Market Insight

Historic Downtown Matthews: The Real Estate Impact

By Carnarri CofieldMatthews, NC

Matthews benefits from something that’s hard to build quickly: a real downtown core. When buyers talk about “walkability,” “character,” or “being close to everything,” they’re often reacting to the same thing—usable proximity to a town center with active businesses and established streetscapes.

Downtown appeal can influence demand—but your outcome still depends on the specific property and the current market.

Distance

12 mi to Charlotte

Rush

30–50 min

Median

~$500K–$560K

The Matthews Commercial Historic District covers parts of North Trade Street (c. 1888–1939), including Renfrow Hardware and the Heath and Reid General Store. Stumptown Park (120 S. Trade St.) hosts Matthews Alive (Labor Day), Summerfest (May), and Fall for Matthews (October). The Matthews Community Farmers' Market runs year-round at 188 N. Trade St. Seaboard Brewing and Moxie Mercantile anchor a walkable core. Verify event dates and any renovation rules with the town.

Why a Downtown Core Can Be a Demand Driver

Buyers often prioritize convenience and predictability: a short drive to essentials, recurring routines, and a neighborhood that feels established. A downtown core can support that—especially when it’s paired with nearby housing options across multiple price points.

The key is to evaluate proximity in a way that matches your lifestyle. “Close” only matters if you’ll use it weekly.

Character + Layout Variety

Downtown-adjacent inventory often spans eras and styles. That can help buyers who want something other than a uniform “new build” feel.

Lifestyle Demand (Not a Guarantee)

Some buyers will pay for convenience. That can support demand, but it’s not universal and it’s not a promise of appreciation.

Renovation Reality

Older homes can be rewarding, but they require planning. Budget for inspections, maintenance, and updates—and verify permitting requirements.

Due Diligence Checklist for Downtown-Adjacent Homes

  • Order inspections appropriate to age and features (including specialty inspections when needed).
  • Verify any renovation/permitting requirements that apply to the specific property.
  • Review disclosures and property history carefully.
  • Consider legal counsel for contract interpretation, especially on older homes or unique situations.
  • Test your commute and routine routes (grocery, work, childcare, services you use).

Explore: Matthews and Mecklenburg County.

Matthews in Context: Historic District, Events & Local News

The Matthews Commercial Historic District covers parts of North Trade Street (c. 1888–1939)—Renfrow Hardware, Heath and Reid General Store. Stumptown Park (120 S. Trade St.) hosts Matthews Alive (Labor Day), Summerfest (May), Fall for Matthews (October). The Matthews Community Farmers' Market runs year-round at 188 N. Trade St. Seaboard Brewing and Moxie Mercantile anchor the walkable core. Matthews is ~12 miles to Charlotte, rush 30–50 min; median ~$500K–$560K. The Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly (Fridays; matthewsminthillweekly.com) covers Matthews and Mint Hill—schools, government, business, events. The Enquirer-Journal (Monroe; Tue, Thu, Sat) covers Union County, including Matthews-mailing addresses in Union; use both when you're near the county line or verifying UCPS vs CMS.

The Bottom Line

12 mi to Charlotte, rush 30–50 min. Median ~$500K–$560K. Stumptown Park, Matthews Alive, Farmers' Market, Renfrow, Seaboard Brewing. For local news: Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly (Fridays); Enquirer-Journal (Monroe; Union County). Verify events and renovation rules with the town.

Sources & Local Reading

  • Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly — Weekly (Fridays); Matthews, Mint Hill. matthewsminthillweekly.com. Charlotte Media Group.
  • The Enquirer-Journal — Semi-weekly (Tue, Thu, Sat); Monroe, Union County, NC. 1508 Skyway Dr, Monroe, NC 28110. For Union County/Matthews-mailing in Union.
  • Town of Matthews — historic district, Stumptown Park, events, permitting.

More Matthews Reading

Featured Properties

Homes in Matthews

Listing information © 2026 Canopy MLS. All rights reserved. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do historic districts have special rules for renovations?

Sometimes. Rules can vary by municipality, overlay district, HOA covenants, or preservation guidelines. Before you buy, verify what applies to the specific property and consider professional guidance for permitting and legal interpretation.

Does proximity to downtown increase resale value?

It can be a demand factor for some buyers, but value is property-specific and depends on the broader market, inventory, and condition. Avoid assuming a guarantee—use current comparable sales and neighborhood data.

What should I verify when buying an older home?

Older homes often require additional due diligence: inspections appropriate to age/features, permit history where relevant, and budgeting for maintenance. Your agent can help coordinate, and your inspectors and legal advisors can guide scope.

Where can I learn more about Matthews overall?

Start with our Matthews guide and Mecklenburg County overview, then compare listings by neighborhood and price point to see what fits your needs.

How can I verify the information in this article?

Use the Sources & Local Reading we cite (Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly, Enquirer-Journal, Town of Matthews). For current prices and inventory, search Matthews listings on our site or contact us.

Where can I see current listings in Matthews?

Search Matthews listings on our site and filter by city. We can also build a shortlist—contact us.

Compliance & Disclaimer

This article is educational and not legal, tax, or financial advice. Always verify permitting and regulatory requirements for the specific property, and consult qualified professionals where appropriate.

We comply with Fair Housing laws and the NAR Code of Ethics. No outcomes are guaranteed; property values and market conditions vary.

No agency relationship is created by this article. Brokerage services are provided pursuant to applicable state license law and required disclosures.

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