Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Highlands, North Carolina, this versatile mountain home offers the perfect blend of cozy living and modern convenience. Surrounded by the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains and just minutes from vibrant downtown Highlands with its renowned restaurants, art galleries, shops, and cultural attractions, this residence provides easy access to everything Highlands has to offer while maintaining a peaceful, private retreat. Amazing wildlife, 1st house in this village, minutes away from town, yet not in town, immediate access to back road that enables you to arrive in Georgia and South Carolina quickly, Very quiet and peaceful.    Step onto the expansive exterior porch and large rear deck, an inviting space for morning coffee, evening relaxation, or entertaining friends amid the high-elevation air. The home also features two lower level porches and a spacious shed. Outside, the private, shaded backyard offers a tranquil escape that is perfect for gardening, outdoor play, or simply unwinding in the cool mountain shade. House cools easily during the hotter months due to the lush foliage.    Inside, the home greets you with beautiful wood finishes throughout the living area. The open-concept design creates a seamless flow between the living room, dining area, and kitchen making family gatherings or entertaining simple. The well-appointed kitchen features a central island and breakfast bar. Two cozy fireplaces add warmth and ambiance: one in the main living area for relaxed evenings, with a second in a downstairs Office/Guest Overflow room, creating a serene retreat for guests. Flexible living space abounds with bonus rooms that can easily adapt to your lifestyle as a kids' playroom, a quiet home office, a home theater for movie nights, or ample storage.    A lot of space the house has a total amount of interior space of 2304 square feet (as added/seen on the attached Macon County Tax Card). The lower level offers even more versatility and could potentially be converted into a separate living unit with the addition of a kitchen. A fully covered carport accessible via a new concrete driveway accommodates up to four vehicles.    With two levels, abundant natural light, prime location close to Highlands' charming downtown, and no short-term rental restrictions, this home is an ideal full-time residence or mountain getaway. Whether you're seeking a year-round mountain lifestyle or a relaxing escape, this thoughtfully maintained home presents a rare opportunity to enjoy the best of North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains.    List of Updates & Improvements    New concrete driveway leading directly to the fully covered 4-vehicle carport  New Generac whole-house generator for reliable backup power  New Trane HVAC AC/heating system providing efficient year-round comfort  New Levolor blinds installed throughout the entire home  Several new interior and exterior plumbing accessories, including a whole-house water filtering system and a new hot/cold outdoor shower on the partially covered section of the rear deck  New Buck Stove heating propane unit installed in the upstairs living room  New propane wall heating unit added in the downstairs office  Entire home professionally repainted in an attractive Bronze color   Downstairs bathroom refreshed with updated finishes  One bonus downstairs room completely redone with new carpeting and fresh paint; currently furnished with a California King futon bed   Second bonus downstairs room converted to an office with added bamboo paneling for a warm, natural look  New gutters installed around the home  New rock work completed next to the firepit for the seasonal creek, creating a soothing, relaxing water sound after rainy period