North Carolina offers a unique blend of luxury living, natural beauty, and Southern charm—and with a $10 million budget, the possibilities are nothing short of extraordinary. From grand mountain estates in Asheville to exclusive lakefront retreats and sprawling coastal properties, the state’s high-end real estate market is as diverse as it is breathtaking.
These homes boast world-class amenities, architectural elegance, and expansive acreage, perfect for those seeking privacy and sophistication. Here’s a look at what $10 million can get you in the Tar Heel State.
1. Lenoir, NC – $10,450,000
All this for $10,450,000 in Lenoir. Built in 2014, this luxurious 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath timber-frame lodge sits on 110 acres just outside Blowing Rock, offering unmatched privacy and panoramic Blue Ridge Mountain views. The home features vaulted ceilings, reclaimed barn wood floors, a gourmet Thermador kitchen, and a cozy outdoor living area with fireplaces, a fire pit, and a fully equipped kitchen.
Additional highlights include a 4-car garage with a studio office, a personal creek, and ample land for recreation or future development, making it a true mountain retreat.
Where is Lenoir?
Lenoir, NC, is a small city in Caldwell County, located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains about 70 miles northwest of Charlotte and 85 miles northeast of Asheville. Known for its rich history in furniture manufacturing, Lenoir has transitioned into a hub for arts, outdoor recreation, and tech—with Google operating a major data center nearby. The city offers scenic beauty, a charming downtown, and easy access to hiking, biking, and waterfalls along the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway.
Living Room
Two-story windows frame expansive mountain views and flood the room with natural light. A large stone fireplace extends to the vaulted ceiling. Leather seating and wood finishes contribute to a warm interior. The layout connects visually to the outdoor landscape.
Kitchen
Wood beams cross the ceiling above a central island with seating for three. Cream cabinetry and stainless appliances line the perimeter. Windows bring in natural light from multiple sides. Hardwood floors and wood trim maintain continuity throughout.
Bedroom
Wood flooring and trim contrast with dark painted walls and a paneled accent wall. A wood-framed bed with patterned bedding is positioned under a ceiling fan. Vintage snowshoes hang as wall decor. Windows offer a view of the surrounding landscape.
Patio
A wood-paneled ceiling covers a furnished stone patio. Sliding doors connect the space to the interior dining area. Cushioned chairs and a rug define the seating area. Railings border the patio overlooking trees and natural surroundings.
Source: Engel & Volkers Banner Elk @ Coldwell Banker Realty
2. Cornelius, NC – $10,200,000
In Cornelius, $10,200,000 will get you this property. Built in 2007, this 9,712 sq ft Nantucket-style estate on Lake Norman offers 12 bedrooms, stunning water views, and luxurious amenities throughout. Designed for entertaining, the home features a bar, wine room, 10-seat theater, saltwater pool, and a deep-water dock, along with a guest suite above the garage and elevator access to all levels.
With multiple porches and terraces overlooking the lake, this iconic property delivers timeless elegance and serene waterfront living.
Where is Cornelius?
Cornelius, NC, is a lakeside town in Mecklenburg County, located about 20 miles north of downtown Charlotte along the eastern shore of Lake Norman. Known for its upscale neighborhoods, marinas, and recreational access to North Carolina’s largest man-made lake, it’s a popular spot for boating, fishing, and waterfront living. Cornelius offers a blend of suburban comfort, scenic beauty, and convenient access to the cultural and economic opportunities of the Charlotte metro area.
Living Room
Wall of windows looks out over the lake with direct access to the porch. Built-in shelving surrounds the fireplace in the adjoining space. Neutral furnishings contrast with soft blue walls and white trim.
Dining Room
Board and batten walls rise to a blue accent band just below the crown molding. Long dining table is paired with ten cushioned chairs. Antler-inspired chandelier hangs overhead with wall-mounted lighting.
Kitchen
Exposed brick backsplash rises behind a custom copper hood. Marble-topped island provides seating for four. Cabinets extend to the ceiling with glass-front uppers above the refrigerator.
Patio
Arched brick openings frame the pool and lake beyond. Outdoor seating area sits beneath a painted tongue-and-groove ceiling with a ceiling fan. Red-striped loungers line the pool deck along the water’s edge.
Source: Nancy Zylstra, Charlie Zylstra @ Ivester Jackson Properties via Coldwell Banker Realty
3. Asheville, NC – $10,000,000
This home in Asheville is listed at $10,000,000. Built in 1987, this 5,437 sq ft estate in North Asheville features 5 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, and sits on a rare 99-acre sanctuary with sweeping mountain views. The main residence includes a chef’s kitchen, four fireplaces, spa-like owner’s suite with sauna, and radiant heated floors, while a detached 2-bedroom guest house allows for short-term rentals.
With private hiking trails, koi pond, waterfalls, and 95 acres of conservation land, this property offers unmatched serenity and luxury within city limits.
Where is Asheville?
Asheville, NC, is a vibrant mountain city in western North Carolina, located about 130 miles northwest of Charlotte and 60 miles northeast of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s known for its thriving arts scene, historic architecture, and outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, and river rafting. Asheville also draws visitors with attractions like the Biltmore Estate, a lively downtown, craft breweries, and its reputation as a hub for creativity and natural beauty.
Living Room
Large picture windows frame a view of trees and sky beyond the living room. A vaulted wood ceiling and exposed beams span the space. A stone fireplace anchors the far wall next to built-in shelving. Neutral-toned furniture and a blue area rug complete the seating area.
Kitchen
Kitchen features wood cabinetry, granite countertops, and a central island with bar seating. Pendant lighting hangs above the workspace. Stainless steel appliances are installed throughout. A window over the sink offers natural light and garden views.
Bedroom
Bedroom contains a bed with light bedding and two nightstands. A large area rug with intricate red patterns covers the wood floor. Blue walls surround the space, which includes multiple doors to an outdoor area. Decorative lighting hangs overhead.
Backyard Pond
Backyard has a pond with surrounding stones and plantings. A curved stone staircase leads to a lower level. Landscaping includes shrubs, flowering plants, and mature trees. Mountain views are visible in the distance.
Source: Laura Livaudais @ Ivester Jackson Blackstream via Coldwell Banker Realty
4. Cornelius, NC – $9,500,000
All this for $9,500,000 in Cornelius. Built in 2018, this 8,286 sq ft Nantucket-style estate offers 8 bedrooms, 7.5 bathrooms, and 200 feet of prime Lake Norman shoreline. Designed by Ted Thompson, the home features a chef’s kitchen with top-tier appliances, a limestone fireplace, an entertainment-ready basement, exercise room, and seamless indoor-outdoor living.
The backyard is an entertainer’s dream with a custom pool, outdoor kitchen, firepit, and panoramic lake views—delivering the ultimate in lakeside luxury living.
Where is Cornelius?
Cornelius, NC, is an upscale lakeside town in Mecklenburg County, located about 20 miles north of Charlotte along the eastern shoreline of Lake Norman. It’s known for its beautiful waterfront properties, marinas, and abundant recreational opportunities like boating, paddleboarding, and fishing.
With a blend of suburban charm, scenic lake views, and easy access to Charlotte’s urban amenities, Cornelius offers a high quality of life in one of the most desirable areas of the Lake Norman region.
Living Room
Glass doors and tall windows provide unobstructed water views from the living area. Neutral furnishings sit beneath a coffered ceiling and a large circular chandelier. A fireplace is centered on a built-in shelving wall.
Dining Area
Open dining layout connects to the kitchen and living space. A long rectangular table sits beneath a suspended modern light fixture. Large windows bring in natural light from both sides.
Bedroom
Carpeted primary bedroom opens to a lake-facing balcony through sliding glass doors. A lounge chair is positioned near the window wall for relaxing views. Decor combines soft tones with a floral bedding accent.
Patio
Lakeside patio holds a white cushioned seating arrangement surrounding a square table. Glass railing defines the space without blocking the view. French doors provide direct access to the home’s interior.
Source: Mary Kay Portaro @ Ivester Jackson Properties via Coldwell Banker Realty
5. Mooresville, NC – $9,250,000
For $9,250,000, here’s what you get in Mooresville. Set for completion in 2025, this 6,859 sq ft modern Lake Norman estate features 7 bedrooms, breathtaking floor-to-ceiling glass windows, and sits on 1.45 private acres with sweeping big water views.
The home offers a chef’s kitchen with Taj Mahal quartzite, a luxurious primary suite, gym, theater, and seamless indoor-outdoor living centered around a vanishing edge pool, swim-up bar, and 100” outdoor TV. With a dual-gated entrance, stationary dock, and unmatched design, this masterpiece defines future-forward lakeside luxury.
Where is Mooresville?
Mooresville, NC, is a fast-growing town in Iredell County, located about 25 miles north of Charlotte and along the eastern shore of Lake Norman. Often referred to as “Race City USA,” it’s home to many NASCAR teams and racing-related businesses, as well as the corporate headquarters of Lowe’s.
Mooresville blends motorsports culture, lakefront living, and family-friendly neighborhoods, offering a vibrant lifestyle with easy access to both outdoor recreation and the Charlotte metropolitan area.
Living Room
Open-concept living space with large sliding glass doors overlooking a lake. Neutral-toned furniture surrounds a circular wood coffee table on a patterned rug. Built-in ceiling lighting and minimalist fixtures provide a clean, modern aesthetic. Living area connects directly to the kitchen and dining space in one continuous layout.
Kitchen
Light wood cabinetry contrasts with a stone backsplash and neutral countertops. Large kitchen island offers seating for four with integrated sink and storage. Built-in stainless steel appliances are flush with cabinetry for a seamless design. Recessed lighting and pendant fixtures provide task illumination.
Home Office
Compact office setup positioned in a bright corner space with floor-to-ceiling windows. Two armchairs sit across from a wooden desk and modern task chair. Views of trees and lawn are visible through the windows. Minimalist decor with neutral tones and soft area rug complete the space.
Bedroom
Spacious bedroom with large picture windows facing a wooded lake area. Upholstered bed with bench sits on a textured gray rug over light hardwood floors. Neutral bedding and two bedside tables with lamps add symmetry. Room is naturally lit and has direct outdoor views.
Source: Heather Gibbs, Josh Tucker @ Corcoran Hm Properties via Coldwell Banker Realty
6. Asheville, NC – $9,750,000
This home in Asheville is listed at $9,750,000. Built in 1924 and set on over 9 acres in prestigious Biltmore Forest, this 7,739 sq ft Tudor estate offers 11 bedrooms and 10 bathrooms across a grand main home, guest cottage, and additional living quarters above the garage.
Designed by architect Charles Parker, the residence showcases timeless elegance with custom millwork, antique mantels, leaded glass windows, and a luxurious primary suite with its own office and fireplace. The estate also features a pool and pool house, stables with a riding rink, manicured gardens, and winding driveways—capturing the charm of a true historic retreat.
Where is Asheville?
Asheville, NC, is a lively mountain city in western North Carolina, located about 130 miles northwest of Charlotte and 60 miles from the Tennessee border. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s known for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and iconic landmarks like the Biltmore Estate and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Asheville offers a unique mix of outdoor adventure, farm-to-table dining, craft breweries, and a progressive, creative community surrounded by natural beauty.
Living Room
Exposed ceiling beams run the length of the room above wood-paneled walls. A stone fireplace with a traditional mantel sits to the left side. Multiple seating areas are arranged across a patterned rug. Glass doors and windows line the far wall.
Dining Room
Large wooden dining table is centered beneath a crystal chandelier. Red and white wall coverings add contrast with crown molding and built-in shelving. A decorative fireplace with a brass screen sits at the end of the room. Framed portraits hang above both the mantel and built-in cabinet.
Bedroom
Four-poster canopy bed anchors the room with light carpet underfoot. Two side tables and a single armchair are placed for additional seating. Windows let in daylight through classic valances. Walls are painted in a soft, muted tone with minimal decor.
Pool
A rectangular in-ground pool is bordered by a wide concrete deck. Two green awnings cover brick pool structures on either end. Umbrellas and seating areas provide shaded lounge space. Trees and shrubs enclose the area on all sides.
Source: Marilyn Wright @ Premier Sothebys International Realty via Coldwell Banker Realty
7. Cornelius, NC – $8,995,00
This home in Cornelius is listed at $8,995,00. Built in 2000, this modern Mediterranean waterfront estate offers 7 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, and a 4-car garage on a 1.12-acre dual-gated lot with stunning long-range water views. The open-concept interior features a gourmet kitchen with WOLF/SubZero appliances, marble counters, and a lower level with a bar, gym, sauna, and guest suite. Outdoor highlights include a pool and spa, pickleball court, putting green, covered dock with lift, and expansive terraces ideal for sunset views and luxurious lakeside living.
Where is Cornelius?
Cornelius, NC, is a scenic lakeside town in Mecklenburg County, located about 20 miles north of Charlotte along the eastern shore of Lake Norman. Known for its upscale neighborhoods, waterfront homes, and recreational boating, Cornelius offers a blend of relaxed lake living and suburban convenience. With access to marinas, parks, and a vibrant local dining and shopping scene, it’s a popular choice for those seeking a high quality of life near the Charlotte metro area.
Living Room
Tall windows provide expansive lake views from the two-story living room. White walls and furniture create a bright and neutral palette. Built-in fireplace and TV are centered on a light-toned accent wall. Ceiling fan and recessed lighting add functionality.
Kitchen
White cabinetry and countertops contrast with light wood flooring and island base. Pendant lights hang above a wide island with built-in microwave and sink. Multiple windows bring in natural light and views of the lake. Open shelving and farmhouse sinks complete the design.
Bedroom
Tray ceiling and recessed lighting define the bedroom’s architectural details. Room is furnished with a king-sized bed, two nightstands, a dresser, and a TV. A window provides outdoor views and light. Soft color tones and carpeted flooring contribute to a calm interior.
Pool
Rectangular pool includes built-in loungers and a hot tub section. Fire pit and additional loungers are positioned on the surrounding deck. House exterior is finished in white with arched openings and black railing. Sky shows sunset colors over the landscaped backyard.
