GreyBeard Realty is excited to welcome commercial real estate broker John Allen to its Black Mountain office. With more than 35 years of experience spanning real estate development, brokerage, and strategic advisory, John Allen brings a deep well of cross-sector expertise and a track record of impactful leadership to the Asheville commercial real estate business.

Throughout his decades-long career, John has overseen and executed a wide range of development and brokerage projects across retail, office, multi-family, industrial, and hospitality sectors. His professional background includes serving in key Director and Vice President roles, where he led teams through complex acquisitions, design processes, construction management, and asset restructuring initiatives. 

Working in fast-growing and innovation-driven cities like Charlotte, Raleigh, and Wilmington, John also brings significant experience in commercial real estate advisory, having guided clients and partners through the entire lifecycle of development and investment projects with a focus on strategic growth and operational efficiency.

A graduate of Eckerd College, John holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management. Outside the office, he is an avid cyclist, guitarist, and traveler—passions that reflect the qualities of energy, creativity, and curiosity he carries into his professional work as well.

“John’s extensive knowledge and hands-on experience across so many facets of real estate make him an invaluable addition to our team,” said Chip Craig, Owner/Founder of GreyBeard Realty. “We’re excited for the vision and industry insight he brings to the table.”

John joins a team of more than 25 local GreyBeard Realtors serving the Asheville area. In addition to its original Black Mountain office, GreyBeard Realty also has offices in Asheville, Old Fort, and Lake James to better serve our clients across the Western North Carolina region. 

Browse listings for commercial property for sale in Asheville to begin your search. For more information, please contact us at 828 669-1072 or email us at [email protected].

Is It Expensive To Live In Asheville?

Nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Asheville, is a city teeming with life and vibrancy. Known for its thriving arts scene, historic architecture, and breathtaking views, Asheville has become an attractive destination for [...]

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Locally owned and operated agency, GreyBeard Realty, and its realtor team, are hosting a Gateway Mountain Parade of Homes event that features 6 Gateway Mountain homes for sale on Sunday, October 19, from 2-4 p.m. This event will take place during the peak fall color season of mid-October. The Gateway Mountain development is a gated [...]

Boasting the title of the largest city in Western North Carolina, Asheville strikes the perfect balance between promising opportunities and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. This bustling little city has it all, and that hasn't gone unnoticed; Asheville has received national recognition for its rapidly growing economy, fantastic local [...]

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With over 2,000 homes within the community, the diverse Oakley neighborhood is conveniently located just off I-240 and adjoins Sweeten Creek Road to the west and the Blue Ridge Parkway to the southeast. In addition to being located just south of downtown Asheville and the Kenilworth neighborhood, Oakley is home to Oakley Elementary, the Oakley Library, a fire station, and a police substation.

Its centrality to Asheville offers easy access to the city’s plentiful art, food, and culture while also providing convenience to nearby grocery and department stores such as Home Depot, Target, Walmart, Whole Foods, and Lowe's – all within a less than 2-mile radius.

History of the Oakley Neighborhood

While not officially incorporated into the City of Asheville until 1960, the Oakley area, formerly known as “West’s Chapel” or “East Biltmore,” was an area that housed workers at Sayles Bleachery in the early 1900s. As small developments were established along Fairview Road, the Oakley boundaries were drawn around these existing sites. Oakley’s rich history lives on with many of its original housing stock, largely mill homes, that have been lovingly renovated. In addition, many newly built craftsman-style homes fill once vacant lots. Those seeking Oakley homes for sale are sure to find a prized piece of Asheville’s rich history.

The Personality of Oakley

Appropriately named after the old-growth oak trees that line the neighborhood, Oakley has a classic neighborhood feel and is a close-knit community with elements like the Fairview Road Resilience Garden (which was established in 2020) and offers neighbors an option to plot and grow their own produce in one of the raised beds. The Oakley/South Asheville Library, Murphy-Oakley Park, and Oakley Elementary School are all central to the neighborhood and offer natural gathering places for members of the community.

“East Biltmore” and Recreation

Asheville’s primary tourist attraction, the Biltmore Estate, with its sprawling grounds and specially curated gardens, neighbors the Oakley community. Along with historic Biltmore Village, Biltmore Estate is arguably the most notable landmark in our beautiful city. Oakley’s positioning gives residents unique access to the Biltmore’s endless options for recreation.

Whether exploring Biltmore Estate’s many trails on foot or on bike, picnicking among its rolling pastureland, strolling through its thriving gardens, dining at its renowned restaurants, or sampling locally made libations at its winery, there are endless entertainment opportunities, all in one location. Just 5 minutes from Oakley, residents can also access the Blue Ridge Parkway’s Visitor Center, miles of scenic drives, and countless hiking trails and overlooks. Kids of all ages will be thrilled to know the WNC Nature Center is at a similar proximity—just 5 minutes from the community!

Whether you're interested in Asheville homes for sale or are specifically focused on the Oakley neighborhood, our knowledgeable team of local brokers is here to discuss options and help guide your search.

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