Mountain Cabin With a Waterfall and 10 Acres in Sylva, North Carolina, Listed for $275,000
Imagine relaxing on a wooden deck while listening to a waterfall flowing over natural rock formations just steps away. Surrounded by mature trees, a creek, and the mountain scenery of western North Carolina, this property offers a setting that stands apart from an ordinary residential home.
Located at 1000 Cane Creek Road in Sylva, North Carolina, the property is listed for $275,000. It includes a two-bedroom, one-bathroom cabin with approximately 845 square feet of living space, about 10 acres of wooded land, and a natural waterfall beside the house.
Built in 1971, the cabin has rustic interior features, a wood-burning fireplace, and an outdoor deck overlooking the water. The listing also mentions an existing RV site that has reportedly been rented through Airbnb.
However, the property is being sold as-is, needs repairs and improvements, and is listed with cash purchase terms. Buyers will need to weigh the unusual setting against the property’s condition and the work that may be required.
A Waterfall Just Steps From the Cabin
The waterfall is arguably the most distinctive feature of this property. Listing photographs show a rocky stream descending over several natural ledges before continuing through the surrounding woodland.
The cabin sits close to the water, creating a connection between the house and the natural landscape that can be difficult to find in conventional residential properties.
A wooden deck overlooks the waterfall area, providing space for outdoor seating and the opportunity to enjoy the sound of moving water. Mature trees, moss-covered rocks, and thick vegetation contribute to the secluded mountain atmosphere.
For buyers who appreciate nature, this setting could be a major attraction. The property may appeal to someone looking for a personal retreat, a weekend escape, or a place to spend time outdoors without needing to travel far from the house to reach the water.
Still, a waterfall beside a home comes with considerations that should not be overlooked. Prospective buyers should investigate drainage, erosion, flood exposure, stream setbacks, and any history of water damage. A professional inspection can help determine whether the location presents structural or environmental concerns.
Approximately 10 Acres of Wooded Mountain Land
The property includes about 10 acres of land with a mixture of woodland, uneven terrain, and some more level areas. The listing reports an elevation of approximately 2,500 feet.
The acreage offers room to enjoy the surrounding environment, observe wildlife, and explore the wooded landscape. The creek and waterfall add another natural feature to the property, while the trees provide a sense of separation from nearby development.
However, not every acre of a mountain property is necessarily suitable for building or other improvements. Steep slopes, drainage channels, stream corridors, and environmental restrictions can limit how land may be used.
Anyone considering adding structures, expanding the outdoor area, or developing additional recreational facilities should confirm the property boundaries and review applicable zoning and land-use requirements.
Although the listing describes the property as unrestricted, it also references R1 zoning. Buyers should clarify what that designation means for the intended use and verify any applicable county regulations or recorded restrictions before making plans.
Inside the 845-Square-Foot Cabin
The cabin offers two bedrooms, one full bathroom, and approximately 845 square feet of living space. Its compact layout could suit a couple, a small household, or someone looking for a modest mountain getaway.
Inside, the home has a rustic appearance, with wood ceilings, exposed beams, and a traditional stone fireplace. The living area connects with the kitchen and dining space, creating a practical arrangement for a home of this size.
The wood-burning fireplace adds character and may provide another heating option, subject to inspection and safe operation. The listing also identifies electric and propane heating equipment, including baseboard heating and space-heating systems.
The kitchen includes a refrigerator and a gas range, while the listing identifies additional appliances such as a microwave, washer, and dryer. Buyers should confirm which appliances and other items are included in the final sale.
The bedrooms are relatively modest in size. One features wood-paneled walls and a wood ceiling, while another space appears capable of serving more than one purpose depending on the buyer’s needs.
The bathroom includes a vessel-style sink, wood paneling, and darker tile surfaces. Overall, the interior has a lived-in, rustic style rather than the finish of a newly renovated vacation property.
Because the home was built in 1971 and is being sold as-is, buyers should arrange a professional inspection to evaluate the roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical systems, and other major components.
A Deck Overlooking the Flowing Water
The outdoor deck is one of the property’s most appealing features. Photographs show chairs positioned on the wooden platform, with the waterfall and surrounding trees visible beyond the railing.
The deck offers a natural place to sit, read, enjoy a meal, or listen to the stream. Other exterior areas include a gravel sitting space, outdoor seating, and paths around the cabin.
The house is elevated above portions of the surrounding ground, with exterior stairs leading to the main living level. The listing also identifies an unfinished basement with exterior access.
Buyers should inspect the deck, stairs, railings, supports, and basement for signs of deterioration or moisture. In a wooded mountain setting close to flowing water, regular maintenance can be particularly important.
The condition of these features should be established before buyers estimate how much they might need to spend after closing.
An Existing RV Site With Potential Rental Use
Another feature mentioned in the listing is an RV site that has reportedly been rented through Airbnb. This could be of interest to buyers exploring ways to use the property beyond the main cabin.
The listing photographs show a travel trailer near an access area and a grassy section. However, the seller indicates that the RV may be available for purchase separately, meaning it should not automatically be considered part of the $275,000 asking price.
The reported rental activity also should not be treated as guaranteed future income. Buyers should request records showing rental revenue, occupancy, operating expenses, and any applicable permits or approvals.
Important questions include whether the RV site is legally approved for short-term accommodation, whether its utility connections meet applicable requirements, and whether a new owner could continue operating the rental.
The same questions apply if a buyer hopes to rent the cabin to vacationers. Local rules, property condition, insurance, and market demand will all influence whether short-term rental use is feasible.
The existing RV arrangement may offer an opportunity, but buyers should verify the details before including potential rental earnings in their financial calculations.
Utilities and Mountain Living
The property is not described as fully off-grid. According to the listing, electricity is connected, the water supply comes from a spring, and an installed septic system serves the home.
Heating options include electric baseboard heat, propane equipment, and space heaters. Wall units and ceiling fans are listed for cooling, while the wood-burning fireplace adds another feature to the living area.
The spring water supply deserves particular attention. Buyers should verify water quality, flow reliability, filtration equipment, maintenance requirements, and the condition of the collection and distribution system.
A professional water test is advisable, along with an inspection of the septic system and confirmation of its permitted capacity. Buyers should also review the electrical system, plumbing, heating equipment, and any evidence of moisture intrusion.
The listing identifies satellite internet as available, but service quality and installation requirements should be confirmed directly with providers.
Located in Sylva, North Carolina
The property is in the Sylva area of western North Carolina, a region known for mountain scenery, wooded landscapes, and outdoor recreation.
The listing notes proximity to Western Carolina University in nearby Cullowhee. This places the property within reach of a local university and surrounding communities, although buyers should independently verify travel times and access to the services they need.
Paved road access is another practical feature. Nevertheless, anyone planning to use the cabin throughout the year should evaluate the road conditions, steep grades, winter weather access, and possible storm-related disruptions.
The wooded setting may provide a feeling of privacy, but buyers should also check mobile phone reception, emergency-service access, and the availability of reliable internet.
The Property Is Being Sold As-Is
The listing explicitly states that the cabin needs some repairs and improvements and is being sold as-is. This is a significant consideration for anyone evaluating the asking price.
An as-is sale does not automatically mean a property is uninhabitable or has major structural defects. However, buyers should not assume that the cabin’s visible rustic charm reflects its overall condition.
A thorough inspection should cover the metal roof, foundation, basement, exterior walls, electrical wiring, plumbing, heating systems, chimney, deck, and stairs. The proximity to the creek makes it particularly important to investigate drainage, erosion, flooding, and any previous water damage.
Buyers should also obtain insurance quotations early in the process. The home’s age, wood-burning fireplace, mountain location, and proximity to flowing water may affect coverage options or costs.
Since the listing specifies cash purchase terms, prospective buyers should ask the listing agent whether any alternative financing would be considered. Regardless of payment method, a detailed inspection and title review remain important.
Is the $275,000 Asking Price Worth Considering?
The asking price is $275,000 for a cabin with approximately 845 square feet of living space and 10 acres of land. Based on those figures, the price is roughly $325 per square foot, although that calculation does not account for the value of the land or waterfall.
The property’s appeal is not based solely on its interior space. The natural waterfall, wooded acreage, creekside deck, and reported RV rental activity make it different from a typical small house.
At the same time, buyers should compare it with similar mountain properties and account for any necessary repairs. The tax assessment listed at $251,675 is below the asking price, but a tax assessment is not the same as an independent market valuation.
A useful evaluation would include recent comparable sales, estimates for immediate repairs, ongoing utility and maintenance costs, insurance availability, and confirmation of the land’s usable area.
Buyers should also determine whether the RV is included, whether rental use can continue legally, and whether any improvements or additional structures would be permitted.
Questions to Answer Before Making an Offer
Before committing to the purchase, prospective buyers should confirm the property’s boundaries, title, zoning, and any restrictions affecting the creek or surrounding land.
They should also investigate flood exposure, erosion, spring water quality, septic-system condition, and the structural integrity of the cabin and its outdoor features.
The reported Airbnb activity deserves independent verification, including rental records and legal approvals. Any separate purchase of the RV should be documented clearly so there is no confusion about what the asking price includes.
Finally, buyers should obtain realistic repair estimates and insurance quotes before deciding whether the property fits their budget.
Final Thoughts
The cabin at 1000 Cane Creek Road in Sylva offers an unusual combination of a rustic two-bedroom home, approximately 10 acres of wooded mountain land, and a waterfall beside the house. Listed for $275,000, it could attract buyers who value natural scenery and a distinctive retreat more than a large, newly renovated interior.
The deck overlooking the flowing water is an especially memorable feature, while the reported RV rental site may offer another possible use for the property.
However, the home’s as-is condition, cash purchase terms, spring water supply, septic system, and proximity to the creek all deserve careful attention.
For buyers willing to investigate these issues and take on the necessary maintenance, this property may be worth exploring. Its true value will depend on the condition of the cabin, the usability of the land, the legality of any rental plans, and the total cost of ownership.
View the Original Property Listing
For current listing information, additional photographs, agent contact details, and availability, visit: