Considering a move to Newton, NC in historic district (Asheville: real estate, loans)

[capercaillie]

Hello Tarheels! I have been stranded in hellish Tucson for the last four years and am ready to move back to my beloved NC!

I am an Asheville native but sadly priced right out of the market there considering what has happened in recent years! I have a lot of family in the Catawba Valley and so am looking at Hickory.

Recently I have been seeing a lot of older restored houses in the "historic district" of Newton. My realtor has shown me some very beautiful listings on Ashe Avenue, which leads me to this post.

I would love to hear from any of you who live in Newton, or used to live in Newton. What issues should I be aware of that I might not otherwise discover? Any ideas about the old houses? Any thoughts about Newton generally?

All opinions welcome, however divergent. Many thanks!

[capercaillie]

Thanks, Katie! Good to know. I am afraid I am one of those who cannot resist the lure of "this old house" when it comes to choosing real estate, but I may have to restrain myself. One of the houses was from 1881, another from 1918, and so on...possibly too much maintenance involved! Shouldn't I be practical and level-headed and choose brick, recently built? Of course! But will I?

[HickoryNCKeisler]

We understand. The key is, purchasing a home that is exactly what you want - there are loans now that let you finance IN the repair costs - which may be a great option for an "old" house!

[deserted]

The older homes on Ashe St really are beautiful. I had to rule them out because I have a 9-yo son and the schools there aren't that great. Are there any other options for good schools in the Newton area? TIA!