Tourism & Short-Term Rentals: Your 2025 High-Country Playbook

Keywords: Ashe County vacation rentals, NC High Country Airbnb, short-term rental investment, DSCR loan North Carolina

Summer Festivals Drive Demand

From the 35th “Christmas in July” Festival (July 4-5) drawing 20,000 visitors downtown to monthly Cruise-In car shows through October, West Jefferson knows how to throw a mountain party. christmasinjulyfestival.comncfestivals.comashechamber.com Tourism spending in Ashe County topped $88 M in 2024 and is pacing higher this year, according to chamber data.

STR Performance Metrics

  • Boone benchmark: 55 % occupancy, $156 ADR, $31 K median host revenue. airbtics.com
  • Rabbu statewide ranking: High-Country towns (Boone, Blowing Rock, West Jefferson) sit inside the top-20 NC STR markets with average gross yields near 10 %. rabbu.com
  • Demand stability: AirDNA finds supply growth slowing to 6.8 %, improving pricing power for existing hosts. airdna.co

Financing Edge: DSCR Loans

North Carolina remains a top-five DSCR-friendly state; rates hover around 6.5 %–7.5 % with LTVs to 80 %. ahlend.comnewsilver.com DSCR underwriting leans on property cash flow, not W-2 income, letting investors scale portfolios faster.

Regulation Snapshot

  • Ashe County: No countywide cap on STRs, but noise and parking ordinances are enforced.
  • West Jefferson ETJ: Hosts must file an annual privilege-license application (fee $150).

Investor Checklist

  1. Pro forma realistically: Use 55 %–60 % occupancy and 25 % expense ratio.
  2. Corner the two-bedroom niche: Families fleeing humid city summers crave space plus affordability.
  3. Lean into experience: Fire-pit kits, trail maps, and local craft-beer samplers boost five-star reviews.

Final Word

With year-round event calendars and a welcoming regulatory climate, Ashe County remains a prime pick for cash-flow hunters who also want their own mountain escape. Regency’s STR specialists can underwrite, source, and stage turnkey assets—so you can elevate both income and lifestyle.

Bibliography

  • Christmas in July Festival, Official Schedule 2025. christmasinjulyfestival.com
  • NC Festivals, “Christmas in July Festival,” 2025 listing. ncfestivals.com
  • Ashe Chamber of Commerce, “West Jefferson Cruise-In,” 2025. ashechamber.com
  • Airbtics Market Data, Boone NC (accessed June 2025). airbtics.com
  • Rabbu, “Top 20 STR Markets in NC 2025,” Dec 2024. rabbu.com
  • AirDNA, “2025 Outlook Report,” Jan 2025. airdna.co
  • AH Lend, “NC DSCR Market Overview 2025.” ahlend.com
  • New Silver, “DSCR Loan North Carolina Rates,” 2025. 

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REALTOR® / Broker

Austin Bennett

Austin Bennett was built for this. As a third-generation broker and grandson of the founder of Bennett Realty—one of Ashe County’s first real estate firms—he carries forward a legacy deeply rooted in the place he’s proud to call home. An Ashe County native, Austin brings more than local knowledge—he brings perspective.

Through years of buying, renovating, and flipping homes, he’s developed a trained eye for value, potential, and what truly makes a property stand out. He understands homes from the inside out—how they’re built, how they perform, and how to position them for success in today’s market.
His professional background also includes time with the Dr Pepper Bottling Company, where he gained hands-on experience in operations and marketing—skills that continue to shape his thoughtful, results-driven approach.

Outside of real estate, Austin embraces the lifestyle he helps others find—spending time in the mountains with his partner Tori and their dogs, and pursuing new adventures, including skydiving, where he’s already logged several jumps and counting. Grounded in heritage, guided by experience, and committed to doing things the right way—Austin Bennett is a natural fit for Regency Properties.

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Mindy Ashley

Melinda (Mindy) Ashley is a native of Caldwell County and moved to Ashe County seven years ago when she married David Ashley of Ashley Hardwood Flooring and Storage. Mindy has had her real estate license since 2007 and owned her own mortgage Company in Morganton, NC where she resided for 25 years. Being in the mortgage business has really been a benefit to Mindy in the real estate industry.

Mindy also is the owner of The Bellhops Boutique and Rio Nuevo Paso Fino horse farm located in Fleetwood, NC. As you can imagine , showing horses is her main hobby.

Mindy and David have four children and three grandsons. Also, lots of horses, dogs and cats.

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Broker

Faith Gibbs

Faith Gibbs, a North Carolina native, grew up in Monroe, NC and made Ashe County her home in 2023. She has served in the medical field for the past 18 years in clinical offices, and recently started working from home. In doing so, she has more time to spend with her family. She can also better serve her community, and now, she can benefit YOU!

Though a relative newcomer to real estate, Faith is determined to help her clients find their own piece of heaven- whether that be your FIRST home, your SECOND home, or even your HOME AWAY FROM HOME. Faith understands the first rule of business- make it easy to actually conduct business! She strives to make the buying and selling process a smooth and pleasant experience. With strong work ethic, professionalism, and real-world experience, you’ll quickly see why she’s such an asset to Regency Properties.

Beyond real estate, Faith is married to her husband, Justin Gibbs. They have 3 children- Dean, Berkley and Wyatt. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, serving her community, camping, and traveling.

Have “FAITH” in your future real estate endeavors!!

 

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Broker

Brandi Hurley

Meet Brandi- your dedicated real estate professional specializing in residential, commercial, and land transactions. With five years of industry expertise, Brandi is committed to achieving exceptional results and providing top-notch service to her clients. Acting as a trusted advocate, Brandi values the trust placed in her and goes the extra mile to ensure client satisfaction. Her strong negotiating skills consistently lead to favorable outcomes for both buyers and sellers.

Thanks to her professionalism and dedication to customer service, Brandi enjoys a robust referral network and maintains strong relationships with affiliated real estate providers, ensuring comprehensive support throughout the process.

Outside of work, Brandi cherishes time with her family in Jefferson, embracing the beauty of Ashe County and the High Country’s four distinct seasons. With Brandi on your side, whether buying or selling, you can trust her to leverage her experience and expertise for your success!

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Broker-in-Charge

John Blevins

John Blevins is a North Carolina High Country / Virginia Highlands native in every sense. He grew up in the highest elevations of the Lansing area, but also part of the Whitetop community in Virginia due to proximity. Amy, his wife, and their two children, Cade and Mia, currently reside in Jefferson. They have two “fur-kids”, Bella and Owen, who keep the family entertained at all times. As a family they love to travel and experience what the world has to offer.

Recently John left manufacturing after an accumulated 25 years. During those years he spent much of his personal time serving his community as a Lansing Alderman, Ashe County Planning Board Chairman, Board Member / Partnership of Ashe, Ashe County Homebuilders Association Chair, and 4 years as Congressional Lobbyist. His interests led him to take part in a local independent film, an episode of Weekend in the Carolinas, a virtual tour guide for the Chamber of Commerce run website.

As a Real Estate Broker, John looks forward to redirecting his years of experience into a positive experience with you. Whether aiding you as a buyer or seller, he will provide you with the service you deserve.

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Broker

Hugh Rees-Jones

Hugh was born in the beautiful country of New Zealand and relocated to the USA in 1988, firstly to Charleston SC, and then to Ashe County in December 2005. The rural landscape and pastoral views remind him of his native land “down under”. He obtained his License and started his Real Estate career in late 2006, and has been enjoying helping people buy and sell property ever since! His goal is to provide clients with the absolute best professional, prompt and personal service, throughout Ashe, Watauga, Avery and Alleghany Counties.

An avid sailor, Hugh was fortunate enough to take a 2 year sabbatical and cruise the U.S. East Coast and Bahamas with his wife and twin sons aboard their 44? sailboat, leaving in October 2003 and returning home to Charleston SC, in December 2005 where they sold “Yamana”, and moved up to Ashe County. For those interested, “Yamana” is currently sailing the South Pacific with her new owners Sally and Malcolm, but her home port is Auckland, New Zealand.

As a former V.P. and C.F.O. of a large privately held Real Estate Investment and Development Company in South Carolina, Hugh has valuable experience in all facets of real estate ranging from residential to commercial, office, retail and industrial, as well as in-depth knowledge of the financial advantages and strategies available to investors and property owners. As a C.A. (retired – NZ equivalent to a CPA), he can bring all sorts of creative thinking to your real estate or business needs. In addition by spending 2 years repairing homes in Charleston, that were damaged by Hurricane Hugo, he is also experienced in all aspects of residential construction and renovation, including doing two “extreme makeovers” on his personal properties.

Hugh would love to work for you in buying or selling your real estate or business. He will treat every transaction for you with the same skill, care, and diligence as if it were his own.

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Broker

Justin Gibbs

Raised in North Western NC with ties to Central Fl. Justin made Ashe County his home in 2003. He has worked in the telecommunications industry for nearly 20 years. He is married to his wonderful wife Faith and they have 3 children Dean, Berkley, and Wyatt. He is an avid wild turkey and white tailed deer hunter and lover of the outdoors. He is also an active member of Appalachian Church and loves to serve his community. New to real estate Justin hopes you’ll see him to sell or buy your first home, family home, mountain getaway, or even hunters paradise.

AS YOU CAN SEE, I have a very strong work ethic and now I am ready to go to work for YOU! Contact me, your home town agent, and I will be happy to assist you with all of your real estate needs!

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Broker

Canzada Lyall

As an Ashe County native, I have deep roots within the region which gives me intimate knowledge of the area. For those looking to buy, I have a strong desire to make my home your home. For friends and neighbors looking to sell, my goal is to ensure a problem free experience. Me acquiring my license was a natural progression after years of working within real estate. This experience lends itself to supporting you whatever your end goal is.

My family means everything. My husband and daughter are both amazing and act as my anchors in an ever-changing world. Their support allows me to balance my career and family. My free time is spent engaged in support of my daughters’ activities. Ialso love being involved with the youth programs offered in the community.

I look forward to the opportunity to represent you as your real estate agent. Aiding you in your search for your forever home,your vacation getaway, or selling your property will be my pleasure.

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Broker

Melinda Poe

I am honored to say that I was born and raised in this unique and beautiful place called Ashe County – the High Country! I love everything about it – including the beautiful homes, gorgeous land and the southern hospitality. Ashe County and surrounding area is a great place to raise your children or retire in the mountains, enjoy all four seasons and the scenic views from the mountain tops. New River – for all your water fun, and shopping in beautiful downtown West Jefferson. Due to my interest and knowledge of the area, I am offering to all my friends, neighbors and clients an exceptional service.

With an unwavering passion for the real estate industry, I’ve proudly served as a dedicated broker for over 18 years. Every transaction is more than a deal; it’s a journey and I’ve cherished every step. From helping clients find their dream homes to navigating intricate negotiations, my commitment to excellence ensures a seamless and rewarding experience. Let my extensive expertise guide you through the dynamic world of real estate, where your goals become my mission. As a buyer or seller, each relations holds a special significance for me. Whether it’s assisting securing your dream home or maximizing the value of your property, I approach every interaction with personalized touch. Building lasting connections and ensuring your satisfaction is at the core of my commitment in the real estate journey.

I want to be your “personal” Realtor! Call me today! Let the journey begin in the High Country.

Family means everything – I am married to Craig Poe and we have two wonderful sons, Austin and Tanner. Craig and I feel blessed to be their parents. Austin is working on getting his electrical license and loves everything about the outdoors! Tanner is graduated from Kentucky Welding Institute (KWI) with his Welding Certification and is now traveling.

“Let’s Go with Melinda Poe!”

Motto: Golden Rule – “Do unto others as you have them do unto you.”

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Owner / Broker

Andrea B. Reeves

Andrea B. Reeves builds more than transactions—she builds lifestyles. As owner of Regency Properties in West Jefferson, NC (25 years strong) and Owner/Broker-in-Charge of Regency On the Lake in Davidson, NC, Andrea pairs boardroom savvy with a designer’s eye. A CLHMS-designated luxury real estate pro, she’s known for turning high standards into higher results, year after year—consistently topping $20M in sales and on track to surpass $25M this year.

From the Blue Ridge to Lake Norman, Andrea’s signature is polished, purposeful, and personal. She has designed and custom-built two mountain homes and her lake house, giving her uncommon fluency in construction, finishes, and function. That same aesthetic shows up in her marketing, staging, and negotiations—elegant where it counts, tough where it matters. A fashionista at heart, she also owns Pretty n’ Pearls, a high-end boutique for trend-forward looks, wedding, and formal wear. Consider her your proud “girl-boss” who can read the room, read the market, and read a floor plan.

Faith and family are the through-line of Andrea’s work. She’s passionate about God, devoted to helping clients “Elevate Your Lifestyle,” and happiest with her favorite people: her son, Courtlyn (Sarah); her daughter, Cagney (Nathan); grandbabies Hadley, Callahan, and Andie; and her loyal sidekick, Kizer.

Clients love her steady confidence, designer-level taste, and get-it-done energy. Coffee may be for closers, but Andrea insists McDonald’s sweet tea is for legends—and for celebratory toasts when the keys change hands. Ready to elevate your lifestyle? Andrea would be honored to open the door.