Land
Cottage-compatible land
Finding the right lot is the first step. We periodically identify parcels in Buncombe, Henderson, and Durham counties that look like strong candidates for a cottage or ADU, and share them here.
What makes land cottage-compatible?
Not every parcel works for a small home or ADU. Zoning, utilities, slope, and access all matter. Here’s what we look for when evaluating a potential site.
Already have a parcel in mind? A feasibility study will tell you exactly what’s possible and what it’ll cost, before you commit to anything.
- Zoning allows a cottage or ADUResidential zones in Buncombe and Henderson counties increasingly permit ADUs by right. We check setbacks, density rules, and any overlay restrictions.
- Utilities accessibleWater and sewer (or a viable well/septic envelope) are essential. We look for sites where utility extensions are straightforward.
- Buildable area ≥ ~2,000 sq ftAfter accounting for setbacks, slopes, and required buffers, there needs to be a flat or gently graded footprint for the structure.
- Road access and driveway feasibleThe site needs legal access and enough grade for a driveway without prohibitive cut-and-fill costs.
- No major flood or environmental constraintsWe flag FEMA floodplain areas, steep slopes (>25%), and wetlands that can complicate permitting.
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Wondering what your land allows?
Type your address and see what Buncombe County zoning says you can build back there. A plain-English answer in about 60 seconds, no study fee and no forms to fill out.
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- Real Buncombe County zoning data
Currently covers the Asheville area (Buncombe County). A preliminary estimate, not a permit or legal advice.
Curated MLS listings
Cottage-compatible parcels on the market
Our real estate team has hand-picked these active listings in Buncombe, Henderson, and surrounding counties as strong candidates for a cottage or ADU. Browse the full list through our OneHome portal.
View our curated land search
We’ve filtered the MLS for parcels that meet our cottage-compatibility criteria: right size, right zoning, and in our service area. Updated regularly as new listings come on the market.
Already have a lot in mind?
A feasibility study will tell you what it’ll cost to build on your specific site, whether your land works, and what the path forward looks like before you commit to buying or building.