Rural Romance – Second Home Owners Seek Private Communities in Out of the Way Places

The increasingly popular anti-sprawl movement that promotes compact community design, walkability, and neighborly socialization is known as “New   Urbanism.” The sister model associated with satisfying contrasting demand for unencumbered space is known as “New Ruralism.”  In its truest form, this very private community concept focuses on a deep and abiding connection with the land, and accommodates uses that are atypical in a more structured environment, such as farming and equestrian activities.

City and suburban dwellers alike, weary of the congestion associated with civilization and longing to own a tractor  – or at least a pickup truck and a couple of large dogs — are finding their way to the outer “exurban” limits of metropolitan areas in an effort to satisfy an innate desire for a relationship with Mother Nature.  If you find yourself tired of crowded highways and a high-density lifestyle, and are desirous of an environment synonymous with Walden Pond, a family compound may satisfy your craving.

Owners of large open spaces are often motivated by a desire to preserve the land in its natural state and consider themselves stewards of the environment. While many use their property purely as a recreational venue, a growing number are opting for full-time rusticity.

A property such as Shoal Falls Farm can satisfy either inclination. This 145-acre property is located midway between Brevard and Hendersonville in western North Carolina, both of which have eclectic and vibrant downtowns and abundant community services and cultural activities. The historic city of Asheville is just minutes away, while the bucolic surrounding area includes the 10,300-acre DuPont State Forest with miles of walking, biking and horseback riding trails that are easily accessible from this very private retreat.  The property boasts 65 acres of mature hardwood forest, 80 acres of pasture, and twin 45-foot waterfalls and creeks meandering throughout. Two farm homes, a barn apartment and a log cabin can provide full or part-time residence for family, extended family, and vacationing guests.  Shoals Falls Farm also has conservation easement potential that can provide substantial tax savings while serving to sustain the property’s pristine ecology.