This highly desirable home is loaded with Highlands Charm and has great curb appeal. The main house has 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, there is a free-standing guest quarters with one bedroom, one bath. The dwellings are completely renovated and ready to move in. Updated with the old Highlands Charm of real stone fireplaces, wood floors and wood walls. The kitchen was professionally designed, and it has a wonderful exterior Carolina room with a fireplace. Lower level has additional storage and utility/Mechanical space. This one has rental income and is grandfathered for rental with the city, has ample parking and a usable yard.
Single-familyProperty Type
1980Year Built
0.76 acresLot Size
Listed by W. Terry Potts• Country Club Properties
Listed by John Muir• Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Meadows Mountain Realty - HF
Nestled on the slopes of Big Bear Pen Mountain and just a stone's throw from the bustling heart of downtown Highlands, NC, lies a gem of a property that's recently undergone a complete makeover. Introducing 656 Big Bear Pen Road: a stunningly renovated and professionally decorated haven (courtesy of Spruce Interiors) that promises comfort, style, and unparalleled mountain living. This exquisite property boasts a spacious four bedroom, five bath main home along with a charming one bedroom guest cottage, making it perfect for entertaining guests or indulging in some quiet time. The main residence is a marvel of modern design and rustic charm, featuring a grand great room with a large stone fireplace that invites cozy evenings and warm conversations. The heart of the home is undoubtedly the chef's kitchen, complete with a large island for gathering. The main level also houses the owner's suite, a guest bathroom, a cozy study/den for quieter moments, and a dining room for memorable meals. But the allure doesn't stop there. Step outside to the large covered porch with its own stone fireplace, or enjoy the tranquility from the deck off the back of the house. Upstairs, guests can enjoy their own private retreats in three beautifully appointed bedrooms, each with its own bathroom. The separate guest house offers additional space and independence; it has a living room with a kitchenette, bedroom, and a full bathroom. This property has not only been a beloved home but also a successful vacation rental, grandfathered by the town of Highlands, adding to its appeal as a wise investment or a personal escape. Don't miss your chance to own a piece of paradise at 656 Big Bear Pen Road.
HCMLS #103918
Apr 30, 2024
Price Changed
$3,250,000
Mar 18, 2024
Listed
$3,499,000
Public Records
Aug 15, 2013
Sold
$300,000
Year
Property tax
Land + Additions
Assessment*
2025
$3,513
$447,640 + $419,480
$867,120
2024
$3,513 (+0.3%)
$447,640 + $419,480
$867,120
2023
$3,501 (+49.3%)
$447,640 + $419,480
$867,120
2022
$2,345 (−5.3%)
$200,000 + $181,370
$381,370
2021
$2,476 (−8.5%)
$200,000 + $203,780
$403,780
2020
$2,706 (+0.5%)
$200,000 + $263,010
$463,010
2019
$2,693 (+0.7%)
$200,000 + $263,010
$463,010
2018
$2,673
$169,630 + $322,620
$492,250
2017
$2,673
$169,630 + $322,620
$492,250
2016
$2,673 (+0.9%)
$169,630 + $322,620
$492,250
2015
$2,650 (−7.0%)
$169,630 + $322,620
$492,250
2014
$2,850
$250,680 + $383,630
$634,310
Public record
Beds
4
Baths
3.5
Stories
1.5
Lot width
—
Lot depth
—
Lot size
0.76 Acres
Year renovated
—
Finished Sq. Ft.
1,937
Unfinished Sq. Ft.
—
Total Sq. Ft.
1,937
Year built
1980
Style
Single Family Residential
County
Macon County
APN
7540741461
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
1/10 Fire Factor
Unlikely to be in a wildfire in next 30 years
1/10 Heat Factor
7 days above 93° expected this year, 18 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
71
59
69
55
63
46
56
39
47
31
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Sun exposure
91/ 100
Exceptional sunlight
Sunscore
This home ranks in the top 19% for direct sun exposure in Highlands. There appears to be minimal shading by surrounding buildings, terrain, and vegetation.
9.1 hrs
5.7 hrs
JuneDecember
Provided by Shadowmap
Redfin Estimate for 656 Big Bearpen Rd
We cannot show automated home-value estimates for this home.
Nearby homes have recently sold between $1,067,000 and $4,025,000.
Nearby comparable homes
The Redfin Estimate uses 6 recent nearby sales, priced between $1.1M to $4.0M.