Built in 1966 on the original caretaker's lot, this enchanting 3-bedroom, 1 bath hidden artist's haven is nestled in the peaceful Cold Springs community, just 4 miles from the charm of Main Street, Highlands and offers the perfect blend of inspiration and tranquility. Step inside to find refinished, narrow-planked hardwood floors that glow with warmth, setting the tone for a home that invites creativity, reflection, and escape. You will find a beautifully renovated kitchen with granite countertops, modern tile backsplash and new cabinets. In 2020, all the kitchen appliances were replaced with stainless steel refrigerator, dishwasher, microwave, and electric stove and there’s a washer and dryer in a separate laundry/storage room. In 2002, lifetime vinyl windows were installed, inviting the mountain light to pour in while keeping the elements at bay. And a full bathroom remodel was done in 2020 with a granite countertop sink, vanity, shower/bath with frameless glass sliding doors, and tile flooring. The two car garage is spacious and is wired for 220 voltage, enough power for an artist's studio or workshop. Enhancing the feel of quiet enchantment are the tall rhododendrons that offer seclusion and privacy, and a pollinating garden landscaped along the fence that frames the yard. Whether you're sipping coffee as the morning mist rises or watching horses run in the fenced pasture across the way, this sanctuary is ideal for painters, writers, and dreamers alike. Recently installed fiber optic internet, and a Generac generator ready for any season, this mountain retreat offers both serenity and reliability. The home is in a desired area of Highlands and is ideal as a vacation rental, investment opportunity, or first home. It is nestled behind a lush wall of Rhododendron making for private, peaceful sanctuary and the level, circular driveway makes for easy access, year-round. Over the years, this home has been well-maintained. The well pump was replaced in 2005 on the shared well, as well as the LP gas furnace in 2009, ensuring warmth through crisp mountain winters. The home’s solid metal roof was installed and the interior was painted in 2014. The exterior was painted along with the installation of oversized gutters and guards to protect the home through all seasons in 2018. And the hot water heater was just replaced to ensure comfort well into the future.
Single-familyProperty Type
1966Year Built
0.41 acresLot Size
$543Price/Sq.Ft.
2 car garageParking
Listed by Merritt Shaw• MOUNTAIN LIFE REAL ESTATE, LLC
Built in 1966 on the original caretaker's lot, this enchanting 3-bedroom, 1 bath hidden artist's haven is nestled in the peaceful Cold Springs community, just 4 miles from the charm of Main Street, Highlands and offers the perfect blend of inspiration and tranquility. Step inside to find refinished, narrow-planked hardwood floors that glow with warmth, setting the tone for a home that invites creativity, reflection, and escape. You will find a beautifully renovated kitchen with granite counter tops, modern tile back splash and new cabinets. In 2020, all the kitchen appliances were replaced with stainless steel refrigerator, dishwasher, microwave, and electric stove and there’s a washer and dryer in a separate laundry/storage room. In 2002, lifetime vinyl windows were installed, inviting the mountain light to pour in while keeping the elements at bay. And a full bathroom remodel was done in 2020 with a granite countertop sink, vanity, shower/bath with frameless glass sliding doors, and tile flooring. The two car garage is spacious and is wired for 220 voltage, enough power for an artist's studio or workshop. Enhancing the feel of quiet enchantment are the tall rhododendrons that offer seclusion and privacy, and a pollinating garden landscaped along the fence that frames the yard. Whether you're sipping coffee as the morning mist rises or watching horses run in the fenced pasture across the way, this sanctuary is ideal for painters, writers, and dreamers alike. Recently installed fiber optic internet, and a Generac generator ready for any season, this mountain retreat offers both serenity and reliability. The home is in a desired area of Highlands and is ideal as a vacation rental, investment opportunity, or first home. It is nestled behind a lush wall of Rhododendron making for private, peaceful sanctuary and the level, circular driveway makes for easy access, year-round. Over the years, this home has been well-maintained. The well pump was replaced in 2005 on the shared well, as well as the LP gas furnace in 2009, ensuring warmth through crisp mountain winters. The home’s solid metal roof was installed, and the interior was painted in 2014. The exterior was painted along with the installation of oversized gutters and guards to protect the home through all seasons in 2018. And the hot water heater was just replaced to ensure comfort well into the future.
Public Records
Jun 10, 2021
Sold
$290,000
$318/sq ft
Year
Property tax
Land + Additions
Assessment*
2025
$1,041
$80,520 + $238,100
$318,620
2024
$1,041 (+1.2%)
$80,520 + $238,100
$318,620
2023
$1,029 (+53.3%)
$80,520 + $238,100
$318,620
2022
$671
$38,870 + $92,140
$131,010
2021
$671 (+5.2%)
$38,870 + $92,140
$131,010
2020
$638 (+2.1%)
$38,870 + $92,140
$131,010
2019
$625
$38,870 + $92,140
$131,010
2018
$626
$50,740 + $96,720
$147,460
2017
$626
$50,740 + $96,720
$147,460
2016
$625 (+3.8%)
$50,740 + $96,720
$147,460
2015
$602 (+19.0%)
$50,740 + $96,720
$147,460
2014
$506
$52,840 + $97,930
$150,770
Public record
Beds
3
Baths
1
Stories
1
Lot width
—
Lot depth
—
Lot size
0.41 Acres
Year renovated
1984
Finished Sq. Ft.
912
Unfinished Sq. Ft.
—
Total Sq. Ft.
912
Year built
1964
Style
Single Family Residential
County
Macon County
APN
7541850221
Parking Spaces
—
Basement
—
Accessible
—
HOA Dues
—
Garage
—
Features
—
Last updated by owner on Aug 27, 2026.
Climate risks
1/10 Flood Factor
Minimal risk of a flood reaching the building in the next 30 years
3/10 Fire Factor
0.31% chance of being in a wildfire in next 30 years
1/10 Heat Factor
7 days above 89° expected this year, 21 days in 30 years
2/10 Wind Factor
Minor risk of severe winds over next 30 years
4/10 Air Factor
5 unhealthy days expected this year, 5 days in 30 years
Provided by First Street
Historical weather
Highlands, NC • 28741
Average low and high temperatures (°F)
40
23
50
31
59
40
66
48
66
52
74
60
78
64
75
60
69
56
63
46
56
39
47
31
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Sun exposure
84/ 100
Very good sunlight
Sunscore
This home receives average direct sun exposure in Highlands. There appears to be minimal shading by surrounding buildings, terrain, and vegetation.
8.7 hrs
4.6 hrs
JuneDecember
Provided by Shadowmap
Redfin Estimate for 556 Shortoff Rd
$476,358
$19K under list price of $495K
Nearby comparable homes
The Redfin Estimate uses 6 recent nearby sales, priced between $420K to $1.6M.