CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
 
   
     We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements
(Form S-3 Nos. 33-93572, 33-97712 and 333-3890) and related Prospectuses of
Highwoods Properties, Inc. and in the Registration Statement (Form S-3 No.
333-3890-01) and related Prospectus of Highwoods/Forsyth Limited Partnership of
our report dated April 17, 1996, with respect to the audited combined financial
statements of Eakin and Smith for the year ended December 31, 1995 included in
its Current Report on Form 8-K/A dated April 1, 1996 as amended on June 3, 1996
and June 18,1996, filed with the Securities Exchange Commission.
    
 
                                         ERNST & YOUNG LLP
 
   
Raleigh, North Carolina
June 18, 1996