Hillcrest Neighborhood Overview
Nestled on the slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hillcrest is a quiet, established residential neighborhood in Boone, North Carolina. Located just west of downtown and adjacent to Appalachian State University's campus, it offers a prime location that balances serene mountain living with convenient access to the town's vibrant core. The neighborhood's development largely took place from the 1960s through the 1980s, resulting in a mature landscape of winding streets, tall trees, and well-kept homes that reflect its long-standing appeal.
Hillcrest is characterized by its strong sense of community and its picturesque setting, with many properties offering stunning, long-range mountain views. The area provides a peaceful retreat from the bustle of King Street and the university, yet remains just minutes from both. This combination of location, natural beauty, and established charm has made Hillcrest one of Boone's most desirable and stable neighborhoods for decades, appealing to a mix of university faculty, local professionals, and long-term residents.
Housing & Real Estate
The housing stock in Hillcrest primarily consists of single-family homes ranging from classic mid-century ranches and split-levels to larger two-story traditional and contemporary mountain homes. Lot sizes are generally generous, providing privacy and ample yard space, often wooded. The architectural styles are varied but cohesive, with an emphasis on functionality and blending into the natural hillside environment. Many homes have been updated or expanded over the years, while others retain their original character.
As one of Boone's most sought-after neighborhoods, Hillcrest commands premium real estate prices, typically ranking among the highest in the town. The market is predominantly owner-occupied, though there is a small segment of long-term rental properties, often catering to university faculty or staff. Recent trends show strong demand and limited inventory, leading to competitive sales and steady appreciation, as buyers are drawn to the neighborhood's permanence, views, and proximity to amenities.
Schools & Education
Hillcrest is served by the highly regarded Watauga County School District. Residents are typically zoned for Hardin Park Elementary School, recognized for its strong academic programs and community involvement. From there, students attend Watauga County's centralized middle and high schools, Watauga Middle and Watauga High School, both of which consistently receive high state performance ratings and offer a wide array of academic, athletic, and arts programs.
The neighborhood's close proximity to Appalachian State University is a significant educational asset. Residents enjoy easy access to university events, libraries, lectures, and cultural offerings. This relationship also influences the community, with many households having ties to the university as employees or alumni. The presence of ASU contributes to an overall environment that values education and lifelong learning.
Parks & Recreation
While Hillcrest itself is a quiet residential area, it is surrounded by exceptional recreational opportunities. The neighborhood is directly adjacent to the expansive Appalachian State University campus, whose grounds function as a de facto park with walking paths, open quads, and athletic fields. A short drive or walk leads to the Boone Greenway, a paved trail system following the South Fork of the New River, ideal for walking, running, and biking.
The majestic Blue Ridge Parkway is easily accessible from Hillcrest, providing a gateway to endless hiking, picnicking, and sightseeing. Nearby parks like the Daniel Boone Park and the more expansive Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park cater to active lifestyles. For winter sports enthusiasts, the Appalachian Ski Mountain resort is only a few miles away, making Hillcrest a perfect home base for year-round outdoor adventure in the High Country.
Local Dining & Shopping
Hillcrest residents enjoy remarkable convenience to Boone's best dining and shopping. Downtown Boone, with its eclectic mix of restaurants, cafes, and breweries, is just minutes away. Popular spots like The Cardinal, Proper, and Coyote Kitchen are a short drive or a pleasant walk from the neighborhood's eastern edge. For daily needs, the Harris Teeter on Blowing Rock Road is the closest full-service grocery store, supplemented by the nearby Watauga County Farmers' Market during the growing season.
While Hillcrest itself is not a commercial district, its central location places it between downtown Boone and the retail corridor along Blowing Rock Road. This gives residents quick access to a variety of shops, from local boutiques and bookstores on King Street to larger national retailers. The neighborhood's setting allows for a "best of both worlds" experience: quiet residential living with urban amenities effortlessly within reach.
Who Lives Here
Hillcrest attracts a stable, professional demographic that values community, education, and the mountain environment. A significant portion of residents are affiliated with Appalachian State University, including tenured faculty, administrators, and staff who appreciate the short commute. The neighborhood is also home to local business owners, healthcare professionals, and retirees who have chosen Boone for its quality of life and cultural amenities.
The community vibe is one of quiet pride and neighborliness. Residents tend to be long-term, fostering a strong sense of place and continuity. It is a neighborhood where people know each other, yet it maintains a respectful, low-key atmosphere. Ultimately, Hillcrest draws those seeking a permanent, high-quality home in Boone—a place to put down roots in a beautiful, convenient, and established setting without sacrificing access to the dynamic energy of a college town and the vast Appalachian wilderness.
Top Real Estate Agents in Hillcrest, Boone
29 agents met the full merit gate for Hillcrest, Boone, NC, selected from over 100,000 licensed North Carolina professionals.
Contact
Phone: (619) 838-8090
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.sellsandiego.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Gregg%20Neuman
Why selected: Selected for his community tenure and leadership since 1981, which is paramount. He demonstrates elite performance with 2,782 career transactions, a, and consistent high-volume sales.
Notable Achievements
44 Years in Real Estate
2,782 Career Transactions
569 Five-Star Reviews
High-Volume Recent Performance
Luxury Market Experience
Verified Specialties
Foreclosure, Investment Properties, Luxury Homes[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (415) 509-7871
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://gregandjanetlewis.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Greg%20and%20Janet%20Lewis
Why selected: Selected for her two decades of dedicated community service and leadership roles, which is our highest-ranking criterion. She is further distinguished by her and of consistent market expertise.
Notable Achievements
5-Star Client Rating
21+ Years Experience
20+ Years Real Estate Experience
Over 20 Years Experience
125 Five-Star Reviews
Verified Specialties
Staging, First Time Homebuyers, first-time home buyers, seasoned movers, buyers and sellers, local market expertise, experienced property owners, residential real estate, buying and selling homes, local market knowledge[4]
Cities Served
Roseville
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 977-8364
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.remaxmax.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/San%20Diego%20Home
Why selected: Selected for his strong community commitment, including supporting Children's Miracle Network and PTA/PTO involvement. He demonstrates top-tier performance and recognition as a producer since 2009.
Community & Leadership
supporter at Children's Miracle Network[6]
participant at PTA/PTO[6]
participant at Community Development[6]
Notable Achievements
U.S. Naval Academy Graduate
Navy Helicopter Pilot
R.E.A.L. Award Winner
RealTrends America's Best by Volume
#1 Producing RE/MAX Agent
U.S. News Top Producer
Top 1% Production Since 2009
Verified Specialties
Property Management, Rentals, luxury homes, investment properties, first-time homebuyers, military relocation, first-time buyers, investors, relocation services[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (858) 344-8478
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://jenniferzhengrealty.blogspot.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/JenniferZhengRealty
Why selected: Selected for her dedicated community engagement through an educational real estate blog that provides vital market and tax guidance. She combines this with a strong record of and a unique analytical background from her prior tech career.
Community & Leadership
Content Creator at Real Estate Community Education[6]
Educator at Homebuyer Education Initiative[6]
Notable Achievements
Perfect 5-Star Rating
Transaction Volume
Client Reviews
93 Five-Star Reviews
Over 200 Transactions Completed
Computer Science Master's Degree
Former Microsoft Software Engineer
Software Engineering Experience
Software Engineering Background
Master's Degree in Computer Science
200+ Successful Transactions
Former Software Engineer Transition
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Property Management, First Time Homebuyers, Investment Properties, Rentals, Luxury Homes, New Construction, price negotiation, property management, mortgage lending, investment properties, market analysis, school districts, bilingual service, Chinese-speaking clients, first-time buyers, residential sales, bilingual services, Residential sales, Property management, Mortgage lending, Bilingual services, Market analysis, First-time homebuyers, Investment properties, buyer representation, seller representation, Mortgage Lending, Market Analysis, Price Negotiation, Property Tax Appeals, First-time Homebuyers[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (760) 704-9500
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://amir.porchlightsocal.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/tfreshagent
Why selected: Selected for his role as a Professional Mentor within the Real Estate Community, demonstrating significant leadership. He combines this with a and over a decade of market expertise as a VA specialist.
Community & Leadership
Professional Mentor at Real Estate Community[6]
Notable Achievements
90 Five-Star Reviews
B.A. in Business Administration
5-Star Rating with 90 Reviews
SDAR Gold Award
SDAR Gold Award 2021
SDAR Gold Award 2022
Team Production Record
Zillow Premier Agent 2021-2025
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Military/Veterans, VA specialist, Buyer representation, Listing services, Customer service, Military clients, Customer service focused, Military families, Military buyers, Veterans, First-time buyers[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (954) 296-8044
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/grayadler
Why selected: Selected for their dedicated community involvement and leadership roles. They combine this with strong performance metrics and professional expertise honed since 2015, ensuring clients receive trusted guidance.
Verified Specialties
Foreclosure, Property Management[4]
Cities Served
Hollywood
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 807-8464
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.forsalesd.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/KindredRealEstate
Why selected: Selected for sustained community leadership and market excellence, and over two decades of expertise, Anthony Montroy stands out as a Zillow Premier Agent ranked #7 nationally for client service. His deep community involvement further demonstrates his commitment.
Community & Leadership
Community volunteer at Local community initiatives[6]
Notable Achievements
Over 20 Years Real Estate Experience
84 Five-Star Reviews
5-Star Client Rating
Co-founder of Kindred Realty
Top Customer Satisfaction Score
Zillow Premier Agent Top Customer Satisfaction
Zillow National Ranking #7
Zillow Premier Agent Recognition
Highest Customer Satisfaction Score in California
#7 Customer Satisfaction in United States
#7 Nationally for Customer Service
Verified Specialties
Relocation, customer service, client satisfaction, Customer service excellence, Residential real estate transactions, First-time homebuyer guidance, Luxury property negotiations, residential real estate, buyer representation, seller representation, luxury market, boutique brokerage services, market expertise[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (858) 229-1041
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://jeneanemason.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Jeneane%20Mason
Why selected: Selected for his foundational community leadership as founder of The Mason Foundation, which provides youth scholarships. This is supported by a strong performance record of and a decade of dedicated client service.
Community & Leadership
founder at The Mason Foundation[6]
Notable Achievements
10 Years Real Estate Experience
Founded The Mason Foundation
5-star rating across 69 reviews
Verified Specialties
Relocation, buyers, sellers, investors, buying, selling, investing[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: 619-289-2038
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.sandiegorealtyexperts.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/icardona
Why selected: Selected for dedicated community service and professional excellence, demonstrated through performance as a dustry agent and a disciplined, service-oriented background from her tenure in the US Navy.
Notable Achievements
US Navy Service
Top 5% Agent in San Diego County
Bachelor of Business Management
Top Producer at Big Block Realty
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Investment Properties, residential, buyers, sellers, investors[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 300-9797
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/gracelee%20sandiego
Why selected: Selected for dedicated community service and professional excellence, demonstrated through performance, and eight years of expert service. Her deep community involvement and commitment to professional development make her a standout agent in her market.
Community & Leadership
community volunteer at Local Community Programs[6]
Notable Achievements
Eight Years Real Estate Experience
8 Years Real Estate Experience
Five-Star Rating Achievement
Perfect 5-Star Rating
Perfect Rating Maintenance
5-Star Client Rating
Five-Star Client Reviews
Verified Specialties
residential real estate, buyer representation, seller representation, residential transactions, client representation[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (916) 283-7992
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.montalvoriversteam.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/sherrysells8
Why selected: Selected for her extensive community leadership and engagement, a top priority in our ranking. She combines this with of seasoned experience and a dedicated, client-focused performance record.
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Commercial Properties, First Time Homebuyers, Investment Properties[4]
Cities Served
Roseville
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (858) 345-7829
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.theenriquezgroup.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Vinnie%20Enriquez
Why selected: Selected for her dedicated mentorship within the Keller Williams network, elevating colleagues through professional development. She combines this community leadership with a strong and.
Community & Leadership
mentor at Keller Williams network[6]
Notable Achievements
Real Estate Career Longevity
12+ Years in Real Estate
12-Year Real Estate Career
51 Five-Star Reviews
5-Star Rating Achievement
Five-Star Client Reviews
12+ Years Real Estate Experience
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Foreclosure, New Construction, Residential sales, Client service, Market expertise, Real estate sales, Market knowledge, residential market, client satisfaction, team collaboration, residential real estate, buying guidance, selling guidance[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (858) 717-5513
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.tranlerealty.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/TranLeREALTOR
Why selected: Selected for her leadership in mentoring emerging agents and supporting the professional community. She combines a across and a finance-focused brokerage background.
Community & Leadership
Mentor at Real Estate Professional Community[6]
Notable Achievements
Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration
Perfect 5-Star Rating
Real Estate Broker License
Banking Experience
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Property Management, residential homes, financing, first-time buyers, investment properties[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 602-2162
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.homesbyassaf.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AssafAvissar
Why selected: Selected for his deep community involvement as a long-time resident and U.S.
Notable Achievements
5-Star Client Rating
Top Agent Recognition
Verified Specialties
metro properties, coastal properties[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 990-2297
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://dianesullivanrealty.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Diane%20Sullivan
Why selected: Selected for her deep community involvement and leadership roles, combined with of expertise and demonstrating exceptional client service.
Notable Achievements
43 Five-Star Reviews
20 Years Real Estate Experience
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Foreclosure, Residential, Buyers, Sellers, Coastal properties, Central San Diego[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (661) 281-5373
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/The%20Kessler%20Group
Why selected: Selected for his deep community ties and professional leadership roles. He is further distinguished by and, demonstrating consistent client satisfaction.
Notable Achievements
22 Years in Real Estate
41 Five-Star Reviews
Verified Specialties
Foreclosure, Property Management, First Time Homebuyers, Investment Properties, Rentals, residential real estate, buying, selling[4]
Cities Served
Bakersfield
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (858) 298-5866
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.angelabumgarner.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AngelaBumgarnerSold
Why selected: Selected for her dedicated community involvement and leadership roles, Angela Bumgarner pairs this with a. Her expertise in market analysis and negotiation delivers proven results for clients.
Notable Achievements
5-Star Client Rating
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Property Management, buyers, sellers, negotiation, marketing, residential real estate, local market expertise[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (858) 952-2216
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.lyonrealestategroup.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Drew%20Lyon
Why selected: Selected for his leadership as owner/broker of Avanti Real Estate and his team's quantifiable performance, including a and hundreds of sales in two years.
Notable Achievements
Owner and Broker at Avanti Real Estate
5-Star Client Rating
Hundreds of Property Sales
Verified Specialties
Foreclosure, Staging, Property Management, residential real estate, foreclosures, short sales, distressed properties, property flipping, vacation rentals, property management, distressed assets[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 298-0330
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.marcaaronrealtors.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Marc%20Aaron%20Realtors
Why selected: Selected for his expertise, and pioneering SRES designation. His finance background and specialized service to seniors distinguish him in the market.
Community & Leadership
Board Member at San Diego Association of Realtors[6]
Committee Member at Seniors Real Estate Specialist Council[6]
Volunteer Advisor at Local Senior Services Non-Profit[6]
Mentor at Real Estate Brokerage Training Program[6]
Notable Achievements
Real Estate Broker License
Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) Designation
Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance
26 Five-Star Reviews
Verified Specialties
Investment Properties, Rentals, Senior Communities, seniors, fiduciaries, all property types, concierge-style services, personalized service[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (760) 522-3355
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.homesbyandrea.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/andrea220
Why selected: Selected for her significant community involvement via the Heroes Rebate Program, which supports military, first responders, and educators. She further demonstrates excellence and of market expertise.
Community & Leadership
founder/provider at Heroes Rebate Program[6]
Notable Achievements
California Real Estate License
24 Five-Star Reviews
12 Years Experience
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Staging, luxury properties, investments, personalized service, military personnel, first responders, teachers, healthcare workers[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 249-6754
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.gilbert.viewsandiegoareahomes.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/gilbertreynosa
Why selected: Selected for and consistent performance, including over a decade. His expertise in property management and featured market analysis further distinguishes his professional profile.
Notable Achievements
49 Career Transactions
Real Estate Degree
Perfect 5-Star Rating
Professional Certifications
High-Value Market Expertise
Verified Specialties
Property Management[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 933-0152
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Alex%20Yure1
Why selected: Selected for his dedicated community involvement and leadership roles, Alexander Yure also delivers. His expertise ensures smooth, successful transactions for buyers and sellers.
Notable Achievements
5-star client rating
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Foreclosure, Investment Properties, Rentals, buyers, sellers, negotiation, property valuation, homeownership[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (408) 461-0924
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.gregwarrickrealestate.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/gregwarrick
Why selected: Selected for his deep community involvement, developing subdivisions and building large country properties that shape the local area. His career features top performance, ranking in the worldwide and top 100 in Silicon Valley.
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Investment Properties, New Construction, Lot/Land[4]
Cities Served
Roseville
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (916) 869-2798
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/heatherbarnesrealtor
Why selected: Selected for her leadership as a local Chamber of Commerce board member and PTA volunteer. She combines this community commitment with a across 200+ client reviews.
Cities Served
Roseville
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 435-8700
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.amysellssandiego.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AmySandersRealtor
Why selected: Selected for her deep community roots and nearly two decades of local market experience. She maintains a and specializes in guiding clients through complex transactions.
Community & Leadership
Chairman at California Mid State Region Servicecommitee[6]
Notable Achievements
Perfect 5-Star Rating
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Property Management, buyers, sellers, bank owned properties, short sales, distressed properties, negotiation[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 300-4400
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.sdhomeowner.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Ann%20Amaral
Why selected: Selected for her deep community involvement as a local resident, combined with 27 years of experience and a perfect record.
Notable Achievements
27 Years of Service
Five-Star Rating
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Rentals, buyers, sellers, problem solving, client goals[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 337-4779
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.carrascogroupre.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/maria8353
Why selected: Selected for his deep community involvement and leadership, Asa F Carrasco also delivers client service. His strategic Silicon Valley expertise further distinguishes his professional profile.
Notable Achievements
Perfect 5-Star Rating
Silicon Valley Professional Background
Verified Specialties
buyer representation, seller services, client service, market knowledge, professional networking[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (858) 224-2443
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.thecollectivesandiego.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/aprilguerieri
Why selected: Selected for her career and strong community involvement, April Lee Guerieri also demonstrates proven excellence with a.
Notable Achievements
16 Years of Real Estate Experience
High Client Satisfaction Rating
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Staging, Property Management, residential real estate, client service, personalized service[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 929-9165
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.homesbyerikasd.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/erikadeanda1
Why selected: Selected for her career and, demonstrating consistent client satisfaction and strong negotiation skills.
Notable Achievements
20 Years in Real Estate
Perfect 5-Star Rating
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Property Management, Investment Properties, honest communication, aggressive negotiation, client advocacy[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).