighborhoods and Developments

Lake Lure – Riverbend at Lake Lure

A rustic and beautiful development with an ideal location.

Sharon has extensive experience in this area, having conducted significant business here.

Clearwater Creek, Rutherfordton

Known for its charm, Sharon has sold houses and properties in this neighborhood.

The Estates at Golden Valley, Bostic, NC

Features five gated communities with the South Mountains as a stunning backdrop.

Sharon sold a picturesque 7-acre property here, highlighting the area’s rich history.

The Ridge at South Mountain, Bostic, NC

Another neighborhood where Sharon has successfully sold properties.


Unique Historical Connection

Sharon represented a Seattle buyer looking for a historic home near Downtown Shelby.

  • After they decided to move to the countryside, Sharon listed and sold the property in under one day.
  • Sharon has a special interest and background in the history of the communities she represents.


Historical Significance in Polk, Rutherford, and Cleveland Counties

Sharon Logan Kelly’s Family Legacy

Sharon’s family has deep roots in the area, dating back to the 1700s. Her ancestors played a significant role in the Revolutionary War, fighting against the British. This rich heritage underscores her connection to the region and its history.


The Overmountain Men and Their Impact

  • Who Were They?
    The Overmountain Men were militiamen from the Carolina backcountry and the Appalachians, now parts of North Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, and Kentucky. The term "overmountain" refers to their settlements west of the Blue Ridge Mountains, a boundary between colonial and Native American lands.
  • Role in History:
  • The Overmountain Men are best known for their victory at the Battle of Kings Mountain on October 7, 1780.
  • British Major Patrick Ferguson's threat to invade their lands galvanized these reluctant fighters into action.
  • Under the leadership of Colonel Isaac Shelby and Captain John Sevier, they surrounded and defeated Ferguson's army.
  • This Patriot victory at Kings Mountain was a turning point in the Revolutionary War, setting the path to American independence.


Local Connections and Real Estate

  • Sharon has sold several properties located along the historic Overmountain Men foot trail, including:
  • A historical farm in the Green Creek area of Polk County.
  • This property included a historic farm cabin and hand-hewn log structures overlooking a serene lake and pasture.
  • During an open house, Sharon shared the story of the Overmountain Men with visitors, inspiring a couple to purchase the land as a retreat for their horses.


The Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail

  • Overview:
  • A 330-mile trail spanning Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina.
  • Commemorates the route used by Patriot militia during the Kings Mountain campaign of 1780.
  • Features:
  • Includes highways marked with the trail logo and 87 miles of walkable pathways.
  • Learn more about the trail at the National Park Service website