Local housing market trends, inventory, pricing, buyer leverage, seller conditions, and what the numbers mean in Hendersonville, Asheville, Henderson County, and Buncombe County.
Advice for preparing, pricing, marketing, and selling a home in Western North Carolina, including what to update and what may not be worth changing before you list.
Help with offers, inspections, financing, seller concessions, neighborhoods, new construction, mountain-home considerations, and making a confident buying decision.
A recent Hendersonville story raised an unusually important question for Western North Carolina buyers: if a home flooded during Helene, was fully repaired, and is occupied again, is it now simply a repaired home, or is it still a higher-risk property?
That question came into focus in the Cottages at Cypress Run neighborhood, where several homes damaged by Hurricane Helene were repaired and reoccupied, yet some owners are still pursuing voluntary FEMA hazard-mitigation buyouts that would result in the homes being demolished and the land preserved as open space.
The situation is unusual, but the buyer lesson is broader: a repaired home and a lower-risk home are not always the same thing.
With the 2026 Western North Carolina Parade of Homes underway, this is a good time for buyers to ask a question that comes up more often than people expect: Should I buy an existing home, or should I consider buying land and building instead?
The answer depends on far more than the price of the house. In Western North Carolina, the lot itself can have a major impact on cost, timing, design, financing, and even whether the home you want can realistically be built there.
The 2026 WNC Parade of Homes runs October 17-18 and October 24-25 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The free, self-guided event includes new and renovated homes throughout the greater Asheville and Hendersonville area and is a useful way to see what builders are creating in the mountains.
In Episode 30 of Living Local with Frisbee Real Estate, Ed welcomes back Lynn Staggs, founder and executive director of The Storehouse, one of Henderson County's most impactful nonprofit organizations. Lynn returns to discuss The Storehouse's annual Fourth of July Matching Campaign, the organization's largest fundraiser dedicated entirely to feeding local families in need.
For more than a decade, The Storehouse has hosted its Fourth of July fundraising campaign, which began when a retired veteran couple challenged the organization to raise funds by matching donations. What started as a $10,000 match has grown into a major community-wide effort. Last year, the campaign raised nearly $100,000, and this year's goal is $125,000 to support food assistance programs throughout Henderson County.
Unlike many food assistance organizations, The Storehouse operates independently and is responsible for purchasing much of the food it distributes. Lynn shares that the organization spends approximately $135,000 annually on food, helping provide groceries and household essentials to local families, seniors, veterans, and individuals facing financial hardship.
The conversation also highlights The Storehouse's move into its facility on Upward Road. The larger space gives volunteers and staff more room to serve residents seeking assistance. Lynn explains that demand continues to grow, especially among seniors living alone who may struggle to afford groceries, cleaning supplies, paper products, and other everyday necessities.
One of the organization's most meaningful programs is its Senior Delivery Route, which provides monthly deliveries of groceries and household essentials to homebound seniors with limited transportation, little family support, and few available resources. Volunteers do more than deliver food. They also provide a familiar face, a personal connection, and an important wellness check.
Lynn shares that the heart behind The Storehouse began with a desire to help older residents who were struggling to meet basic needs. More than 26 years later, that mission continues through food assistance, volunteer support, community partnerships, and outreach programs serving people throughout Henderson County.
How the Community Can Help
Donate to the Fourth of July Matching Campaign
Volunteer at The Storehouse
Help with senior delivery routes
Organize a food drive
Make a financial contribution throughout the year
The Fourth of July Matching Campaign runs from June 1 through July 31. Donations can be made at storehouseonline.org, by mail, or by visiting The Storehouse during operating hours.
For anyone looking to support a local nonprofit making a direct impact on food insecurity in Henderson County, this episode offers an inside look at the work The Storehouse is doing every day to care for neighbors in need.
As always, keep living local.
Watch on YouTube
Transcript
Transcript lightly edited for readability.
Ed: Hey, thanks for joining us again. This is our first time to have a repeat guest, and this is Lynn Staggs. She was with us last year, but she's back with us now to tell us about a special event coming up for Fourth of July for The Storehouse. Lynn, thanks for joining us.
Lynn: Thank you for having us. We are excited because this is our biggest fundraiser for the whole year.
Ed: Bigger than Christmas?
Lynn: Different category. Christmas is all about the kids and the presents, and Fourth of July is all about making sure that we have enough money to feed the families in our community. So two different categories there.
What the Fourth of July match is, we had a couple that was a retired veteran couple about twelve years ago. They walked into our office and they said, "Hey, we will match anything you raise up to ten thousand dollars. And you got eight weeks." And they turned around and walked out.
I was like, "What? Wait, wait, why?" So I went on the radio and we started advertising. That first year we raised like twelve or fourteen thousand dollars and I was so proud. I thought I had done something fantastic, which we had, and they kept coming back, this same couple.
So they are the reason we have a Fourth of July match campaign. Last year we raised right up under a hundred thousand dollars in the eight weeks. What we do is we have corporate and church sponsors, and then the community matches what the corporate and church sponsors give us. It usually, well it always, goes way over that.
Our sponsors are Advent Health, East Flat Rock First Baptist Church, Ebenezer Baptist Church, First Baptist Church, Fruitland Baptist Church, Grace Lutheran Church, Hendersonville Church of God, Hendersonville Presbyterian, Reformation Presbyterian, and Saint James Episcopal Church. These churches are pretty much our cornerstone churches. All the churches participate in town, but these churches have been with us for years and years. They comprise a lot of our volunteer staff, food drives, and different things. They really hold us up all year long.
Ed: That's great.
Lynn: This will run from June first to July thirty-first. We have eight weeks to beat the match.
Ed: And how do people give?
Lynn: We have options. You can give online at storehouseonline.org. You can drop a check in the mail, and all of our information for mailing is still at storehouseonline.org. Or you can come by the office while we're there. If you want to, we'll take you through the building and give you a tour. We just have a good time while we're there, and if it's really, really busy, you might be put to work.
Ed: This money goes to help support staff and food?
Lynn: This money is all for food. It takes about a hundred and thirty-five thousand dollars a year to purchase enough food to serve the families that we serve every week, every month. It's about eleven thousand dollars a month for food budget. That does include our senior delivery route also. We do get certain grants for that, but that covers different things for the seniors. We're just talking about food.
We are totally independent, so we don't have a discount place where we get food. We're not a MANNA FoodBank partner. We're on our own to go out and search the deals down, order, go to the stores, find the best price, get truckloads brought in, and run food drives throughout the community.
Ed: Since we last had you and talked with you, you've now moved into your building.
Lynn: Yes, and it's beautiful and it's all purpley on the inside. It's calming and it is so nice to have enough space to work in. If you were ever at our other office, it was very adequate but very congested, and every room had four purposes. No one had an office to themselves. Every room got switched around to do something else at some point in time.
This building actually has rooms that are dedicated to one purpose. It's the first time in twenty-six years I've ever had an office by myself, so I'm having to learn how to be alone. And it's not always good for me. I don't have anybody to talk to.
Ed: If I recall correctly, you have lots of Lynns that work in your...
Lynn: Lindas. I have five Lindas.
Ed: That's wild.
Lynn: So if your name is Linda, come volunteer because I won't ever forget your name.
Ed: Storehouseonline.org is how they can give. If they don't like to give electronically, they can go to storehouseonline.org and find your mailing address.
Lynn: Yes. It's PO Box 6146, Hendersonville, 28793. They can also come by. We're open Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, nine to two. We are intending on extending our hours as soon as we get more volunteers.
Ed: Talk to us about that. Is there an age limit?
Lynn: Not that I've seen. I think my oldest volunteer right now is eighty-seven, and I've got down to I think a seventeen or fifteen-year-old. She's homeschooled, so she comes in and that's part of what she does every week on Wednesdays. That's her volunteer time.
Ed: Remind everybody your quick backstory with The Storehouse. You started it.
Lynn: I really had a burden in my heart for little old ladies. I was raised by my mom and my grandmother, and little old ladies have always been my deal. When I got out and got married and had kids, I would run across these little old ladies just struggling for food, and I just couldn't stand the thought of that.
That was the seed that really got me started. God just showed me how to move and go because there's no playbook for starting a nonprofit. Yes, people have formal plans and all that. That is not how my brain operates. It has definitely been a vision. What does He want me to do for these people?
Our senior delivery routes are for people who are just out there by themselves. They have to be over sixty, no family, no transportation. They're dropping in a lot of these categories and they have no way to get help for food.
Most of our seniors only get ten to thirty-five dollars in food stamps a month. It only covers edible food, not things like toilet paper, paper towels, medication, paper plates, or cleaning supplies.
Every month on our senior delivery route they get laundry detergent, paper towels, toilet paper, trash bags, things to clean with, and little "prize bags." One month we gave pillows. You would not believe how many people have not had a new pillow in excess of fifteen years. We had one little group in a group home together who had no pillows. They were rolling up their clothes and sleeping on their clothes.
In this society, that's just not acceptable to me. It is right here in this wealthy, beautiful community that we live in. This stuff is happening right here. It has absolutely zero to do with the hurricane that came through a couple of years ago. This is just their life. We need to be aware that they're there.
Ed: Is there any other way other than volunteer or money that people can help?
Lynn: Those are the big things right now. Usually when people come in and volunteer or they take on a senior delivery route, you can't have their people. My delivery route people are very territorial about their people. "These are my people, you can't have them."
I love that component of it because that way those people are guaranteed they're going to see the same face every month. We're also able to check on people every month, like a wellness check. If they don't have any family and they're out there by themselves, that is so important that somebody is putting eyeballs on them.
You take it for granted when you have a family. I met a gentleman a few weeks ago. He's in his nineties, his wife died a few years ago, they never had kids, so his closest relatives are down in Florida. That's not normal to me, so I don't think about it, but it's out there.
Ed: Are there other ministries or nonprofits that do that to your knowledge?
Lynn: I'm sure there are other ministries that go out and deliver food or do open markets and things. I know Meals on Wheels takes meals to people's homes. We're doing groceries and supplies. I haven't looked. I'm too busy doing what I'm doing.
Ed: Unless you have a new restaurant you'd like to recommend, because it's been a few months since we last saw you. We always like to talk about food.
Lynn: Right now, it's not like fine dining, but Dairi-O has some really good hamburgers.
Ed: And that's near your place.
Lynn: It is. A little too close sometimes. They're very philanthropic too, by the way. Dairi-O's a good place and everybody seems to be very friendly when we go there.
Ed: There's a lot happening over there on Upward Road.
Lynn: There is. It's a lot of traffic and a lot of moving pieces over there. I think it changes weekly.
Ed: I think it's the next corridor for Hendersonville.
Lynn: I think it's already a corridor for Hendersonville. They just keep building on it.
Ed: June first through July thirty-first, storehouseonline.org. It's not "The Storehouse," it's storehouseonline.org. Give online, or look up the address and mail it, or come and see the purpley walls. Is there a goal?
Lynn: A hundred and twenty-five. That's what our goal is for this year. We didn't quite make it last year, but I think with all the new people moving in it shouldn't be a problem this year.
Ed: I think you can. As soon as we're done with Fourth of July, then we know what time it is.
Lynn: Christmas, Christmas, Christmas.
Ed: So we'll have you back in August or September.
Lynn: We'll be back talking about Christmas.
Ed: Awesome. Lynn Staggs with The Storehouse, thanks again for joining us. Thank you very much for all you do.
For everybody watching or listening, thank you. And as always, keep living local.
Photo: She-Ra1978, CC0 1.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
One of the most common questions I hear from homeowners is simple:
Should I update my home before I sell it?
The short answer is: sometimes, but not automatically.
Almost every home could be improved before it goes on the market. The better question is whether the money, time, and disruption of making those improvements will actually help you sell for more, sell faster, or avoid buyer objections.
What does being a firefighter teach you about protecting your home from chimney and dryer vent fires?
In Episode 34 of Living Local with Frisbee Real Estate, Ed Frisbee sits down with Tim Hoglund, owner of Redline Chimney & Home Services, a growing Western North Carolina business specializing in chimney cleaning, inspections, repairs, preventative maintenance, and dryer vent cleaning.
Tim is also a Western North Carolina firefighter, and his experience responding to chimney fires and carbon monoxide calls helped inspire him to start Redline. After seeing firsthand how damaging these incidents can be, he began researching chimney maintenance and found a way to combine his firefighting background with roughly 15 years of previous carpentry experience.
Chimney Maintenance and Home Safety
Tim explains why homeowners should not wait until there is an obvious chimney problem. He recommends annual chimney sweeping and inspection, especially for homes that regularly use wood-burning fireplaces.
He also explains the difference between a Level 1 visual inspection and a more detailed Level 2 camera inspection. Redline uses a 360-degree camera to inspect the inside of the flue for deteriorating mortar joints, cracked terracotta tiles, and other problems that may not be visible from outside the chimney.
Tim particularly recommends a more detailed inspection when a property changes ownership or when a homeowner does not know the chimney's history. That can be especially helpful when buying an older home with a fireplace anywhere in Hendersonville, Asheville, Henderson County, Buncombe County, or elsewhere in Western North Carolina.
More Than a Chimney Sweep
Tim's vision for Redline goes beyond chimney sweeping. Services discussed in the episode include chimney and fireplace inspections, masonry repairs, chimney liners, firebox repairs, preventative maintenance, dryer vent cleaning, and solutions for damaged chimney flues.
He also talks about options such as stainless-steel liners, parging, refractory firebox repairs, fireplace inserts, and HeatShield repairs for damaged flues. His goal is to help homeowners understand what is wrong, what needs attention, and which repair options make sense.
Transparency is a major part of his approach. Tim says he shows homeowners what he finds through photos and videos, explains the problem and the available solutions, and encourages people to compare quotes when larger repairs are involved.
From Firefighter to Business Owner
Redline is still a young company, but Tim shares how quickly it has grown. He started by doing free cleanings for friends and fellow firefighters to build experience and establish a rhythm, then began receiving paid referrals almost immediately.
His long-term plan is to expand the business, bring in other firefighters, add service vans, and eventually create a storefront where homeowners can explore fireplace products and services.
Tim also talks about the connection between firefighting and chimney work. Both require ongoing training, attention to safety, and an understanding of fire behavior. He describes firefighting as his true passion, while Redline gives him another way to use his experience to help homeowners prevent problems before they become emergencies.
Tim also recommends following Redline on Facebook for specials, promotions, and before-and-after projects.
Local Food Favorites
Because this is Living Local, Ed also asks Tim about a few favorite places to eat. Tim mentions:
Indian Aroma in Hendersonville
Botiwalla in Asheville
Chai Pani in Asheville
Mehfil in Asheville
Tim is also one of the cooks at the fire station and shares a favorite firehouse dish: honey sriracha chicken made with drumsticks or thighs, with the spice level adjusted depending on how much fun he wants to have with the crew.
This episode is a practical conversation about home safety, chimney maintenance, dryer vent cleaning, small business growth, firefighting, and protecting homes throughout Western North Carolina.
As always, keep living local.
Watch on YouTube
Transcript
Transcript lightly edited for readability.
Ed: Thanks for tuning in today. We're excited to have Tim Hoglund from Redline Chimney and Home Services. I think I got that right.
Tim: Yeah, you got it.
Ed: Perfect. First time's a charm. And he's also a full-time firefighter.
Tim: Yes, sir.
Ed: Tell us about what you do and how it all happened.
Tim: I'm Tim from Redline Chimney and Home Services. I'm a local Buncombe County firefighter and part-time Henderson County firefighter. On my off time I created this chimney business. I'm trying to get away from saying just "chimney sweep" because we're really growing into more of a chimney specialist business.
I'm the owner-operator and we're trying to expand, bring on some other firefighters, add vans, and eventually have a storefront where people can come see fireplace products and services. Right now it's just a one-man show, and we have a fully wrapped truck.
Being a firefighter, I was able to see firsthand what chimney fires and carbon monoxide calls can do and how devastating they can be. As firefighters, we do what we call a size-up. Once a call is under control, you're always looking at the property and thinking, if this house were on fire, how would we approach it? Where would the ladder go? Where's the hydrant? What power lines would we need to watch?
I started doing that on chimney-fire calls and then began researching chimney maintenance. I have about 15 years of carpentry experience from South Florida, so I realized I could combine that with what I'd learned in the fire service.
Chimney fires, dryer vent fires, and kitchen fires are among the common types of fires we respond to in homes. Chimney and dryer vent issues can often be reduced through regular maintenance. That gave me a direction for the business.
Ed: What's the rule of thumb for chimney maintenance?
Tim: Annual sweeping and annual inspection. At minimum, have a chimney specialist do a Level 1 inspection, which looks at the readily accessible areas.
We also do Level 2 camera inspections. I highly recommend those when there is a transfer of ownership or when you don't know the history of the house or chimney.
Ed: Would that be part of a regular home inspection before somebody buys a home?
Tim: As far as I know, a typical home inspection does not run a camera through the flue. That's something we do. Our camera is a 360-degree camera, so we can see every angle.
We're looking closely at terracotta flue tiles, the mortar joints between those tiles, whether the mortar has deteriorated, and whether the tiles have cracked over time. Those tiles expand and contract with heat. If they crack, you can end up with a void where heat or gases could reach areas they shouldn't.
There is a lot involved in doing a thorough inspection and putting together a report. We try not to just present problems. We also present possible solutions.
I always recommend homeowners get multiple quotes on larger repair work. My goal is to be transparent. I show people what I see, explain why it's a problem, explain how I would fix it, and show them photos or video whenever possible.
Ed: What kinds of repairs can you do?
Tim: We do masonry repairs, preventative maintenance for leaks, liners, and firebox repairs. If a terracotta flue tile is cracked, one option is to install a stainless-steel liner.
If someone wants to keep an open wood-burning fireplace, we can use parging and refractory mortar in certain applications. I'm also becoming a HeatShield technician. That's a system where a product is applied inside the flue to seal cracks and joints, which can sometimes be an alternative to a full liner.
There are also fireplace inserts, which can be great for improving heat output in the home. And we can rebuild the inside of a firebox with refractory brick when those materials have deteriorated over time.
Ed: Sounds messy.
Tim: It is very messy. I've learned not to get too attached to gloves or work clothes. We wear black because it hides soot. But I love it. It goes hand in hand with being a firefighter.
Ed: How can people reach you?
Tim: The website is redlinechimney.com. The full name is Redline Chimney and Home Services, but we kept the web address simple.
The phone number is 828-849-4999. We're also on Facebook, and that's the main platform we use right now for promotions, before-and-after pictures, and updates. We also have Instagram and LinkedIn, but being a one-man show, Facebook is where we're most active.
Ed: I would think the next few months could get busy quickly.
Tim: Definitely. We've only been operational for a few months, but I've been preparing for about a year. I got certifications, liability insurance, the truck wrapped, and everything set up properly.
In June, I started by doing around 20 free cleanings for friends from the fire department who owned homes with chimneys. I wanted to build a rhythm and get real-world experience. Halfway through the month, word started spreading and we began getting paid jobs. Since then we've been doing around 30 jobs a month, some small and some much larger.
Sweeps and inspections are the bread and butter, but a large percentage of chimneys also have some type of additional maintenance need, whether it's mortar, leak prevention, or another repair.
Ed: You enjoy getting up on the roof?
Tim: We do. We're firefighters first, chimney specialists second, so safety is a big deal. We use harnesses, specialized roof footwear, and other safety equipment.
When we had heavy rain recently, we also did free temporary tarping for customers who scheduled permanent repairs with us. If someone had a serious chimney leak, we could get out there, tarp it, and then come back for the permanent repair.
Ed: Before we wind down, we always ask about favorite food choices in the area.
Tim: We really like Indian food. In Hendersonville, we like Indian Aroma. In Asheville, Botiwalla is great for quicker Indian food, and Chai Pani is great for sit-down Indian street food. We also like Mehfil in Asheville.
I always order the highest spice level and usually regret it, but I keep doing it anyway.
Ed: You also told me off camera that you cook a lot at the fire station.
Tim: One of my favorites is honey sriracha chicken. Equal parts honey and sriracha over drumsticks and chicken thighs, then bake it. If I'm cooking for a new crew, sometimes I'll make it extra spicy just for fun.
The fire department is really my passion. It's that brother-and-sisterhood, everybody having each other's back, being there for people on their worst days, training together, and then being able to have fun together back at the station.
The chimney business is another way I can use the knowledge I've gained, plus my carpentry background, to help people prevent problems before they become emergencies.
Ed: Give us the website and number one more time.
Tim: Redlinechimney.com and 828-849-4999. Check us out on Facebook for specials and promotions. We do offseason specials too, so don't wait until the month before cold weather to get your chimney swept.
Ed: Awesome. Thank you, Tim, very much.
Tim: Thanks for having me.
Ed: Thank you all for watching and or listening. And as always, keep living local.
What brings a longtime Hollywood actor from Los Angeles to Hendersonville, North Carolina? For actor Bailey Chase, the move became one of the best decisions he and his family have made.
In Episode 33 of Living Local with Frisbee Real Estate, Ed sits down with Bailey to talk about nearly 30 years in the entertainment industry, his path from college football player to working actor, and why he ultimately chose to leave Los Angeles and make Hendersonville home.
Bailey is known for roles in Longmire, Homestead, Queen of the South, Criminal Minds, CSI, and numerous other film and television projects. He takes us behind the scenes of Longmire, including his experience playing Branch Connally, the show's loyal fan base, and why that role remains especially meaningful to him.
He also talks about his role in Angel Studios' Homestead, which began as a feature film and expanded into a multi-season series. Bailey shares some of the unusual circumstances surrounding the production during the Hollywood strike and how the project developed from a movie into an ongoing show.
Another project Bailey is developing is called Appalachia, which he wrote and plans to produce and star in. Inspired in part by his experience on Longmire, the project could eventually give Bailey the chance to step into a sheriff role of his own.
But this conversation goes well beyond acting. Bailey talks about being a husband and father, raising his family in Western North Carolina, and getting involved with Henderson County Heroes, an organization that supports local first responders in need. He also shares why creating work that encourages people and puts something positive into the world has become increasingly important to him.
Bailey's Hendersonville and WNC Favorites
Because this is Living Local, Ed also asks Bailey about some of the places his family enjoys around Hendersonville and Western North Carolina. Bailey mentions:
Jeter Mountain Farm for apple picking and family outings
Hearth & Harrow in Hendersonville
Shine on Main Street
Morning Social in Brevard for brunch
Exploring the mountains and communities around Western North Carolina
It is a fun and personal conversation about Hollywood, Longmire, Homestead, family, faith, Hendersonville, and finding home in Western North Carolina.
As always, keep living local.
Watch on YouTube
Transcript
Transcript lightly edited for readability.
Ed: We're excited to have our special guest, Mr. Bailey Chase. Bailey is best known as an actor, but I'll let you introduce yourself and talk a little about what you've done.
Bailey: My wife Amy and I moved to Hendersonville about five years ago, at the tail end of COVID. I had spent about 21 years in Los Angeles. I can't take credit for the move. I really feel like it was divine intervention, and it has been one of the best things that ever happened in my life. My family is doing great here.
Most people know me as an actor, which is good, but I'd say my most important role is being a father and a husband. I take great pride in that. That was a big factor in moving our family here and leaving Hollywood behind.
Ed: Do people recognize you around here?
Bailey: They do. Most everybody is cool about it. Every once in a while someone doesn't respect boundaries, but usually people are great.
Ed: What do people usually recognize you from?
Bailey:Longmire is very popular around here. I'm also developing something called Appalachia, which is inspired in part by my experience on Longmire. If Appalachia takes off, I'll finally get to be the sheriff.
Ed: That's how I recognized you, from Longmire. Then I realized we'd seen you on Criminal Minds.
Bailey: I was a bad guy on Criminal Minds. Those can be fun roles. I was also on the original CSI pretty early in my career. I played Marty Mayron, "the Meat Machine," a professional hot dog eater. I had to eat a lot of hot dogs. After about two, I was using the spit bucket.
Ed: How long did Longmire run?
Bailey: Six seasons total, which is a successful run. My character, Branch Connally, was in the first three seasons. A&E canceled the show after season three, even though it had strong ratings. Netflix came in and saved it for three more seasons.
My first Instagram handle was "Branch Lives" as a joke about what happened on the show. Even today, I'd say about half of my fans are from Longmire.
Ed: I remember now that Branch ran against Walt for sheriff.
Bailey: Yes. I think I lost by about two votes. I loved a lot of things about that show. We filmed in Santa Fe, and my first daughter was born there. Waverly will always be a New Mexican. A lot of great things happened to me in Santa Fe.
The show was based on books and was fictionally set in Wyoming. We did fan events around Buffalo, Wyoming, and stayed near there on a ranch. For years I got to take my family out there. It was really special.
What I loved about Branch was that I got to play all the levels. Earlier in my career I often played guys who had everything together. Branch was a character who eventually fell apart. In the beginning, he is this polished alternative to Walt, with technology and money, and he operates in shades of gray. Over time, you see him put himself in harm's way for others. That was creatively rewarding.
Ed: After Longmire, what came next?
Bailey: I did a role on Queen of the South, which was my last job before COVID. Then everything stopped. That was humbling. Like a lot of families, we went through a difficult period.
That ultimately helped lead us to Hendersonville. It is harder to find some acting work while living here. I have lost out on some roles because I wasn't local to Los Angeles, but I've also gotten new opportunities, including faith-based films and shows.
I did a Western called Far Haven, and around that same time I got involved with Henderson County Heroes. It benefits local first responders in need. One of our early fundraisers was a private screening on Main Street, and the proceeds went to the foundation. We also do a golf tournament and other events.
Ed: Tell us about Appalachia.
Bailey:Appalachia is in development. I wrote it, and I plan to be a producer and star in it. That's a first for me. I've also been working with Angel Studios the last few years on Homestead.
Ed: You're in Homestead?
Bailey: Yes, I'm one of the leads. It started as a movie. During the Hollywood strike, independent productions could get waivers, and Angel had independent financing. Homestead had always been developed as a series, but because of the strike they pivoted and started with a movie, which was essentially the first two episodes.
Since then we've shot two full seasons, and we're planning on going back to Utah for season three. My character is Jeff Eriksson, based on a real person, Jeff Kirkham, who is a retired Green Beret and special operator.
The story is post-apocalyptic. A billionaire owns a large homestead outside Salt Lake City, and people flee there after disaster strikes. Neil McDonough was in the movie, Dawn Olivieri is part of the cast, and Charles Esten plays another major role in the series.
Ed: Before we started, you said you never acted in high school or college. How did you get started?
Bailey: I was born outside Chicago in Barrington, Illinois, and later moved to Naples, Florida. Eventually I went to a prep school in Jacksonville called Bolles. My roommate there was Chipper Jones. He was a good influence, and we pushed each other in sports.
I played baseball and football. Baseball was my first love, but Chipper was so much better than everybody else at baseball that I started focusing more on football. I played inside linebacker and was good enough to play Division I.
I wanted to go to Chapel Hill, but they didn't offer me. Georgia Tech recruited me heavily, and then Duke stepped up at the last minute. So I went to Duke.
I was a total jock through high school and college. Acting was more of a boyhood dream. I had this idea that after football and baseball I would someday become the next Clint Eastwood. The plan just accelerated when the NFL didn't come calling.
Ed: So you basically showed up in Los Angeles and started acting?
Bailey: That's actually pretty accurate. My degree was in psychology, and I use that all the time in acting. It helps me get curious about characters, figure out why they act the way they do, and avoid playing a one-dimensional bad guy.
Ed: Have you ever had a part where you sing?
Bailey: I did a movie called Country Roads Christmas. I sang on set, but they used a professional singer in the final movie. I thought I'd gotten pretty good for a few weeks there.
Ed: Have you done voiceover work?
Bailey: I have, and I really enjoy it. Animation is especially fun because you can get outside yourself and act crazy. I'd love to do more voice work because I can do some of it from home.
Ed: What's one of your favorite things you've been part of during your acting career?
Bailey: One of the coolest things about being an actor is hearing from fans about how a show affected them. That happened a lot with Longmire. People would tell me it was their dad's favorite show and that watching it together gave them something special during the end of his life.
For me, that's better than any trophy or award. I got into this business to spread joy. I want to create art that inspires people and puts a positive message into the world. Getting to work with Angel Studios and be part of projects that do that is a blessing.
Ed: I want to ask about Hendersonville. When someone comes to the area, what should they check out?
Bailey: People ask me how I ended up here because it can seem random, but my wife was born and raised here, at Pardee. That's how we got here. It's a great place to raise a family.
One of our favorite things to do is go to Jeter Mountain Farm for apple picking. They've done a great job out there. It's beautiful, and we always come home with a lot of donuts.
For restaurants, my wife's favorite, and one I really like too, is Hearth & Harrow on Seventh Avenue. If you go out to Brevard, one of our favorite brunch spots is Morning Social. And if you're doing the Main Street thing, I like Shine.
Ed: How will people know if Appalachia comes to fruition?
Bailey: I'll post about it. I'm easy to find online at Bailey Chase. I also post things related to Henderson County Heroes and local events.
Ed: If the project gets made, how long does it usually take before people can see something like that?
Bailey: It depends. A series can sometimes have about a six-month turnaround from shooting a pilot to streaming. Films usually take longer, often around a year. So if Appalachia moves forward, there is still a development and production process before anyone sees it.
Ed: Bailey Chase, thank you for taking the time. People can find you on Instagram and Facebook, and we'll have to have you back again.
Bailey: Thank you for having me.
Ed: Thank you all for watching and or listening. And as always, keep living local.
In Episode 32 of Living Local with Frisbee Real Estate, Ed sits down with Jay Egolf, a longtime Henderson County resident, former school board member, local business owner, and current Henderson County Commissioner for District 5. Jay shares stories from more than five decades in the area, his family's history in the local automotive business, and what led him into public service.
Jay has called Henderson County home since 1972 and attended local public schools before heading to college at Chapel Hill. After working in the automotive industry in Utah and North Carolina, he became increasingly involved in local issues, first serving six years on the Henderson County Board of Education and later running for County Commission. Today, he represents District 5 while emphasizing that his responsibility extends to residents throughout Henderson County.
The conversation offers a practical look at what the Henderson County Board of Commissioners handles, including county budgets, property taxes, zoning and ordinances, courthouse projects, sheriff's department funding, growth, and coordination with local municipalities. Jay also talks about one of the themes that matters most to him: communication. Even when people disagree, he believes sitting down, listening, and understanding another person's perspective can solve a lot of problems before they grow larger.
Jay also shares the history of Egolf Motors, his family's longtime Henderson County automotive business. His grandfather began operating locally in the early 1970s, and Jay started washing cars at age 13 before eventually working in sales, service, management, and dealership ownership. He shares stories from selling his first vehicle in Salt Lake City, expanding into Brevard, navigating the automotive industry during the 2008 recession, and eventually selling the family dealership after decades in business.
The episode also touches on Jay's experience living with celiac disease and the challenges of finding truly gluten-free dining options. He mentions businesses including Arabella's, Chick-fil-A, and Jimmy John's as places where he has found workable options.
When it comes to enjoying Henderson County, Jay encourages residents and visitors to explore beyond the usual stops. He recommends Carl Sandburg Home, Jump Off Rock, downtown Hendersonville, local farmers markets, apple orchards, and farms along Highway 64 East. His broader message is simple: support local farmers, explore different parts of the county, and appreciate the mix of growth, agriculture, small towns, and rural character that makes Henderson County unique.
This episode is a wide-ranging conversation about Henderson County growth, local government, community leadership, small business history, agriculture, and what it means to truly know the place you call home.
As always, keep living local.
Watch on YouTube
Transcript
Transcript lightly edited for readability.
Ed: Hey, thanks again for watching and or listening today. Our special guest is Mr. Jay Egolf. Normally I give people a title, but Jay is a man of many hats and many careers and journeys. So we're just going to talk to Jay and hear about them. Jay, thanks for taking time to talk with us.
Jay: Yeah, absolutely.
Ed: Tell us a little bit about yourself and then I'll have some random questions for you depending on what you answer.
Jay: I was born in Portland, Oregon, and moved here when I was two in 1972. My sister was born here in 1973 and she lives in Portland, so we've switched. I've lived in Henderson County since 1972. I attended public schools, starting at Bruce Drysdale in 1975, and went all the way through the local school system. Back then it was the Hendersonville city school system, and later it merged into Henderson County Public Schools.
I went to Chapel Hill, sold cars in Utah, then came back here and sold cars. I first got involved with the school board when Hendersonville High School was getting built. The county pays for school construction expenses, but the school board designs the project, so they have to work things out together. I knew people on both the school board and county commission and felt like I could help.
I served on the school board for six years, from 2018 to 2024, and then I wanted to get involved with the county. I enjoy serving Henderson County. I've lived here for more than five decades and I care about the way the county is growing. I had concerns, I was encouraged to run in 2024, and I won the primary and was elected. Now I serve as a Henderson County Commissioner for District 5.
Ed: For District 5.
Jay: Right. And people sometimes get confused by that. I represent a district, but every person in the county can vote for me, so anything in the county is of concern to me. If anybody has complaints, ideas, or problems, let me know. I don't care if you're in my district or not.
Ed: What kinds of things do people typically ask you about? What does the county commission actually vote on or decide?
Jay: We deal with growth issues and the county budget. We deal with sheriff's pay, courthouse projects, how county money is spent, property taxes, sales taxes, zoning, ordinances, and working with municipalities.
I live in Laurel Park, so I pay a Laurel Park tax and a county tax. Laurel Park handles some things I'm grateful for, and the county handles other things I'm grateful for. Sometimes a municipality needs help from the county on something. That's part of how the system works.
Ed: You mentioned trash pickup. I moved here from Buncombe County about ten years ago. In Buncombe County you don't really have a choice of trash provider, and I appreciate that in the county here you can choose who you're going to pay to pick it up.
Jay: That may not be true in Laurel Park because the town arranges it there. But I will also say this: I've only been serving as commissioner for about two years. Even though I've lived here a long time, I don't want anybody to think I know everything, because I don't. Every day I try to learn more than I knew the previous day.
If somebody hears me on this podcast and says something I said was not correct, there is a good chance of that. I try to do the best I can, but I'm always trying to get better. Let's talk about it.
That's another thing I think matters. Whether we're talking about elected officials or neighbors, there could be more communication. A lot of problems and issues could be worked out if people would sit down and talk. I don't care what nationality you are, what color you are, what language you speak, or what political party you represent.
I remember a time when neighborhoods looked out for one another and if you had a problem with somebody, you talked with them and tried to work it out. I miss that. We've lost some of the ability to disagree and still be friends.
I've always said, whether serving on the school board or county commission, that I will sit down and talk with anybody. I will do my best to understand where you're coming from. I may not agree, but I will try to understand and help where I can. I wouldn't expect you to agree with me on everything either. At least sit down and talk and understand where the other person is coming from.
Ed: You made me curious when you mentioned Utah. What took you there?
Jay: Our family had a car dealership in Hendersonville beginning in 1972. That's why we moved here. Where the AutoZone is at the end of Main Street used to be Bud Egolf Motors. Bud was my grandfather. I was third generation.
I started there when I was 13 washing cars. I worked in service, parts, Saturdays, summers, and all through school. I went to Chapel Hill and also worked in service at a dealership in Raleigh.
After college, a group of friends and I moved to Salt Lake City. We had spent breaks out there skiing, and one of our friends went to the University of Utah. When we graduated, we decided to move out there together.
I needed a job, so I put together a resume and went to different places asking for sales work. Everybody kept asking if I had experience, and I had to say no. Eventually one dealership said, "You're just the person we're looking for." I went through five days of training.
On my first real opportunity with a customer, the experienced salespeople told me to go ahead and see what I could do. I went out, worked with the customer, and ended up selling him a truck. I was so excited. I realized, "I can do this." I sold cars out there for five years and then came back here.
Ed: Give us a quick history of Egolf Motors here in Henderson County.
Jay: We moved here in 1972 and had the store at the end of Main Street where AutoZone is now. In fact, an old parking lot beside the Ecusta Trail is where the mechanics used to park. It still brings back memories.
We had that store from 1972 to 1985. Then Dad bought our location on Duncan Hill Road. We had Dodge at the end of Main Street and Chrysler Jeep on Duncan Hill.
In 2003 we bought the Brevard Chrysler store. It was in a rough old building across from the Ford store. The roof leaked and we had plants positioned around to catch drips so they wouldn't land on the carpet. I remember looking across at the Ford store and thinking how nice it would be to work there.
In 2008, while the economy was crashing, the Ford store owner came to Dad and said he had a month to buy it before it shut down. Chrysler was in bankruptcy, General Motors was in bankruptcy, Ford stock was way down. It was a difficult time, but we bought the store and moved Chrysler over with Ford in Brevard.
We survived. In 2013 Dad decided to step back. He sold the Duncan Hill location, and I continued working in Brevard. By 2024 Dad was 82 and I realized I had never bought or sold a dealership myself. A buyer had been calling our store every Christmas since 2017 asking if we wanted to sell. I finally called him back and asked if he was still interested. Nine months later, we sold the Brevard dealership.
Ed: Do you find that happening more often with car dealerships, where smaller local stores are becoming part of larger regional groups?
Jay: That was part of what I was thinking about. I didn't have a son or daughter who wanted to take over the business. My kids were following their own paths, so we needed to figure something out.
I'm glad I did, because now I have a lot more time to dedicate to county work. Before I came in here today, I was on the phone with a constituent about an issue in another part of the county. Now I have more time to do that job properly, and I love it.
Ed: We're running out of time, but I want to ask if you eat out.
Jay: I have celiac disease.
Ed: So your choices are limited.
Jay: They are and they aren't. Everywhere you go, you have to ask about cross-contamination. Are the fries cooked in their own fryer? Are utensils shared? It's a hassle.
Jimmy John's does a good job with lettuce wraps, and Chick-fil-A does a good job because they have a separate fryer for fries. There are other places too, but those are examples I've found workable.
Jerry Smith, who's running for mayor, recently called and asked if I wanted to have breakfast at Arabella's. I wasn't sure if I could eat there, but they did a great job and understood gluten-free preparation. I had a great breakfast there on Main Street.
Ed: In my experience, celiac seems like a whole different level from simply trying to eat gluten-free because you can actually get sick.
Jay: Exactly. For some people it is very serious. I have about an hour before I can tell something is wrong. There isn't medicine I take to fix it. I just have to let it work through my system, so I have to be careful, especially if I'm going somewhere where I need to speak or sit through a long meeting.
Ed: Last question. When people come to visit, what places do you recommend they check out?
Jay: I like outdoor things. I like Carl Sandburg Home for a hike. I like Jump Off Rock in Laurel Park and watching a sunset there. I enjoy parking on Main Street, walking up and down, and seeing the shops.
I also really enjoy the diversity of the county. One Saturday I told my wife, "Let's go farming tomorrow." She asked what that meant. I said it meant we were just going to go see some farms.
We headed out Highway 64 East, visited apple places, stores, and farms. I encourage people to do that. Buy produce in the county and support local farmers. Go to farmers markets. Head out 64 East, do a corn maze, visit an apple farm, and experience the agricultural side of Henderson County.
This county is a great place to be.
Ed: I agree. We love living here. For a while we thought this might just be a stopping place, but we realized this is where we want to dig deeper roots.
Jay: We do have to all get along. We can't move here and then shut the door behind us. We need to take care of everybody, work with everybody, and talk with everybody. Some parts of the county need to grow, and other parts need to stay rural. That's part of what attracts people to Henderson County.
Ed: Do you want to leave people a way to contact you?
Jay: I have a county number, but I don't even know it off the top of my head. I also give out my personal cell number and my county email. I'm not on social media. I would rather somebody call me and talk about an issue directly than fight about it online.
If we're doing something wrong, I want to know about it. Tell me and let me try to fix it. If you have a praise, let me know that too.
Ed: That's old school.
Jay: It's the way it should be.
Ed: Thank you again, Jay, for taking time.
Jay: Yes, sir. I appreciate it very much.
Ed: And as always, thank you for watching and or listening, and keep living local.
In Episode 31 of Living Local with Frisbee Real Estate, Ed sits down with Dr. Dan Yoder, an ophthalmologist and retina specialist with Asheville Eye Associates, to talk about eye health, cataract surgery, advances in ophthalmology, and life in Hendersonville.
Dr. Yoder explains the difference between an ophthalmologist and an optometrist. As a medical doctor, he specializes in diagnosing eye disease and performing procedures including cataract surgery, retinal treatments, laser procedures, and other advanced eye care. He also talks about how much modern equipment helps surgeons while still requiring the precision and judgment of a trained physician.
Originally from the Midwest, Dr. Yoder attended John Brown University before going to Duke University School of Medicine. He later completed ophthalmology and retina training at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Miami. After training, he and his family chose Western North Carolina because of the mountains, outdoor recreation, and the size and feel of the Hendersonville community.
Today, Dr. Yoder sees patients through Asheville Eye Associates, including its Hendersonville office. He shares what drew him to ophthalmology, how cataract and retina care have evolved, and why he still enjoys the combination of technology, surgery, and long-term patient care.
The conversation also gets into some of Dr. Yoder's favorite ways to enjoy Henderson County. He is an avid pickleball player and mentions Patton Park as a favorite place to play. He also recommends DuPont State Recreational Forest, Pisgah National Forest, the Ecusta Trail, and the Oklawaha Greenway for hiking, biking, and getting outside.
Local Food Favorites
Umi for sushi and Japanese cuisine
Thai Spice for Thai food
Mary's Burritos for casual Mexican food
Binion's Roadhouse and Bay Breeze Seafood Restaurant as additional local favorites
Whether the topic is eye surgery, healthy vision, pickleball, hiking, or where to grab a good meal, this episode is another look at one of the people who helps make Hendersonville and Western North Carolina feel like home.
As always, keep living local.
Watch on YouTube
Transcript
Transcript lightly edited for readability.
Ed: Hey, thanks again for joining us today. Our special guest, if you're watching and or listening, is Dr. Dan Yoder. Dr. Dan Yoder is with Asheville Eye Associates. Is that correct?
Dr. Yoder: You got it.
Ed: Awesome. Thanks for joining us, Dan. Give us a quick overview of what you do with Asheville Eye Associates, and then I'll have some other questions that come to mind.
Dr. Yoder: I am an ophthalmologist. Don't try to spell that. That essentially means that I am an MD. I went to medical school and then I did specialized training in eyes and specifically eye surgery.
Ed: So that means you do surgery on the eye.
Dr. Yoder: I do surgery on the eyes, yes.
Ed: So when you go to just a normal eye checkup, not all those people qualify?
Dr. Yoder: That is true. The vast majority of people do not need eye surgery when they come in for eye issues, but in my practice I see a lot of patients who do need some type of surgery, laser treatment, or minor surgical procedure.
Ed: Have you done laser treatment?
Dr. Yoder: Yes. It depends what type of laser procedure you're referring to. Most people, when they hear laser procedure, are thinking of refractive surgery like LASIK. I did that when I was a resident 20 or 25 years ago. I'm actually a cataract surgeon and a retina specialist by training, so I haven't done LASIK or refractive surgery in many years.
Ed: Is any of that automated now with the change of technology, or is someone like yourself always necessary?
Dr. Yoder: There is a lot of really great equipment that does a lot of things for you, but you're still in charge and still operating. There are no robots doing things. Your hands still have to be pretty good at what they do, although microscopes and other equipment certainly help with that.
Ed: I must say I feel a little queasy already.
Dr. Yoder: Most people are pretty squeamish when it comes to thinking about somebody doing something to their eyeballs. You're definitely not alone.
Ed: I've never worn contacts. I don't even wear glasses.
Dr. Yoder: I don't need glasses either. I could probably see slightly better with some, but not enough to make it worth my while.
Ed: Was medicine something that always interested you?
Dr. Yoder: When I was in fourth grade, for reasons I frankly don't remember, I decided I wanted to be a doctor. I always loved the human body, science, and medicine. I never really wavered from that. I went straight to college with a pre-med degree and then into medical school.
I didn't know exactly what type of medicine I wanted to practice. After medical school, you can go into orthopedics, pediatrics, general surgery, all kinds of things. I did a rotation in ophthalmology and really loved it. I was in medical school at Duke and they have a really good ophthalmology department. I liked working with all ages, from kids to the elderly, and I enjoyed the technology. I also thought the ophthalmologists were the coolest doctors.
Ed: Are you from the area?
Dr. Yoder: I am not. I'm originally from the Midwest. My last name, Yoder, is an Amish or Mennonite name. It's originally Swiss. I was born in Indiana and went to high school in Iowa. I went to college in Arkansas at John Brown University, a small Christian liberal arts school.
Then I wanted to go to the best medical school I could get into. I interviewed at a number of places, including Harvard, but ultimately decided I did not want to live in the Northeast. I got accepted at Duke and had never even been in the state of North Carolina before. I drove to medical school two days before it started in August of 1994.
Ed: And you've been here since?
Dr. Yoder: Not the whole time. I did four years of medical school at Duke, then a one-year internship in Roanoke, Virginia. After that, my wife and I moved to Miami, where I did my ophthalmology residency and then a retina fellowship at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute at the University of Miami.
After that we decided we wanted to move back to this part of the country. I had a friend I trained with in Miami who had joined a practice here in Hendersonville. My wife and I liked this area. We interviewed in several places but ended up here.
Ed: What first introduced you to the Asheville area?
Dr. Yoder: My wife and I got married when I was in medical school, so we lived in Durham for a while. Everybody kept talking about this house up in Asheville and saying, "You've got to go see this house." For my wife Tanya's birthday one year, I surprised her and we drove up to the mountains and toured the Biltmore House. We loved the area and loved the mountains. When the opportunity came to move here and practice, we took it.
Ed: How do people find you if they're looking for an eye doctor, surgeon, or ophthalmologist?
Dr. Yoder: They can contact Asheville Eye Associates. The main office is in Asheville, North Carolina, and they have several satellite offices, including one in Hendersonville. I'm one of the ophthalmologists who works at the Hendersonville office.
Ed: How do you like living in Hendersonville?
Dr. Yoder: We love Hendersonville. There are so many things to do outdoors. I really like the size of the town. It's not super small, but it's certainly not a big city.
I really enjoy pickleball. It's been one of my favorite pastimes in the past few years. I actually played my first game of pickleball in 1989. It had been invented long before that, but it really caught on much later.
Ed: Where do you play?
Dr. Yoder: I used to play at Jackson Park, but now I play at Patton Park, which is closer to my house. In the past couple of years they've resurfaced former tennis courts and made them dedicated pickleball courts with the right nets and lines.
Ed: We always like to talk about food. What are your top three recommendations for someone visiting Hendersonville?
Dr. Yoder: Probably my favorite restaurant in Hendersonville is Umi, right in downtown Hendersonville. I like sushi and Japanese food. I really like their Penang curry. It's a little sweet, not too spicy, and has really good flavors. Their sushi is excellent too.
Number two, I like Thai Spice, also around downtown Hendersonville. I usually get the shrimp pad Thai, spice level three, or level four if I'm feeling extra spicy.
For something casual, good value, and good food, Mary's Burritos is another favorite. My son introduced me to it. It's Mexican food, and I think it's really good. I also like Papas and Beer, Bay Breeze for seafood, and Binion's for a steak.
Ed: What about people coming to the area to visit or just moving here? Anything else you recommend?
Dr. Yoder: The state and national forests around here are fantastic. DuPont State Recreational Forest has great hiking, waterfalls, and mountain biking. Pisgah National Forest near Brevard is great if you want more challenging hiking or mountain biking.
The Ecusta Trail is also nearby and is an easy place to bike or walk. I also like the Oklawaha Greenway, which goes through Jackson Park and Patton Park.
Ed: Dan, I think we've eaten up all of our time already.
Dr. Yoder: This has been fun. It goes by quickly.
Ed: Dr. Dan Yoder with Asheville Eye Associates. You can check him out online and find the Hendersonville office. Thanks again for taking the time.
And as always, thanks for watching and or listening, and keep living local.
Is Hendersonville Becoming a Buyer-Friendly Market? Buyers Have More Room to Negotiate in 2026
If you have been watching the Hendersonville real estate market, you may be wondering whether the balance is starting to shift.
A few years ago, buyers often had to move fast, compete with multiple offers, and accept terms that gave sellers the upper hand. That is not the feeling many buyers have today.
So, has Hendersonville become a buyer’s market?
Not completely, at least not across the board. But buyers in Hendersonville do have more room to negotiate than they did during the hottest years of the market, and that matters whether you are planning to buy or sell in 2026.
What the latest Hendersonville housing data shows
According to the latest Realtor.com citywide market data available for Hendersonville, the market is currently classified as balanced. The median listing price was about $549,950, homes were taking a median of 70 days to sell, and homes sold for about 2.8% below asking price on average. (realtor.com)
That is important because a balanced market is not the same as the highly competitive seller’s market many people got used to in recent years.
In practical terms, it means buyers are regaining some leverage.
They may have more time to look, more choices to compare, and more opportunity to negotiate price, closing costs, repairs, or other terms depending on the home.
Some parts of Hendersonville are softer than others
It is also important to remember that Hendersonville is not one single micro-market.
Different neighborhoods, price points, and ZIP codes can behave differently.
For example, recent Realtor.com data for 28792 showed that ZIP code as a buyer’s market, with a median listing price of about $477,000, median days on market of 74 days, and homes selling for about 1.7% below asking price on average. (realtor.com)
Meanwhile, 28739 showed higher pricing overall, with a median listing price around $638,000 and median days on market of 72 days. (realtor.com)
That is one reason broad headlines can be misleading. A buyer looking at a home in one part of Hendersonville may have more negotiating room than someone shopping in another area or price bracket.
Why buyers have more room to negotiate now
A few factors are shaping today’s Hendersonville market.
First, homes are generally taking longer to sell than they did when the market was moving at a frenzied pace. When listings sit longer, buyers naturally gain more room to ask questions, compare properties, and negotiate.
Second, mortgage rates are affecting affordability. Freddie Mac reported the average 30-year fixed mortgage at 7.03% as of September 24, 2026, up from 6.95% the previous week. (freddiemac.com)
At rates around 7%, buyers are paying much closer attention to their monthly payment, not just the purchase price. That often makes buyers more selective and more cautious.
Third, inventory is giving buyers more options than they had in the tightest years of the market. More choices tend to reduce urgency.
What this means for Hendersonville buyers
If you are buying in Hendersonville right now, this does not mean you can automatically offer low on every property and expect the seller to say yes.
But it does mean you may have more flexibility than buyers had a few years ago.
Depending on the home, buyers may be able to:
negotiate the purchase price
ask for seller-paid closing costs
request repairs or credits after inspections
negotiate a longer due diligence period
ask for a seller-paid mortgage rate buydown
Every property is different. A well-priced home in a popular neighborhood can still attract quick interest. But overall, buyers usually have more breathing room today than they did when inventory was tighter and competition was more intense.
What this means for Hendersonville sellers
For sellers, this is not bad news. It just means the market is more price-sensitive.
Homes can still sell well in Hendersonville, but buyers are less likely to overlook pricing or condition issues. If a home is priced too aggressively, needs updating, or does not show well online, it may sit longer than it would have in a hotter market.
That makes the early strategy even more important.
Sellers should pay close attention to:
accurate pricing from day one
professional photos
property condition
competing active listings
buyer objections that may come up during showings
whether a seller concession could help get the deal done
The goal is not just to get listed. The goal is to get positioned well.
Balanced market does not mean weak market
One of the biggest misconceptions sellers have right now is assuming that more buyer leverage means the market is weak.
That is not necessarily true.
A balanced or more buyer-friendly market can still be healthy. It simply means buyers and sellers are meeting in a more normal environment where pricing, preparation, and negotiation matter more.
That is actually good for many people because it creates a less chaotic process.
So, has Hendersonville become a buyer’s market?
The most accurate answer is this:
Hendersonville overall looks more balanced than strongly buyer-dominated, but buyers clearly have more negotiating power than they did during the peak seller’s market.
In some segments, especially certain price ranges or ZIP codes, the market is leaning even more in the buyer’s favor.
That is why local guidance matters.
Two homes in the same town can have very different negotiating dynamics depending on location, condition, price point, and days on market.
Thinking about buying or selling in Hendersonville?
If you are considering a move in Hendersonville, Flat Rock, Fletcher, Laurel Park, or the surrounding Western North Carolina area, Frisbee Real Estate can help you understand what is happening in your price range and neighborhood.
Instead of relying on national headlines, we help buyers and sellers look at the local data, the competing inventory, and the real opportunities in today’s market.
Visit FrisbeeRealEstate.com to search homes, explore the market, or connect with us about your next move.
Why Are Some Hendersonville NC Homes Selling Quickly While Others Sit for Months?
If you've been watching homes for sale around Hendersonville lately, the market can be a little confusing.
One home hits the market and seems to disappear almost immediately. Another sits for weeks or months, sometimes with one or more price reductions.
So which is it? Are homes selling quickly in Hendersonville, or has the market slowed down?
The answer is both.
There really isn't one Hendersonville real estate market right now. Price, location, condition, property type and even how a home is positioned when it first hits the market can create very different results.
And the latest numbers help tell that story.
What the August 2026 Hendersonville Housing Numbers Show
According to the latest Canopy MLS data, the City of Hendersonville had 5.0 months of housing supply in August 2026, down from 6.0 months a year earlier.
Homes that sold during August averaged 56 days on market, compared with 68 days in August 2025.
But sales activity for the month actually slowed.
Closed sales were down 14.8% compared with August 2025, pending sales fell 8.2%, and new listings dropped 20.6%.
The median sales price was $429,000, down 8.2% from August of last year.
Zoom out beyond one month, though, and the picture changes again. Through August, Hendersonville closed sales were actually up 6.6% year over year and pending sales were up 8.7%.
That's why simply saying "the Hendersonville market is slow" doesn't tell the whole story.
One of the biggest mistakes we can make when talking about the real estate market is treating every home as if it competes with every other home.
It doesn't.
A buyer looking for a $350,000 home isn't necessarily considering an $800,000 home. A downtown condo isn't competing with a house on several acres outside town. And vacant land operates in a completely different market from an existing home.
Current Henderson County inventory data illustrates the difference.
Single-family homes priced from roughly $350,000 to $375,000 currently have about 1.8 months of inventory based on recent sales activity. That's a relatively tight segment.
Move into certain higher price ranges and the amount of available inventory relative to recent sales can increase substantially.
Condos and townhomes have their own supply-and-demand picture, and vacant land is another story altogether.
So when someone asks me, "How's the market?" one of my first thoughts is:
Which market?
The answer can change significantly based on what you're buying or selling.
Buyers Have Become More Selective
The Hendersonville market isn't behaving like the frenzy we experienced a few years ago.
Buyers generally have more time to compare properties, and affordability matters.
They're looking at the asking price, but they're also thinking about interest rates, insurance, taxes, HOA dues, repairs and what they'll need to spend after closing.
That means two houses at similar prices can receive very different reactions.
A home that feels move-in ready and appropriately priced may stand out immediately.
Another home that needs a roof, HVAC system, cosmetic updating or substantial repairs may still sell, but buyers are often factoring those costs into what they're willing to pay.
That's not necessarily a bad market.
It's a more discriminating one.
Pricing Correctly From the Beginning Matters More
One thing I see repeatedly is how important the first few weeks of a listing can be.
The newest listing gets attention.
Buyers who have been searching for weeks receive the alert. Agents notice it. People compare it with everything they've already seen.
If the home looks good and the price makes sense compared with the alternatives, that initial exposure can produce activity quickly.
If buyers consistently decide there is better value elsewhere, days begin accumulating.
Then comes the temptation to reduce the price.
Sometimes a reduction works. But repeatedly chasing the market downward is usually a much tougher position than entering the market at a price buyers recognize as reasonable.
Location Still Matters, But So Does the Property Itself
"Hendersonville" covers a surprisingly broad range of real estate.
You have homes near Downtown Hendersonville and the Ecusta Trail, established neighborhoods, gated communities, golf communities, condos, newer construction, mountain properties, homes with acreage and properties farther into Henderson County.
Buyers searching those categories often have very different priorities.
A buyer who wants to walk or bike into downtown may accept a smaller lot.
Someone moving here specifically for mountain views may happily drive farther from town.
A buyer looking for low-maintenance living may favor a condo or townhome, while another buyer won't consider anything with an HOA.
That's why broad market statistics are helpful, but they don't determine what an individual property is worth or how quickly it should sell.
Condition Is Becoming Harder to Ignore
During an extremely competitive seller's market, buyers sometimes overlooked things they normally wouldn't.
That's harder to count on today.
If buyers have several comparable homes available, condition becomes part of the competition.
That doesn't mean every seller needs to renovate the kitchen or remodel the bathrooms before listing.
Sometimes relatively simple things make the biggest difference: deferred maintenance, landscaping, paint, clutter, lighting, cleanliness and making sure buyers can easily understand how the space functions.
The goal isn't to make an older house look brand new.
It's to keep buyers from mentally creating a long and expensive project list while they're walking through it.
What Does This Mean If You're Selling a Home in Hendersonville?
Don't base your expectations solely on what you heard happened with another house.
The home down the street may have sold in five days. Another property nearby may have been listed for four months.
Neither one automatically predicts what will happen with yours.
The better questions are:
What homes will buyers compare with yours?
How much competition exists in your price range?
What has actually sold recently?
How does your condition compare?
And what are buyers choosing instead when they pass on a property?
Those answers are much more useful than a countywide statistic by itself.
What Does This Mean If You're Buying?
More balanced conditions can create opportunities, but they don't mean every seller is desperate to negotiate.
A home that has been sitting for an extended period may offer room to discuss price, repairs, closing costs or other terms.
A newly listed home that's priced well may be a completely different situation.
That's why I wouldn't approach every Hendersonville listing with the same offer strategy.
Look at the property's history, comparable sales, competing inventory, condition and how long it has been available before deciding how aggressive to be.
So, Is Hendersonville a Buyer's Market or a Seller's Market?
The latest numbers put Hendersonville closer to a balanced market overall.
But "balanced" doesn't mean every property behaves the same way.
There are pockets where buyers have considerably more choice and negotiating room. There are other price points and property types where inventory is tighter and an attractive, well-priced home can still move quickly.
That's probably the best description of the Hendersonville real estate market in 2026:
Selective.
Buyers are buying.
Homes are selling.
But price, condition and positioning matter considerably more than they did when simply putting a house on the market was often enough to generate multiple offers.
And if you're thinking about buying or selling around Hendersonville, that's why looking at the market surrounding the specific property is far more useful than relying on a headline about the housing market as a whole.
Thinking About Buying or Selling in Hendersonville?
Frisbee Real Estate works with buyers and sellers throughout Hendersonville and Western North Carolina. If you're wondering what the market looks like for a particular home, neighborhood or price range, we'd be happy to dig into the numbers with you.
Frisbee Real Estate | Your lifelong home resource.
